When going out into the woods, there are many natural and human-made markers that you should look out for.
For example, if you’re planning a big hiking and camping trip, it would serve you well to become familiar with the manmade paths and trail markings as well as what to look for when trying to find a place to set up your tent.
While most of these markers are positive things, there are a few signs in the wilderness that spell danger. One of those markers? According to one internet user, purple paint. Here’s why.
What Does This Tree Paint Mean?
In a video posted to Facebook, user Derek Thomas shows several trees with prominent purple paint.
“If you’re ever out in the woods or anywhere, and you see these on the trees or anywhere, get the [expletive] out of there,” he says. “Trust me.”
“Y’all been warned,” he concludes, driving his car along the purple-marked line.
Thomas is referring to what’s known as “purple paint laws.” In over 20 states, marking your property line with purple paint, either on trees or fencing, is a legally protected way to denote property lines. Some states say it’s effectively equivalent to hanging “No Trespassing” signs, per USA Today.
The reason that the color purple was chosen, notes the article, is that it is not used in the forestry industry, rarely occurs in nature, and is not impacted by weather in the same way that signs can be. Still, some states may use different colors. For example, Marylanders opt for blue paint to mark their property lines.
What Happens If You Cross This Purple Line?
If one crosses the demarcated purple line, they have technically trespassed onto someone else’s property.
This is not as immediately dangerous as one might think. Contrary to popular belief, simply entering someone’s property does not give them the right to use deadly force against you.
As reported by Snopes, landowners are not generally permitted to use deadly force solely to protect their property. Instead, they may only take reasonable steps to deter or remove trespassers; deadly force can only be used if they reasonably believe the trespassers present an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm.
Even if the person has a sign reading “trespassers will be shot,” that doesn’t immediately give the property owner the right to shoot trespassers.
That doesn’t mean that crossing these purple painted lines is entirely safe. Depending on the specific case, one who enters someone else’s property without permission can face fines, criminal charges, and potential jail time. Hunters should be especially aware of this, as accidentally entering private land while hunting can be surprisingly easy.
This is why, before heading out into the woods, it’s best to learn the local markers. Become familiar with trail markers, plan a route, and be sure to be mindful of any purple-marked lines that you come across.
Commenters Say He’s Right
In the comments section, many users suggested that viewers take Thomas’ advice and avoid crossing these purple lines at all costs.
“So true I got ticket,” wrote a commenter. “Leave.”
“Property line markings! That’s a old trick. In case someone is hunting you [know] when you pass that you’re entering some one elses property,” advised another.
Still, some said that the lines were not as severe as the video creator made them out to be.
“It is just no trespassing. Arkansas uses it. All you have to do is get permission from owner,” said a commenter.
BroBible reached out to Thomas via Facebook direct message.