Discovering a purple-painted fence in the great outdoors may seem surprising, but it carries a clear message: Keep Out. Used to mark property boundaries, purple paint is a durable, weather-resistant alternative to traditional “No Trespassing” signs. Its high visibility—even to those with color blindness—makes it an effective choice for property owners.

The concept originated in 1989 with Arkansas’ “posting paint” law and has since been adopted by nearly half of U.S. states, including Texas, Illinois, and Tennessee. While laws vary, purple fences generally signify private property where trespassing is prohibited. Some states, like North Carolina, allow access but restrict activities such as hunting or fishing.

Ignoring purple paint warnings can result in legal penalties, including fines and jail time. So, whether you’re a landowner or an adventurer, respecting this colorful boundary marker helps protect property rights and ensures a safe, lawful experience outdoors.