If You See ORANGE PAINT In Utah, California or Nevada: LEAVE IMMEDIATELY!

You may have seen random patches of bright orange paint on fences, trees, or posts while driving through Utah, California, or Nevada and thought, "What’s that all about?" Well, it’s more than just a funky art project. The orange paint laws are essentially the silent, less-stealable version of the “No Trespassing” signs, and they mean business. The "Orange Paint Laws" affect Utah, California and Nevada!

WHY PAINT:

Signs can be easily removed or damaged—whether by weather, wildlife, or that one neighbor who just can’t take a hint. But a giant smear of orange paint? That’s a bit trickier to take down, making it a durable and unmistakable way of saying, “Keep out!” Plus, it's harder to claim, "Oh, I didn't see a sign!" when there's an eye-popping orange splat on every corner.

UTAH'S LAWS:

In Utah, they like to make things extra obvious. The law requires at least 100 square inches of bright orange, yellow, or fluorescent paint at all corners, gates, roads, or paths leading into private property. No need for signs (though you can add them if you’re feeling fancy). It’s pretty simple—if you see those neon swatches, you're on someone else’s land, and you better turn around unless you enjoy awkward confrontations.

CALIFORNIA TAKES IT MOST SERIOUSLY:

California takes things up a notch with both paint and penalties. Orange paint marks the boundaries of private property at fence corners, roads, streams, and gates. But don’t assume you can walk through without repercussions! Trespassing in California is no joke. Depending on the circumstances, you could be hit with anything from a minor infraction to full-blown felony charges. So, when in doubt, admire the paint from a distance.

NEVADA, MORE EVENLY SPACED OUT:

Nevada keeps things evenly spaced—literally. Every 200 feet, landowners are required to paint the top 12 inches of a post or structure in bright orange to mark their territory. They don’t stop at paint either. They can throw in fences, signs, or even a verbal “Get off my lawn!” to make their point. If you ignore the warnings, you’re looking at a misdemeanor charge, which could result in a $1,000 fine and up to six months in jail. Talk about making a statement!

JUST STAY AWAY:

The orange paint laws in Utah, California, and Nevada are basically the highlighter on the "DO NOT ENTER" sign for private property. So, next time you're out exploring and you see some suspiciously bright orange paint on a post or tree, turn around. The law, and that landowner with a paintbrush, will thank you.