New Yorkers are seeing purple paint near homes, and it's not just random. It's a warning, run.

It might look like simple paint, but the color choice is actually a stern warning. Here’s why purple paint in New York woods is leaving residents uneasy.

Don’t Ignore Purple Paint in New York

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Pennsylvania Game Commission
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If out hiking, hunting, camping, or just enjoying the beautiful weather and colors in New York this fall, you might spot purple paint on a home, tree, fence, or some other object.

You might think it's a decoration, or an odd color choice, but the truth behind its secret meaning is very serious and confusing for New Yorkers.

If You See Purple Paint in New York You Need To Leave Right Away

Do you know what to do if you see purple paint in New York State? The easiest advice, run. Here's why. 

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Purple Paint Means No Trespassing In Over 20 States

Across much of the United States, purple paint is the legal equivalent of a “No Trespassing” sign.

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The paint color is currently recognized as a no trespassing sign in over 20 states.

Not A Law In New York State

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As of this writing, it's not an official law in New York State. New York lawmakers first introduced a purple paint bill in 2017. Similar bills popped up again in 2019, 2021, and 2023.

Each time, the bill gained some traction but was never passed, fizzling out in the Assembly.

Read More: Florida Crisis Is Now Creating Massive Problems For New York

What Does Purple Paint Mean In New York?

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Pennsylvania Game Commission
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Despite not being an official law, home and land owners in New York are marking their properties with purple paint.

This means the owner wants you to stay away! So it's a good idea to treat the purple paint as a no trespassing sign.

Even if it's not an official law in New York, this paint color should send you a clear message: you’re not welcome on that property.

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