The bill S. 39 aims to amend Section 16-11-520 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses malicious injury to property, specifically trees, houses, fences, and fixtures. The amendment introduces a new provision that allows individuals to trim tree limbs that encroach upon their property line without being subject to the penalties outlined in the existing law. This change clarifies that such trimming is not considered a violation of the law, thereby providing property owners with the right to manage overhanging branches from neighboring properties.

In addition to the new provision, the bill maintains the existing penalties for maliciously injuring property, which range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the value of the property damage. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor, ensuring that property owners have the legal backing to address encroaching tree limbs promptly.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 16-11-520
Latest Version: 16-11-520