The bill H. 3624 seeks to amend Section 16-11-520 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses malicious injury to trees, houses, fences, or fixtures. The amendment introduces a new provision that explicitly states that the existing laws regarding malicious injury do not apply to individuals who trim tree limbs that encroach upon their property line. This addition clarifies the rights of property owners concerning overhanging tree limbs and provides an exception to the penalties outlined for malicious property damage.

The bill maintains the current penalties for maliciously injuring property, which include felony charges for significant property damage and misdemeanor charges for lesser damages. The proposed changes aim to protect property owners from potential legal repercussions when they take necessary actions to manage tree limbs that extend into their property, thereby promoting responsible property maintenance while ensuring that individuals are not unjustly penalized for such actions. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

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