The bill H. 3624 seeks to amend Section 16-11-520 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which addresses malicious injury to trees and other property. 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 change aims to clarify the legal standing of property owners regarding the maintenance of their property in relation to overhanging tree limbs from neighboring properties.

In addition to this new insertion, the bill maintains the existing penalties for maliciously injuring property, which include varying degrees of felony and misdemeanor charges based on the value of the property damage. The bill is set to take effect upon approval by the Governor, thereby providing immediate clarity and protection for property owners who need to manage encroaching tree limbs.

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