The bill S. 458 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding trespassing by updating Section 16-11-600 and Section 16-11-620. The amendment to Section 16-11-600 introduces a new method of providing notice of trespass by allowing landowners to enclose their property with a fence as a valid form of notification. This addition complements existing methods, which include posting notices and marking boundaries with purple paint.

Additionally, Section 16-11-620 is revised to establish that it is a misdemeanor for individuals to knowingly enter another person's dwelling, place of business, or structure without authorization, invitation, or legal cause, and to fail to leave when requested. The bill outlines graduated penalties for violations, with fines and potential imprisonment increasing with subsequent offenses. Municipal and magistrate courts are given jurisdiction to handle these cases, and the provisions are stated to be supplementary to existing trespass laws. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
03/18/2025: 16-11-600, 16-11-620
Latest Version: 16-11-600, 16-11-620