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The Color Of A Painted Tree Explained
By KATHRYN WALSH
Colorful paint is used by individuals, tree professionals, and government agencies to mark trees for various reasons, and knowing what they represent can prevent potential harm.
Red
If you notice a row of trees marked with red paint, you’re likely in or near a national forest. The U.S. Forest Service uses horizontal red lines to mark property boundaries.
Red paint is also used on trees in preparation for a timber sale. A licensed surveyor must mark the boundaries of the sale area before the cutting can commence.
Purple
Painting trees at the edge of your property purple serves as a clear indication of private property. In some states, it’s a legally enforceable way to discourage trespassing.
Orange
Loggers and foresters utilize orange paint to designate trees for cutting, while municipalities may use the same color to mark trees requiring removal on public land.
There are other meanings too. A row of trees painted orange might mark a boundary, and in some places, orange is used instead of purple to keep trespassers out.
Blue
A straight row of trees painted with a blue stripe probably indicates the end of someone’s property. If you see a tree that has blue paint marks, avoid crossing the border.
If you spot a tree entirely painted blue, it could be associated with the Blue Tree Project, a mental health charity, serving as a reminder to check in on struggling loved ones.