SC H3624

Amends Section 16-11-520 of the South Carolina Code regarding malicious injury to trees, houses, fences, or fixtures on another person's property

Creates an exception allowing property owners to trim tree limbs that encroach over their property line without facing criminal penalties

Current law makes willful and malicious injury to another's trees a felony punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment if damage exceeds $10,000, or up to 5 years if damage is between $2,000 and $10,000

Property damage of $2,000 or less remains a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and/or 30 days imprisonment

Takes effect upon Governor's approval