South Carolina § 16-11-650 - Removing, destroying or leaving down fences; penalties; magistrate court jurisdiction; easement holder's rights.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-650 — Removing, destroying or leaving down fences; penalties; magistrate court jurisdiction; easement holder's rights., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-11-650. Removing, destroying or leaving down fences; penalties; magistrate court jurisdiction; easement holder's rights.
(A) A person, other than the owner or a person acting under the authority of the owner, who wilfully and knowingly removes, destroys, or leaves down any portion of a fence in this State intended to enclose animals of any kind or crops or uncultivated lands or who wilfully and knowingly leaves open or removes a gate or leaves down bars or other structure intended for the same purpose is guilty of a misdemeanor and must be punished by a fine of one thousand dollars or imprisonment for thirty days, or both.
(B) The magistrates court is vested with jurisdiction to hear and dispose of these cases.
(C) Nothing in this section shall affect an easement holder's right and ability to maintain such easement and rights of way consistent with the provisions of the document granting such easement.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 16-389; 1952 Code SECTION 16-389; 1942 Code SECTION 1222; 1932 Code SECTION 1222; Cr. C. '22 SECTION 110; Cr. C. '12 SECTION 229; Cr. C. '02 SECTION 176; G. S. 1190; R. S. 171; 1881 (17) 593; 1903 (24) 111; 1921 (32) 200; 2009 Act No. 56, SECTION 1, eff upon approval (became law without the Governor's signature on June 3, 2009).
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-11-650
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-650 cover?
Section 16-11-650 ("Removing, destroying or leaving down fences; penalties; magistrate court jurisdiction; easement holder's rights.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 16-11-650?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-650" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 16-11-650 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.