Home / State posting laws / Missouri
Missouri Posting Laws: How to Post Land
Missouri lets landowners use purple paint marks as an alternative to signs. The rules differ for trees and posts, with different spacing for each. Here is what RSMo 569.140 and 569.145 say in the statute text we read, and how to use them on a farm, pasture or timber.
What the law asks for on signs
Signs are covered by RSMo 569.140, and paint by 569.145 as an alternative. The statute text we read shows no owner-name requirement, no minimum letter height, no minimum sign size and no spacing figure for signs.
Where the law sets no specific number, put signs where people will see them, such as gates and lane ends. Read the current statute before relying on this summary, since the details can change.
Purple paint on trees and posts
On a tree, paint a vertical line at least 8 in long, with the bottom of the mark 3 to 5 ft high, and no more than 100 ft apart.
On a post, cap it or mark at least its top 2 in, with the bottom of the cap or mark 3 ft to 5 ft 6 in high. Posts can be no more than 36 ft apart. Marks must be readily visible to any person approaching, and the statute text we read does not state a mark width.
Shared fences
If a fence is shared with a neighbor, all the owners must concur before it is marked purple. Talk with them first, agree who will paint and who will touch up the marks, and keep the agreement in writing.
Practical tips
Fence posts are quick to paint, but weather fades the color. Look over marked posts each season and touch them up, and walk the line from the outside to see what an approaching stranger would see.
Our signs are custom printed on aluminum or plastic with a live preview, and the builder follows these sign rules. Keep dated photos of your marks and signs, and check the statute yourself before you post.
Questions about posting land in Missouri
Can I use purple paint instead of signs in Missouri?
Yes. RSMo 569.145 sets purple paint on trees or posts as an alternative to signs under 569.140. Marks must be readily visible to any person approaching, and the details differ for trees and for posts.
How far apart are purple marks in Missouri?
No more than 100 ft apart for tree marks, which are vertical lines at least 8 in long, and no more than 36 ft apart for posts that are capped or marked on at least their top 2 in.
Can I paint a shared fence purple in Missouri?
Only if all the owners concur. The statute text we read says that on a shared fence, all owners must agree before the posts are marked. Talk to your neighbors first, and agree who will keep the marks fresh.
This guide explains the law in plain words; it is not legal advice. We read the statute text on 2026-10-24. Laws change: check the current text here or ask your county or state wildlife agency.