Simpsonville, SC Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Simpsonville, SC, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Permit trigger
- Tree 12-inch DBH or larger
- Applies regardless of
- Tree health or condition
- Hazard waiver
- Imminent-peril trees exempt
- 4.9 standards
- Exempt single-family lots
- Approving official
- Planning Director
Summary
Removing a tree with a trunk 12 inches or larger (measured at breast height) requires a Tree Removal Permit from the Planning Director, regardless of the tree's health, though hazardous trees posing imminent peril can be removed without a permit. Single-family lots are exempt from the broader landscaping replacement standards.
Regardless of the health or condition of the tree(s), a Tree Removal Permit is required to remove any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) equal to or greater than 12 inches and/or any tree that is required by this Ordinance or as a condition of approval for any plan or permit.
Full Breakdown
Simpsonville's Zoning Ordinance protects larger trees. Section 7.11.2 requires a Tree Removal Permit before removing any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 12 inches or more, regardless of the tree's health or condition, or any tree required by the ordinance or a permit condition. The Planning Director may waive the permit to remove a hazardous tree posing imminent, immediate peril to life or property. The landscaping and tree-preservation standards in Section 4.9 apply to development and redevelopment but exempt single-family residential property; the Tree Removal Permit requirement in Article 7 is not limited to single-family exemptions, so verify with the Planning Department before cutting a large tree.
Violations & Fines
Removing a protected tree without the required permit violates the Zoning Ordinance and is enforced by the Planning and Codes Department, which can require replacement plantings meeting the minimum plant standards and pursue zoning enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Simpsonville?
Can I cut down a dangerous tree without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Simpsonville
Compare Simpsonville to another location·View the South Carolina landscaping rules overview
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