Horry County, SC Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Private-tree pruning permit
- Not required
- Protected species
- Specimen Live Oak (24-in DBH+)
- Root Protection Zone
- Full canopy / dripline
- Governing code
- Zoning App. B, art. V, § 505
- Neighbor branches
- SC common law
Summary
Horry County does not require a permit to prune most private trees, but it is unlawful to injure a Specimen Live Oak (24-inch DBH or larger). During development, preserved trees must be protected inside their dripline root-protection zone under the zoning ordinance.
Preserved trees must be protected from damages during development. Protective Devices shall be installed surrounding the dripline of the preserved tree and must be kept free of construction materials, vehicles or debris.
Full Breakdown
For routine yard trees, Horry County has no county-wide trimming permit; a homeowner may prune a private tree. The limit is the Live Oak Standards in the Zoning Ordinance (Appendix B, Article V, Section 505): it is unlawful to injure, participate in, authorize, or cause the removal of any Specimen Live Oak with a DBH of twenty-four (24) inches or greater, so severe cutting that injures such a tree is regulated. Section 505(D) Tree Protection requires that preserved trees be protected from damage during development; the Root Protection Zone is the total area beneath the tree canopy, or dripline, and protective devices must surround the dripline and be kept free of construction materials, vehicles or debris.
Violations & Fines
Injuring or removing a protected Specimen Live Oak without authorization can trigger the county's mitigation requirements (replacement trees or a fee in lieu). Damaging a preserved tree's root-protection zone during a permitted development can bring zoning enforcement and replanting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to trim my tree in Horry County?
What protects trees during construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Horry County
Compare Horry County to another location·View the South Carolina landscaping rules overview
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