Chapter 40 of the Charleston Code, the city's Tree Code, regulates removal and pruning of trees in public rights-of-way and city parks, with private-property removals largely unregulated outside historic districts.
Chapter 40 establishes the Charleston Tree Commission and requires permits before removing or significantly pruning trees in the public right-of-way, including the planting strip between sidewalk and curb. City crews handle most street-tree work, and homeowners typically request rather than perform pruning. Removal of trees on private residential property generally does not require a city permit, except where overlay districts, riparian setbacks, or development conditions apply. Hazardous trees can be removed quickly with notice. Street-tree replacement is encouraged, especially along Capitol Street and downtown corridors important to Imagine Charleston 2017 streetscape goals.
Removing or topping a city street tree without authorization can produce restitution orders, replacement requirements, and Chapter 40 fines.
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See how Charleston's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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