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1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my yard?

For residential lots, any trees on residential lots 16 inches or greater in diameter when measuring 4 1/2 feet from the ground (except of Pine species, Sweet Gum, Callary Pear varieties, River Birch, Mimosa, Chinaberry, Chinese Tallow, Camphor tree, White Poplar, Mulberry and Leyland Cypress) are protected and would need approval before being removed.  

Tree removal requests due to tree decline or damage can be submitted online through our website by filling out a tree removal request. 

Tree removal in conjunction with any type of construction (new home, addition, renovation, pool, etc) is reviewed in conjunction with the building permit approval process.  You can submit a building permit application online through our website at http://www.tompsc.com/877/Building-Inspections-Applications-and-Fo. 

Trees located within special buffer areas, critical areas, easements, or rights-of-way may be protected regardless of size or species.   

Residential trees that are exempt from a permit, may still require tree protection zones on site plans per § 156.225. 

 

2. Do I need a permit to trim a tree?

You may trim any dead limbs out of a tree. You may also trim up to 25% of the live crown as long as it is evenly distributed throughout the crown.

3. Can I have an apartment over my garage?

Yes. The Town allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most residential zoning districts. Size, location, occupancy, and other requirements may be found in Zoning Code Section 156.110 & 156.111.  If you need to verify that there are no restrictions on your property and if an ADU can be constructed on your property, you can contact the PLAN Department at 843-884-1229.  

Approval to construct an ADU is given by submitting a building permit application  to the Building Inspection Division. The application will be reviewed for zoning compliance and to ensure that it meets all building code requirements before a permit is issued.  If you have questions on the building permit application process, you can contact Building Inspections office at 843-884-5184.

4. How do I get a plat or map of my property?

A plat of the property is recorded and archived at the Charleston County Register of Deeds office. You can find a copy of the plat by searching online at www.charlestoncounty.org or by calling 843-958-4800. The book and page number will be needed.

A site plan of the property showing the footprint of the house on the lot may be archived in the building permit files.  A freedom of information request can be submitted online through the website to request a copy of the site plan or you can contact the Engineering and Development Services Department at 843-856-3080.

Aerial maps or zoning maps of property can be found by accessing our GIS maps online through our website.

5. Do I need a permit to replace or change sign faces?

Yes. All changes to signs require a sign permit and require compliance with the current sign ordinance.  A sign permit application can be submitted online through our website.

6. Do I need a sign permit to move a sign from my old business location to a new location?

Yes. All changes, including moving a sign require a sign permit. Different shopping centers have different requirements for sign types and styles. Shopping center owners provide a Master Sign Program to the Town to facilitate permit reviews comply with their guidelines and other Town ordinances. In some instances, an electrical permit may be required. A sign permit application can be submitted online through our website.  If you have any questions, we can help you determine all necessary steps for a safe installation by contacting us at planning@tompsc.com or by calling our office at 843-884-1229.