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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 at http://www.tompsc.com/forms.aspx?FID=109. 

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. Can I have an apartment over my garage?

Yes. The Town allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most residential zoning districts. Please call the Planning & Engineering Division at (843) 884-1229 to verify that there are no restrictions on your property and an ADU can be constructed on your property. Size, location, occupancy, and other requirements may be found in Zoning Code Section 156.110 & 156.111.  A building permit application must be submitted to the Building Inspection Division.  The application will be reviewed and approved by both the Building Inspections and Planning and Engineering Divisions before a permit is issued.

3. 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.

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

If you are looking for the recorded plat for your property, please contact the Charleston County ROD Office at (843) 958-4800. If you are looking for a site plan showing your house on the lot, please contact the Permitting Office of the Building Inspection Division at (843) 884-5184. If you are looking for an aerial view of an area or a zoning map, please fill out a map request or contact the Planning Department at (843) 884-1229..

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.