When should a tree be removed?
Most tree removals in the Lowcountry fall into a few groups. The tree is dead or dying, with bare limbs in summer, loose bark or mushrooms at the base. It shows decay: a hollow or split trunk, deep cracks where big limbs join, or rot in the roots. It is leaning toward the house and the lean is new or getting worse, often after storm damage. Or its roots are lifting a driveway, sidewalk or foundation.
A hazardous tree close to the house, power lines or a neighbor’s property is worth dealing with before hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. A crew can tell you on site whether the tree has to come down or whether removing the problem limbs is enough (see tree trimming). If a tree has already fallen on the house or is blocking the driveway, go straight to emergency tree removal.
How is a tree removed safely?
Few trees near Charleston homes can be dropped in one piece. On a typical lot a professional crew climbs the tree or works from a bucket truck and takes it down in sections, lowering each piece on ropes (called rigging) so it does not hit the roof, fence or lawn.
Large live oaks and trees leaning over a house often need a crane. It adds to the price, but it is the safest way to lift heavy wood over a structure. Trees touching or near power lines are a separate job: the utility usually has to be involved, and only crews trained for line clearance should work near energized lines.
Most tree removal services include cleanup: once the tree is down, the crew chips the branches, cuts the trunk into rounds and hauls the debris away, unless you agree to keep the wood for firewood.
How much does tree removal cost in Charleston?
LawnStarter lists Charleston averages of about $375 for a small tree, $808 for a medium tree and $1,862 for a large tree (source: LawnStarter, Charleston tree care).
What moves the price: height and trunk diameter, how close the tree is to the house or power lines, whether a crane is needed, access for equipment (a backyard behind a narrow gate takes longer than an open front yard) and how much cleanup you want.
Stump grinding and haul-away are often quoted separately. Ask for a written quote that lists what is included, and see stump grinding for that part of the job.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Charleston?
It depends on where the property is. The Charleston area is split among several cities, towns and the county, and each one has its own tree rules. Confirm with the office below before any tree is cut. DBH means trunk diameter measured 4.5 feet above the ground.
City of Charleston: trees under 24 inches DBH on single-family or duplex lots do not need a removal permit. Grand trees, 24 inches DBH or larger (pines and sweetgums excluded), have separate rules, so call Citizen Services at 843-724-7311 before removing one. Official page: City of Charleston tree removal information.
Mount Pleasant: trees on residential lots that are 16 inches DBH or larger are protected and need approval before removal, with exceptions for species such as sweetgum, Callery (Bradford) pear, river birch and Leyland cypress. Pines are protected at 24 inches or more. The application fee is $50. Contact trees@tompsc.com or 843-884-1229. Official page: Town of Mount Pleasant trees.
North Charleston: the contractor you hire applies for the tree removal permit (owners apply only when they remove the tree themselves). The application needs the contract with the scope of work and, where there is one, approval from your HOA. Fees start at $30. Zoning: 843-740-2581. Official page: North Charleston tree removal permit.
Unincorporated Charleston County: grand trees, 24 inches DBH or larger (pines and sweetgums excluded), cannot be removed without a Grand Tree Removal Permit. It is generally granted when the tree is dead, diseased, dying or a hazard; otherwise the Board of Zoning Appeals decides. Heavy pruning of a grand tree can also require a zoning permit. Official guide: Charleston County tree ordinance (PDF).
Summerville, Goose Creek and other towns set their own rules, so check with the local planning office. Rules were checked against the official pages above in October 2026.
What should I ask before hiring a tree removal company?
Ask for the company’s business license and proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance, a written quote that lists cleanup, stump grinding and haul-away, and how the crew will protect your roof, fence and lawn. Ask who pulls the permit when one is needed.
For a large live oak or a tree you might want to save, ask whether an ISA Certified Arborist will look at it first; you can check a credential in the ISA arborist directory. Avoid anyone who asks for full payment before the work starts.
Tree removal across the Charleston area
We connect homeowners with tree removal companies in Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, Daniel Island, North Charleston, Summerville, Goose Creek and the rest of the Tri-County area. See the full list of service areas, every tree service in Charleston we refer, or request a free quote. Not sure how a referral works? Read how our referral service works.
Frequently asked questions
How fast can a tree be removed?
Routine removals are usually scheduled within days. A tree that fell on a house or blocks a driveway is handled as an emergency (see the emergency tree removal page).
How much does it cost to remove a tree in South Carolina?
In the Charleston area, LawnStarter averages run from about $375 for a small tree to $1,862 for a large one. A tree over the house that needs a crane can cost more. The reliable number is a written quote after someone sees the tree.
Is the quote free?
Yes. You describe the job, a local crew gives you a quote, and you decide whether to hire them.
Who actually does the work?
An independent, locally owned tree service company that carries its own insurance. This site is a referral service and does not perform tree work.