Planning to clear some land on your property? One of the most common questions we get is whether permits are required. The short answer is: it depends. Here's what you need to know about land clearing regulations in Greenville, Anderson, and Upstate South Carolina.
Important Disclaimer
Regulations change and vary by municipality. This guide provides general information, but you should always verify current requirements with your local planning or zoning office before starting any land clearing project.
WHEN YOU TYPICALLY DON'T NEED A PERMIT
In most of Upstate South Carolina, you generally don't need a permit for:
- Brush hogging: Mowing overgrown grass, weeds, and small brush
- Stump grinding: Removing stumps from previously cut trees
- Minor clearing: Removing a few trees for landscaping purposes
- Agricultural maintenance: Clearing fence lines and maintaining pastures
- Dead or hazardous trees: Removing trees that pose safety risks
These activities are considered normal property maintenance and typically don't trigger permit requirements in unincorporated areas of Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Pickens, or Oconee counties.
WHEN YOU LIKELY NEED A PERMIT
Permits are typically required for:
- Grading and earth moving: Any significant changes to land elevation
- Development-related clearing: Clearing for new construction, subdivisions, or commercial projects
- Clearing near waterways: Work within buffer zones of streams, rivers, or wetlands
- Large-scale clearing: Removing all vegetation from significant acreage
- Protected areas: Properties in floodplains, wetlands, or conservation easements
CITY VS. COUNTY REGULATIONS
Regulations can differ significantly depending on whether you're in a city or unincorporated county area:
City of Greenville
The City of Greenville has a tree ordinance that protects certain trees. Permits may be required for removing trees over a certain size (typically 24" diameter or larger). Heritage trees have additional protections.
Contact: Greenville City Planning at (864) 467-4476
Greenville County (Unincorporated)
Generally more permissive than city limits. No tree removal permits for most residential properties, but land disturbance permits may be needed for grading over certain thresholds.
Contact: Greenville County Land Development at (864) 467-7270
Anderson, Pickens & Oconee Counties
These counties generally have fewer restrictions on land clearing for residential properties. However, stormwater and erosion control requirements may apply for larger projects.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
Regardless of local permit requirements, some state and federal regulations may apply:
- Wetlands: The Army Corps of Engineers regulates filling or disturbing wetlands
- Streams and rivers: Buffer zones often require special permits for clearing
- Erosion control: Projects disturbing over 1 acre need an NPDES stormwater permit
- Endangered species: Areas with protected species may have restrictions
HOA AND DEED RESTRICTIONS
Don't forget to check your HOA rules and deed restrictions. Many subdivisions in the Greenville and Simpsonville areas have strict rules about tree removal and land clearing, even when no government permits are required. You may need HOA approval before removing trees or clearing vegetation.
STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE CLEARING
- Determine your jurisdiction: Are you in city limits or unincorporated county?
- Check with local planning: A quick call can clarify permit requirements
- Review HOA rules: If applicable, get written approval
- Consider your neighbors: Notify adjacent property owners as a courtesy
- Document the area: Take photos before and after for your records
WHAT ABOUT BURNING?
If you're planning to burn brush after clearing, that's a separate issue. In South Carolina, you need a burn permit from the SC Forestry Commission for most outdoor burning. These are usually free and can be obtained online or by calling your local forestry office.
Need Help With Your Land Clearing Project?
Nelson Stump & Land Clearing handles land clearing projects throughout Upstate SC. We can advise on typical permit requirements based on our experience in your area. Give us a call to discuss your project.
Get a Free QuoteBOTTOM LINE
For most residential brush hogging, stump grinding, and minor land clearing in Upstate SC, you probably don't need a permit. But for larger projects, development-related clearing, or properties near waterways, always check with your local planning office first. The small investment of time can save you from fines and headaches later.
Have questions about a specific project? Call us at (864) 760-9203. We're happy to share what we know about regulations in your area.