SURFSIDE BEACH, SC (WPDE) — The Surfside Planning Commission is considering changes to the city's tree and landscape ordinance to increase tree conservation efforts.
At a recent meeting, officials discussed proposals to clarify regulations and improve enforcement, with a focus on saving more hardwood trees.
Mark Brodeur, director of planning, construction and zoning for Surfside Beach, suggested lowering the size threshold for tree protection from eight inches to six inches in diameter.
“I think we should save more hardwood trees at that 15-inch stage instead of waiting for them to get to that 20-inch stage,” Brodeur said.
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The commission also discussed imposing a fine of $500 per inch of wood, which cannot be replaced if a tree is cut down without proper permits. However, some members expressed concerns about the fairness of costs and enforcement. Surfside Beach Chairman Dusty McCracken questioned the city's ability to regulate tree protection on public lands.
“If we want to use public lands, they should be required to keep the same number of trees,” McCracken said.
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The commission also considers the size of the property when determining tree needs. No decisions have been made yet and it may take some time for the changes to become final.