Support growing for stronger tree preservation rules in Beaufort County

It could soon become more difficult for developers in Beaufort County to knock down trees to clear the way for construction projects.

The county Planning Commission gave its unanimous blessing earlier this week to a plan to beef up tree regulations.

That set of potential code changes includes requiring developers to explore alternatives to tree removal, and prohibits builders from chopping down trees in buffer zones around construction sites.

In certain circumstances, developers would have to get permission from an arborist, county planner or the Planning Commission before chopping down a tree.

The issue of better protecting trees became a county priority after a Lady’s Island site was clear-cut earlier this year, outraging residents, environmental groups and members of the Beaufort County Council.

That site on Sams Point Road is the future home of the Village at Oyster Bluff, a mixed-use development with plans for 114 homes, a gas station, office space and a self-storage facility.

The developer, D.R. Horton, followed current county rules by conducting a tree survey and paying about $17,000 in fees to clear-cut the area.

“What we have seen is that the language (of the county’s tree regulations) was not strong enough,” county planning director Tony Criscitiello said earlier this week.

The proposed code changes would “put the developers on notice that we are definitely serious about protecting trees,” he said.

Kate Schaefer of the Coastal Conservation League called the changes an “important step,” but said the county could still do more.

Rather than a fining developers after they remove trees, the county could develop incentives for leaving trees in place, she said.

She also suggested the county work with municipalities to ensure the rules are consistent throughout the area.

“I believe an improved tree ordinance will help protect wetlands, waterways , preserve (wildlife) habitats, minimize erosion, retain topsoil, encourage bio-diversity and strengthen local character and local identity,” Schaefer said. “... Those are win-wins for everybody.”

Chuck Newton of the Sea Island Corridor Coalition, a resident watchdog group, said the beefed-up regulation proposals are “on target,” but “there are a few missing pieces.”

Newton called for increased fees for developers who cut down trees without permission.

“Penalties have to hurt,” he said.

Members of the Planning Commission agreed.

“Unfortunately, the county attorney doesn't think jail time is appropriate,” commissioner Diane Chmelik joked.

“I'm horrified that (developers) … would rather cut the trees down and pay a fine” than try to preserve them, she said.

Commission chairman Robert Semmler said the board will continue working with county staff to refine tree regulations and potentially further strengthen the code.

“We aren't finished with the tree ordinance,” he said. “We are working it and we take it very seriously.”

Once the commission completes its work, the new regulations will go before the full County Council for consideration.

This story was originally published May 4, 2016 at 3:30 PM with the headline "Support growing for stronger tree preservation rules in Beaufort County."