While the City of Charleston is regularly planting new trees in public places, most of Charleston's potential tree planting areas are actually on private property. If you own land or have permission to plant, you can help!
Learn where trees are needed by viewing the below data.
Goals
Charleston has two tree planting goals in our 2021 Climate Action Plan, one for public places (City staff's goal) and one for private property like at homes and businesses (we need help from private landowners to achieve this goal!).
Increase tree planting on private property.
The City aims to plant approximately 1,500 trees on public property including rights of way, parks and other City facilities (annually)
You can help achieve Charleston's goals
by planting trees in the right places!
For Street Tree Plantings (in the Public Right-of-Way), Please Consult with the Parks Department!
If you have an area of public right-of-way nearby your home you think could be a good place for a tree, we urge you to please reach out to the Parks Department first, who diligently manages our street tree canopy.
Any new street trees need to be added to their inventory and programming so the tree can be maintained and cared for, such as pruning and watering. They also have a street tree planting program and can meet you on site to discuss options with you. To learn more and get contact information, visit https://www.charleston-sc.gov/271/Street-Tree-Program.
Resources To Plant Trees on Private Property
Identifying the Right Location and Avoiding Power Lines
Remember, if the location you like best is not in your private yard but rather in the public right-of-way, please contact the Parks Department first as they manage all street trees.
Choosing the Right Tree Species that Fits Your Location
For more information, reach out to the Clemson Cooperative Extension Office at hgic@clemson.edu or 888-656-9988, open 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday - Friday.
Have You Planted a Tree?
Make it official by adding it to the below map showcasing all of Charleston's initiatives to help Rainproof our city, including planting trees! It's easy, simply complete this form.
One mature tree can store 50 to 100 gallons of water during a storm.
- Trees To Offset Stormwater Case Study 04: Charleston, South Carolina, 2018
One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture
Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.