Summerville board denies removal of pine at 307 M Jack Way, allows root work with arborist oversight

The Summerville Tree Protection Board voted to disapprove removal of a pine tree at 307 M Jack Way while authorizing limited root work under arborist oversight.

The decision followed a site review and discussion about a proposed French drain. Chair said the homeowner had been advised by outside parties that the tree must come down because roots would be cut to install the drain, but board members disagreed and recommended mitigation measures instead.

Committee member (S2) said the planned root cuts—if limited to the drain pathway and done as clean cuts—“should be fine,” and recommended that an arborist oversee the work. Justin (S7), who identified the contractor as Charleston Stump Stumpers, said the homeowner’s arborist had not told him removal was necessary: “He never told me that his arborist advised him to remove the tree,” Justin said.

Other members suggested mulching and redirecting surface water to reduce the drainage issue and noted the homeowner had described a desire to create a shade garden rather than remove the tree. Committee member (S5) warned that removing the tree could increase the yard’s wetness, noting the tree “consumes” a lot of water.

Chair moved that the board disapprove removal of the tree and emphasize that any root cutting be done as agreed and overseen by an arborist; a fellow member seconded the motion and it passed by voice vote. The board asked the applicant to discuss the required clean root cuts with Justin and the designated arborist during follow-up.

The board did not record individual roll-call votes; the action was taken by voice vote during the meeting. The board also recommended mulching and other nonremoval mitigation prior to considering more disruptive options.