Lake Murray and Lexington Tree Service
Lake Murray, Chapin and the Town of Lexington are in Lexington County, outside the City of Columbia's tree ordinance. Lakefront lots, slopes and tall pines make tree work there different from in-town lots.
This guide covers local considerations and costs.
Which rules apply
The City of Columbia's tree rules apply inside city limits. For properties in Lexington County, the Town of Lexington, Chapin or other towns, check with the county or town before removing trees. Lake Murray shoreline is managed by the utility that operates the lake, which may have its own rules for shoreline vegetation; ask before cutting near the water.
Lakefront considerations
Trees on slopes help hold soil. Removal near shorelines may need erosion control. Access by water or steep driveways can raise costs.
Costs
Published 2026 estimates put tree removal at $150–$450 up to 30 feet, $450–$1,200 for 30–60 feet and $800–$1,500 for 60–80 feet. Trimming is published at $80–$350 under 25 feet, $150–$800 for 25–50 feet and $300–$1,800 over 50 feet.
Storm preparation
Pruning dead limbs and assessing leaning pines before storm season reduces risk to docks, homes and boats.
For comparison: City of Columbia rules
Inside city limits, the Tree Removal Permit applies to private property excluding single-family lots, and a Forestry Permit is needed for public trees. These rules do not apply in unincorporated Lexington County.
Choosing a crew
Ask about experience with lakefront work, insurance and debris disposal.
Questions to ask before hiring
Before you agree to any tree or stump work in the Columbia area, ask each company for a written estimate that spells out the exact scope: which trees or stumps, how limbs and logs will be handled, whether chips are left or hauled away, and how the lawn and driveway will be protected from equipment. Ask for certificates of liability and workers' compensation insurance and confirm they are current. Ask whether an ISA Certified Arborist is on staff or available when a tree's health is in question. Clarify who is responsible for checking whether a City Forestry Permit or other approval is needed, and do not let work begin on right-of-way trees until that is settled. Finally, agree on a payment schedule; reputable crews rarely ask for full payment before the job is finished.
Published tree service cost estimates
| Item | Published range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tree removal, up to 30 ft | $150–$450 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, 30–60 ft | $450–$1,200 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, 60–80 ft | $800–$1,500 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, over 80 ft | $1,000–$2,000+ | Angi 2026 |
| Pine tree removal | $250–$1,500 | Angi 2026 |
| Stump grinding | $120–$400 per stump (about $2–$5 per inch of diameter) | Angi 2026 |
| Crane service when needed | about $500, or $250–$600 per day | Angi 2026 |
| Arborist report (where required) | about $860 average | Angi 2026 |
Sources: Angi: Tree removal cost (2026); Angi: Stump grinding cost (2026); Angi: Tree service cost. Figures are published national or regional estimates compiled by those sites, labeled as estimates; they are not quotes and not prices from any provider on this site. National published estimates; Midlands prices vary with access, tree size, proximity to structures and lines, and storm demand.
Local rules and code references
- City of Columbia Landscape & Tree Ordinance (Planning & Development Services): a no-fee Tree Removal Permit is required for removing trees on private property, excluding single-family residential lots and street trees; a Forestry Permit is required for any work in the drip line of trees in a public right-of-way or on City property, including pruning and removal; tree protection plans or permits are required for construction, grading and similar work.
- City of Columbia Forestry Permit Application: permit application for work affecting public trees, referencing Sec. 17-2.5n and Sec. 17-5.4 Tree Protection; pruning must follow ANSI A300 standards and a certified arborist report may be required.
- City of Columbia Tree Protection Detail: standard tree protection detail referencing Sec. 17-5.4(f)(4), showing protective fencing around the critical root zone during construction.
Code text and department procedures change; confirm current requirements with the jurisdiction before work starts.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Lake Murray in the City of Columbia?
- No. Lake Murray, Chapin and Lexington are in Lexington County, outside the City's tree ordinance.
- Do I need permission to cut trees on the Lake Murray shoreline?
- Shoreline areas may be subject to rules from the lake's operator and local government; ask before cutting.
- How much does tree removal cost near Lake Murray?
- Published 2026 estimates range from $150–$450 for small trees to $800–$1,500 for 60–80 foot trees, before access factors.
- What if I live outside Columbia city limits?
- Richland and Lexington County rules and other municipalities may differ; check with your county or town before removing trees.
- How much does tree trimming cost?
- Published estimates put trimming at $80–$1,800 depending on height.
- Who handles street trees in Columbia?
- Street trees and trees in the public right-of-way are managed through the City's Forestry Division; any work in their drip line, including pruning or removal, requires a Forestry Permit.
Related local guides
- Loblolly Pine and Oak Removal in Columbia, SC
- Stump Grinding and Root Removal in Columbia
- Emergency Tree Removal in Columbia, SC
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