Wooded lot in SC - clearing trees

[Greg Rusianoff]

I'm thinking of buying a wooded lot next to major road in South Carolina, clearing the forest and building on it. 

For anyone who may know about these topics, what steps are involved to clear trees off land. I know that SC's timber industry is quite big. Not sure if there are any limitations to how much trees you are allowed to clear - maybe there are quotas like in hunting... What permits would I need to apply for?

I would appreciate any insight to anyone who has done this in any State. I bet the rules are similar from state to state.