South Carolina Building Permits — Complete Guide (2026)
Find, Apply & Track Permits in Cities and Counties Across South Carolina
South Carolina's rapid coastal growth has made it one of the fastest-growing construction markets in the Southeast. Charleston and Myrtle Beach have significant coastal construction requirements. The Upstate (Greenville-Spartanburg) is a fast-growing inland market.
How building permits work in South Carolina
Building permit requirements and processing times in South Carolina vary by city and county. Use the links below to apply, check status, schedule inspections and find permit information for your location.
Learn the step-by-step permit process →Not sure where to apply?
Enter your city or address to find your permit office.
Permit costs by type — South Carolina
| Permit Type | Fee Range | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical | $75–$200 | 1–3 days | SC licensed electrician required |
| Plumbing | $65–$185 | 1–3 days | SC licensed plumber required |
| HVAC / Mechanical | $75–$225 | 1–4 days | AC replacement very high volume |
| Roofing | $100–$300 | 1–3 days | Hurricane-rated materials in coastal counties |
| New Construction | $600–$1,800 | 2–6 weeks | Coastal areas have premium costs |
| Room Addition | $300–$900 | 2–5 weeks | Wind load calculations in coastal areas |
| Deck / Patio | $125–$375 | 1–3 weeks | Elevated decks common near coast |
| Pool | $200–$525 | 2–4 weeks | Very high demand statewide |
| ADU | $300–$800 | 2–5 weeks | Local rules only — no statewide law |
| Solar | $75–$200 | 1–4 days | Good solar resource statewide |
Major South Carolina cities — apply online
Most South Carolina building permits are issued by cities. Click your city to access the permit portal, apply online, or check permit status.
Permit costs by county — top South Carolina counties
County building departments handle unincorporated areas. Click a county to access its permit portal directly.
How to get a building permit in South Carolina
Find your county building department
SC has 46 counties each with its own system. Charleston (ISD), Columbia, and Greenville have online portals.
SC contractor licensing
South Carolina licenses general contractors, electricians, plumbers, and mechanical contractors through SCLLR. Verify at llronline.com.
Coastal construction requirements
Coastal counties require compliance with SC's Beachfront Management Act. Properties within setback zones have additional restrictions.
Submit application with plans
Structural projects require architectural plans. Coastal projects need wind load engineering and may need SCDHEC permits for projects near wetlands or dunes.
Inspections
Counties have inspection divisions. Online scheduling in major cities.
ADU permits in South Carolina — what you need to know
🏠 South Carolina ADU-friendly status: No statewide law
South Carolina has no statewide ADU law. Charleston allows accessory dwelling units in most residential zones. Columbia and Greenville have ADU provisions in their zoning codes. Coastal properties may require additional flood zone and FEMA compliance.
Find a licensed South Carolina contractor
South Carolina requires licensed professionals for most permitted work. Always verify a contractor's license before hiring — it protects you and is required for most permit types.
General Contractors
Find pre-screened general contractors for your South Carolina home project. Compare quotes on permitted work.
Find a Contractor →Verify SC License
Verify your contractor holds a valid SC Contractors Licensing Board (LLR) license before any permitted work begins.
Verify SC License →Electricians & Plumbers
Specialty-licensed electricians and plumbers are required for all permitted electrical and plumbing work in South Carolina.
Learn More →Ready to get started? Browse verified, licensed contractors serving South Carolina homeowners and get free quotes on your project.
🔍 Find a Contractor Near YouFrequently asked questions — South Carolina permits
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