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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Blacksburg
Permits required for: building construction, demolition, moving of structures, and installation of structures.
- Exempt One-story detached accessory structures not exceeding 200 SF
- Exempt Retaining walls not exceeding 4 feet in height
- Exempt Water tanks not exceeding 5,000 gallons capacity
- Exempt Window awnings projecting no more than 54 inches
Note: Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements. The Town of Blacksburg has unique requirements emphasizing tree protection and landscaping preservation. Confirm edge cases with Planning and Zoning Department before proceeding.
- Permit Application for Building, Demolition, Moving, & Installing
- Site plan showing significant trees and protection measures
- Landscaping installation plan
- Other documentation per Chapter 5 (Buildings and Building Regulations)
- Building code
- 2021 South Carolina Building Code, Residential Code, Fire Code, Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Fuel Gas Code (effective January 1, 2023); 2020 National Electrical Code with SC modifications; 2021 International Property Maintenance Code, Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and Existing Building Code. Chapter 5 of Town of Blacksburg Code of Ordinances.
- Permit validity
- Permit valid per Chapter 5 of Town of Blacksburg Code of Ordinances.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may perform certain exempt improvements: one-story detached accessory structures ≤200 SF, retaining walls ≤4 feet in height, water tanks ≤5,000 gallons capacity, and window awnings projecting ≤54 inches. Verify specific exemptions with Planning and Zoning Department.
- Contractor requirements
- Residential work over $5,000 requires licensed residential builder; commercial work over $10,000 requires licensed general contractor. Verify contractor licensing thresholds before starting construction.
Application process
Typical processing: Contact Town of Blacksburg at 864-839-2333 for processing time estimates and specific project requirements.
- 01 Download the Permit Application for Building, Demolition, Moving, & Installing from townofblacksburgsc.com/forms-permits/.
- 02 Complete all sections of the permit application.
- 03 Prepare site plan and documentation showing: significant trees on property, tree protection measures, and landscaping installation plans.
- 04 Failure to provide adequate tree protection and landscaping information is grounds for permit denial. Consult Planning and Zoning Department for specific requirements.
- 05 Submit completed application and site plan in person at 105 S. Shelby St., Blacksburg, SC 29702.
- 06 Contact Planning and Zoning at 864-839-2333 for guidance on specific project requirements and processing timelines.
- 07 Include all required permit fees with application.
- 08 Blacksburg Planning Commission reviews application for code compliance and tree protection/landscaping requirements.
- 09 Upon approval, permit is issued to applicant.
- 10 Applicant schedules inspections as construction phases are completed.
Typical processing time: Contact Town of Blacksburg at 864-839-2333 for processing time estimates and specific project requirements.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 864-839-2333 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Contact Planning and Zoning Department for hours.
Typical sequence: Applicant schedules inspections as respective construction phases are completed. Special attention to tree protection inspections during construction and landscaping compliance inspections. Contact Planning and Zoning for specific inspection requirements.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Blacksburg permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Blacksburg, SC? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Blacksburg, SC? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Blacksburg, SC? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in Blacksburg, SC? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Blacksburg, SC? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Town of Blacksburg Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.