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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Clarendon County
A building permit is required for all structures in unincorporated Clarendon County, including erecting, constructing, or placing any building or structure; replacing or moving a manufactured home; enlarging, altering, or remodeling existing structures; installing or changing electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems; carports and other accessory structures; and demolition.
- Exempt Minor plumbing repairs
- Exempt Small accessory structures under 200 square feet
- Exempt Certain electrical and mechanical work (verify with Planning Department)
Note: All exemptions must be verified with Clarendon County Planning Department before proceeding. Exempt from building permit does not mean exempt from zoning and planning requirements.
- Completed building permit application
- Detailed construction plans and drawings
- Proof of zoning certification
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Construction cost estimate
- List of licensed contractors (if applicable)
- Building code
- 2021 International Building Code (IBC) and 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) with South Carolina amendments, effective January 1, 2023
- Permit validity
- Typically issued for specified project duration per permit type documentation.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builder exemption available under SC Title 40, Chapter 59, Section 40-59-260 for personal use residential structures. Zoning permit still required.
- Contractor requirements
- General contractors must be licensed by SC Contractor's Licensing Board (LLR) for work exceeding certain thresholds.
Application process
Typical processing: 7-14 business days for plan review; 24-48 hours for permit issuance
- 01 Contact Planning Commission Department for zoning certification before construction begins
- 02 Obtain zoning permit from Zoning Administrator
- 03 Submit building permit application with detailed construction plans to Planning Department
- 04 Email completed application and plans to ccapps@clarendoncountygov.org or submit in person
- 05 Department conducts plan review (standard: 7-14 business days)
- 06 Receive permit issuance notification (standard: 24-48 hours after approval)
- 07 Schedule required inspections before commencing work
Typical processing time: 7-14 business days for plan review; 24-48 hours for permit issuance
Fee schedule
Clarendon County building permit fees
Contact Planning Commission at 803-435-8672 for exact fee schedule based on project type, construction value, square footage, and inspection requirements
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Clarendon County Planning Department (phone)
- ccapps@clarendoncountygov.org (email)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Typical sequence: Required inspections include: Foundation/footing (before concrete pour or fill), Framing (after framing complete, before drywall), Plumbing (rough-in and final), Electrical (rough-in and final), HVAC (if applicable), and Final inspection (all work complete). Additional inspections as required by code or site conditions.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Clarendon County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Clarendon County, SC? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Clarendon County, SC? ▸
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Clarendon County, SC? ▸
04 What work is exempt from building permits in unincorporated Clarendon County, SC? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Clarendon County, SC? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Clarendon County Planning Commission before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.