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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Dillon County
A building permit is required for all construction in unincorporated Dillon County.
- Completed building permit application form
- Proof of ownership or authorization to construct
- Site plan or plot plan showing property location, zoning, setbacks, and easements
- Construction plans and specifications
- Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas plans for respective trades
- DHEC Regulation 61-56 approval letter for septic systems
- Building code
- 2021 South Carolina Building Code (effective January 1, 2023)
- Permit validity
- Permit is void if work does not start within 6 months of application date.
- Contractor requirements
- For residential work exceeding $5,000, contractor must hold valid SC Residential Builder License. Surety bond of at least $15,000 required on file with SC Licensing and Regulation Board.
Application process
Application → plan check → issuance → inspection → final
- 01 Contact Building Code Enforcement at (843) 841-3874 to confirm zoning compliance and obtain pre-approval documents.
- 02 Submit application with completed building permit application form, proof of ownership, site plan, and construction plans.
- 03 Include electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and gas plans for respective trades.
- 04 For septic systems: Obtain SC DHEC Regulation 61-56 approval letter before county permit completion.
- 05 Confirm zoning compliance and obtain zoning approval if required through Planning & Zoning division.
- 06 Confirm correct address or request address assignment before permit issuance.
- 07 County reviews and issues permit or requests revisions.
- 08 Post permit card visibly at job site before work begins.
Source: Building Code Enforcement / Planning & Zoning Division ↗
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (843) 841-3874 (phone)
- code17@bellsouth.net (email)
- Inspection hours
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Typical sequence: Standard inspection sequence: Foundation/Footing, Rough-In Inspection (Framing), Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing Rough-In, Insulation & Drywall, Final Inspection.
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Dillon County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Dillon County, SC? ▸
02 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Dillon County, SC? ▸
03 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Dillon County, SC? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Building Code Enforcement / Planning & Zoning Division before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.