How do I apply for a building permit in Camden, SC?

1. Obtain permit application forms from the City of Camden Planning and Development Department or the Evolve online portal. 2. Complete permit application and gather required documents (drawings, plat/deed copy, contractor licensing proof, construction cost estimate, and overlay compliance documents if applicable). 3. For floodplain properties: obtain Floodplain Development Permit and verify compliance with Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Chapter 152). 4. For historic properties: obtain Certificate of Appropriateness if in Historic Overlay District (Chapter 158). 5. Submit application through the Evolve portal or in person to the Planning and Development Department. 6. City staff reviews for completeness and performs plan review (typically 2-3 weeks). 7. Applicant receives permit or request for revisions. 8. After permit issuance, mark property with address numbers before construction begins.

How long does it take to get a building permit in Camden, SC?

Typical processing time is Approximately 2-3 weeks for plan review.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Camden, SC?

Inspections can be scheduled via: City of Camden Planning and Development Department, (803) 432-2421 x1165. Minimum 24 hours' notice required before inspection.

City Building Permits

Camden, SC - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Camden, South Carolina. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

South Carolina Kershaw County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

All properties within the incorporated City of Camden.

Department: City of Camden Planning and Development Department
Phone: (803) 432-2421 x1165
Email: PermitTech@camdensc.org
Website: https://experiencecamdensc.com/residents/planning-development/building-permits-inspections/

Online Permit Portal

Open City of Camden Online Services (Evolve)

Platform: Evolve • Account required: Yes • Submission: Online only

Additional resources:

City of Camden Planning & Development

Application Process

Obtain permit application forms from the City of Camden Planning and Development Department or the Evolve online portal.
Complete permit application and gather required documents (drawings, plat/deed copy, contractor licensing proof, construction cost estimate, and overlay compliance documents if applicable).
For floodplain properties: obtain Floodplain Development Permit and verify compliance with Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Chapter 152).
For historic properties: obtain Certificate of Appropriateness if in Historic Overlay District (Chapter 158).
Submit application through the Evolve portal or in person to the Planning and Development Department.
City staff reviews for completeness and performs plan review (typically 2-3 weeks).
Applicant receives permit or request for revisions.
After permit issuance, mark property with address numbers before construction begins.

Typical processing time: Approximately 2-3 weeks for plan review

Source: City of Camden Planning and Development Department

General Requirements

A building permit is required for any new construction, demolition, moving, repair, enlargement, or alteration of any building or structure. Permits are also required for installation, change, or replacement of electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, or roofing systems.

Required Documents

Completed permit application form
Architectural/engineering drawings (for new construction and significant alterations)
Plat or deed copy
Proof of contractor licensing (if applicable)
Construction cost estimate
Floodplain Development Permit (if in floodplain)
Certificate of Appropriateness (if in Historic Overlay District)

Building code: South Carolina Building Code 2021 (IBC 2021 + SC amendments)
Owner-builder: Building permits may be issued to owner-builders if owner signs affidavit and complies with state law.
Contractor requirements: A South Carolina General Contractor's License is required for contracting work with a total cost exceeding $10,000. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work require separate permits from licensed tradespeople.

Fees

Payment note: Contact City of Camden Planning and Development Department for specific fees, as they may differ from county fees.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the City of Camden Planning and Development Department to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

City of Camden Planning and Development Department (in-person)
(803) 432-2421 x1165 (phone)

Scheduling deadline: Minimum 24 hours' notice required before inspection

Typical inspection sequence: Inspector verifies work compliance with South Carolina Building Code and local ordinances.

Additional Resources

Building code: South Carolina Building Code 2021 (IBC 2021 + SC amendments)
Verify contractor license: SC LLR Contractor's Licensing Board
Zoning information: View zoning info
SC Building Codes Council
License lookup guide: South Carolina Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: South Carolina Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
South Carolina hub: South Carolina Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the City of Camden Planning and Development Department before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camden Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Camden, SC?: A building permit is required for any new construction, demolition, moving, repair, enlargement, or alteration of any building or structure. Permits are also required for installation, change, or replacement of electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, or roofing systems.
How do I apply for a building permit in Camden, SC?: 1. Obtain permit application forms from the City of Camden Planning and Development Department or the Evolve online portal. 2. Complete permit application and gather required documents (drawings, plat/deed copy, contractor licensing proof, construction cost estimate, and overlay compliance documents if applicable). 3. For floodplain properties: obtain Floodplain Development Permit and verify compliance with Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Chapter 152). 4. For historic properties: obtain Certificate of Appropriateness if in Historic Overlay District (Chapter 158). 5. Submit application through the Evolve portal or in person to the Planning and Development Department. 6. City staff reviews for completeness and performs plan review (typically 2-3 weeks). 7. Applicant receives permit or request for revisions. 8. After permit issuance, mark property with address numbers before construction begins.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Camden, SC?: Typical processing time is Approximately 2-3 weeks for plan review.
How do I schedule a building inspection in Camden, SC?: Inspections can be scheduled via: City of Camden Planning and Development Department, (803) 432-2421 x1165. Minimum 24 hours' notice required before inspection.

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Navigating permits in Camden can be complicated.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.

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