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§ 02
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Camden
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.
§ 03
Application process
Typical processing: Approximately 2-3 weeks for plan review
- 01 Obtain permit application forms from the City of Camden Planning and Development Department or the Evolve online portal.
- 02 Complete permit application and gather required documents (drawings, plat/deed copy, contractor licensing proof, construction cost estimate, and overlay compliance documents if applicable).
- 03 For floodplain properties: obtain Floodplain Development Permit and verify compliance with Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (Chapter 152).
- 04 For historic properties: obtain Certificate of Appropriateness if in Historic Overlay District (Chapter 158).
- 05 Submit application through the Evolve portal or in person to the Planning and Development Department.
- 06 City staff reviews for completeness and performs plan review (typically 2-3 weeks).
- 07 Applicant receives permit or request for revisions.
- 08 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 ↗
§ 04
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
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 sequence: Inspector verifies work compliance with South Carolina Building Code and local ordinances.
§ 05
Frequently asked
Common questions about Camden permits
01 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.
02 How do I apply for a building permit in Camden, SC? ▸
To apply for a building permit in Camden, SC, follow these steps: 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.
03 How long does it take to get a building permit in Camden, SC? ▸
Building permit processing times in Camden, SC typically run Approximately 2-3 weeks for plan review. Timelines can vary based on project complexity and current department workload.
04 How do I schedule a building inspection in Camden, SC? ▸
Once your permit is issued and work reaches an inspection milestone, you can schedule a building inspection in Camden, SC via: City of Camden Planning and Development Department, (803) 432-2421 x1165. Minimum 24 hours' notice required before inspection.
last verified April 2026
source City of Camden Planning and Development Department ↗
entry id permits/south-carolina/kershaw/camden
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Camden Planning and Development Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.