Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is a Building Permit required?
A. Building permits are required for ALL CONSTRUCTION with the following exceptions:
1. Detached Accessory Structures (storage buildings, etc.) that are LESS than 120 sq. ft.
2. Fences not over 6 feet high, UNLESS the construction cost is greater than $2,000.00.
3. Retaining walls not over 4 feet high.
4. Sidewalks/driveways (as long as they are not over 30” above the surrounding grade).
5. Painting, Wallpapering, Flooring, Cabinets.
6. Above-Ground Swimming pools (less than 24” deep)
7. Window Awnings (supported by exterior walls)
8. IRC Swing Sets
9. IBC Movable shelves or equipment
10. Public Service Agencies - line or field work

Permits are Necessary for:  
1. Replacing Roof covering (no more than 2 layers of roofing allowed on house) 
2. Door & window replacements
3. Decks & Guardrails
4. Structural Repairs
5. Moving of Walls 
6. ANY TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION, ADDITION, OR RENOVATION GREATER THAN $2,000.00 IN VALUATION ~OR~ THAT REQUIRES AN INSPECTION.

Q. Is my Contractor licensed?
A. You can find out if the person you are contracting to do work is licensed by going to www.llr.state.sc.us. 
Click on license lookup, contractors, then residential builders.

Q. What do I need to get a Building Permit to Build a New House?
A.  The f0llowing applies for new home building permits:
1. 911 address card obtained from the E-911 office, located on Scotch Rd. (old health dept. building) or call 843-623-6837.
2. You must submit a set of plans. We do not require them to be drawn by an architect.
3. Once plans are approved, permits will be issued to the Licensed Builder ~or~ the homeowner, after a disclosure statement has been filed with the Clerk of Court.
4. All contractors must be licensed with the State. (LLR). The contractor is responsible for obtaining the permits and calling for all inspections.
5. A list of sub-contractors, including name, license number, and phone number. This includes Foundation, Framing, Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC subs.
6. A septic tank approval from the Health Department. The Health Department phone number for Septic Tanks is 843-623-2117.

 Q. What do I need to bring a Mobile Home in Chesterfield County?
A. The following applies for bringing a mobile into the county:
1. 911 address card obtained from the E-911 office, located on Scotch Rd. (old health dept. building) or call 843-623-6837.
2. A purchase agreement and completed title application if buying from a dealer.  If buying from an individual, you will need the title, signed on the back with a completed title application (available at the Dept of Transportation) along with a $20.00 MOVING PERMIT, obtained from the Assessor’s office on the 2nd floor of the courthouse.
3. Septic tank permit or existing septic paperwork from Health Department. The Health Department phone number for Septic Tanks is 843-623-2117.
4. The cost to register a mobile home that requires inspections is $105.00.The cost to register a mobile home that does not require inspections is $25.00. 

Note to Progress Energy Customers: 
An 8-digit premise # is required at the time of your inspection to connect your power. You may obtain this number by calling Progress at 1-800-452-2777.

Q. Can I build my house myself?
 A. You have the right as a homeowner to contract and/or build your house. However, all codes and regulations still apply to you. If you are contracting the house out to subs, ALL SUBS MUST BE LICENSED. We do require that each subcontractor come to our department and present his/her license and sign the permit for work they are performing. You are required to sign a disclosure statement stating you understand this procedure. Also as a homeowner builder, you may not rent or sale your house for 2 (two) years.

Q. Do I have to use Licensed Contractors?
A. YES, you DO have to use licensed contractors in all work that is performed. It is illegal to use unlicensed contractors.

Q. When do I need to call for inspections?
A. Please give at least a 24- hour notice. We do our best to accommodate everyone, but, please keep in mind that due to numerous job inspections, we are not able to schedule appointment times.

Q. How much are Building Permits?
A. Building permits are based on contract cost and cost per square footage. 
Please refer to the permit fee schedule or call our office for assistance.