Rock Hill, SC Accessory Structures: ADU Permits (2026)

The two-track permitting process for a Rock Hill ADU works as follows. Zoning Track: The applicant first verifies that an ADU is permitted in the underlying district under Chapter 31. If permitted by right, a zoning permit issues from Planning and Development upon a showing of compliance with dimensional standards. If permitted by special exception, the application goes to the Rock Hill Board of Zoning Appeals (constituted under S.C. Code §6-29-780) which holds a public hearing with notice. If a variance is needed, the BZA applies the variance standard under S.C. Code §6-29-800 (extraordinary and exceptional conditions, hardship not self-created, and consistency with the spirit of the ordinance). Building Track: After zoning approval, the applicant submits construction documents to the Building Official under the state-adopted IRC. Plan review confirms structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and energy provisions of the IRC for one- and two-family dwellings (or IBC for townhouses or larger configurations). Inspections occur at footing, foundation, framing, rough-in, insulation, and final stages. A Certificate of Occupancy is issued before the ADU may be occupied. Utility connections for water and sewer are administered through the City of Rock Hill Utilities Department; electric service in much of Rock Hill is provided by City of Rock Hill Electric (a municipal utility) or Duke Energy depending on service territory.