Richland County, SC Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Section 6-43 bars anyone from constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, improving, removing, converting, or demolishing a building or structure, or installing electrical, gas, or plumbing equipment, without first getting a separate permit from the Building Official for each building, structure, or installation. A copy of every issued permit goes to the county assessor within ten days. Public utility companies are exempt for work on their own easements and utility property, but the exemption does not cover buildings on those properties. Applications go on the Building Official's form with whatever supporting information is required, and under Section 6-44 the official can demand two or more sets of drawings and specifications, plus an architect's or engineer's seal on Group A, E, I, and H buildings and on any building over two stories or 5,000 square feet, except one- and two-family dwellings.

Section 6-45 lets the Building Official refuse a permit in writing, with reasons, if plans do not conform, and the applicant may appeal that refusal to the Building Codes Board of Appeals. Once issued, a permit under Section 6-46 lapses if work does not start within six months, or if it is suspended or abandoned for one year; the Building Official may grant extensions of up to 90 days each. A structure left incomplete for a year in a state of disrepair can be declared debris and demolished, with a lien placed on the property and possible legal action against the owner for abatement costs.

C. Summer Nuclear Plant's Emergency Planning Zone must have an approved evacuation plan on file with Richland County Emergency Services before a building permit issues.