In most residential districts, including R-4 Single Family Residential and rural AGR, the maximum building height is 35 feet, measured from base flood elevation to the roof. Height is defined by roof type, and items like chimneys, cupolas, flagpoles, and rooftop mechanical appurtenances are exempt from the limit.
ZLDR §4.2.4 measures building height as the vertical distance from base flood elevation to the average height between eaves and ridge of a pitched roof, the highest point of a mansard roof, or the coping of a flat roof — an important coastal adjustment for flood-elevated homes. Table 4.10.3 (R-4) and Table 4.79.3 (AGR) both cap maximum height at 35 feet. Exceptions to the height limit include farm buildings in agricultural districts, chimneys, cupolas, spires, flagpoles, antennas, and rooftop mechanical structures occupying no more than one-third of the roof area (§4.2.4.B).
Exceeding the district height limit without a variance is a violation; the county can withhold or revoke permits and require corrective action or a zoning variance.
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See how Charleston County's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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