Building Setbacks & Zoning in Charleston County, SC (2026)
3 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Charleston County, South Carolina.
Verified from official government sources
Setback Rules
Setbacks depend on the zoning district. In the common R-4 Single Family Residential district the minimums are 25 feet front/street side, 5 feet interior side, and 15 feet rear. Rural AGR (Agricultural/Residential) requires 50 feet front, 15 feet side, and 30 feet rear. Waterfront lots add critical-line setbacks.
Building Setback Requirements in Unincorporated Charleston County
Some RestrictionsCharleston County ZLDR Table 4.10.3, R-4 Dimensional Standards
MINIMUM SETBACKS — Front/Street Side: 25 feet; Interior Side: 5 feet; Rear: 15 feet.
Structure Height Limits
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.
Building Height Limits in Unincorporated Charleston County
Some RestrictionsCharleston County ZLDR §4.2.4
Building height refers to the vertical distance between the base flood elevation and: (1) the average height level between the eaves and ridge line of a gable, hip or gambrel roof; (2) the highest point of a mansard roof; or (3) the highest point of the coping of a flat roof.
Lot Coverage Limits
In both the R-4 Single Family Residential and rural AGR districts, maximum building coverage is 30% of the lot. Coverage counts principal and accessory buildings, roofed areas, and swimming pools (excluding pool decking). Impervious surface is separately governed by the county Stormwater Manual.
Lot and Building Coverage Limits in Charleston County
Some RestrictionsCharleston County ZLDR §4.2.5
Building coverage refers to the area of a Lot covered by Buildings (Principal and Accessory) or roofed areas, as measured along the outside wall at ground level, and including all projections, other than fire escapes, canopies and the first two feet of a roof overhang. Swimming pools (excluding the pool decking) shall be included in Building Coverage.
Building Setbacks & Zoning by City in Charleston County
2 cities in Charleston County have their own building setbacks & zoning rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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