Charleston allows home-based businesses (home occupations) in residential zones with conditions. The business must be secondary to the residential use, with no visible exterior evidence.
Home occupations in Charleston are permitted as accessory uses in residential zones under the Zoning Ordinance. The business must be conducted entirely within the dwelling by residents. There must be no visible exterior evidence of the business, including signs, displays, or stored inventory. No more than one non-resident employee is typically allowed. The business must not generate traffic, noise, or odors beyond what is normal for a residential area. A business license from the city is required.
Operating a non-compliant home business results in code enforcement action, fines, and possible revocation of the business license.
Charleston, SC
Charleston does not regulate residential lawn ornaments such as statues, garden gnomes, flamingos, religious displays, or holiday figures on private property...
Charleston, SC
Charleston's sign provisions in the Zoning Ordinance (Title 54) prohibit commercial inflatable advertising devices, balloons, and similar wind-driven attenti...
Charleston, SC
Charleston does not impose general municipal time limits on residential holiday lights, and the Zoning Ordinance sign provisions exempt non-commercial reside...
Charleston, SC
Outdoor kitchens with permanent gas lines, water/sewer connections, electrical wiring, or roofed structures require permits in Charleston. A covered or walle...
Charleston, SC
Charcoal, wood, and pellet smokers are treated as open-flame cooking devices under the 2021 IFC adopted by South Carolina. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits thei...
Charleston, SC
Charleston follows the 2021 International Fire Code as adopted by the South Carolina Building Codes Council. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking...
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