Charleston County, SC Home Business: Zoning & Home Occupation Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Where allowed
- Residential or agricultural use
- Floor area cap
- 25 percent of dwelling
- Accessory structure
- Up to 1,000 sq ft
- Activities
- Fully enclosed only
- Impacts
- None beyond lot line
Summary
Home occupations are allowed as an accessory use to any residential or agricultural use if they stay subordinate to the home. The ZLDR limits floor area to 25 percent, requires all activity to stay enclosed, and bans impacts perceptible beyond the lot line.
No more than 25 percent of the total floor area of the dwelling unit may be used to house a home occupation. Up to 1,000 square feet of an accessory structure, such as a garage, may be used for a home occupation.
Full Breakdown
Charleston County's Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) §6.5.11 permit home occupations that comply with performance standards as an accessory use in residential or agricultural districts. No more than 25 percent of the dwelling's floor area may be used, plus up to 1,000 square feet of an accessory structure such as a garage. All activities and storage must be in completely enclosed structures, and the operation may cause no odor, vibration, noise, or electrical interference perceptible beyond the lot line. Prohibited uses include restaurants, funeral homes, dancing schools, and (in most residential districts) vehicle repair, animal boarding, and medical clinics.
Violations & Fines
Zoning violations are enforced by the county Zoning & Planning Department through notices, orders, and penalties under ZLDR Chapter 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a business from my county home?
What businesses are banned at home?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Charleston County
How Charleston County compares: Easiest Cities to Run a Home Business·Compare Charleston County to another location·View the South Carolina home business overview
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