South Carolina Pool Construction Permits and Building Code

Under SC Code Section 6-9-50, the South Carolina Building Codes Council adopts the International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC) for use statewide. IRC Appendix V regulates residential pool and spa construction, requiring permits for pools deeper than 24 inches. Local building officials issue permits, perform plan review, and conduct inspections of excavation, plumbing, electrical bonding, and final fence installation. Public and semi-public pools fall under DHEC Regulation 61-51, requiring construction permits separately. Cities and counties cannot weaken state-adopted code requirements but may charge their own permit fees. Electrical work must comply with the National Electrical Code as adopted by SC. Existing pools predating code adoption may be grandfathered.

Building without a permit results in stop-work orders, double permit fees, mandatory inspections of concealed work, and fines that vary by local jurisdiction up to $500 per day.