South Carolina Solid Waste Policy and Recycling Mandates

South Carolina Code Title 44, Chapter 96, the Solid Waste Policy and Management Act of 1991, prohibits the landfill disposal of several materials statewide: lead-acid batteries, used oil, whole tires (since 1991), yard waste (since 1993), white goods (appliances), and certain electronics. Counties must offer recycling collection or drop-off for these materials. The Act sets a statewide recycling goal of 40% and requires DHEC to publish annual progress reports. Local governments must develop solid waste management plans consistent with state policy. The state does not mandate curbside recycling but preempts disposal of banned items in any landfill.

Disposing banned materials in a landfill is a violation under DHEC Regulation 61-107, with civil penalties up to $10,000 per day per violation against waste generators or haulers.