Permit Requirements for Conway, South Carolina
For Plumbing projects in Conway, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Horry County.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:
General Plumbing Guidelines
Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.
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Because Conway is located within Horry County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
South Carolina, Horry County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Horry County Plumbing Permit Requirements
In Horry County, South Carolina, a plumbing permit is required for any new plumbing installations, fixture replacements, gas line installations, or water/sewer connections. Licensed plumbers are generally responsible for submitting permit applications. Even minor plumbing work, such as stopping leaks in drains, water, soil, waste, or vent pipes, may require a permit if it involves concealed pipes that need replacement. However, clearing stoppages or repairing leaks in pipes, valves, or fixtures, as well as removing and reinstalling water closets, may not require a permit if these repairs do not involve replacing or rearranging valves, pipes, or fixtures.
For properties in unincorporated areas of Horry County, the Code Enforcement Division is responsible for issuing building permits and overseeing inspections for new construction and improvements. Any owner or authorized agent intending to alter, repair, or replace plumbing systems must first obtain the required permit. While some minor plumbing work may be exempt from building permits, it is still important to confirm with Code Enforcement to ensure compliance with zoning and planning requirements.
The application process typically involves submitting a completed permit application, along with supporting documents such as plans, contractor license information, and sewer verification. For commercial projects, digital submittal of plans is often required. Processing times for permits can vary, with residential reviews generally taking less time than commercial reviews.
Resources to Learn More
- Horry County Code Enforcement: [https://www.horrycountysc.gov/departments/code-enforcement/](https://www.horrycountysc.gov/departments/code-enforcement/)
- Horry County Building Permit Information: [https://www.horrycountysc.gov/departments/code-enforcement/building-permits/](https://www.horrycountysc.gov/departments/code-enforcement/building-permits/)
- Horry County Permit Application Forms: [http://www.horrycounty.org/forms](http://www.horrycounty.org/forms)
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within South Carolina:
South Carolina Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
State-Level Plumbing Codes in South Carolina
The state of South Carolina mandates the use of the 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC) as the foundation for its statewide plumbing standards. This code is implemented with specific South Carolina modifications approved by the state. These standards are mandatory for all municipalities and counties across the state, effective as of January 1, 2023.
Primary Regulatory Agency
The South Carolina Building Codes Council is the primary state body responsible for the adoption and modification of building codes, including plumbing standards. The Council is composed of public and private building industry officials appointed by the governor. Its functions include reviewing model codes published by the International Code Council (ICC), voting on their adoption for use in South Carolina, and determining necessary state-level modifications. Local jurisdictions are responsible for the enforcement of these state-mandated codes through their respective building departments and certified building officials.
Resources to Learn More