Permit Requirements for Gresham, South Carolina
For Plumbing projects in Gresham, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Marion 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 Gresham is located within Marion County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
South Carolina, Marion County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Marion County Building & Safety Division
Marion County's Building Inspections Office is responsible for enforcing county ordinances and state laws related to building permits and safety. This office handles plan reviews for new construction, additions, and remodeling projects, as well as onsite inspections during construction. They also enforce the National Flood Insurance Program and the 2009 IECC (Energy Code). Payments for services are accepted in cash or check only, payable to Marion County.
Permit Requirements for Unincorporated Areas
For projects in unincorporated areas of Marion County, a building permit is generally required for any commercial or residential building project valued over $1,000 or exceeding 200 square feet. To obtain a construction permit, you will need to:
- Obtain a zoning compliance permit.
- Submit proof of water/sewer tap payment, if applicable.
- Submit two sets of plans (if required).
- Complete a Building permit application.
- If the homeowner is completing the work themselves, an affidavit must be signed and recorded with the Clerk of Court Office.
- Contractors must present their State of South Carolina Contractor's License & Identification Card and obtain a Marion County business license.
- A signed Contract Agreement between the contractor and the homeowner is mandatory.
Specific plumbing permit requirements include:
- Underground inspection: Required after trenches are excavated and piping is installed, before backfill.
- Rough-in inspection: Required after framing and bracing are in place, and all soil, waste, and vent piping is complete, prior to wall or ceiling covering.
- Final inspection: Required after the building is complete, fixtures are installed and connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.
For certain complex plumbing systems or commercial projects, additional plan reviews and permits may be necessary. For instance, standalone systems (13-R) require a separate building permit, and a plumbing permit for a backflow prevention device is also needed. Projects involving medical gas and vacuum systems, chemical drainage waste and vent systems, sewer wastewater pretreatment, vacuum drainage waste and vent systems, or commercial potable water pressure booster pump systems may require additional review. Water service lines with an interior diameter of two inches or larger also require special consideration, unless designed and stamped by a licensed engineer.
Resources to Learn More
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