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South Carolina, Richland County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Richland County, South Carolina Plumbing Permit Requirements

In Richland County, South Carolina, the Building Permitting and Inspections department is responsible for ensuring that construction activities comply with building codes and for issuing necessary permits. This includes permits for plumbing work. Properties in unincorporated areas of Richland County are subject to the county's building and safety regulations.

For homeowners acting as their own contractor for projects on their primary residence, there are specific steps to follow. This typically involves contacting the Building Permitting Office to determine permit requirements, verifying property setbacks with the Zoning Department, and applying for the permit in person at the Building Department. Homeowners are generally required to appear before the building official to obtain a permit, and online applications are not available for them.

When applying for a permit, homeowners will need to provide proof of property ownership, a copy of the property plat, and architectural drawings (unless applying for electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits only). If subcontractors are hired, their names and license numbers are also required. Homeowners acting as "Owner/Builders" must also complete and notarize a Statement of Disclosure, which must then be filed with the Register of Deeds. This document informs potential buyers that the owner performed the work and may restrict selling or renting the home for a period of two years.

Licensed Residential Contractors are generally required to use an online contractor's program for permit applications.

Plumbing work, like other construction activities, requires adherence to building codes to ensure the safety and integrity of structures.

Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas

Properties located in unincorporated areas of Richland County fall under the jurisdiction of the county's Building Permitting and Inspections department and the Planning and Development Services Division. These divisions guide growth, protect public health and safety, and ensure development aligns with local ordinances.

The Planning and Development Services Division reviews new developments, redevelopment projects, and changes to existing buildings to ensure compliance with zoning regulations, including aspects like building height, lot size, setbacks, density, and land use.

For utilities, such as water or sewer service, in unincorporated areas, specific requirements may apply. For instance, before submitting for new services, verification is needed to ensure all parcels within unincorporated areas are properly zoned.

Resources to Learn More

Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within South Carolina, including Richland County.

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

Select a City in Richland County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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