Building Permits in Town of Summerville, SC

SC (tri-county), a small accessory concrete slab (walkway, patio pad, small equipment pad) of 200 square feet or less at grade is exempt from a building permit. Larger slabs that will support a future structure or are part of a building foundation fall under the building permit. Impervious surface counts toward zoning lot-coverage limits.

SC (tri-county), a freestanding deck not more than 30 inches above grade and not more than 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2. County zoning setbacks still apply. If the parcel is inside the Town of Fort Mill (verify via 803-547-2034), use the town building department instead. Sawmill Branch waterfront parcels: Dominion Energy SC Lake Services permit may apply if any portion crosses the regulated shoreline.

SC (tri-county), fences 7 feet or less are exempt from a state building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2. County zoning regulates fence height, material, and setback; HOA covenants in many Sawmill Branch subdivisions further restrict materials and color. Lakefront fences extending toward the regulated shoreline may need Dominion Energy SC review.

SC (tri-county), an at-grade uncovered concrete or paver patio is exempt from a building permit. Adding a cover, roof, or screen enclosure turns the covered area into an accessory structure requiring a building permit. Impervious surface coverage counts toward zoning lot-coverage limits.

SC (tri-county), a retaining wall 4 feet or less measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, without surcharge, is exempt from a building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2. Drainage and erosion control remain the owner's responsibility. Walls within Dominion Energy SC's Sawmill Branch regulated zone require Dominion Energy SC permit regardless of height.