Bolthole Index

Horry County, South Carolina

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Horry County, South Carolina

57Index Score / 100
#33 of 46 in South Carolina

Unincorporated Horry County, South Carolina requires a building permit before most construction, alteration, repair, demolition or regulated trade work begins1. Horry County is zoned countywide, with lot size, setbacks, height and coverage controlled by the parcel's district23456. SCDES, rather than the county, approves and permits septic systems7.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for most regulated work in unincorporated areas1
Zoning
Countywide; standards vary by zoning district28
Septic
SCDES approval and permit required where sewer is unavailable7
Owner-builder exemption
Available under South Carolina law, with conditions9
RV living
General private-land occupancy rule not confirmed; ask Planning & Zoning1011
Lot standards
Lot size, setbacks, height and coverage depend on zoning district3456
Floodplain building
Additional information required in an identified floodplain12
Septic soil suitability
Only 1.8% of soils rate free of severe limits for a conventional drain field13

Who to call

Building permits

Horry County Code Enforcement

Building permits and inspections for construction in unincorporated Horry County; fax (843) 915-6090; phone in inspection requests at 843-915-5090

(843) 915-5090

1301 Second Avenue Ste. 1D09, Conway, SC 29526

Zoning

Horry County Planning & Zoning Department

Administers and enforces the zoning ordinance and land development regulations; reviews rezoning, variance and special exception requests; fax (843) 915-6340

(843) 915-5340

1301 Second Avenue Ste. 1D09, Conway, SC 29526

Floodplain permits

Horry County Code Enforcement, Building Inspection Branch

Manages National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) compliance and flood-related building requirements in unincorporated Horry County

(843) 915-5090

1301 Second Avenue Ste. 1D09, Conway, SC 29526

Roads & driveways

Horry County Engineering Department

Issues encroachment permits (at no charge) for placing items, including a driveway, within county road right-of-way; road and drainage issues go to the hotline at (843) 381-8000; fax (843) 365-2170

(843) 915-5160

4401 Privetts Road, Conway, SC 29526

Septic permits

South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES)

Statewide septic (OWTS) and private well permitting, including for Horry County; the county cannot issue a building permit until SCDES approves the septic system

(803) 898-3432

[email protected]

2600 Bull St., Columbia, SC 29201

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 29, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Horry County, South Carolina?

Yes. Unincorporated Horry County requires a permit before constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving or demolishing a building, changing its occupancy, or doing regulated electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing work1. Certain one-story detached accessory structures of 200 square feet or less are exempt, although zoning compliance may still apply1. Horry County charges residential one- and two-family projects $0.20 per square foot for plan review and $0.50 per square foot for the permit, with a $50 permit minimum plus $25 in zoning fees; revisions cost $2514. Code Enforcement inspects new construction and building improvements in unincorporated Horry County15. An owner may use South Carolina's owner-builder exemption for a qualifying one- or two-family home intended for the owner or family, but must personally supervise the work, use licensed contractors where required, sign the disclosure and record the required notice9.

Who is the Horry County building department, and how do you reach them?

Horry County Code Enforcement, at 1301 Second Avenue Ste. 1D09 in Conway, issues permits and inspects construction in unincorporated Horry County; call (843) 915-50901615. Inspection scheduling is available for residential new construction, alterations, repairs, townhouses and new mobile homes, while other work classes use telephone requests15. The Building Inspection Branch also handles National Flood Insurance Program compliance17. Planning & Zoning, at the same address and reachable at (843) 915-5340, handles zoning questions and district standards11. If work enters a county road right-of-way, Horry County Engineering at 4401 Privetts Road reviews the request and issues approved encroachment permits at no charge; call (843) 915-516018.

Does Horry County have zoning?

Yes. Horry County states that the entire county has been zoned since April 17, 20012. The applicable district controls acceptable uses, density, building height, floor-area ratio, setbacks, pervious and impervious coverage, and parking465. Minimum lot area also varies by zoning classification rather than following one countywide figure3. Use the Horry County Zoning Ordinance for the full district description or call Planning & Zoning with the parcel number before choosing a house plan or siting improvements811. A small structure may be exempt from a building permit yet still need to comply with its zoning district1. Dividing land is separately regulated: a subdivision plat generally cannot be recorded and a building permit cannot issue until the plan has the required approval19.

How do septic and well permits work in Horry County?

SCDES approves and permits septic systems for Horry County properties that are not served by public or community sewer7. Before Horry County issues a residential building permit, the applicant must provide sewer-service verification from the appropriate sewer company or environmental agency20. If sewer is accessible, SCDES cannot issue an onsite wastewater permit21. For a new septic installation, the installer must schedule an SCDES inspection before covering the system; if the inspector does not arrive within 30 minutes of the scheduled time, a licensed installer may self-inspect and submit the approved final documentation22. Only about 1.8% of Horry County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so obtain the site evaluation before settling on a building location13. Private residential and irrigation wells require a Notice of Intent to SCDES before construction23.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Horry County?

Horry County's reviewed RV rule is narrow: at a vending location, an RV used or stored for vending or overnight purposes must remain on its permitted lot and is allowed only in the Destination Park Zoning District10. That provision does not establish a general right to occupy an RV on private land, and we could not confirm a broader residential or temporary-camping rule; ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel's district before relying on an RV for housing1011. We also could not confirm complete tiny-home occupancy rules. A tiny home used as a dwelling must still fit the district's allowed uses, lot size, setbacks, height and coverage standards, and regulated construction requires county permitting834561.

Building a home in Horry County: the steps, in order

  1. Ask Planning & Zoning to identify the parcel's district and confirm its allowed use, minimum lot area, setbacks, height and coverage limits83456.
  2. Verify sewer availability; if public or community sewer is unavailable, obtain SCDES approval and a septic permit207.
  3. Confirm flood status because a building or addition in an identified 100-year floodplain requires additional information12.
  4. Arrange road access with Horry County Engineering for a county right-of-way or SCDOT for a state highway1824.
  5. Submit plans and pay the applicable plan-review, permit and zoning fees to Code Enforcement1416.
  6. Complete required inspections as construction proceeds, including the septic inspection before the system is covered1522.

What to check before you buy land in Horry County

Start with sewer and soils: only 1.8% of Horry County soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, and sewer availability determines whether SCDES may issue an onsite wastewater permit1321. Confirm the zoning district and its allowed use, lot-area, setback, height and coverage standards before relying on a listing description83456. Ask Code Enforcement whether the planned building area lies in an identified 100-year floodplain, where additional information is required1217. Verify legal access and any county right-of-way permit with Engineering18. Horry County is largely gentle terrain, with 100% of land at 15% slope or less, but 69.6% is wooded, so inspect drainage and clearing needs on the actual parcel2526.

Watch-outs

  • A permit-exempt accessory structure must still comply with Horry County zoning1.
  • Horry County residential permit charges include separate plan-review, building-permit and zoning fees14.
  • The Destination Park rule for RVs at vending locations does not answer general residential RV occupancy; ask Planning & Zoning before planning to live in an RV on a private parcel1011.

Sources

  1. How to know if you need a building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  2. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  3. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  4. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  5. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  6. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  8. Current Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  9. South Carolina Code of Laws Title 40, Chapter 59 (§ 40-59-260) (2026 county census)
  10. Terms and Conditions, quoted and re-checked
  11. Horry County Planning & Zoning Department (horrycountysc.gov)
  12. What you need for a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  13. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  14. Cost of Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  15. Code Enforcement, quoted and re-checked
  16. Horry County Code Enforcement (horrycountysc.gov)
  17. Horry County Code Enforcement, Building Inspection Branch (horrycountysc.gov)
  18. Horry County Engineering Department (horrycountysc.gov)
  19. South Carolina Local Land Development Regulation Provisions (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  20. What you need for a Building Permit, quoted and re-checked
  21. Professional Soil Classifiers - Sewer Accessibility Verification (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  23. Private Drinking Water Wells (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  24. Engineering Directive ED-16: Driveway Entrances (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  25. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data

Written September 29, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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County locator

Horry County in South Carolina

57
County map
Horry County highlighted among the South Carolina counties · colored by Index score

How Horry County scores

Seclusion36100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness45100% ev.
Durability53100% ev.
Property Autonomy46100% ev.
Carry Cost76100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$320kTypical home
0.3%Property tax
$4,912Land / acre
51.3"Annual rain
2.5% of yrsSevere drought
6.6 / yr (+5.7)Mid-century 100°F days
13.1 daysMid-century dry spell
2.54" (+9.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.22×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,880Home insurance / yr
-1.1% / yrInsurance growth
10.07%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
198,882People within 30 min
1,927,967People within 2 hr
112,157Radius comparison (15 mi)
350.7People / sq mi
1.4%Federal land
100%Land at 15% slope or less
1.8%Septic soil without severe limits
13,135 acWorkable land screen
69.6%Wooded land
45.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63.8°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Horry County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Horry County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, occupancy changes, and regulated electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing work in unincorporated Horry County.

    • A permit is generally required before regulated work begins.
    • Exceptions include certain one-story detached accessory structures of 200 square feet or less, fences not over seven feet, retaining walls not over four feet unless supporting a surcharge, certain water tanks, sidewalks and driveways, finish work, shallow prefabricated pools, playground equipment, and qualifying window awnings.
    • Zoning compliance may still be required for exempt work.

    detached accessory structure exemption: <= 200 square feet (one-story detached accessory structures, other than storm shelters; zoning compliance may still be required)

    “Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    New construction and improvements to buildings in unincorporated Horry County.

    • Inspection scheduling is available for residential new, residential alteration, residential repair, residential townhouse, and mobile-home-new permit types; other work classes use telephone requests.
    • Commercial buildings may also receive fire inspections.
    “The major function of code enforcement is to issue building permits and inspect new construction and improvements to all buildings located within the unincorporated area of Horry County.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Zoning throughout Horry County.

    • The county page states that the entire county has been zoned as of April 17, 2001.
    “The entire county has been zoned as of April 17, 2001.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Horry County zoning districts and district-specific land-use controls.

    • The county directs users to the Horry County Zoning Ordinance for a complete description of each zoning district.
    • The county page identifies 24 new commercial and agriculture zoning districts established for future rezoning requests in 2005 and describes PDD and TND districts.

    commercial and agriculture districts established: 24 districts (for future rezoning requests)

    “For a complete description of each zoning district, please consult the Horry County Zoning Ordinance, or call the Planning Department to speak with a planner.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Minimum lot-size standards under Horry County zoning classifications.

    • Minimum lot standards vary by zoning classification and property.
    • The county states that residential zoning classifications are based on minimum square footage of lots and that some minimum lot square footage may have been lowered while some remained the same.
    “This re-titling is based on the minimum square-footage of lots and does NOT affect property setbacks or allowable land uses. However the minimum square-footage of the lots may have lowered, while some have remained the same.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Building setbacks under Horry County zoning districts.

    • Setbacks are property- and district-specific.
    “Zoning regulates the activities that are acceptable for each particular property, the densities at which those activities can be performed, the height of buildings, the amount of space structures may occupy (Floor Area Ratio), the location of a building on the lot (Setbacks), the proportions of the types of space on a lot (pervious and impervious coverage) and parking requirements.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Lot coverage under Horry County zoning districts.

    • Coverage requirements vary by zoning district and property.
    “Zoning regulates the activities that are acceptable for each particular property, the densities at which those activities can be performed, the height of buildings, the amount of space structures may occupy (Floor Area Ratio), the location of a building on the lot (Setbacks), the proportions of the types of space on a lot (pervious and impervious coverage) and parking requirements.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Building height under Horry County zoning districts.

    • Height requirements vary by zoning district and property.
    “Zoning regulates the activities that are acceptable for each particular property, the densities at which those activities can be performed, the height of buildings, the amount of space structures may occupy (Floor Area Ratio), the location of a building on the lot (Setbacks), the proportions of the types of space on a lot (pervious and impervious coverage) and parking requirements.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Use or storage of a recreational vehicle for vending or overnight purposes at a Horry County vending location.

    • The RV must be limited to the lot where it is otherwise permitted.
    • The RV may not be used or stored at another location.
    • The applicable zoning district is the Destination Park Zoning District.
    • The source provision addresses vending locations and does not establish a general rule for all private-land RV occupancy.
    • The county states that the entire county has been zoned; incorporated municipalities may have separate zoning authority and rules.

    allowed zoning district: Destination Park Zoning District

    “Any vending location that occupies houses or stores a recreation vehicle for vending or overnight purposes shall be limited to the lot on which they are permitted otherwise; RV's shall not be used or stored on any other location other than in the zoning district that they are allowed (Destination Park Zoning District).”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Residential one- and two-family building permits in unincorporated Horry County.

    • Verification of sewer service from DHEC or the appropriate sewer company must be submitted before permit issuance.
    • The source does not establish that every property must connect to public sewer; septic permitting applies where public or community sewer is unavailable.
    “Verification of sewer service from DHEC or appropriate Sewer Company”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Buildings or additions located within a 100-year floodplain identified by the National Flood Insurance Program in unincorporated Horry County.

    • Additional information is required for buildings or additions in the identified 100-year floodplain.
    • The county Code Enforcement Department manages enforcement of the National Flood Insurance Program in unincorporated areas.

    floodplain: 100-year

    “Regardless of building type, if the building is located within a 100 year floodplain as identified by the National Flood Insurance Program, additional information will be required. Contact the Horry County Floodplain Manager for additional information.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Horry County building permits in unincorporated areas.

    • Residential one- and two-family buildings have a $0.20 per-square-foot plan-review fee and a $0.50 per-square-foot permit fee, with a $50 minimum plus $25 zoning fees.
    • Plan revisions cost $25.
    • Commercial buildings have different rates.
    • Mobile-home permits are $150 plus zoning fees if issuable.

    residential plan review fee: 0.2 USD per square foot · residential permit fee: 0.5 USD per square foot ($50 minimum plus $25 zoning fees) · plan revision fee: 25 USD · mobile-home permit fee: 150 USD (plus zoning fees)

    “A plan review fee of twenty (.20) cents per square foot must be paid when plans are submitted for review. If the plans can be approved, the building permit will cost fifty (.50) cents per square foot when the permit is issued and will be a minimum of fifty dollars ($50) plus ($25) Zoning fees. Plan revisions will cost twenty-five dollars ($25).”

South Carolina rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner-builder improving residential property or building or improving structures or appurtenances on that property for the owner's or the owner's family's occupancy.

    • The owner must do the work personally, with the owner's employees, or with licensed contractors or registered entities or individuals.
    • The structure, structures, appurtenances, or improvements must be intended for the owner's sole occupancy or occupancy by the owner's family and not intended for sale or rent.
    • The general public must not have access to the structure.
    • Sale, rent, or offering for sale or rent by the owner-builder within two years after completion or issuance of a certificate of occupancy is prima facie evidence that the project was undertaken for sale or rent, unless otherwise approved by the commission.
    • The owner must personally appear and sign the building permit application.
    • The owner must supervise the construction personally and may not hire an unlicensed residential builder or specialty contractor.
    • Construction must comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, and zoning regulations.
    • The owner must promptly file a public notice with the register of deeds stating that the structure was constructed by the owner as an unlicensed builder; failure to do so revokes the statutory exemption.
    • The exemption does not authorize hiring a person or entity that is not licensed or registered under the chapter.
    “This chapter does not apply to an owner of residential property who improves the property or who builds or improves structures or appurtenances on the property if:”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Mandatory South Carolina building codes and statewide modifications enforced by South Carolina counties and municipalities.

    • The South Carolina Building Codes Council adopted the 2021 South Carolina Building Codes on October 6, 2021.
    • The effective date for the 2021 codes was January 1, 2023.
    • Counties and municipalities enforce the State Building Code Council statewide modifications within their jurisdictions.
    • Administrative policies and procedures are the responsibility of each local jurisdiction and are not included in adoption of the mandatory codes.
    • Certain state and school district projects are excepted under S.C. Code Ann. § 6-9-110.

    adoption date: 2021-10-06 · effective date: 2023-01-01

    “The South Carolina Building Codes Council adopted the 2021 South Carolina Building Codes at their meeting on October 6, 2021. The Council approved an effective date of January 1, 2023.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — The 2024 editions of the mandatory South Carolina building, residential, fire, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, and electrical codes adopted for statewide use.
      “On August 26, 2025, the South Carolina Building Codes Council (the “Council”) adopted the latest editions of the mandatory codes and select appendices with modifications, as referenced in S.C. Code Ann. §6-9-50 (1976, as amended), to be enforced by all municipalities and counties in South Carolina. [...] The Council established the implementation date for local jurisdictions as January 1, 2027.”
  • Who permits septicState (with conditions)

    Onsite wastewater permitting and inspection for properties in Horry County not served by public or community sewer.

    • SCDES approval and permitting apply to septic systems.
    • Local inspection ordinances may add requirements.
    “If you are planning to build a home or place a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain SCDES's approval and a permit to install a septic system.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • State — Statewide permitting and administration of individual onsite wastewater and septic systems in South Carolina.
      “South Carolina law requires site approvals and permits for all septic systems. If you are planning to build a home or place a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain SCDES's approval and a permit to install a septic system.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction of a home or placement of a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system.

    • SCDES approval and a permit to install the septic system must be obtained first.
    • Without the septic permit, the county cannot issue a building permit.
    • Permits to Construct are good for five years; renewal or approved changes require a new application and fee.
    • The rule applies where public or community sewer does not serve the property.

    permit validity: 5 years (Renewal or modifications require a new application and fee.)

    “If you are planning to build a home or place a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain SCDES's approval and a permit to install a septic system. Without this permit, your county will not be able to issue you a building permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    New septic-system installations in Horry County subject to SCDES permitting.

    • The installer must schedule inspection before the system is covered.
    • If an SCDES inspector does not arrive within 30 minutes, a licensed installer may self-inspect and must submit the approved final inspection documentation.
    • Existing systems generally are not required by state law to receive regular inspections, but local ordinances may impose them.

    inspector arrival period: 30 minutes (licensed installer may self-inspect if inspector does not arrive within the period)

    “Before completing the installation of the septic system, the installer must contact SCDES to schedule a time for the inspection of the septic system before it is covered. If a SCDES inspector does not arrive within 30 minutes of the scheduled time, a licensed installer has the option to proceed with a self-inspection of the installation.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Existing septic systems and new-home construction using a septic system statewide in South Carolina.
      “While S.C. law does not require property owners to have existing systems inspected, some towns have passed ordinances that require their local residents to have their septic systems inspected regularly (See next question). If you live in an area that does not have a local inspection ordinance in place, the only time you would be required to have your septic system inspected is when you're building a new home that will use a septic system.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Construction of individual residential wells and irrigation wells statewide in South Carolina.

    • Before construction, the owner, owner's agent, or well driller must submit a Notice of Intent for coverage under the General Permit.
    • A $70 fee applies to each individual residential well and a $50 fee applies to each irrigation well.
    • The Department reviews a completed NOI within 48 hours.
    • The driller must notify SCDES 48 hours before installation with the exact date, time, and location.
    • The permit does not authorize public water-supply wells or wells prohibited by another regulation, local ordinance, or law.
    • Wells serving multiple households or a small business follow public-water-supply permitting procedures.
    • Withdrawals exceeding 3 million gallons in any month require a Groundwater Withdrawal Permit.

    individual residential well NOI fee: 70 USD · irrigation well NOI fee: 50 USD · NOI review period: 48 hours (The General Permit states the period excludes weekends and legal state holidays.) · installation notice: 48 hours (Notice must provide exact date, time, and location.) · monthly withdrawal threshold: > 3000000 gallons (A Groundwater Withdrawal Permit is required under R.61-113.)

    “Prior to construction of any individual residential well or irrigation well, a Notice of Intent (NOI) to obtain coverage under the General Permit is submitted by the well owner, agent of the well owner, or well driller.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Exemption from the federal Produce Safety Rule administered through the South Carolina Department of Agriculture for qualifying growers.

    • The grower must meet an exemption category and submit an application to SCDA.
    • The application requires information about the operation and certification of compliance; SCDA then issues a certificate of exemption.
    • Recognized categories include produce rarely consumed raw; produce for personal or on-farm consumption; produce receiving qualifying commercial processing; and average produce sales below $25,000 over the previous three years, adjusted for inflation.
    • A qualified exemption requires annual food sales below $500,000 adjusted for inflation and more than 50% of annual food sales to qualified end-users located in South Carolina, the same Indian Reservation, or within 275 miles of the farm.

    previous three-year average produce sales threshold: < 25000 USD (Adjusted for inflation using 2018 as the baseline year.) · previous three-year annual food sales threshold for qualified exemption: < 500000 USD (Adjusted for inflation.) · sales to qualified end-users: > 50 percent (Qualified end-users must be in South Carolina, the same Indian Reservation, or within 275 miles of the farm.)

    “In South Carolina, if a grower meets the requirements for an exemption they must submit an application to secure that exemption.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and land-development approval within municipalities or counties that have adopted land-development regulations under South Carolina law.

    • After local land-development regulations are adopted, a subdivision plat or land-development plan may not be filed or recorded, and no building permit may be issued, until the plan bears the required approval stamp and signature.
    • A combination or recombination of previously platted lots with no increase in total lots is treated only as an information-record exception when resultant lots meet governing-authority standards.
    • A division into parcels of five acres or more with no new street is treated only as an information-record exception; the plats must be received as information and marked accordingly.
    • A combination or recombination of entire lots of record with no new street or change in existing streets is treated only as an information-record exception.

    exception parcel size: >= 5 acres (No new street; plat must be received as information by the planning agency and marked accordingly.)

    “no subdivision plat or other land development plan within the jurisdiction of the regulations may be filed or recorded”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Residential driveway entrances within the right-of-way of South Carolina state highways.

    • The driveway must provide ingress and egress to abutting property.
    • Access must not constitute hazardous conditions.
    • The property must be an existing developed residential property or property being developed for the owner's personal use.
    • Commercial, speculative, and resale purposes are excluded.
    • A standard driveway has a maximum paved throat width of 16 feet and may include up to a 30-inch diameter pipe where required for drainage.
    • Additional paved width or a larger pipe is discretionary and excess installation cost may be charged to the property owner.
    • Additional driveways require approval and may be constructed at the owner's expense.
    • The directive is effective December 6, 2024.

    maximum paved throat width: <= 16 feet (standard driveway) · maximum drainage pipe diameter: <= 30 inches (where required for drainage)

    “The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) shall permit and construct, at its expense, a single, all-weather driveway for the portion within the right-of-way of state highways, to provide ingress and egress to the abutting property at locations where access does not constitute hazardous conditions.”
  • Permit processPartial

    Building-code permitting and administrative procedures across South Carolina municipalities and counties.

    • Mandatory building codes must be enforced by every South Carolina municipality and county.
    • Administrative policies and procedures are the sole responsibility of each local jurisdiction.
    • Local administrative policies and procedures must be adopted by ordinance before they can take effect.
    • The South Carolina Building Codes Council established January 1, 2023 as the implementation date for the latest mandatory code editions.

    implementation date: 2023-01-01

    “Administrative policies and procedures are the sole responsibility of each local jurisdiction.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Camping at South Carolina state-park campsites.

    • Camping is subject to state-park facility rules and department permission.
    • A campsite may not be occupied for more than fourteen consecutive days without permission from the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
    • The rule concerns state parks and does not establish a statewide rule for private land or locally administered campgrounds.

    maximum consecutive campsite occupancy without department permission: <= 14 days (Longer occupancy requires permission from the department.)

    “No person or persons shall occupy a campsite for a consecutive period longer than fourteen days without permission from the department.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    South Carolina counties adopting zoning ordinances for all or specific parts of unincorporated areas.

    • A county may exercise the chapter's powers in the total unincorporated area or specific parts of the unincorporated area.
    • A zoning ordinance may be adopted when the local planning commission has prepared and recommended, and the governing body has adopted, at least the land-use element of the comprehensive plan.
    • Zoning regulations must be made in accordance with the comprehensive plan and must be uniform for each class or kind of building, structure, or use within each district, although regulations may differ between districts.
    • Before enacting or amending zoning regulations or maps, the governing authority or authorized planning commission must hold a properly advertised public hearing; if no established procedures exist, at least fifteen days' newspaper notice is required.
    • A municipality may exercise these powers within its corporate limits, and adjacent unincorporated areas may be added to municipal jurisdiction only through ordinances adopted by the municipality and county councils establishing boundaries, limitations of authority, and representation.
    “A county may exercise the powers granted under the provisions of this chapter in the total unincorporated area or specific parts of the unincorporated area. [...] When the local planning commission has prepared and recommended and the governing body has adopted at least the land use element of the comprehensive plan as set forth in this chapter, the governing body of a municipality or county may adopt a zoning ordinance to help implement the comprehensive plan.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    South Carolina counties enforcing building codes and providing building-official jurisdiction for unincorporated areas, including residential construction.

    • Counties must enforce only the national building and safety codes provided in Chapter 9, Title 6.
    • The statutory building-code provisions do not apply to certain electric cooperatives, the Public Service Authority, or specified public utility corporations, subject to the residential-housing exception stated in the statute.
    • Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development regulations preempt the chapter where applicable to manufactured-housing construction and installation.
    • Each county must appoint a building official or contract with another political subdivision so that its unincorporated area is under a building official's jurisdiction.
    • A county may prescribe construction-permit and inspection fees through the building official or appointing authority.
    • A county may submit a financially based affidavit for exemption when it cannot arrange services within the recommended fee schedule; the exemption lasts until financially feasible or five years, whichever is less, and may be renewed at five-year intervals.
    • The state Building Codes Council adopts by reference only the latest editions of the listed nationally recognized building, residential, gas, plumbing, mechanical, fire, and energy codes; code provisions concerning building-official administration do not apply unless adopted by the county or municipality.
    • The statute's Section 6-9-10 history states that the 2003 amendment was effective July 2, 2003.
    “All municipalities, as defined by Section 5-1-20, and counties in this State shall enforce building, energy, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and fire codes, referred to as building codes in this chapter, relating to the construction, livability, sanitation, erection, energy efficiency, installation of equipment, alteration, repair, occupancy, classification, or removal of structures located within their jurisdictions and promulgate regulations to implement their enforcement. [...] Each county shall appoint a building official or contract with other political subdivisions as authorized in Section 6-9-20 so that the unincorporated area of the county is under the jurisdiction of a building official.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in Horry County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in Horry County.
  • Manufactured homes — Manufactured-home occupancy in Horry County.
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory-dwelling use in Horry County.
  • Off-grid sanitation — Off-grid sanitation systems in Horry County.
1 more unanswered
  • Short-term rentals

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Water rights & wells in Horry County

Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from South Carolina’s water agency.

Actively managed

This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.

Household wellExempt — no permit or water right

S.C. Code 49-5-70(A)(4) exempts a person withdrawing groundwater at a single-family residence for noncommercial use; no withdrawal permit for a household well anywhere in SC, including inside a Capacity Use Area.

Limit: single-family/household use exempt; permit only >=3 MG/month (~100,000 gpd)

SC Groundwater Use and Reporting Act, S.C. Code 49-5-70(A)(4) ↗

Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the South Carolina state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.

Living off-grid in Horry County, South Carolina

Is Horry County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Horry County scores 57/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and strong self-sufficiency basics: 51.3″/yr rainfall plus 69.6% wooded land. Watch-outs: about 198,882 people within a 30-minute drive.

Do you need a building permit in Horry County, South Carolina?

Horry County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Horry County?

Living in an RV on your own land in Horry County is limited to specific cases: Use or storage of a recreational vehicle for vending or overnight purposes at a Horry County vending location. The RV must be limited to the lot where it is otherwise permitted. The RV may not be used or stored at another location. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Horry County, South Carolina?

Land in Horry County runs about $4,912 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Horry County?

Horry County gets about 51.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.5% of years. On water rights, Horry County lies in the Waccamaw Capacity Use Area — SC's first CUA (1979) over a stressed coastal aquifer; withdrawals >=3 MG/month require a permit. A new single-family domestic well is exempt..

How remote is Horry County?

A representative private-land location has about 198,882 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,927,967 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Horry County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Horry compares in South Carolina

Compare side-by-side →See all 46 South Carolina counties ranked →