Bolthole Index

McCormick County, South Carolina

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

68Index Score / 100
#3 of 46 in South Carolina

McCormick County, South Carolina requires zoning and building permits for structures constructed, assembled or placed in the unincorporated county.1 The zoning permit comes first, and SCDES septic approval is required before the county building permit for a site without public or community sewer.234

At a glance

Building permit
Required for construction in the unincorporated county1
Zoning
County zoning and district-specific standards apply in unincorporated areas56
Septic
SCDES approval is required where public or community sewer is unavailable78
RV living
Camper use is limited by zoning; ask Planning & Zoning for the district rules9
Tiny home
A qualifying permanent-foundation modular unit is allowed in residential districts10
Owner-builder
Allowed conditionally for a qualifying owner-occupied family residence11
Private well
A state Notice of Intent and fee apply before construction12

Who to call

Planning & zoning

McCormick County Planning & Zoning Department

Building permits, zoning use permits, zoning questions and county land-use review

(864) 852-2231

agambrell@mccormickcountysc.org

610 South Mine Street, McCormick, SC 29835

Septic permits

SCDES Onsite Wastewater Customer Support

Onsite wastewater permit applications, timeframes, questions and holds

1-855-731-2504

OSWWCentral@des.sc.gov

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 7, 2026.

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

Yes. Structures constructed, assembled or placed on site in unincorporated McCormick County require a building permit, and a zoning permit must be issued first.1 McCormick County enforces South Carolina's mandatory building codes, while local administrative procedures remain the county's responsibility.13

Apply before work begins: a permit lapses if work has not started within six months or is suspended or abandoned for at least one year.1 McCormick County posts its fee schedule in the Zoning Officer's office, and the applicable fees must be paid before the county acts on an application or appeal.14 A qualifying owner may act as an unlicensed builder for a home intended for the owner or family, but must personally sign the permit application, use licensed trades where required and record the required notice.11

Who issues McCormick County building and zoning permits?

McCormick County Planning & Zoning is the first stop for building and zoning permits in the unincorporated county. The Zoning Officer reviews applications, and the zoning permit must precede the building permit.2 The office is at 610 South Mine Street, McCormick, and its published phone is (864) 852-2231.15

Bring the parcel number, proposed use, structure type and sewer plan when asking which applications and drawings are required. McCormick County requires at least one inspection before issuing a certificate of occupancy for a structure subject to that requirement; county staff or a county contractor may perform it.16 Ask the office for the inspection sequence and current fee schedule before construction begins.14

Does McCormick County have zoning?

Yes. McCormick County administers zoning in county-governed areas, while incorporated municipalities may apply separate rules.5 The official zoning map assigns district-specific uses and dimensions.6

The Forest/Agriculture district has a one-acre minimum parcel size and requires at least 50 feet of access to a publicly dedicated, accepted or maintained road.17 The Rural Development district requires one acre for one single-family or manufactured home; its residential setbacks are 50 feet in front, 10 feet on the side and 40 feet in the rear.1819 The Commercial and Mixed-Use districts state no minimum lot size, but their use, frontage, setback and other standards still apply.2021 Confirm the parcel's district with Planning & Zoning before relying on a listing.15

How do septic permits work in McCormick County?

SCDES, not the county, handles onsite wastewater permits and construction inspections in McCormick County where a property uses septic.3 Confirm sewer availability first because an onsite wastewater permit cannot be issued where public sewer is accessible.22 For a home or manufactured home without public or community sewer, apply through the SCDES ePermitting portal; the application fee is $150, and a Permit to Construct is valid for five years.823

The county cannot issue the building permit until SCDES approves the septic system.8 The installer must schedule inspection before covering the system; if the inspector does not arrive within 30 minutes, a licensed installer may self-inspect using the approved final-inspection form.24 About 45.7% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so settle the septic location before the house layout.25

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in McCormick County?

McCormick County zoning limits campers and camper lots, but the available rule does not give the district standards or establish a countywide duration for residential or temporary RV use.9 Ask Planning & Zoning about the parcel's district, proposed duration and camper use while building.15

A permanent-foundation modular unit that meets the Modular Buildings Construction Act and is built without chassis-based mobility provisions may be located in any residential zoning district.10 The ordinance does not call that structure a tiny home or establish a general minimum dwelling floor area in the cited provision.10 A tiny house on wheels may be classified differently, so ask Planning & Zoning to confirm its allowed use, setbacks and permits.15 A dwelling using septic where public or community sewer is unavailable needs SCDES approval before the county building permit.8

Building a home in McCormick County: what are the steps?

  1. Confirm that the parcel is in unincorporated McCormick County and ask Planning & Zoning for its zoning designation, allowed use and dimensional standards.5615
  2. Verify whether public or community sewer is accessible; if it is not, apply to SCDES for septic approval before seeking the county building permit.228
  3. If using a private residential well, submit the state Notice of Intent and applicable fee before construction.26
  4. Submit the county zoning application first, then the building-permit application; an owner-builder must complete the exemption's personal-signature and notice requirements.227
  5. Schedule the required building inspections and have the septic installer arrange inspection before covering the system.2824
  6. Before occupancy, ask the county which final approvals or certificate are required, because we could not confirm McCormick County's complete closeout procedure.

What should you check before buying land in McCormick County?

Start with jurisdiction, zoning and legal access. County zoning regulates land occupancy, and subdivision activity is regulated, so confirm the parcel's district, lawful use and recorded configuration with Planning & Zoning.529 Forest/Agriculture parcels need one acre and at least 50 feet of qualifying public-road access, while Rural Development lots need one acre for one single-family or manufactured home.3018

Check sewer availability and septic suitability before choosing a house site.22 Only about 45.7% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field.25 The county is about 83.6% wooded, which can affect clearing and site-layout costs.31 We could not confirm the floodplain development procedure or county-road driveway rules, so ask Planning & Zoning which contacts and approvals apply before closing.15

Watch-outs

  • A project can require a McCormick County zoning permit even when it does not require a building permit.32
  • McCormick County zoning limits camper use, but the district standards were not available; ask Planning & Zoning before placing or occupying a camper.915
  • The county cannot issue a building permit for a site without public or community sewer until SCDES issues the septic permit.8

Sources

  1. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  2. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  3. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  4. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  5. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  6. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  7. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  8. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  9. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  10. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. South Carolina Code Section 40-59-260, quoted and re-checked
  12. Private Drinking Water Wells, quoted and re-checked
  13. Building Codes in Effect for South Carolina, quoted and re-checked
  14. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  15. McCormick County Planning & Zoning Department (mccormickcountysc.org)
  16. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  17. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  18. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  19. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  20. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  21. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance with Amendments, quoted and re-checked
  22. Professional Soil Classifiers - Sewer Accessibility Verification (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. SCDES Onsite Wastewater Customer Support (des.sc.gov)
  24. Septic Tanks - Residential, Single Home Builder, quoted and re-checked
  25. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  26. Private Drinking Water Wells (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 40, Chapter 59, quoted and re-checked
  28. South Carolina Code Title 6, Chapter 9 — Building Codes (South Carolina statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  29. Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  30. McCormick County Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  31. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  32. Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked

Written October 7, 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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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, McCormick County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleMcCormick CountyEdgefield CountyGreenwood CountyAbbeville CountySaluda CountyAiken CountyLaurens County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoYesNo
Septic permitsSCDESSCDESSC DESSC Dept. of Env. ServicesSC DESSC Dept. of Env. ServicesSCDES

County locator

McCormick County in South Carolina

68
County map
McCormick County highlighted among the South Carolina counties · colored by Index score

How McCormick County scores

Seclusion54100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness45100% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy46100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% 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 →

$325kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$3,216Land / acre
45.7"Annual rain
13.1% of yrsSevere drought
16.4 / yr (+13.6)Mid-century 100°F days
15.5 daysMid-century dry spell
2.17" (+5.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.34×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,150Home insurance / yr
-1% / yrInsurance growth
1.06%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
10,354People within 30 min
3,138,839People within 2 hr
20,319Radius comparison (15 mi)
27.7People / sq mi
41.1%Federal land
84.5%Land at 15% slope or less
45.7%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
95,143 acWorkable land screen
83.6%Wooded land
60.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
63°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in McCormick County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Town of McCormick · Town of Parksville · Town of Plum Branch

Answers from the rulebook for McCormick County

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

McCormick County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Structures constructed, assembled, or located on site in unincorporated McCormick County.

    • A zoning permit must be issued before a building permit.
    • Permits lapse if work is not started within six months or is suspended or abandoned for at least one year.
    “Building permits are required for all structures constructed, assembled or located on site after the effective date of this ordinance.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Structures requiring a certificate of occupancy under the county zoning ordinance.

    • At least one inspection is required before issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
    • Inspection may be conducted by county employees or a county-contracted entity.
    “At least one inspection of the structure will be required prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    County zoning and zoning-use permits in McCormick County.

    • The county page identifies the Zoning Department as responsible for county regulations and zoning-use permits.
    “An Ordinance Adopting a Zoning Plan and Ordinance for McCormick County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — New development and ongoing land occupancy in McCormick County areas governed by the county zoning ordinance.
      “The McCormick County Zoning Department is responsible for ensuring that new development and on-going land occupancy conforms to applicable County regulations.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered zoning in McCormick County; this claim does not represent municipal zoning within incorporated municipalities.

    • Zoning use permits are reviewed and approved or disapproved by the county Zoning Officer.
    “Review and approve or disapprove all Zoning Use Permits”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    McCormick County zoning districts and zoning maps.

    • The county page links to a zoning ordinance and interactive map and identifies the Planning Commission's authority to recommend specific zoning districts.
    • The source does not provide the complete district schedule in accessible page text.
    “The commission is granted the authority to recommend the establishment of zoning ordinance regulations, to designate specific zoning districts of the county, and to recommend a comprehensive plan for the development of the community.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published — Zoning districts and the official zoning map for unincorporated McCormick County.
      “The boundaries of the zoning districts are shown on a map or series of maps entitled “McCormick County Official Zoning Map””
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Development in the Forest/Agriculture District (FA) of unincorporated McCormick County.

    • The lot must adjoin or have direct access to at least 50 feet of a publicly dedicated, publicly accepted, or publicly maintained street or road.
    • The ordinance separately lists 50-foot minimum front-yard depth, 30-foot minimum side yard, 30-foot minimum rear yard, and a 35-foot maximum building height.
    • The ordinance states that more stringent external regulatory standards supersede its standards.

    minimum parcel size: >= 1 acre · minimum street access: >= 50 feet

    “4.1.2: General 1. Minimum Parcel Size: 1 acre 2. Minimum Front Yard Depth: Fifty (50) feet; except that stands or displays of seasonal agricultural produce or other permitted commercial activities may be located within the minimum front yard area but no closer to the nearest street right-of-way than ten (10) feet. 3. Minimum Side Yard: Thirty (30) feet 4. Minimum Rear Yard: Thirty (30) feet”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Rural Development District (RD) lots in unincorporated McCormick County.
      “4.3.2: General Requirements A. Minimum Lot Size: 1 ac B. Maximum Lot Coverage: Building footprint shall not exceed (70%) seventy percent of the lot coverage. A.Setbacks: Residential Commercial 1. Front: 50 feet 30 feet 2. Side: 10 feet 10 feet 3. Rear: 40 feet 20 feet B. Maximum Building Height: 35 feet”
    • None — Lots in the Commercial District (CD) of unincorporated McCormick County.
      “4.4.2: General A. Minimum Lot Size: None B. Maximum Lot Coverage: Building footprint shall not exceed (50%) fifty percent of the lot coverage. C. Minimum Street Frontage: None D. Maximum Height: 35 feet E. Setbacks: 1. Front: 20 feet min. 2. Side: 10 feet min. 3. Rear: 20 feet min.”
    • None — Lots in the Mixed-Use District of unincorporated McCormick County.
      “V. Lot Size: There is no minimum lot size in the Mixed-Use District. VI. Building Height i. Maximum height standards. Maximum height standards for the Mixed-Use District are shown in Table 4-2. ii. Minimum height standards. Minimum height standards for the Mixed-Use District are shown in Table 4-2.”
    • Specified — Lots in the unincorporated Forest/Agriculture District (FA).
      “4.1.2: General 1. Minimum Parcel Size: 1 acre 2. Minimum Front Yard Depth: Fifty (50) feet; except that stands or displays of seasonal agricultural produce or other permitted commercial activities may be located within the minimum front yard area but no closer to the nearest street right-of-way than ten (10) feet. 3. Minimum Side Yard: Thirty (30) feet 4. Minimum Rear Yard: Thirty (30) feet 5. Maximum Building Height: Thirty-five (35) feet [...] 6. Lot shall adjoin or have direct access to at least fifty (50) feet of a publicly dedicated, publicly accepted or publicly maintained street or road.”
    • Specified — Residential lots in the unincorporated Rural Development District (RD).
      “6. Residential Uses A. Permitted Uses Single Family and Multi-Residential: Single Family and Multi-Family residential uses are permitted in the Rural Development District. a. Single Family Homes as described in the SFR Zoning District. Minimum lot size one (1) acre for one (1) home. b. Manufactured homes. Minimum lot size one (1) acre for one (1) home.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures in unincorporated McCormick County zoning districts.

    • Setbacks vary by district and use.
    • Rural Development residential setbacks are 50 feet front, 10 feet side, and 40 feet rear.
    • Single Family Residential setbacks are 25 feet front, with side and rear requirements stated in the district table.

    Rural Development front setback: 50 feet · Rural Development side setback: 10 feet · Rural Development rear setback: 40 feet

    “1. Front: 50 feet 30 feet 2. Side: 10 feet 10 feet 3. Rear: 40 feet 20 feet”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Building footprints in unincorporated McCormick County zoning districts.

    • Rural Development building footprint may not exceed 70 percent of lot coverage.
    • Single Family Residential and other districts have separate standards.

    Rural Development maximum lot coverage: 70 percent

    “footprint shall not exceed (70%) seventy percent of the lot coverage.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Campers and camper lots in McCormick County zoning areas.

    • The county page identifies an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance as related to campers, camper lots, and campgrounds; the specific district standards were not accessible in the research window.
    “Ordinance 14-11 - An Ordinance Amending the McCormick County Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 08-16) To Add "Campers" as a Prohibited Use in the Forest Agricultural Zoning Designation and the Rural Development Zoning Designation. Filed 2/20/2015”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    A foundation-built or modular tiny home qualifying as a McCormick County modular building unit or structure in an unincorporated residential zoning district.

    • The structure must be a manufactured building assembled on site and used with a permanent foundation.
    • The standards to which it is built must not include provisions for mobility on a chassis.
    • It must meet the requirements of the Modular Buildings Construction Act.
    • The ordinance states that a qualifying modular building unit or structure may be located in any residential zoning district.
    • All applicable district standards, external regulatory requirements, building-code requirements, permits, and utility or wastewater requirements still apply.
    • The ordinance does not use the term tiny home or state a minimum dwelling floor area in the cited provisions.
    “Modular Building Unit or Structure: A manufactured building, assembled on site, to be used with a permanent foundation and distinguishable from other types of manufactured buildings or homes in that the standards to which it is built do not include provisions for its mobility on some sort of chassis. When meeting the requirements of the Modular Buildings Construction Act, said building unit or structure may be located in any residential zoning district.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision and land-development activity governed by McCormick County subdivision regulations.

    • Specific subdivision review thresholds, exemptions, fees, and procedures were not accessible in the available page text.
    “It is designed as an interactive and accessible tool to navigate and search the County’s Zoning and Subdivision regulations.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    County building, zoning, amendment, variance, and appeal applications under the zoning ordinance.

    • The fee schedule is posted in the Zoning Officer's office.
    • Fees may be altered or amended only by County Council.
    • No application or appeal action occurs until all applicable fees are paid.
    “The schedule of fees shall be posted in the office of the Zoning Officer”
  • Permit processPartial

    McCormick County zoning and development permitting.

    • Applicants are directed to contact the Zoning Department before beginning projects.
    • Some projects may not require a building permit but may require a zoning permit.
    • The page identifies review and approval or disapproval of zoning use permits but does not provide the full building-permit workflow.
    “Be sure to contact the Zoning Department before beginning any projects. Some projects that may not require a Building Permit may require a Zoning Permit.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning and building permit process in unincorporated McCormick County.
      “No building permit shall be issued until a zoning permit has been issued by the Zoning Officer.”

South Carolina rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner of residential property who builds or improves structures or appurtenances for the owner’s or family’s sole occupancy, statewide in South Carolina.

    • The owner must do the work personally, with the owner’s own employees, or with licensed contractors or registered entities or individuals.
    • The structure or improvements must be intended for the owner’s sole occupancy or occupancy by the owner’s family and must not be intended for sale or rent.
    • The general public must not have access to the structure.
    • The owner must personally appear and sign the building permit application.
    • The owner must supervise construction and may build or improve a one-family or two-family residence.
    • The owner may not hire an unlicensed person as a residential builder or specialty contractor.
    • Construction must comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, and zoning regulations.
    • If the owner sells or rents the building within two years after construction is complete, the law presumes it was built for sale or rent unless otherwise approved by the commission.
    • The owner must promptly file a public notice with the register of deeds stating that the residential building or 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 Residential Home Builders Act.

    sale-or-rent presumption period: 2 years after construction is complete (unless otherwise approved by the commission)

    “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: (1) the owner does the work himself, with his own employees, or with licensed contractors or registered entities or individuals; (2) the structure, group of structures, or appurtenances, including the improvements, are intended for the owner's sole occupancy or occupancy by the owner's family and are not intended for sale or rent; and (3) the general public does not have access to this structure.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Conditional — An owner of residential property in McCormick County, including property subject to a county permitting authority, acting as an unlicensed owner-builder for qualifying residential construction or improvements.
      “(A) 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: (1) the owner does the work himself, with his own employees, or with licensed contractors or registered entities or individuals; (2) the structure, group of structures, or appurtenances, including the improvements, are intended for the owner's sole occupancy or occupancy by the owner's family and are not intended for sale or rent; and (3) the general public does not have access to this structure.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-builder exemption for qualifying residential property projects in South Carolina, including McCormick County.
      “This chapter does not apply to an owner of residential property”
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-builder exemption for qualifying residential property in South Carolina, including McCormick County.
      “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: (1) the owner does the work himself, with his own employees, or with licensed contractors or registered entities or individuals; (2) the structure, group of structures, or appurtenances, including the improvements, are intended for the owner's sole occupancy or occupancy by the owner's family and are not intended for sale or rent; and (3) the general public does not have access to this structure.”
    • Conditional — 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.
      “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

    Statewide adoption and enforcement framework for building, residential, gas, plumbing, mechanical, fire, energy, electrical, and related construction codes, including residential construction in county unincorporated areas.

    • The South Carolina Building Codes Council must adopt by reference and amend only the latest editions of the listed nationally recognized codes.
    • Code appendices may be adopted as needed, but the specific appendix or appendices must be referenced by name or letter designation at adoption.
    • Provisions concerning the qualification, removal, dismissal, duties, responsibilities, and administrative procedures of building officials and inspectors do not apply unless adopted by the municipal or county governing body.
    • Counties and municipalities must enforce only the national building and safety codes provided in Chapter 9.
    • The Council must promulgate regulations for building-code provisions affecting one-family or two-family dwellings, and those provisions are not enforceable until the required regulations become effective.
    • A regulation mandating automatic residential fire sprinklers in one-family or two-family dwellings could not become effective before July 1, 2015.
    • Section 501.3 of the 2012 International Residential Code must not be enforced.
    • A county may not enforce the portion of an adopted nationally recognized fire-prevention code regulating outdoor burning for forestry, wildlife, and agricultural purposes as regulated by the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

    residential fire sprinkler regulation earliest effective date: >= 2015-07-01 (One-family and two-family dwellings)

    “The council shall adopt by reference and amend only the latest editions of the following nationally recognized codes and the standards referenced in those codes for regulation of construction within this State: building, residential, gas, plumbing, mechanical, fire, and energy codes as promulgated, published, or made available by the International Code Council, Inc. and the National Electrical Code as published by the National Fire Protection Association.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Mandatory South Carolina building codes enforced by South Carolina municipalities and counties, including McCormick County.
      “The mandatory codes referenced in S.C, Ann. §6-9-50(1976, as amended), modified and adopted by the South Carolina Building Codes Council (Council), must be enforced by every South Carolina municipality and county.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Mandatory South Carolina building codes enforced by South Carolina municipalities and counties, including McCormick County.
      “The Council established the implementation date for local jurisdictions as January 1, 2023.”
    • Adopted (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 at their meeting on October 6, 2021. The Council approved an effective date of January 1, 2023.”
    • 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)

    SCDES administration of onsite wastewater permitting and inspections applicable to McCormick County.

    • The county must consider SCDES septic approval before issuing a building permit where public or community sewer is unavailable.
    “obtain SCDES's approval and a permit to install a septic system”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • State (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater permitting and inspection administered by SCDES for properties using 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.”
    • 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

    New homes or manufactured homes on property in McCormick County not served by public or community sewer.

    • SCDES approval and a septic installation permit must be obtained before the county can issue a building permit.
    • Application fee is $150.
    • The application is submitted through the SCDES ePermitting Portal with a plat or deed.
    • Traditional permitting includes a site visit and Permit to Construct.
    • Permits to Construct are valid for five years; renewal or approved changes require a new application and fee.
    • Sites above the Fall Line require backhoe pits for soil evaluation.

    application fee: 150 USD · Permit to Construct 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. [...] Application Fee: $150 [...] Permit Expiration and Modifications: Permits to Construct are good for five years.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New homes or manufactured homes on property not served by public or community sewer.
      “South Carolina law requires site approvals and permits for all septic systems.”
    • Required — Construction of a home or placement of a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system.
      “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 subject to SCDES permitting.

    • The installer must schedule inspection before the system is covered.
    • If an SCDES inspector does not arrive within 30 minutes of the scheduled time, a licensed installer may self-inspect.
    • The installer must submit the SCDES-approved D-4432 Final Inspection form.

    self-inspection waiting period: 30 minutes (if an SCDES inspector does not arrive)

    “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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New septic installations in McCormick County.
      “the installer must contact SCDES to schedule a time for the inspection of the septic system before it is covered.”
    • 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.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    A nonwater-carried sewage treatment system used for toilet wastes where water under pressure will be connected to the structure and gray water is generated statewide in South Carolina.

    • The applicant must submit plans from a Registered Professional Engineer licensed in South Carolina meeting Appendix S paragraph (2)(a) through (f) requirements for all toilet wastes.
    • The applicant must apply for and obtain a Department permit to construct and approval to operate an onsite wastewater system for gray-water treatment.
    • The gray-water system must meet all permit, licensing, and onsite wastewater-system requirements under Regulation 61-56.
    • The initial gray-water system size may be reduced by twenty-five percent.

    initial gray-water system size reduction: 25 percent (The system must otherwise meet all permit, licensing, and onsite wastewater-system requirements under Regulation 61-56.)

    “the initial system size may be reduced by twenty-five (25) percent.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Nonwater-carried sewage treatment systems, including biological, composting, or incinerating toilets, for toilet wastes statewide in South Carolina.
      “The permitting of nonwater-carried sewage treatment systems, such as a biological, composting, or incinerating toilet, may be considered for toilet wastes”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Individual residential and irrigation wells in McCormick County.
      “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”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Use of an onsite wastewater system where public sewer service may be accessible.

    • An onsite wastewater permit cannot be issued where public sewer is accessible.
    • Public sewer accessibility must be verified before applying for an onsite wastewater permit.
    • The cited source addresses sewer availability; it does not establish a statewide requirement to connect to municipal water.
    “Please Note: Onsite wastewater permits cannot be issued where public sewer is accessible. If a professional soil classifier is contracted by an individual to conduct a site and soil evaluation for the issuance of an onsite wastewater permit, verification of public sewer accessibility prior to onsite wastewater application is the responsibility of the PSC and/or the applicant.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Construction or improvement of qualifying farm structures in South Carolina.
      “may not enforce that portion of a nationally recognized building code which regulates the construction or improvement of a farm structure.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Construction or improvement of qualifying farm structures in South Carolina, other than residences or structures attached to residences.
      “may not enforce that portion of a nationally recognized building code which regulates the construction or improvement of a farm structure.”
  • 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Private driveways or side-road entrances and exits opening onto highways in the State highway primary system that are not controlled-access facilities.
      “unless a permit for such driveway or side-road entrance or exit shall have been obtained from the Department.”
  • 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 may adopt zoning ordinances for all or specific portions of their unincorporated areas when the statutory comprehensive-plan prerequisite is satisfied.

    • A local planning commission must have prepared and recommended the land-use element of the comprehensive plan.
    • The county governing body must have adopted at least the land-use element of the comprehensive plan before adopting a zoning ordinance.
    • A county may exercise the chapter's powers in the total unincorporated area or in specific parts of the unincorporated area.
    • Adjacent unincorporated areas may be placed under municipal jurisdiction only through ordinances and a formally approved agreement between the municipality and county councils, with boundaries, authority limitations, and representation specified.
    • Zoning regulations must be made in accordance with the comprehensive plan.
    • Regulations must generally be uniform for each class or kind of building, structure, or use within each district, although regulations may differ between districts.
    • The statute expressly permits regulation of building and land use, density, building size, location, height, bulk, number of stories, land dimensions, yards, courts, and other open spaces.
    “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' authority and duty to administer building-code enforcement and require building permits for new construction and renovation, including in unincorporated areas.

    • Each county must appoint a building official or contract with another political subdivision so that its unincorporated area is under the jurisdiction of a building official.
    • A county may prescribe fees for construction permits and inspections.
    • A county may submit an affidavit for exemption if it cannot arrange services for an annual period at costs totally within the schedule of fees recommended in the building codes; the exemption lasts until services become financially feasible or for five years, whichever is less, and may be renewed at five-year intervals after another determination.
    • Counties may establish agreements with other governmental entities to issue permits and enforce building codes.
    • All counties must require by law or ordinance that building permits be issued for persons engaging in new construction or renovation, and permits must correspond to minimum Department of Revenue requirements.
    • Counties and municipalities must enforce only the national building and safety codes provided in Chapter 9.
    • A county may not enforce the adopted fire-prevention-code portion regulating outdoor burning for forestry, wildlife, and agricultural purposes as regulated by the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
    • A permit is not required for a wheelchair-access ramp built with Medicare or Medicaid dollars when construction is performed, overseen, or inspected by an Americans with Disabilities Act inspector.

    permit-copy delivery to county assessor: <= 10 days (After issuance of each building permit)

    “All counties shall require by law or ordinance that building permits be issued to persons engaging in new construction or renovation and such permits shall correspond to minimum requirements of the department. The county shall furnish a copy of the building permit to the assessor within ten days after such issuance.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Certificate of occupancy — Certificates of occupancy for buildings in unincorporated McCormick County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum floor area or other minimum dwelling-size requirement for residential dwellings in McCormick County, including unincorporated areas.
  • Building height — Building-height limits under McCormick County zoning regulations.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land in McCormick County.
  • Manufactured homes — Manufactured-home occupancy in McCormick County.
3 more unanswered
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Building in a floodplain
  • 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.

Living off-grid in McCormick County, South Carolina

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

McCormick County scores 68/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and 41.1% federal land exposure.

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

McCormick 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 McCormick County?

Living in an RV on your own land in McCormick County is limited to specific cases: Campers and camper lots in McCormick County zoning areas. The county page identifies an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance as related to campers, camper lots, and campgrounds; the specific district standards were not accessible in the research window. A tiny home is allowed. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

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

Land in McCormick County runs about $3,216 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in McCormick County?

McCormick County gets about 45.7" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 13.1% of years.

How remote is McCormick County?

A representative private-land location has about 10,354 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,138,839 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.

How McCormick compares in South Carolina

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