CharlestonCounty.org

Stormwater Permitting

Any grubbing and construction creates the risk of potential contamination to our waterways, whether by sediment leaving the site or by contaminants such as paint or concrete washing down the storm drains. As such, Charleston County Stormwater Management Program requires that citizens obtain a Stormwater Permit to perform any land-disturbance activity over 5,000 square feet.

This permit allows the Charleston County Stormwater Management Program to monitor and regulate all land disturbance activity within unincorporated Charleston County. The Stormwater Permit is a requirement to obtaining the Building Permit. You will apply for a Stormwater Permit when you apply for a Building Permit and a Zoning Permit, as applicable (see also Building Inspections and Zoning & Planning for more information).

If you have any questions about the Stormwater Permit, please visit our FAQ, or call the Stormwater Hotline at (843) 202-7639, or email stormwater@charlestoncounty.org

Stormwater Special Protection Areas

Charleston County has classified the unincorporated county areas of West Ashley, James Island, and Johns Island as Stormwater Special Protection Areas. Development in these areas must adhere to the Charleston County Stormwater Program Permitting Standards and Procedures Manual, as well as additional criteria depending on the size and type of construction. The GIS link below may be used to determine if a parcel is within an Unincorporated Charleston County Stormwater Special Protection Area by searching the address or parcel identification number (PID).

James Island SPA Map

Johns Island SPA Map

Stormwater SPA Deisgn Criteria (West Ashley, James Island, Johns-Island)

West Ashley SPA Map

GIS Map Link:
https://chascogis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=318785e049c64bd09adedc38644517ba