Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is needed for a contractor to obtain a building permit?
A: You would need to complete a Commercial Building Permit Application. You would also need to provide contractor information such as a copy of their SC Contractors License and a $2500.00 surety bond made out to Richland County. You would also need to provide us with the subcontractors such as your electrician, plumber and heating and air contractors. These subcontractors must be registered with the state of South Carolina, City of Columbia or the Municipal Association. They must also obtain a Richland County Subcontractors Card. You would also need to submit proof of sewer information such as the results from a perk test from DHEC or a receipt or sewer tap card from Richland County Utilities. If you are not on either of these types of sewer system no proof is needed.
Q: What is a modular home and what are the requirements for them?
A: A building including the necessary electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating, and other service systems manufactured off-site and transported to the point of use for installation or erection, with or without other specified components, as a finished building and not designed for ready removal to another site. This term is not to be limited to residential dwellings. Additionally, a modular building unit must: 1. Meet the requirements of the South Standard Building Code and 2. Meet the requirements of the S.C. Modular Construction Act.
Q: What is needed for a homeowner to obtain a building permit?
A: If you are building as a homeowner you would also need to provide us with the subcontractors such as your electrician, plumber and heating and air contractors. These subcontractors must be registered with the state of South Carolina, City of Columbia or the Municipal Association. They must also obtain a Richland County Subcontractors Card. You would also need to submit proof of sewer information such as the results from a perk test from DHEC or a receipt or sewer tap card from Richland County Utilities. If you are not on either of these types of sewer system, you will need to bring proof from your sewer provider that there is sewer availability for your residence.
Q: How do I obtain a building permit?
A: You may download a Building Permit Application. Once the form has been completed you may either submit it online or bring the form to the Building Services Department located at 2020 Hampton Street, First Floor of the Richland County Administration Building for submittal.
Q: What is needed to obtain a mobile home permit?
A: To obtain a Manufactured Home Permit you will need your bill of sale or title, proof of sewer information such as perk test results from DHEC, sewer tap card or receipt from Richland County Utilities. If you are not on either of these types of sewer system, you will need to bring proof from your sewer provider that there is sewer availability for your residence. Please review the Manufactured Home Set-up Requirements.