Richland County is waiving building permit fees and business license fees for individuals and volunteer organizations working to repair structures damaged by the October flood.

Building permits and business licenses still are required, but County Council approved waiving the fees until June 30, 2017.

The new ordinance allows for the temporary waiver of building permit fees and plan review fees for homeowners, contractors and Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs) and the temporary waiver of business license fees for contractors and VOADs.

Richland County urges residents and business owners to be cautious as they seek repairs to their property. Before hiring a contractor, homeowners and business owners should ensure contractors are licensed in South Carolina and have the required licenses from Richland County.

For tips on how to avoid being a victim of a contractor scam and other information, visit www.rcgov.us and click on the “Richland County Flood Information” link.