Address Information

    The recorded plats and deeds are maintained by the Berkeley County Register of Deeds Office.

    An official address will be assigned by our department once we received either a “Permit to Construct” Septic Approval Letter from Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC) or a letter verifying sewer availability from the correct provider (BCWS, CPW or municipality) and a completed Zoning Use Approval form from Berkeley County Planning & Zoning.

    Road names must be approved through our office. We will check any suggested road names to make sure it can be used and meets our criteria. You may call our office at (843) 719-4113 or fax a list of road names to (843) 719-4190 for approval. Road names remain on reserve for a three (3) year period once submitted and approved.

    Once a road has been created, our office staff will go into the field and ride the road with our GPS unit. Once we return to our office, we will download the data into our computers. At that time, we will determine if additional landowners need to be contacted concerning the suggested road name. If additional landowners must be contacted, we must have 75% of the landowners agree with the suggested road name. Once the road name is accepted, our office will then complete the process of naming the street.

    Our office does not regulate the naming of subdivisions. You may want to check with the Berkeley County Planning & Zoning Office to verify if they have any regulations concerning subdivision names.

    New subdivisions have to be approved through the Planning & Zoning Office. Once final approval has been issued, the plats are then recorded in the Register of Deeds Office. Real Property Services Department receives the recorded plats from Register of Deeds and will begin assigning new TMS numbers. Once the new TMS numbers are assigned, the plats are forwarded to our office to be entered into the GIS system. Our staff will then begin the task of assigning new addresses. This entire process can take from 2 to 4 weeks.

    Our office will be glad to assist you with address verification for Berkeley County. Information may be limited inside some municipalities because they handle their own addressing and our data will only be as accurate as the information we are provided.

    We will try our best to provide you with directions for locations in Berkeley County.

    Real Property Services assigns the TMS numbers for parcels after they receive the recorded plats from the Register of Deeds.

    Auditor

    Changes of address at any office other than the ones below could result in tax bills being mailed to the incorrect address.

    Personal Property

    Motor Vehicles
    According to State Law, you must notify the SCDMV (SC Department of Motor Vehicles) of any change of address.
    The Auditor’s office uses records provided by the SCDMV to generate vehicle property tax bills and where to mail your tax bill.
    An incorrect address on file with the SCDMV could result in paying the wrong tax amount. It can also cause a delay in receiving your renewal registration and decal for your license plate.
    Watercraft
    According to State Law, you must notify SCDNR (SC Department of Natural Resources) to register your newly acquired boat.
    The Auditor’s Office uses records on file with SCDNR to determine which tax district you reside in and where to mail your tax bill.
    An incorrect address on file with SCDNR could result in the incorrect tax amount being paid. This could delay the registration renewal process.

    How do property taxes work?
    There are three parts to the property tax system:

    • The Tax Rate – This amount is usually reflected in the mills or millage rate.
    • Assessment Ratio – The percentage of the property’s value that is subject for taxation according to South Carolina State Law.
    • Fair Market Value – A reasonable amount for which property can be sold to a willing buyer.

    What does the term Assessment Ratio mean?
    Assessment Ratio is the percentage of your property’s value which is subject for taxation. The South Carolina Constitution provides for the following ratios to be applied to the market or use the value of property to arrive at the assessed value:

    • Home (legal residence) 4%
    • Second Home (for any residential property where you do not live) 6%
    • Agriculture real property (private owned) 4%
    • Agriculture real property (corporate owned) 6%
    • Commercial real property 6%
    • Manufacturing real and personal property 10.5%
    • Utility real and personal property 10.5%
    • Railroads, pipelines 9.5%
    • Aircraft 6%
    • Watercraft 10.5%
    • Business Personal Property 10.5%
    • Vehicles 6%

    When is my payment considered late if mailed?

    • The postmark must be no later than the date due to avoid a late penalty.
    • If the due date should fall on a weekend or a holiday, the due date would be the following business day.

    To whom do I dispute my vehicle tax amount to?
    There are three ways to dispute your vehicle tax bill:

    • Vehicle Taxes – You may appeal any vehicle property tax on your vehicle by contacting the Auditor’s Office. You may apply for a reduction of taxes based on a dealership giving you a written appraisal (complete with the vehicle’s make, model, year, and vin number) signed and dated by a manager. According to State Law, this appeal must be done by the last day of the month in which the tag expires. If you miss this deadline, you cannot appeal your tax bill for that year.
    • High Mileage – The high mileage section on the tax bill may be completed and faxed, emailed, mailed or brought into the office for an updated bill. You must apply before the last day of the month in which the tag expires.
    • Car Dealership Purchase – These bills may only be appealed by the bill of sale or buyers order. The sticker or cash price (rebates cannot be included) must be less that the appraised value on your bill. According to State Law, this appeal must be done by the 120-day mark from the date of purchase of the vehicle. If you miss this deadline, you cannot appeal your bill until the renewal year.

    What is personal property tax?
    Personal property is all things other than real estate which have value. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, campers, and motor homes are taxed yearly in the same month they were originally registered at the SCDMV. Marine equipment, aircraft, and items used in a business such as furniture, fixtures and equipment are also taxed yearly, but are taxed based on ownership as of December 31st of the previous year.
    When are personal property taxes due?

    • Real estate, marine equipment, aircraft, and items used in a business such as furniture, fixtures and equipment are billed in arears and mailed out in October of every year and are due by January 15th of the following year. If paid after January 15th, late penalties will be charged.
    • Cars, trucks, motorcycles, campers, and motorhome taxes are billed in the future and are due the last day of the month in which the license expires.

    How do you determine the value of my watercraft?
    Marine equipment tax information is provided to each county by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. By Law, the Auditor’s Office is required to tax using this information. (Boats are taxed at 10.5%. The tax rate is subject to a reduction of 4% if they are used as a primary residence. If you use the interest paid for the boat on your income tax return as a second home, the taxes can be lowered to a 6% rate). You may print and complete the form on our web page to submit to our office for approval and tax reduction. For any further questions you may contact the Department of Natural Resources at:

    1000 Assembly Street
    Rembert Dennis Bldg., Room 104
    Columbia, SC 29202
    803-734-3857
     or 217 Fort Johnson Road
    Charleston, SC 29422
    843-762-5000

    Marine equipment valued at $500.00 or less is exempt from property taxes.
    If you are active duty military, stationed in SC claiming another state as your home of record, marine equipment in your name may be exempted from property taxes. A current leave and earning statement (LONG FORM) must be filed with the Auditor’s Office.
    Is it possible to appeal the value of my watercraft?
    You may appeal the value of your watercraft by submitting a bill of sale or a written dealer appraisal to the Auditor’s office.
    Are boat trailers taxable?
    Boat trailers are no longer taxed. The taxpayer may obtain a license tag from the SCDMV to allow the trailer to be pulled across SC state lines. An exempt tax receipt may be obtained from the Auditor’s Office.
    Are utility trailers taxable?
    Utility trailers with a power-towing unit and a GVW equal to or less than 26,000 lbs does not require a property tax receipt. You may go to any local SCDMV office and pay a one-time fee to obtain a permanent license plate.
    Utility trailers in a business name with a GVW of equal to or less than 26,000 lbs does require a paid tax receipt.
    How are Business Personal Property taxes determined?
    The South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 117-1840-1 states: The fair market value of merchants’ furniture, fixtures and equipment shall be the depreciated value as shown by the merchants’ records for South Carolina income tax purposes, provided however; that in no event is the original cost of the property to be reduced by more than ninety percent of the original capitalized costs.
    Any property licensed in the State of South Carolina such as vehicles, marine equipment or aircraft would not be included on the return. Leased and/or rented equipment should not be included on the return.
    What are the penalties for failure to file the Business Personal Property tax return?
    South Carolina Law states that all items of personal property used in a business shall be assessed for property tax purposes. It also states that all businesses are required to file a personal property tax return on or before April 30th or 120 days after the close of their accounting period regularly employed for income tax purposes. A 10% penalty is added for late filing. There are no provisions for extensions.
    What form do I use to file my Business Personal Property tax?
    Businesses with a retail license must file a form PT100 to South Carolina Department of Revenue. This form is available on the SC Department of Revenue web site. For additional Information you may contact the SC Department of Revenue at (803)898-5222.
    All other businesses must file a return with the Berkeley County Auditor’s office. A copy of the return may be printed from the Business Personal Property Return (PDF).

    How is the value of my vehicle determined? The South Carolina Department of Revenue provides each county with assessment guides that are required to be used as a first source to value vehicles. The second source is the NADA Vehicle Guide. These values are multiplied by the assessment ratio set by the Law to determine the amount of taxes owed on a vehicle. The assessed value is then multiplied by the millage rate to determine the amount of taxes owed on a vehicle. How is the assessed value of my vehicle calculated? According to Law Code: Title 12, Chapter 37, Section 12-37-268 vehicle assessments are determined by guides given to each county by the South Carolina Department of Revenue. These guides are used to calculate the taxes due in accordance with the mills for the district in which you reside within the county. When are my vehicle taxes due? Property tax on motor and recreational vehicles must be paid before the license plates can be renewed. The renewal month is the month that the vehicle was originally registered in. If the vehicle is new to the State or if you have purchased it from an individual, it’s required by Law to pay the property taxes and have the vehicle registered within 45 days. How do I apply for the high mileage discount on my renewal bill? You may apply for the high mileage discount by completing the high mileage portion of the tax bill. This may be mailed, faxed, or emailed. According to State Law, you must request the high mileage discount on or before the last day if the month in which your license plate expires. When the dealer tells me they take care of the taxes and tags, why did I receive a tax bill? The dealership collects your South Carolina Sales Tax and DMV license plate fee. The bill you will receive is for the personal property taxes. Since the dealer is the only one who can purchase a license plate before the property taxes are paid, you will be given 120 days from your purchase date to pay your property taxes. If the property taxes are not paid at the end of the 120-day mark, your driver’s license may be suspended. What do I need to do if I purchase a vehicle from an individual? If you have purchased a vehicle from an individual, the property taxes must be paid before you can register the vehicle at the SCDMV. A copy of the title or bill of sale must be emailed, faxed or brought into the Auditor’s Office for a tax bill to be prepared. The paid tax receipt must be taken to the SCDMV. You may go online to scdmvonline.com to see what additional information the SCDMV may require. You have 45 days to register your vehicle. How do I get a 45-day temporary license plate? A person who newly acquires a vehicle may purchase a 45-day temporary tag from a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles branch office. What do I do if I receive a tax bill on a vehicle that I have sold?
    • If the bill you received is a renewal bill, you may disregard the bill. However, you must turn the license plate back into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles office within 30 days of the sale. If you still have time left on your license plate, you may qualify for a partial refund. If your vehicle was sold, total loss, or was repossessed, you may provide the Berkeley County Auditor’s office with the correct documentation. This information may be emailed, fax, mailed, or brought into the office.
      • If your vehicle was sold, please provide our office with your bill of sale or copy of the title signed over to new owner and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
      • If your vehicle was total loss, please provide our office with your total loss letter from the insurance company and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
      • If your vehicle was repossessed, please provide our office with your repossession letter and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
    • If the bill received is a Car Dealership Purchase bill, you will need to contact the Berkeley County Auditor’s Office. You may owe all or a portion of the tax bill. Disregarding this tax notice could result in your driver’s license being suspended.
      • If your vehicle was sold, please provide our office with your bill of sale or copy of your title signed over to the new owner and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
      • If your vehicle was total loss, please provide our office with your total loss letter from the insurance company and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
      • If your vehicle was repossessed, please provide our office with your repossession letter and your receipt for your tag being turned into any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle.
    What do I do if I want to transfer my license plate to another vehicle? If you have a valid license plate from a previously owned vehicle in your name that has not expired, you may transfer the plate to your new vehicle. The tag from the previous vehicle and the title or bill of sale for the newly acquired vehicle must be taken to the SCDMV to have it transferred. Property taxes are not due on the new vehicle until the plate is ready for renewal. What do I do with a South Carolina license plate once I’ve moved out of state? When you move out of South Carolina and have registered your vehicle in another state, you must mail your South Carolina registration and license plate back to the SCDMV. If the license plate has not expired, you may qualify for a refund. You may fax, email, mail or bring into the office a copy of your new registration complete with your new mailing address to apply for a refund. What do I do if I move to Berkeley County from another county in South Carolina? You must update your address with the SCDMV and then contact the Berkeley County Auditor’s Office. How do I apply for the military exemption if I am active duty military? The Soldiers and Sailors Relief Act exempts military personnel and their spouses (whose HOME OF RECORD is somewhere other than the State of South Carolina), from paying Berkeley County Property Taxes. If you are active duty military stationed in South Carolina and claim another state as your home of record, vehicles (as well as leased vehicles) with a title in your name and/or your spouse’s name may be exempted from property taxes. A current Leave and Earning Statement (LES) must be filed with the Auditor’s Office yearly. If your spouse is on the title as a co-owner or alone, a copy of their dependent ID card or copy of your marriage license must be presented in addition to the military member’s LES every year. Only active duty military personnel and their spouses may be exempt. Any other names on the title with the active duty military member’s name will result in the bill being half exempt. You may also qualify for the military exemption if you are stationed elsewhere but you have family members still living in Berkeley County or if you own property in Berkeley County. If you claim South Carolina as your home of record, you do not qualify for the exemption. If you are in the Reserves, you are not eligible for the exemption. Is there a senior citizen discount for vehicle taxes? There is no senior citizen discount on vehicle taxes.
    What is the Homestead Exemption Program and how do I know if I qualify? If so, how do I apply for the Program? The Homestead Exemption Program exempts the first $50,000 from the taxable value of your primary residence. You may apply for the Homestead Exemption any time after you reach the age of 65 and have lived in South Carolina for a full calendar year. Since house taxes are billed in arrears, you won't see the discount on your bill until the year after you turn 65. You may also qualify for the Homestead Exemption if you have been declared totally and permanently disabled by Social Security or if you have been declared legally blind by a licensed ophthalmologist. If you are applying due to age, bring your birth certificate, driver’s license or passport and social security card, tax return or legal document with SS# listed.  If you are applying due to your Social Security disability, you must provide your entitlement letter complete with your effective disability date. If you are applying due to being totally blind, you must provide a letter from your physician complete with the date your condition began. Are there any tax reductions for an individual who is required to use a wheelchair? You may be eligible for two personal vehicles to be exempt from property taxes that are owned or leased either solely or jointly by the person required to use a wheelchair. You must provide the vehicle's registration card, bill of sale or title. You must also provide a signed physician's statement on their letterhead certifying the required use of wheelchair on a permanent basis, complete with the effective date. Are there any tax reductions if my minor child is required to use a wheelchair? One personal vehicle owned or leased by the parent or legal guardian of a minor child who is blind or requires the use of a wheelchair when the vehicle is used to transport the minor. You must provide the vehicle's registration card, bill of sale, or title and a physician's statement certifying the minor child is blind or requires the use of a wheelchair complete with the effective date. You will also need a copy of the birth certificate showing parent(s) name or court documentation of legal guardianship. Do I get a tax reduction for being a disabled veteran? If you are a veteran who is 100% totally and permanently service connected disabled, you may be eligible for and exemption on two of your vehicles. The Auditor's Office will need a copy of a letter from the Veteran's Administration certifying that the total and permanent disability is due to a service connection. In addition, the registration card or bill of sale of the vehicle(s) to be exempted must be presented to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for approval. This can be done by filling out the PT-401-I form and sending it to the SCDOR. Once the SCDOR has granted its approval, a letter will be mailed to the veteran. This letter can be brought in to the Berkeley County Auditor's Office to have your vehicle(s) exempted from property tax. Any property taxes paid after the entitlement date will be refunded. To qualify for this exemption, the vehicle must be registered solely in the name of the disabled veteran or jointly owned with a spouse. If the spouse has a different last name than the veteran, a marriage license must be provided. If the vehicle is jointly owned with anyone other than a spouse, it would be disqualified from receiving the exemption. This exemption is also allowed for a surviving spouse for one vehicle owned or leased for their lifetime or until they remarry. If you are applying as a surviving spouse, you must provide a copy of the Veteran's death certificate, documentation from the Veterans Administration that you are the surviving spouse of the veteran, and a copy of the vehicle registration card, bill of sale or title showing you are the sole owner of the vehicle. Are there any tax reductions for being a prisoner of war? If you were a Prisoner of War (POW) in WWI, WWII, the Korean Conflict or the Vietnam Conflict, you are entitled to an exemption on two vehicles owned or leased solely by the POW or with a spouse. A certificate from the Veteran's Administration certifying you were a POW, in addition the registration card or bill of sale of the vehicle(s) to be exempted must be presented to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for approval. This can be done by filling out the PT-401-I form and sending it to SCDOR. Once SCDOR has granted the approval, a letter will be mailed to the POW. This letter may be brought in to the Berkeley County Auditor's Office to have your vehicle(s) exempted from property tax. Any property taxes paid after the entitlement date will be refunded. To qualify for this exemption, the vehicle must be registered solely in the name of the POW or jointly owned with a spouse. If the spouse has a different last name then the POW, a marriage license must be provided. If the vehicle is jointly owned with anyone other than a spouse, it would be disqualified from receiving the exemption. This exemption is also allowed for a surviving spouse for one vehicle for their lifetime or until they remarry. If you are applying as a surviving spouse, you must provide a copy of the POW's death certificate, documentation from the Veterans Administration that you are the survivor of the POW, and a copy of the vehicle registration card, bill of sale or title showing you are the soleowner of the vehicle. Do I get a tax reduction for being a Medal of Honor recipient? If you are a Medal of Honor recipient you are entitled to an exemption on two vehicles owned or leased solely by the Medal of Honor Recipient. You must present a certificate from the Veteran's Administration certifying you are a Medal of Honor Recipient and the registration card or bill of sale of the vehicle(s) to be exempted.-->

    The Homestead Exemption is a complete exemption of taxes on the first $50,000 in Fair Market Value of your Legal Residence for homeowners over age 65, totally and permanently disabled, or legally blind.

    The Homestead Exemption credit exempts the first $50,000 of the value reducing your yearly taxes due.

    This does not apply to any fees your Legal Residence may have.

    Do I qualify for the Homestead Exemption?

    To qualify, you must hold complete fee simple title to your primary legal residence or life estate to your primary legal residence or you are the beneficiary of a trust that holds title to your primary legal residence.  As of December 31, preceding the tax year of exemption, you must you be a legal resident of South Carolina for one calendar year.  As of December 31, preceding the tax year of exemption, you must be one of the following:  65 years of age; or declared totally and permanently disabled by a state or federal agency having authority to make such a declaration; or legally blind as certified by a licensed ophthalmologist.

    What documents are required as proof of eligibility when applying?

    If you are applying due to age, please bring one of the following documents:  birth certificate, driver’s license or passport.  You will also need to provide either your social security card, tax return or legal document with SS# listed. We will need the same information provided for everyone listed on the deed.  If the property is held in a trust, we will need a copy of the Certificate of Trust.

    If you qualify due to disability, you will need to present documentation from the state or federal agency certifying the disability and your entitlement date.  A person claiming to be totally and permanently disabled, but who has not been classified by one of the agencies, may apply to the state agency of Vocational Rehabilitation. If you qualify due to being legally blind, you will need to present documentation from a licensed ophthalmologist.

    How can I apply for the Homestead Exemption?

    This is an inhouse application.  If you are unable to come in, please contact us at 843-719-4309 or and we will make further arrangements to assist you.

    You only need to reapply for the Homestead Exemption if you change the deed, move to a new residence, or in the case of the death of eligible owner.

    The surviving spouse of a qualified or potentially qualified Homestead recipient may receive the benefit as a surviving spouse, if the decedent was eligible for the Homestead Exemption at the time of death.  The surviving spouse will need to meet the following conditions:  Obtains complete fee simple title or life estate or you are the beneficiary of a trust that holds title to your legal residence, within nine months after the death for the qualifying spouse; the surviving spouse lives in the home as his/her primary residence; and remains unmarried.

    We are located at 1003 Highway 52, Moncks Corner, S.C. 29461.  

    For GPS purposes please use 1003 US Highway 52. 

    Janet Brown Jurosko

    Berkeley County Auditor

    • Appeal of Vehicle Taxes – You may appeal any property tax on your vehicle by contacting the Auditor’s Office. You can apply for a reduction of taxes based on high mileage or you may have a dealership give you a written appraised on the over all condition of the vehicle. You may print off the form on our web page to take to the dealer for this purpose. According to state law, this appeal must be done by the last day of the month in which the tag expires. If you miss this deadline, you cannot appeal your bill for that year.
    • Refund of Vehicle Taxes – If you sell a vehicle, you can surrender your tag and receive a refund on your taxes for the unused months. You must provide written proof of sale, which can be the following: copy of bill of sale from a private sale or dealer trade in or, copy of front and back of title signed over to new owner. You must also provide a receipt from the DMV showing the tags have been surrendered. If you move out of state, you can mail your South Carolina tag and proof of your registration in the new state to the Auditor’s Office to receive a refund for the unused months.
    • All manufacturers, utility, fee-in-lieu agreements, property of merchants and certain businesses are required to file a return with the South Carolina Department of Revenue or the Berkeley County Auditor’s Office on all furniture, fixtures and unlicensed equipment. A return is mailed out each January and is to be filed by April 30th to avoid penalties. If you do not receive a Business Personal Property Return, please contact the Auditor’s Office.
    • Personal property such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, campers and motor homes are also billed yearly and are taxed a year in advance.
    • Temporary 45 Day License Tag – A person who newly acquires a vehicle may purchase a 45-day temporary tag from a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles branch office.
    • If you are moving into the state of South Carolina and want to register your motor vehicle, you must first pay property taxes on the vehicle. Bring or fax a copy of your title or registration card to the Auditor’s Office, and a tax bill will be prepared based on the value of the vehicle. After the taxes are paid, the paid receipt must be taken to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles along with your out of state title and insurance information in order to obtain a South Carolina license tag and title. You have 45 days to register your vehicle.
    • What do I do if I move to Berkeley County from another county in SC?
      You will need to bring, fax,email or mail a copy of your current SC vehicle registration and proof of your Berkeley County address to the Auditor’s office to have a tax bill created. After paying your taxes at the Treasurer’s office, you will need to take your paid tax receipt to the DMV. At the DMV you will pay your tag renewal fee if it is due, and they will issue your new registration and sticker.
    • If you purchased a vehicle from an individual, the property taxes must be paid before you can register the vehicle. A copy of the title or bill of sale must be presented to or faxed to the Auditor’s Office and a tax bill will be prepared. The paid tax receipt must be taken to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, along with your bill of sale and insurance information in order to obtain a South Carolina license plate and title. You have 45 days to register your vehicle.
    • If you purchased a vehicle from a dealership, the dealer may pick up the new tags for you from the Department of Motor Vehicles before you are required to pay your property taxes. You will pay the dealer South Carolina Sales Tax and registration fees. By law, the Department of Motor Vehicles will provide the vehicle information to the Auditor’s Office. You will receive a Property Tax Bill which must be paid within 120 days of the date of purchase. If the taxes are not paid by the 120 day mark; your driver’s license will be suspended.
    • At the time of purchasing a vehicle, you may prefer to transfer a license plate if the vehicle being purchased is in the same name. You will not be taxed on the new vehicle until it is time for the tag to be renewed. If the dealer is to transfer the tag and it has less than 4 months left on it; you might prefer to purchase a new tag as it will give you a longer time to pay the taxes on the new vehicle.

    You may apply for the Homestead Exemption any time after you reach the age of 65. The law states that you must be 65 on or before December 31st of the previous year in which you wish to claim the exemption. Since house taxes are billed in arrears; you won’t actually see the discount on your bill until the following year after you turn 65.

    You may come in to apply or as a convenience to our taxpayers, the high mileage section on the front of your tax bill may be completed and faxed, emailed or mailed in for a corrected bill. You must be sure to apply before the last day of the month in which the tag expires.

    No taxes are due at the time of transfer. Just go to any DMV branch to transfer the tags. You will pay taxes on the vehicle when it is time for the tag to be renewed.

    The dealership collects your South Carolina Sales Tax and DMV fee. The bill you will receive is for the personal property taxes. Since the dealer is the only one who is able to purchase a license plate before the property taxes are paid; you will be given 120 days from your purchase date to pay your property taxes. If the property taxes are not paid at the end of the 120 day mark, your driver’s license may be suspended.

    Auditor Tax Terms

    All new manufacturing establishments are exempt from county property taxes for five years from the time of establishment.

    All marine equipment, which includes boats, motors and trailers valued at $500 or less is exempt from property taxes (see www.dnr.sc.gov).

    If you are a POW, a Medal of Honor recipient, have a 100% permanent and total service connected VA disability, or require the use of a wheel chair, you may be exempt from property taxes on up to two (2) vehicles. You may obtain applications from the Auditor’s Office.
    In order to get vehicles totally exempt, only lease companies and spouses can be on the title; anyone else’s name on the title will cause the exemption to be lost.

    If you are active duty military stationed in South Carolina and claim another state as your home of record; vehicles as well as leased vehicles with a title in your name and/or your spouse’s name may be exempted from property taxes. A current Leave and Earning Statement must be filed with the Auditor’s Office. If your spouse is on the title as a co-owner or alone; a copy of their dependent ID card or copy of your marriage license must be presented in addition to the military member’s LES. Only active duty military personnel & spouses can be exempt and any other names on the title will cause them to have pay half the bill.

    In Berkeley County, the voters approved the local option sales tax (LOST). Revenue collected from the additional 1% sales tax must be used for property tax relief. You do not have to apply for this reduction. It is automatically shown on your tax bill. Berkeley County’s sales tax is 8% effective May 1, 2009.

    The year that the tax bill is received payable by January 15 of the following year.

    • October 1 Property tax books are opened
    • January 15 Property taxes for the prior year must be paid to the county treasurer no later than this date.
    • January 16 through February 1 Property taxes for the prior year paid during this period are subject to a penalty of 3%.
    • February 2 through March 16 An additional penalty of 7% is added to taxes for the prior year paid during this period.
    • As of March 16, 2009 all real property and personnel property, and business taxes must be paid at the Tax Collector’s office in Moncks Corner (no other offices).

    Process required by state law to determine the change in market value of property over a certain period of time in order to provide equity among taxpayers. It is the valuation of real estate.

    An appraisal or fair market value of real or personal property multiplied by the appropriate ratio equals the assessed value. Assessed value times the millage rate equals the amount of property taxes.

    The percentage of our property’s value which is subject for taxation. The South Carolina Constitution provides for the following ratios to be applied to the market or use value of property to arrive at the assessed value:

    • Home (legal residence) 4%
    • Second Home (for any residential property where you do not live) 6%
    • Agriculture real property (private owned) 4%
    • Agriculture real property (corporate owned) 6%
    • Commercial real property 6%
    • Manufacturing real and personal property 10.5%
    • Utility real and personal property 10.5%
    • Railroads, pipelines, 9.5%
    • Aircraft 6%
    • Watercraft 10.5%
    • Business Personal Property 10.5%
    • Vehicles 6%

    Reasonable amount for which a property can be sold to a willing buyer.

    According to value.

    All things other than real estate which have value such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, campers, motor homes, marine equipment, aircraft, and items used in a business such as furniture, fixtures and equipment are taxed yearly. These taxes are based on ownership December 31st of the previous year.

    All land and the buildings, structures or improvements on that land and mobile homes are billed as real property. The Auditor does not appraise real property. Real property is taxed each year based on ownership December 31st of the previous year.

    In 1915, South Carolina created the property tax on real and personal property. It is a main source of revenue for the state and local government, as well as public schools. All residents of South Carolina are asked to pay yearly ad valorem property taxes on real and personal property. Revenue generated is used by local government to provide the services that Berkeley County residents enjoy.

    Building & Codes

    No. An approved permit must be in hand to begin any type of construction. If construction does begin without a permit and you are caught, the fees for all associated permits will be doubled.

    Not only is it County policy to obtain a permit to build, move a home, manufactured or other, etc., but it is also a State requirement. When the State adopts the codes and/or policies, the County must also abide by the same codes or policies.

    Yes. There are some buildings that are exempt from having to obtain a permit to build. Please call the permit office to obtain the correct information regarding your specific project.

    Clerk of Courts

    Whether you will be coming to court as a party, witness, family friend, or observer, there are certain rules of conduct and appearance that everyone must follow. First, and foremost, you should arrive at court on time. Please be sure to allow sufficient time to find a parking space and pass through the security checkpoint at the front entrance. Mace, pepper spray, guns, knives or any other objects deemed to be potential weapons are not allowed in the courthouse. No audio or video recording devices or cell phones are allowed. Second you are expected to conduct yourself in a respectful manner. Whether appearing in court, or simply observing, you must come properly dressed. A coat and tie or dress are considered appropriate. Shorts, t-shirts and tank tops are not permitted in the courtrooms. When entering the courtroom please do so quietly and promptly find a seat.

    Civil Court records are placed online at Public Index SC Courts.
    The Clerk of Court’s Office maintains indices for civil and criminal case files. All civil cases are indexed by plaintiff (person bringing suit) and defendant (person sued). All criminal cases are indexed by the defendant (the accused). Family Court records are considered confidential and may only be inspected with special permission. Juvenile delinquency, adoptions, terminated parental rights, abuse and neglect, and any other sealed records are all confidential. There is a charge for copies.

    Effective Tuesday, April 2, 2019, citizens currently making support payments to the Berkeley County Clerk of Court will make payment to the South Carolina State Disbursement Unit mailed to:

    South Carolina State Disbursement Unit
    P.O. Box 100302
    Columbia, SC 29202-3302

    Note: The State Disbursement Unit will accept personal checks.

    If you have questions about when or how to make payment to the State Disbursement Unit, please contact the SDU customer service center at 1-800-768-5858. Agents are available M-F, 8:30am-5:00pm excluding holidays.

    For more information for Customers Paying Support and the options available to make payments, visit https://dss.sc.gov/child-support/.

    Note: Payments made to the SDU will be applied according to Federal guidelines.

    Section 26-1-50 of the SC Code of Law requires that every notary public shall, within fifteen days after he has been commissioned, exhibit his commission to the clerk of the court of the county in which he resides and be enrolled by the clerk. You may enroll your notary between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except County holidays. The enrollment fee is $10.00 payable by cash, money order or credit card. You must bring your original notary certificate and a photo id.

    Communications

    Cable Internet providers offer VoIP phone service, as well as some of the more traditional telephone carriers. If you have recently “bundled” your cable, phone, and internet service; odds are you are now using a VoIP phone. Also, some specific companies such as “Vonage” or “Magic Jack” are solely VoIP providers. The best thing to do if you are not sure is to contact your phone provider’s customer service department and ask.

    If you are using a VoIP phone system that does not mean you won’t get 9-1-1 services. VoIP customers may need to provide or update their physical address location information to their VoIP providers, especially if they have recently changed locations, for their VoIP 9-1-1 service to function properly. This ensures that your provider has your updated information and if you dial 9-1-1, the responders do not respond to an incorrect address.

    One other thing to remember with VoIP service is that if your power goes out or your internet connection goes down, you may lose your ability to make and receive calls. You might want to consider installing a backup power supply, maintaining a traditional phone line, or having a wireless phone to use as a backup in case of an emergency.

    To get more information about VoIP telephone service and 9-1-1 emergency dialing you can visit the Federal Communications Commission website at this address:https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/voip-and-911-service

    9-1-1 is for emergencies, potential emergencies, or when an emergency is imminent. Ask yourself:

    • Is there a danger to life or property?
    • Is there a serious medical emergency (chest pains, seizures, bleeding, etc.)
    • Is there any type of fire (building, vehicle, brush, etc.)
    • Is there any crime in-progress (robbery, burglary, prowler, fights, etc.)
    • Are there any other life threatening situations (traffic accident with injuries, stuck in high water, etc.)

    You should call 9-1-1 anytime you believe there is an actual emergency. If you are unsure, call 9-1-1 and the dispatcher can assist you.

    Please do not call 9-1-1 to report that electricity or other utilities are out; to notify authorities of traffic jams; to inquire about government services or to learn general information.
    The Emergency Communications Center has several non-emergency telephone lines that are accessible to the public. For all non-emergency situations, please call (843) 719-4505 or (843) 719-4169. Examples of calls that should be placed to the non-emergency number are:

    • Traffic accidents that do not involve injuries
    • Loud music or barking dogs
    • Late reported incidents such as theft with no suspect information
    • Requests for information

    When reporting an emergency:

    • Remain calm
    • Speak clearly
    • Listen to instructions
    • Answer all questions

    The person answering 9-1-1 is a trained dispatcher. They have been trained to ask certain questions. Be prepared to follow the dispatcher’s line of questioning. (e.g. WHAT is happening, WHERE the situation is occurring, WHEN did the incident occur, WHO is involved, is a WEAPON involved, what INJURIES have been sustained, etc.).

    If you call 9-1-1 by mistake, DO NOT HANG UP.
    Stay on the line and tell the dispatcher that everything is all right.
    If a caller to 911 hangs up without stating the problem, the caller must be contacted in order to ensure that no actual emergency exits.
    This may involve the dispatching of an officer to your home or place of business in order to ensure that a problem does not exist.
    One common misconception that citizens have about dialing 911 by mistake is they will somehow get into trouble. This is not true.

    Dispatchers ask for pertinent information first – address, type of call, name of caller or those involved. Once the initial information is obtained, additional questions may be asked depending on the type of call.
    The questioning will not slow down the dispatching of the appropriate assistance. In emergency cases, this information is relayed immediately to field units so they may begin responding to the incident, while the dispatcher remains on the phone to obtain further details that are also relayed to the responding units as it is gathered, in real time.
    The dispatcher will further assist callers by giving instructions to callers on how to administer life saving techniques, such as CPR, during medical emergencies.
    They will take steps to promote the personal safety of the caller, the victim and responding Police, Fire or EMS personnel. They will also engage in actions which preserve evidence to aid in the apprehension of suspects.

    Calls for assistance from a residential or “hard wired plug-in phone” will come into the E911 center with a name, call back number and an address. However, the dispatcher will still verify this information to make sure it is correct and that the responding agencies are directed to the proper location.
    Wireless or cell phone calls that come in will contain varying information. This information depends on the type of cell phone that you have, which cellular tower site location it reached and whether or not it is GPS capable. GPS capable phones will provide an estimated physical location.
    The complainant’s name, location and call back number are not available to the Dispatcher and will have to be verified.
    Providing landmarks, mile markers and general location descriptors will help speed a response to your location.

    If you are going to burn anything, you need to call Forestry at 1-800-895-7063 to receive a burn permit number.

    If you call 911 from a regular landline telephone, the phone number from which you are calling is sent to a database hosted by AT&T. The database will then send your address to the operator in the 911 Center.
    If you are mobile and calling from a cell phone, you will be asked to verify your location. Being able to give a nearby address, intersection, landmark or any other descriptors of the area will help emergency personnel locate you.

    With the increasing popularity of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone services in our area, it is very important that you check with your service providers to make sure that your addresses and phone numbers are correct and are associated with the correct Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for any potential 9-1-1 calls.

    Being able to call 9-1-1 is a vital component of public safety and emergency preparedness. Traditional “wire-line” phone services have generally associated a particular phone number with a fixed address. Cellular phone services have generally associated a particular phone number with both the subscriber’s address and the physical location of the phone itself by means of using the phone’s GPS coordinates or cell tower usages. Depending on the nature of a 9-1-1 call, both wire-line and cell calls allow the local PSAP to help pinpoint a caller’s location to send help.

    Consumers who use VoIP should be aware that VoIP 9-1-1 service may work differently from traditional 9-1-1 services. VoIP service allows you to make and receive calls to and from traditional phone numbers using a high-speed (broadband) Internet connection. VoIP services enables users to take their home or business phone service almost anywhere they have internet access. Because VoIP services are portable, or can be used from virtually any Internet connection anywhere, the location of the caller may not be capable of being determined automatically. The only address associated with a VoIP call is the address of the bill, or what the service provider has entered into the system. This can cause an issue if the address is listed incorrectly. Portability raises a number of challenges for the emergency services community. Although the FCC has taken action to make sure that emergency calls from these VoIP services will get through to the appropriate public safety authorities, there are still possible differences between VoIP 9-1-1 and traditional wire-line 9-1-1 service.

    Cypress Gardens

    No, but we have flat bottom boats available for you to use.  The fee is included in your admission if you row yourself.  If you would like a guided boat tour, it is an additional $5 per person.

    Yes, November thru February.  Please make sure to clean up behind them.

    No, there are too many cypress knees and our paths are narrow.

    Yes, please fill out the form and our volunteer coordinator will contact you.

    $10 Adults

    $6.50 Senior (65&older)

    $6.50 Military/First Responders

    $5.00 Student (6-17)

    5 & under are free

    Yes, our Butterfly House is open year-round.

    Yes

    EMD

    No, we deal with much more than that. In fact, hurricane preparation and response makes up only a small part of what our office deals with on a day-to-day basis. Berkeley County EMD prepares for all hazards, which includes natural disasters, man-made events, and attacks. This can be anything from an earthquake, to a chemical spill, to a terrorist action. Our job is to help the County be ready for, and respond to, any kind of major incident.

    Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) are a way that the citizens of Berkeley County can take an active role in helping to respond to an emergency situation. The CERT program provides training and equipment to community members so that they can assist in large scale incidents. For more information, or to sign up for our next training class, click here.

    Traditionally, “Hurricane Season” begins June 1st and will go through November 30th. However, storm systems can form throughout the year.

    The “Know Your Zone” campaign from South Carolina Emergency Management Division is designed especially for this. Berkeley County provides the information for you here, you can go to SCEMD’s website, or you can find it in the latest version of the SC Hurricane Guide.

    Ready.gov provides an up-to-date list of all the recommended items to keep in your disaster kit. You want to make sure that you are periodically checking your supplies to make sure everything is still operational.

    OPCON (Operating Condition) refers to the level of activation the County has gone into with the Emergency Operations Plan. OPCON 3 means everything is normal, while OPCON 1 means that a major event is currently in progress.

    Emergency Medical Services

    Berkeley County EMS only receives part of its funding via taxes, other funding is provided through a billing process. Berkeley County EMS’s total budget is $3.2 million, billing offsets about 1/3 of the operational expense.

    In the Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester County area, Trident Technical College is the primary place to attend EMT Basic school. There are other places (Low Country EMS, Emergency Training Center), they are all in the book.

    View Current Job Openings

    There is a significant difference; a Paramedic performs advanced therapies such as medication administration, advanced airway maneuvers, electrical cardiac therapies and much more. A paramedic can perform therapies that at one time were solely performed in an Emergency Room. An EMT can perform basic level interventions such as oxygen delivery, bandaging and splinting.

    South Carolina State Law requires motorist yield the right of way to emergency vehicles when they are responding with lights and sirens. In most instances, motorist should slow down and pull to the right edge of the road. Sometimes other maneuvers are necessary, in all cases it is important not to panic, stay calm and watch what the ambulance driver is doing. The action you will usually take is to safely distance yourself from the ambulance. The ambulance personnel will usually direct you if visual contact can be made.

    First you must get certified as an EMT. Secondly, you will need to apply for an open position at the Berkeley County Human Resources Department. Last of all, you will take a practical and written exam to evaluate your skill level; once the testing is complete, you will be interviewed. If you perform well overall and out qualify the other applicants, the job is yours.

    Berkeley County and the incorporated areas in Berkeley County, all operate on an Enhanced 911 System, this means all you have to do is call 911 and stay on the line.

    Emergency Notification System

    The Berkeley County Emergency Notification System (BCENS) is an Emergency Notification System designed to rapidly notify an affected area of an emergency by sending a recorded message through the telephone system.

    Individuals submit phone numbers and e-mail addresses to the BCENS. The system then extracts the contact information determined by a circle or area drawn on the BCENS map. The system then launches a prerecorded message by calling, emailing or sending a text message to those contacts that fall within the defined area (based on the address used when signing up).

    Yes – you can register your cell or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone with the BCENS. You will only receive BCENS notifications based on the address you provide for your cell and/or VoIP phone.

    Your caller ID will show “Berkeley County”

    The system is designed to leave a message on voice mail or an answering machine.

    The system has TTY capability for the hearing impaired. There is TTY detection equipment that will bypass the voice-recorded portion when a TTY or TDD is detected.

    The system is designed to call back if the line is busy or if there is no answer. The system will wait five minutes before a second callback is made.

    Residents that self register their telephone number(s) will need to update their address at the BCENS Self Registration Portal.

    Each notification call will be different depending on the incident. The primary agency handling the emergency will make the recording you will hear. It is important to follow the instructions on the recording.

    No, 9-1-1 should only be called when you have an emergency. The emergency notification recording will give you instructions to follow.

    Finance

    Berkeley County’s budget calendar runs a fiscal year of July 1st – June 30th.

    Click here to view current and past years’ budgets.

    Berkeley County borrows money to minimize the impact on millage rates when funding large projects. This allows the County to pay for large projects over the course of several years.

    Information Technology

    Windows Key + Shift + S allows you to select a window for a screenshot.
    ⊞ Win + ↑Shift + S

    Need to take a screenshot when working on a desktop or laptop. Just hit the “Print Screen or “PrtScr”” key on a keyboard, open up an editing program like Microsoft Paint or Microsoft Word and click “Paste.” With dual monitors this will take a copy of both monitors. If you only want a picture of an active screen, use ALT + PrtScr.

    Pressing and holding down the “Ctrl,” “Alt” and “Delete” keys on a keyboard for a few seconds (longer than usual) will restart a computer.

    ⊞Windows Key + V lets you see your clipboard. This is your copy/paste history and lets you select previously copied images or text.

    On a Windows machine, hit “⊞ Windows,” plus “L” to lock your computer.

    On Windows machine, Hold down the ⊞Windows Key + Tab brings up the task view – You will see up to 30 days back of what you have done in windows.

    To “Minimize All Windows” you can use the command, ⊞ Win + M.

    Magistrate Court

    See the following link for more information on the Eviction Process.

    If a person is occupying your property without consent or is refusing to leave you can file a Notice to Quit Premises. This is when there is no landlord-tenant agreement between the parties (example, a child or boyfriend/girlfriend). Once served with this order, the defendant has 5 days to vacate the property or request a show cause hearing. If they refuse to leave you may obtain a Writ of Possession to have the defendant removed from the property.

    See the following link for more information on the Claim and Delivery Procedure.

    See the following link for more information on the Small Claims Procedure.

    See the following link for more information on the Appeal Procedure.

    See the following link for more information on the Restraining Order Procedure.

    Civil, Traffic and Criminal cases can be searched online at Public Index SC Courts.

    See the following link for more information provided by the DMV on Abandoned Vehicle.

    See the following link for more information provided by the DMV on Abandoned MH.

    Please see the following link for more information on Expungements.

    Mosquito Abatement

    Mosquitoes require blood to develop fertile eggs, thus only the females bite. The blood meal serves no nutritional purpose. Both males and females feed on plant liquids, nectar, and fruit juices to provide the sugar that is their main source of energy.

    There are over 2500 different species of mosquitoes worldwide, close to 200 species occur in the United States, and we have identified 55 species here in Berkeley County.

    Most of mosquito species in our area have an adult life span of only about two weeks. Some adults can live two to three months or longer if environmental conditions are favorable.

    There are several things you can do to help reduce mosquitoes. For a list of practical measures please click on the Homeowner Tips link.

    Because female mosquitoes feed on blood, they have the potential of transmitting disease organisms. World-wide, mosquitoes are responsible for the transmission of disease to millions of people each year. These diseases include encephalitis, dengue, yellow fever, malaria, filariasis, and West Nile Virus. In Berkeley County the principle mosquito-borne diseases we are concerned with are Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), West Nile Virus, and Dog Heartworm. A number of biological and environmental conditions occurring in the current sequence must take place for EEE and WNV transmission into the human population to take place; however, it is very important to keep your horses vaccinated against these arboviruses. Dog heartworm is common to the area; if you don’t keep your dog on heartworm medication it will contract the disease.

    Water is an integral part of a mosquito’s habitat. Mosquitoes go through four distinct stages in their life cycle: the egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Of these four stages, the first three occur in water. BCMA personnel check standing water throughout the county to determine if juvenile mosquitoes are present. When larvae or pupae are found, we apply environmentally friendly insecticides to the water. Obviously, eliminating the immature mosquitoes before they emerge as adults is our preferred means of control. Not only does it reduce the likelihood our citizens will be bitten by blood feeding adults, but it reduces the need for adulticide applications. Unfortunately there is no way to completely eliminate all of Berkeley County’s mosquitoes in their juvenile stages, so adult control remains a key component of our program.

    BCMA does not spray on a set schedule. For environmental and economical reasons, we conduct adulticide operations when mosquitoes are present at such levels to pose a nuisance or possible health risk. We use a number of surveillance measures to determine when and where adult control measures are needed and dispatch our spray trucks accordingly.

    There are several reasons why adulticide applications are made at night. 1) The majority of mosquito species are most active around dusk and again at dawn. We want to spray when mosquitoes are most likely to be out and flying. 2) In order for the spray droplets to remain close to the ground, applications must be made during a thermal inversion. This climatic condition normally occurs at night as ground temperature cools. Applications made during the middle of a hot day will be carried by rising currents of warm air straight up into the atmosphere. 3) Our citizens are less likely to be out and about after dark. While there is an extremely small risk associated with the adulticides we spray, BCMA strives to reduce human exposure as much as possible.

    Permitting

    This is a new policy DHEC is requesting us to enforce. All questions can be directed to them.

    The permitting department can answer general questions regarding property in the unincorporated areas of Berkeley County. If you live in a municipality, you will need to contact that office to obtain your zoning information.

    There are several factors to consider when wanting to put a manufactured home on your property. There is the zoning of your property to consider, acreage, water and sewer availability, etc.

    Taxes follow the property, not the owner, for a manufactured home. When purchasing a manufactured home and moving it within or out of the county, all taxes must be paid.

    State law requires the OWNER OF RECORD to obtain all permits unless a contractor is obtaining the permits.

    No. An approved permit must be in hand to begin any type of construction. If construction does begin without a permit and you are caught, the fees for all associated permits will be doubled.

    Not only is it County policy to obtain a permit to build, move a home, manufactured or other, etc., but it is also a State requirement. When the State adopts the codes and/or policies, the County must also abide by the same codes or policies.

    Yes. There are some buildings that are exempt from having to obtain a permit to build. Please call the permit office to obtain the correct information regarding your specific project.

    Planning & Zoning

    Yes. Flood insurance is mandatory for the life of a mortgage. If the home is in a special flood hazard area then an elevation certificate with pictures is required for proper rating. If the home is not in the flood zone or the homeowner disagrees they may apply for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA). This would remove the structure only from the flood zone and then lower the insurance rating. This application information can be obtained at the Berkeley County Office Building in the Building & Codes Department.

    Yes. The construction information is different for the SFHA than in areas not in the flood areas. There are elevations required, venting and special stages of inspection. This information can also be obtained at the County Offices in the Building & Codes Department.

    FEMA publications can be picked up at the Berkeley County Government office in the building and codes department. These publications are free to the public. There are also publications in the Berkeley County Libraries in Moncks Corner and Goose Creek.

    In support of the NFIP, FEMA identifies flood hazard areas throughout the U. S. and its territories by producing Flood Hazard Boundary Maps (FBMs), Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Several areas of flood hazards are commonly identified on these maps. One of these areas is the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), a high-risk area defined as any land that would be inundated by a flood having a 1-percent chance of occurring in any given year (also referred to as the base flood).

    The high-risk-area standard constitutes a reasonable compromise between the need for building restrictions to minimize potential loss of life and property and the economic benefits to be derived from floodplain development. Development may take place within the SFHA, provided that development complies with local floodplain management ordinances, which must meet the minimum Federal requirements. Flood insurance is required for insurable structures within high-risk areas to protect Federal financial investments and assistance used for acquisition and/or construction purposes within communities’ participation in the NFIP.

    Yes. Flood insurance is mandatory for the life of a mortgage. If the home is in a special flood hazard area then an elevation certificate with pictures is required for proper rating. If the home is not in the flood zone or the homeowner disagrees they may apply for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA). This would remove the structure only from the flood zone and then lower the insurance rating. This application information can be obtained at the Berkeley County Office Building in the Building & Codes Department.

    For virtually every mortgage transaction involving a structure in United States, the lender reviews the current NFIP maps for the community in which the property is located to determine its location relative to the published SFHA and completes the Standard Flood Hazard Determination Form (SFHDF). If the lender determines that the structure is indeed located within the SFHA and the community is participating in the NFIP, the borrower is then notified that flood insurance will be required as a condition of receiving the loan. A similar review and notification is completed whenever a loan is sold on the secondary loan market or perhaps when the lender completes a routine review of its mortgage portfolio. This fulfills the lender’s obligation under the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 that requires the mandatory purchase of flood insurance by property owners who are being assisted by Federal programs or by Federally regulated institutions in the acquisition or improvement of land, or facilities, or structures located to be located within an SFHA.

    Yes. The construction information is different for the SFHA than in areas not in the flood areas. There are elevations required, venting and special stages of inspection. This information can also be obtained at the County Offices in the Building & Codes Department.

    There is normally a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect. There are two basic exceptions:

    1. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of a loan, there is no waiting period. The coverage becomes effective at the time of the loan, provided the application and presentment of premium are made at or prior to loan closing.
    2. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is made during the 13-month period following the revision or update of a Flood Insurance Rate Map for the community, there is a 1-day waiting period.
      1. In addition to the two basic exceptions, FEMA has issued a policy decision specifying the following four exceptions: The 30-day waiting period will not apply when there is an existing insurance policy and an additional amount of flood insurance is required in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of a loan, such as a second mortgage, home equity loan, or refinancing. The increased amount of flood coverage will be effective as of the time of the loan closing, provided the increased amount of coverage is applied for and presentment of additional premium is made at or prior to the loan closing.
      2. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when an additional amount if insurance is required as a result of a map revision. The increased amount of coverage will be effective at 12:01 a. m. on the first calendar day after the date the increased amount of coverage is applied for and presentment of additional premium is made.
      3. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when flood insurance is required as a result of a lender’s determining a loan that does not have flood insurance coverage should be protected by flood insurance. The coverage will be effective upon the completion of an application and the presentment of payment of premium.
      4. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when an additional amount of insurance offered in the renewal bill is being obtained in connection with the renewal of a policy.

    FEMA publications can be picked up at the Berkeley County Government office in the building and codes department. These publications are free to the public. There are also publications in the Berkeley County Libraries in Moncks Corner and Goose Creek.

    The general public, lenders, and insurance agents of the availability of elevation certificates can request copies from the Floodplain Manager for Berkeley County Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. To obtain a copy of the elevation certificates by emailing the Floodplain Manager or by faxing requests to 843-719-4053.

    In support of the NFIP, FEMA identifies flood hazard areas throughout the U. S. and its territories by producing Flood Hazard Boundary Maps (FBMs), Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Several areas of flood hazards are commonly identified on these maps. One of these areas is the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), a high-risk area defined as any land that would be inundated by a flood having a 1-percent chance of occurring in any given year (also referred to as the base flood).

    The high-risk-area standard constitutes a reasonable compromise between the need for building restrictions to minimize potential loss of life and property and the economic benefits to be derived from floodplain development. Development may take place within the SFHA, provided that development complies with local floodplain management ordinances, which must meet the minimum Federal requirements. Flood insurance is required for insurable structures within high-risk areas to protect Federal financial investments and assistance used for acquisition and/or construction purposes within communities’ participation in the NFIP.

    For virtually every mortgage transaction involving a structure in United States, the lender reviews the current NFIP maps for the community in which the property is located to determine its location relative to the published SFHA and completes the Standard Flood Hazard Determination Form (SFHDF). If the lender determines that the structure is indeed located within the SFHA and the community is participating in the NFIP, the borrower is then notified that flood insurance will be required as a condition of receiving the loan. A similar review and notification is completed whenever a loan is sold on the secondary loan market or perhaps when the lender completes a routine review of its mortgage portfolio. This fulfills the lender’s obligation under the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 that requires the mandatory purchase of flood insurance by property owners who are being assisted by Federal programs or by Federally regulated institutions in the acquisition or improvement of land, or facilities, or structures located to be located within an SFHA.

    Because Berkeley County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), most properties in the county are eligible to purchase federally subsidized flood insurance. Standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage, therefore, if you do not have a mandatory flood policy it’s important to determine if your home is at risk. It’s also important to know that there is typically a 30-day waiting period from date of purchase until your policy becomes effective. Flood policies can secure coverage for residential properties up to $250,000 for buildings and up to $100,000 for building contents, which can be purchased together or independently. Commercial property is similar with coverage limits at $500,000 for the building and $500,000 for contents. Rating information and further discussion can be found at www.floodsmart.gov

    There is normally a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect. There are two basic exceptions:

    1. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of a loan, there is no waiting period. The coverage becomes effective at the time of the loan, provided the application and presentment of premium are made at or prior to loan closing.
    2. If the initial purchase of flood insurance is made during the 13-month period following the revision or update of a Flood Insurance Rate Map for the community, there is a 1-day waiting period.
      In addition to the two basic exceptions, FEMA has issued a policy decision specifying the following four exceptions:

      1. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when there is an existing insurance policy and an additional amount of flood insurance is required in connection with the making, increasing, extending, or renewing of a loan, such as a second mortgage, home equity loan, or refinancing. The increased amount of flood coverage will be effective as of the time of the loan closing, provided the increased amount of coverage is applied for and presentment of additional premium is made at or prior to the loan closing.
      2. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when an additional amount if insurance is required as a result of a map revision. The increased amount of coverage will be effective at 12:01 a. m. on the first calendar day after the date the increased amount of coverage is applied for and presentment of additional premium is made.
      3. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when flood insurance is required as a result of a lender’s determining a loan that does not have flood insurance coverage should be protected by flood insurance. The coverage will be effective upon the completion of an application and the presentment of payment of premium.
      4. The 30-day waiting period will not apply when an additional amount of insurance offered in the renewal bill is being obtained in connection with the renewal of a policy.

    It is important for residents to familiarize themselves with surrounding flood hazard such as swamps, streams, rivers, lakes, or low areas that hold stormwater. You can use the county GIS mapping system to research properties by address and use mapping layers including FEMA Flood Data, National Wetlands Inventory, Berkeley County Hurricane Surge and Water Layers to gain knowledge of potential flood hazards (gis.berkeleycountysc.gov).

    The general public, lenders, and insurance agents of the availability of elevation certificates can request copies from the Floodplain Manager for Berkeley County Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. To obtain a copy of the elevation certificates by emailing the Floodplain Manager or by faxing requests to (843) 719-4053.

    Real Property

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-43-220

    If you receive military orders for a PCS or a TDY for at least one year, you are required to file the Active Duty Military Special Assessment Supplement Application with this office, on or before the first penalty date (usually January 15th) of the year in which you wish to receive the military exemption. Please keep in mind that this is an annual application that must be filed every year applicable, on or before the first penalty date.
    Special Assessment Active Duty Military Supplement Application

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-43-232

    Agricultural use value refers to the appraisal value assigned to those acreage tracts of land that qualified based on bona fide agricultural use of the property.

    • If the tract is used to grow timber it must be five acres or more or be contiguous to or under the same management system as a tract of timberland which meets the minimum requirements.
    • For tracts not used to grow timber, tracts must be ten acres or more.
    • Tracts not meeting the acreage requirements may qualify if the person making the application earned at least $1,000 of gross farm income for at least three of the five taxable years preceding the year of application.

    The Assessor may require the applicant to give written authorization consistent with privacy laws allowing the Assessor to verify if farm income from the Department of Revenue or the IRS and to provide Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service farm identification number of the tract and allow verification with the ASCS Office

    An application must be filed with the Assessor’s office on or before the first penalty date for taxes due for the first year in which the special assessment is claimed. Applications can be filed online, incomplete applications or those missing information/documents will not be processed. You must file a separate application for each qualifying parcel.

    You may access the application by clicking on this link Agricultural Use Application

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-43-220
    When real property valued and assessed as agricultural property is changed to a use other than agricultural it is subject to additional taxes, referred to as rollback taxes. Rollback taxes are calculated on the difference between what was paid under agricultural use verses what would have been paid as nonagricultural property. The rollback taxes can be applied to the property for the preceding three (3) years.
    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-60-2510, 12-60-2520 & 12-43-217

    Objections must be in writing, you are able to file an online appeal by clicking on the following link: Informal Appeal. The Informal Appeal Request Form can be located under Forms & Documents.

    If you received a Notice of Classification, Appraisal & Assessment of Values, appeal rights expire within 90 days of date the notice was mailed. The deadline is shown on the Notice.

    If no Assessment Notice is sent, the taxpayer has until the last day to pay taxes without a penalty to file the Informal Appeal for that tax year. Generally, the last day to pay without penalty is January 15th.

    Your objection must contain the following:

    • Identification of the property in question, Tax Map Number (TMS) and property address (if applicable)
    • Basis of your appeal
    • Your opinion of Value
    • Contact name and telephone number

    You may be contacted by a representative of the Assessor’s office to discuss your issues, either by telephone or scheduled conference

    Step 1. Informal Review A certified appraiser will conduct an informal review of all timely-filed appeals.

    Step 2. Notice of Decision The assessor will notify the property owner of the results of the review by mailing a notice of decision

    Step 3. Board of Appeals After receiving the assessor’s notice of decision you can appeal to the County Board of Assessment Appeals by filing a written protest with the board within 30 days of the notice of decision date.

    Step 4. Administrative Law Court Division If you are not satisfied with the decision made by the County Board of Assessment Appeals, you may appeal to the Administrative Law Judge Division within 30 days of the County Board of Assessment Appeals written decision.

    Taxpayers are urged to file objections for any tax year early in the year (in the spring if possible). Objections are handled in the order received. Filing an objection does not relieve the taxpayer of the obligation to pay the current bill while the objection process proceeds. For that reason, filing well before bills are issued is advised.

    A notice of property tax assessment is not a property tax bill. In general, a Notice of Classification, Appraisal and Assessment of Values informs the owner of a value change, or of approval, removal or denial of various exemptions or special assessments. Notices relating to value changes are sent primarily the year after a change is made to a property, after an error is discovered, after the property transfers, or there is a countywide reassessment. Some of the changes that may trigger a notice are new buildings, new improvements, renovations, additions, subdividing property, etc.

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-43-217

    Once every fifth year each county or the State shall appraise and equalize those properties under its jurisdiction. Property valuation must be complete at the end of December of the fourth year and the county or State shall notify every taxpayer of any change in value or classification if the change is one thousand dollars or more. In the fifth year, the county or State shall implement the program and assess all property on the newly appraised values.

    The amount of property tax due is based upon three elements: (1) the property value, (2) the assessment ratio applicable to the property used to determine assessed value, and (3) the millage rate imposed by the taxing jurisdictions.

    • Was your property affected by an “assessable transfer of interest” (ATI)?
    • The neighbor’s tax bill is $600, but your tax bill is $900. Your “neighbor” bought his house in 2005 and you bought your home in 2008.
    • SC voters approved a 15% cap to be applied against the prior-year value for all conveyances occurring prior to the 2007 tax year. The prior year value of your neighbor’s property is capped at 15% when implementing county-wide reassessment
    • SC state law requires the removal of the 15% cap when an assessable transfer of interest occurs after the 2006 tax year. SC law requires a “point-of-sale” reassessment with a current market value having an effective appraisal date of December 31st of the year that the “ATI” conveyance occurred.
    • Have you applied for the legal resident exemption?
    • Are you age 65 or over and qualify for homestead exemption?

    Do you qualify for an agricultural use value?

    You may submit your request for change of address concerning your real property tax bill to this office, by completing the Change of Address Application

    This office will update the mailing address for the following: residential, vacant land, and commercial buildings.

    To request an address change for your vehicle(s) or business personal property, please contact the Auditor’s Office.

    There are three methods typically used by appraisers to value real property. These are the Cost Approach, Sales Comparison Approach and Income Approach. Not every method is applicable to every property.
    The cost approach is a real estate valuation method that surmises that the price a buyer should pay for a piece of property should equal the cost to build an equivalent building. In cost approach appraisal, the market price for the property is equal to the cost of land, plus cost of construction, less
    depreciation.
    The sales comparison approach is also based on the principle of substitution: it uses sales of similar properties as a basis for comparison. It is rooted in the principal that the arms-length, negotiated sale price of similar properties, best indicates the market value of the subject property. Adjustments must be made for differences in attributes, such as location, size, quality, condition, special features.
    The income approach is based on the anticipated income stream generated by the use of the property and the desired return on investment. In this approach, the income (net or gross) a property will generate is estimated. Capitalization rates (rate of return) or multipliers are used to predict value. This approach is used primarily for commercial and rental property.

    The appraised value is the value estimate established by the assessor from the last reassessment, an assessable transfer of interest, the value as a result of an appeal, or the value after new construction/remodeling. The appraised value may be capped based on the last reassessment (15% limitation)
    The assessed value is the result of multiplying the appraised value by the appropriate assessment ratio of 4%, 6% or 10.5%.

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-37-3130 & 12-37-3135

    Assessable transfer of interest (ATI) means a transfer of an existing interest in real property that subjects the real property to appraisal (revalued at a more current date of value in between reassessments). For purposes of this definition, an existing interest in real property includes life estate interests. A nonexclusive list of events that constitute an ATI is provided in South Carolina Code of Laws 12-37-3150.

    Reference: S.C. Code of Laws 12-43-220

    To qualify for the special property tax assessment ratio, the owner-occupant(s) must have actually owned and occupied the residence as his/her legal residence and been domiciled at that address for some period during the applicable tax year.
    You must file an application and provide all required documents listed on the application as proof that your only legal residence is in Berkeley County. Incomplete applications or those missing information/documents will not be processed.
    Online 4% Legal Residence application
    Filing as early in the year as possible, well before tax bills are mailed is highly recommended. Once tax bills are mailed the number of applications received per week increase and the number received per week continues to climb as the end of the year and the last day to pay taxes near.

    Homestead Exemption – Homeowners age 65 or older or deemed permanently disabled by the Social Security Administration.
    Please contact the Auditor’s Office

    South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR) Property Tax Exemption – Veterans that are permanently and totally disabled as a result of a service connected disability, Former law enforcement officer, who is permanently and totally disabled as a result of a law enforcement service connected disability in this State, Former firefighter, including volunteer firefighter who is permanently or totally disabled as a result of a firefighting service connected disability in this State, Paraplegic or Hemiplegic homeowner.

    Please contact the SCDOR at 1-803-898-5000 or visit them at www.dor.sc.gov for information regarding this exemption.

    Register of Deeds

    The Register of Deeds staff cannot offer any legal advice. We suggest that you speak with an attorney concerning legal questions. The South Carolina Bar Association offers a variety of legal resources and educational events for the public. In addition, they provide a free online question service for qualified individuals. Visit the SC Bar website for more information.

    No forms are provided in the office.  For limited forms available online, visit our “forms and documents” page. We are unable to provide certain forms to the public or offer any legal advice. Please be advised that the staff of the Register of Deeds Office cannot legally assist in the preparation or completion of any document or form.   Please make certain that documents are fully completed before presented for recording.  We suggest that you contact an attorney for any legal needs.

    We appreciate your help in finding errors in our online public records. We have done our best to prevent errors, but they do occur on occasion. Please email us at and we will correct the problem as soon as possible.

    Yes, we accept documents by mail. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number in case we need to contact you, a self-addressed stamped envelope so we can return the document to you, and a check made payable to Berkeley County. If you have questions about the amount to put on the check, go to our “recording fee schedule” under forms and documents.

    Yes, we will process and scan your document and return the original to you generally within 2 business days. If you mail in your document, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of documents.

    Yes, land record documents recorded after July 1, 1983 are available online. Plat records are available online after January 1, 2000. To look up documents online, visit our land records website at https://search.berkeleydeeds.com/  Instructions for land records website use can be found on this site.

    The Register of Deeds records deeds, mortgages, powers of attorney, plats, easements, mechanics liens, federal tax liens, mortgage satisfactions and other documents pertaining to real estate. Berkeley County Land records are available in-office beginning in 1884.

    You will not receive anything from the Register of Deeds Office.  Your attorney or lender should notify you of the payoff and a mortgage satisfaction will be recorded in the county to remove the lien from your property.  You should receive the recorded paid mortgage from the attorney or lender. You should have received the actual deed for your property at closing.

    The ROD does not report information to the credit bureaus. If there is a problem on your credit report, you will need to contact the credit bureaus to resolve the issue: Equifax, Experian, TransUnion.

    If you are told that there is a lien against you, you may access our online records at https://search.berkeleydeeds.com/ using your last and first name in the search.

    How do I get a copy of my deed or plat?

    Four options in order of preference:

    1. For land documents filed after July 1, 1983 or plat documents filed after January 1, 2000, search online at https://search.berkeleydeeds.com/  (No charge for search or copies)

    Where is my original deed?

    If an attorney handled your closing, you should have received the original deed from the firm after it was recorded.  The Register of Deeds returns all recorded documents to the filer.

    Why do I not have a plat on record?

    If there is no plat on record, you must have your property surveyed and have the plat approved and recorded.

    How can I find covenants & restrictions for a property? For restrictions recorded after July 1, 1983 go to our online search at https://search.berkeleydeeds.com/. Type the subdivision name in the grantor box, and press search. For restrictions filed prior to 1983, records must be checked in-office.

    Roads & Bridges

    The county installs driveways off of county maintained roads. Please contact our office for a quote.

    There is a traffic calming ordinance available. Please contact Berkeley County Engineering for more information.

    Drainage ditches are generally located within easements. The easements allow the county access to maintain the flow of water, but the actual drainage ditches are located on residents property. The county does not own drainage ditches.

    Based on determining which agency maintains the road, the claims for damages on Berkeley County roads will be forwarded to the Berkeley County Risk Management Department for review and investigation.

    Road maintenance responsibilities vary from road to road. Please contact our office and a member of our staff will assist you with that determination.

    Berkeley County Roads & Bridges Encroachment Permits must be obtained from our department prior to any work being performed in a county maintained right-of-way or drainage easement only. Examples of encroachments include driveways, utility installation, fence construction, landscaping, etc.

    Presently the Roads & Bridges Department does not charge a permit fee, but other local & state agencies may. Please check with your local or state agencies for their permitting process.

    Public and privately maintained roads vary. Please contact our office and a member of our staff will assist you with that determination.

    Large drainage projects are normally undertaken and funded by Berkeley County, based on the condition of the drainage system. If a resident(s) wishes the ditch to be piped for aesthetic reasons, then a jointly funded project between our department and the landowner(s) may be considered.

    Requests for road improvements will be reviewed by the department director and road superintendent. A decision will then be made based on actual road conditions, length and material presently on the road.

    Dirt roads maintained by Berkeley County Roads & Bridges are divided into sections by geographic location. The intervals between maintenance may vary based on actual road conditions, material on the road and the location of the motor grader on its route. A typical maintenance cycle on each section takes approximately 6 – 8 weeks.

    Stormwater: Fee Credit & Appeals

    Granted appeals- can be retroactively applied to the current property owners’ bill for payments received up to three years prior to the effective date of the granted appeal, but no earlier than January 14, 2019. To receive reimbursement, the basis or conditions for the appeal granted must have been in place on the property for all previous years. The property owner must provide evidence satisfactory to the County Engineer establishing the existence of the basis or conditions for the appeal for those years.

    Any non-residential property subject to the stormwater utility fee may be eligible for a reduction in their fee through stormwater utility fee credits.

    The credit will apply only to developed land containing a Berkeley County Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) approved Stormwater Control Measure (SCM) eligible for the credit. These measures can include on-site practices such as bioretention cells, vegetated swales, and other practices that manage stormwater at its source.

    Credits are available only when qualifying SCMs have been properly installed and maintained, whether implemented before or after initiation of the County’s Stormwater Utility Ordinance.

    Stormwater Utility accounts with past-due balances will not be eligible to apply for stormwater fee credits. Existing credited Stormwater Utility accounts not paying their stormwater charges will be deemed ineligible for future credit and revocation of existing credits.

    Credit earned = (% Credit eligible for a SCM) x (Stormwater Fee) x (% of impervious or pervious area treated)

    For example, if a site has a detention pond installed which qualifies the site for a 20% credit toward its Stormwater Utility fees, but only 50% of the impervious area on-site drains to the pond, then the site can only be granted a 10% credit (20%*50%). Furthermore, if the fee paid for the site is $350, then the site receiving a 10% credit will have a fee of $315 throughout the entirety of the property owner’s ownership.

    Non-residential property owners can apply for credits from any or a combination of the categories listed in Credit & Appeals Manual. The maximum allowable credit is 42% of the gross billing amount for commercial, industrial, tax-exempt and non-profit, institutional, HOA common areas, multi-family (duplexes and townhomes not subdivided by parcel lines), boat slips (dry stack marinas), and properties whose primary function is not a single-family residence or mobile home residence, regardless of how many individual credits for which the property qualifies.

    To apply for a credit, the non-residential property owner or his/her representative must complete a Credit Application or Renewal Credit Application form (Appendix A), a Right-of-Entry form (Appendix C), and a Maintenance Covenant for specific stormwater control measures (Appendix D) to furnish to the Berkeley County SWMP. To be considered complete, all applications must include all required owner contact information, property information, the “type” of credit selected, and a brief description of the proposed credit. It is recommended that you provide all supporting calculations, plans, sketches, photos, and other documentation which may assist the County in reviewing the Credit Application. All credits will be verified by the County Engineer or designee to ensure compliance with this credit manual.

    All Credit Applications must be submitted before May 1st of each year and if it meets the requirements of the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit & Appeals Manual, will be approved by July 1st in that given calendar year for any awarded credits to be applied on the subsequent years billing cycle. The County will issue a letter of acceptance or denial of a yearly credit renewal request within forty-five (45) business days of receiving the request. Denied renewal requests may be resubmitted addressing Berkeley County comments but must be received no later than July 1st.

    The below table summarizes the potential credits available to non-residential property owners within Berkeley County. Each credit is explained in further detail within the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit & Appeals Manual.
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    For more detail please read the chart below

    Granted credits – can be retroactively applied to the current property owners’ bill for payments received up to three years prior to the effective date of the granted credit, but no earlier than January 14, 2019. To receive reimbursement, the credit being sought must have been in place on the property for all previous years. The property owner must provide evidence satisfactory to the County Engineer establishing the existence of the credit for those years.

    Incorrect Parcel Billed – This can originate from an incorrect mailing address, a recent property transaction, or an account for impervious surface being assessed to the incorrect parcel

    Incorrect Parcel Classification – This can originate when a parcel is under development or re-development and the original property classification no longer applies, or if there is a change in use of the parcel from non-residential to residential.

    Incorrect Impervious Area – The impervious surface area on a parcel is collected via two mechanisms. One, via flyover and aerial imagery. Two, via engineering plan submittals. However, aerial imagery mapping could be inaccurate, development & re-development may remove impervious surfaces that were once previously mapped, or gravel locations may be mapped as impervious surfaces when an allotment of gravel locations may qualify as semi-impervious.

    A parcel owner may reallocate a stormwater utility fee charge to other parcel owners. However, the impervious surface, for which the fee exists, must exist to serve the adjacent or adjoining parcel and the parcel owner receiving the fee must provide documentation indicating that their parcel doesn’t benefit from that impervious surface. Additionally, the adjoining or adjacent parcel owner(s), to which the fee is being reallocated to, must agree to accept the new fees from the re-allocation.

    • Stormwater Utility Fee Appeal Form or a Stormwater Utility Fee Reallocation Application found in Appendix A of the Stormwater Utility Fee Credit and Appeals Manual.
    • Right-of-Entry Agreement found in Appendix C.
    • Supporting documentation that proves your claims under one of the available appeal grievances.

    Stormwater: Utility Fee

    Under the federal Clean Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) rules and regulations mandate Berkeley County to comply with the MS4 Permit. The MS4 Permit requires the County to develop, implement, and enforce a Stormwater Management Program to reduce the discharge of pollutants from Berkeley County’s MS4 to the maximum extent practicable (MEP), to protect water quality, and to satisfy the appropriate water quality requirements of the Clean Water Act. Additionally, Berkeley County signed Inter-Governmental Agreements with the City of Goose Creek and the City of Hanahan that require the County to develop, implement, and enforce a Stormwater Management Program within each respective municipality.

    Berkeley County’s Stormwater Management Program is responsible for all stormwater related activities such as construction and post construction inspections, storm sewer mapping, illicit discharge detection and elimination, water quality monitoring, sampling, and tracking, and other SWMP tasks required by the MS4 Permit. The goals of the program are to protect, maintain, and enhance water quality and the environment of the County, Goose Creek, and Hanahan as well as the short-term and long-term public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the County, Goose Creek, and Hanahan.

    Stormwater Utility Fee is assessed based on the funding required to implement the SWMP in the County, Goose Creek, and Hanahan. Each year as part of the annual budget process, costs and revenues will be reviewed and adjusted to ensure a balance in SWMP funding. A Stormwater Management Utility Rate Study was performed to establish permanent stormwater utility fees and classifications. The permanent fee schedule will be based on the amount of impervious area a developed non-residential parcel contains. Section 7 of the amended Ordinance describes the permanent fee and classification system.

    An area modified to the extent that natural infiltration into the natural soil has become impeded. Impervious surfaces are accounted for in private walkways, parking lots, driveways, rooftops, patios, sheds, etc. Below are examples of impervious surface.

    All developed properties in the unincorporated area of Berkeley County, the City of Goose Creek, and the City of Hanahan, including properties containing single and multifamily residences, mobile homes, nonresidential (commercial or industrial) land uses, tax exempt and non-profit properties are charged with a Stormwater Utility Fee. The fee will not be imposed on agricultural lands, forestlands, or undeveloped lands.

    The established average impervious surface area associated with single-family residential (SFR) properties will be assessed at 1 ERU and applied uniformly to all mobile home units and SFR units.

    Non-residential properties will be assessed in multiples of ERUs based on actual impervious areas (subject to a 1 ERU minimum). This category of properties includes the following properties classified as:

    1. Commercial Property
    2. Industrial Property
    3. Institutional Property
    4. HOA Community Center Property
    5. Multi-Family to include Duplexes and townhomes not subdivided by parcel lines
    6. Tax-exempt and Non-profit
    7. Boat Slips (Dry Stack Marinas)
    8. Properties whose primary function is not a single-family residence

    Common areas associated with mobile home parks, multi-family and single-family residential development will be assessed like non-residential properties and charged to the HOA or property management.

    Yes, churches, schools, and non-profit organizations will pay a Stormwater Utility Fee.

    The following table shows the annual fee, devised via a Stormwater Management Utility Rate Study. The study employs an impervious surface model utilizing, impervious ft2 ÷ 2,760 ft2/(ERU Fee) calculation, with modifiers and variables for agricultural land, forested land, and undeveloped land.
    Example: A parcel containing 915,447 ft2 (21.01 ac.) of impervious surface
    915,447 ft2 ÷ 2,760 ft2 / ERU = 331.68 (rounded to nearest ERU = 332 ERU) 332 ERU x $36.00 / ERU = $11,952/year
    Property Class Base ERU
    Single Family Residential 1 ERU/Unit
    Nonresidential (Commercial/Industrial) Impervious ft2 ÷ 2,760 ft2/ (ERU Fee)
    Multi-family Impervious ft2 ÷ 2,760 ft2/ (ERU Fee)
    Mobile Homes 1 ERU/Unit
    Tax-exempt and Non-profit Impervious ft2 ÷ 2,760 ft2/ (ERU Fee)
    Vacant/Undeveloped Not Assessed
    Monthly ERU Fee $3.00
    Annual ERU Fee $36.00
    *for parcels containing multiple residences on the parcel, an annual fee per unit will be assessed

    Yes, most communities in the coastal area have instituted a Stormwater Utility Fee including Charleston County, Dorchester County, City of Folly Beach, City of Isle of Palms, Town of James Island, Town of Lincolnville, Town of Sullivan’s Island, Town of Mount Pleasant, City of Charleston, City of North Charleston, Town of Summerville, Beaufort County, Town of Hilton Head, Georgetown County, Horry County, City of Conway, City of Myrtle Beach, and City of North Myrtle Beach.

    Yes, the Stormwater Utility Fee can be appealed within thirty days of the mailing of the Tax Notice. The appeal procedure is explained in Section 13 of the amended Ordinance and within the Berkeley County Stormwater Utility Fee Credit & Appeals Manual. Please see the below link, Stormwater Utility Fee Credits & Appeals.

    It is an annual fee assessed on the developed properties in the unincorporated area of Berkeley County, City of Goose Creek, and City of Hanahan (via Inter-Governmental Agreements) to fund the County’s, Goose Creek’s, Hanahan’s, and the Town of St. Stephen’s Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) and to comply with the regulatory requirements of each respective entities MS4 Permit.

    Treasurer

    The Treasurer does not determine property tax amounts. The amount of tax money needed is decided by each of the area’s taxing authorities. The Real Property Services (Assessor’s) Office determines appraisal values for real property while the Auditor calculates the tax.

    The Treasurer does not maintain property or owner records. The Real Property Services Office (Assessor) and Auditor maintain these records and are dependent on taxpayers to notify their offices of changes in address.

    Veterans Affairs

    Recent changes in the law governing VA Benefits make it possible for eligible veterans to transfer education benefits to certain family members. Specific information can be obtained through https://www.va.gov/ or speaking to a VA Education Counselor at 888-442-4551.

    All veterans who were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions are eligible for a grave marker or headstone provided by Veterans Affairs and burial in a National Cemetery. Assistance with the cost of funeral expenses may be available to families of certain veterans in receipt of compensation or pension through VA at the time of death.

    Children of veterans who are deemed 100% Permanently and Totally disabled by Veterans Affairs or received the Purple Heart may be eligible for assistance with college tuition.

    Veterans seeking health care through a VA Medical Center are placed into one of eight priority groups, based on percentage of service connected disability and /or financial status. Contact the Eligibility Office at the Charleston VAMC at 843-577-5011 or 888-878-6884

    Certain veterans who meet eligibility requirements may qualify for Wartime Veteran’s pension, even if they did not serve in combat.

    Veterans who are receiving compensation for service connected disabilities that have worsened should apply for an increase in compensation by contacting this office or applying on line at benefits.va.gov/benefits/vonapp.asp or https://www.va.gov/.

    There are two benefits available to certain widows / orphans of veterans:

    1. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for survivors of veterans who die from service related causes

    OR

    2. Wartime Veterans survivor pension for certain survivors who meet income and / or medical requirements.

    The laws governing Veterans Benefits are constantly changing. Contact our office for the most current information, or log on to www.va.gov.

    There is a program by which a veteran or surviving spouse may obtain monetary assistance to help pay the cost of assisted living or nursing home. The veteran must have served at least one day during a time of war and meet certain other eligibility requirements.

    By filing, either electronically or by mail, an SF 180 request for military records. The website for this is www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records/ or https://www.va.gov/

    Voters Registration & Elections

    State of South Carolina does not register by party. Party is only declared in Primary elections.

    Yes. You do not have to vote in a Primary to be eligible to vote in November.

    No. Ballots are voted in the absentee poll or sent by mail. Exceptions made only in emergency cases.

    No. Only the individual, a member of the immediate family, or a designated authorized representative may request an absentee application.

    If you still live within the county, yes. Depending on the location of the move, the voter may have to vote a fail-safe ballot. It is very important to notify the office of any address or name changes.

    Yes, a voter does not have to have their voter registration card to vote, but all voters must have an approved photo ID to vote. The address on these cards must correspond with address on record in the voter registration office.

    Potential jurors are randomly selected from voter registration lists, driver’s license and DMV identification lists. Your chances of being chosen for jury duty are just as great if you have a current state driver’s license.

    Proof of residency in Berkeley County. Example: driver’s license, tax receipt, utilities bill, etc.

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