Who is responsible for issuing septic system permits in South Carolina?

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is the agency responsible for issuing septic system permits in the state. DHEC has the authority to oversee environmental health and safety standards, which includes the regulation of septic systems. Their responsibilities encompass ensuring that these systems are designed, installed, and maintained according to state regulations to protect public health and the environment.

In South Carolina, DHEC establishes the rules and procedures for permitting, and they typically require plans from licensed professionals, conduct inspections, and issue permits based on compliance with state regulations. This centralized approach allows for a consistent application of standards across various regions in the state.

Other options do not hold permitting authority over septic systems. Local municipalities may have their own regulations and ordinances regarding land use and local codes, but they do not issue state-level septic permits. The Department of Environmental Quality focuses on broader environmental concerns rather than specific septic permissions. Lastly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets federal environmental policies but does not manage individual septic system permits at the state level.