Permitting

A permit is required in the unincorporated areas of the county when the construction or improvement to any building is at a cost in excess of five hundred dollars ($500.00) (including materials and labor)

Zones AE, VE, and A

• All buildings constructed in an AE flood zone shall be elevated so the lowest floor is located not less than 3ft (36 inches) above the level of base flood. Proper height must be verified by a "finished construction" elevation certificate.
• All buildings constructed in a VE flood zone shall be elevated so the bottom of the lowest supporting horizontal member is located not less than 3ft (36 inches) above the level of base flood. Proper height must be verified by a "finished construction" elevation certificate.
• All buildings constructed in a flood zone A without an established base flood elevation shall be elevated so the lowest floor is located not less than twenty-four (24) inches above the highest adjacent grade. Proper height will be verified by the building inspector. An elevation certificate must be completed by the homeowner or licensed surveyor/engineer.
• Mobile homes located in a flood zone shall have a platform for the air conditioning condenser constructed above the level of base flood in order for the inspection to pass.

NFIP Requirement

The NFIP requires that if the cost of reconstruction, additions, or other improvements to a building equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s market value, then the building must meet the same construction requirements as a new building. Substantially damaged buildings must also be brought up to the same standards. For example, a residence damaged so that the cost of repairs equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s value before it was damaged must be elevated above the base flood elevation.

This information can be obtain by contacting the Horry County Code Enforcement office at 843-915-5090