Project Guides
Solar Panel Permits: Why Speed is Crucial for Tax Credits
Understand the fast-tracked solar permitting process, structural requirements, and how delays...
Read GuideLocal Project Overview
New Home Construction · Horry County, South Carolina
Permit required
In South Carolina, a New Home Construction requires a building permit.
Building a new home always requires a building permit, plus separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits and full plan review. Zoning, setback, and impact-fee review also apply. Plans are reviewed under the Statewide code (IRC 2021); apply through Myrtle Beach Building Permits before work begins.
Source: Statewide, IRC 2021 · Verified 2026 by StateDataIndex
Building a custom home from the ground up requires comprehensive oversight from the city. This involves a master building permit that encompasses zoning, foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It is the most heavily regulated residential project, ensuring the dwelling is safe for human habitation.
With a population of around 383,016 residents, Horry County generally runs a more streamlined permitting process than major urban hubs.
Code Compliance & Inspections
Because South Carolina sits in a hurricane-prone zone, the South Carolina Building Codes requires exterior work to use wind-rated materials and proper anchoring (such as tie-downs and impact-rated components) to pass inspection.
Concurrent Permits & HOAs
For Horry County residents, we highly recommend reviewing your neighborhood HOA covenants before paying any municipal fees. Often, homeowners associations maintain stricter rules regarding materials and dimensions for your New Home Construction than the county itself.
Zoning & Cost Factors
South Carolina zoning is managed at the county and municipal level, with coastal regions heavily regulating development to protect against hurricane storm surges. Fortunately, South Carolina maintains relatively builder-friendly regulations, keeping base permit fees competitive.
Permit fees in Horry County
Permit fees vary by jurisdiction and by your project's valuation, so there is no single fixed figure for Horry County. We only publish fees confirmed by real homeowners — none have been reported here yet.
Confirm the current fee directly with Myrtle Beach Building Permits ((843) 918-1111). If you have paid for a permit here, you can add it here to help others.
Horry County Building Department
Office: Myrtle Beach Building Permits
Address: Myrtle Beach City Services Building, 921 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA
Phone: (843) 918-1111
Source: official Horry County government records. Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.
How to Apply in Horry County
In Horry County, you can begin your application online through the county's permit portal, or submit blueprints and a property survey in person. Including your contractor's South Carolina Residential Builders Commission license number helps avoid rejections.
New Home Construction Requirements in Horry County
Typical Submittal Package
When applying for a New Home Construction permit, you or your contractor will generally need to submit the following documentation for the city's review:
- Complete architectural and structural engineering plans
- Topographical property survey
- Energy code compliance report
- Soil, drainage, and grading plan
Standard Ordinances & Processing Time
Key code points for a New Home Construction in Horry County: Multiple phase inspections are mandatory, including foundation, rough-in (plumbing, electrical, framing), insulation, and a final comprehensive inspection before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued.
Typical processing time for a jurisdiction of this size: 2 to 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific penalties for unpermitted New Home Construction work in urban Horry County?
Building without authorization is considered a code violation. The local government can issue a Stop Work Order, forcing you to halt construction immediately. You may be subject to retroactive permit fees (often double the original cost), daily fines, or even a mandate to tear down the unpermitted work at your own expense.
Can a homeowner pull their own New Home Construction permit in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina generally allows property owners to act as their own general contractor under an Owner-Builder exemption. If you take this route, you assume full legal and financial liability and must ensure all work complies with the South Carolina Building Codes.
How much does a New Home Construction permit cost in Horry County?
Permit fees vary by jurisdiction and by your project's valuation, so Horry County does not publish a single fixed figure. Confirm the exact fee with the local building department before applying.
How long does it take to get a New Home Construction permit in Horry County?
Based on the size of Horry County, the typical processing time is 2 to 4 weeks. Times vary with the season and the building department application volume.
Where do I apply for a New Home Construction permit in Horry County?
You can apply through the Myrtle Beach Building Permits or online via the county permit portal. For questions, call (843) 918-1111.
Help the Horry County Community
Did you recently pay for a permit here? Anonymously share the fee to help our database stay accurate.
Thank you! Your data has been saved.
Expert New Home Construction Resources
Legal & Compliance
Understanding Zoning Laws: What You Can and Cannot Build
Demystify local zoning ordinances, setbacks, and land-use rules to ensure your project is legal.
Read Guide
Legal & Compliance
HOA Approvals vs. City Permits: Which Comes First?
Understand the difference between municipal building permits and Homeowners Association approvals.
Read GuideOther Permit Types in Horry County
Planning another home improvement project? Check the requirements and fees for:
Nearby Jurisdictions in South Carolina
Building near the county line? Check requirements for neighboring areas: