OCRM: Apply for a Permit

Critical Area and Wetland Permitting

The critical area is defined as tidelands, coastal waters and the beach/sand dunes system. OCRM staff determines this jurisdictional boundary and is referred to as the "critical line". A permit is required from OCRM prior to any alteration to the critical areas of South Carolina. These activities can include docks, bulkheads, boat ramps or other alterations such as filling or dredging.

New - For Projects with federally defined non-jurisdictional wetland impacts:

SCDHEC-OCRM Wetland Staff encourages applicants with projects that have potential impacts to federally defined non-jurisdictional wetlands to meet with staff prior to submittal of projects to ensure proposals are including adequate information concerning feasible alternatives, avoidance and minimization as a part of their analysis of their proposed project. This information will help streamline the review process and ensure timely review and action on these proposal. Please contact staff Jeff Thompson at (843) 953-0234 for assistance.

New: Critical Area Permit Application Procedure - Administrative Completeness (08/22/08)

Questions? Contact DHEC-OCRM or check the Frequently Asked Questions for Critical Area Permitting.

Download Forms (pdf)

Documents (pdf)

Updated: OCRM Critical Area Permitting Regulations (04/25/08)
Regulations for Access to Coastal Islands (R.30-1, R. 30-12)(effective June 23, 2006)
Attorney General requirement of proof of ownership for coastal islands (Updated 11/10/06)
Drawing Requirements for Critical Area Permit Applications (pdf) (07/14/06)
Building a Dock in the South Carolina Low Country - A guide to permitting, constructing and owning a private recreational dock.
Critical Area and Wetland Permitting Staff by Region (PDF)

The permit application is a straightforward document explaining the requirements and information that must be submitted to OCRM. In most cases an administrative fee is required as a part of the permitting process. Fees range from $50 to $1000. The applications are placed on public notice for 10, 15, or 30 days, depending on the activity. This time frame allows for other agencies and members of the public to review and comment on the project.

Permit Appeal Procedure

Once DHEC-OCRM staff makes a decision regarding a permit application, an adversely affected party may request a fainal review with the Board of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control to challenge the permit decision. A request for final review must be made to the Clerk of the Board within 15 days after notice of the decision has been mailed to the applicant. An adversely affected party may be the applicant, an adjacent property owner, or in some cases a third party or organization.