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Building Construction and Building Safety


The State of South Carolina requires all jurisdictions to permit and inspect construction activity using the International Building Codes. Building permits are required for any new construction, significant alterations or enlargements of existing buildings, and most major remodeling projects. Permits are also required for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical (HVAC) work done to new structures and alterations of existing structures. Swimming pools, signs, demolition, reroofing, and accessory buildings are also subject to the permit process.

The Chief Building and Fire Official oversees the Building and Fire Inspection Programs for the City of Clemson. Building Officials, Fire Marshals, and Inspectors are required to pass numerous State mandated certification examinations as qualifications for these positions. In addition, these positions are required to take extensive continuing education classes to keep skills current with evolving construction practices, mandated codes, and new technologies.

Building Safety and Fire Safety Staff
Stacey Blackwell, Chief Building and Fire Official - sblackwell@cityofclemson.org
Bryan Johnson, Fire Marshal - firemarshal@cityofclemson.org
David Holbrooks, Building Inspector - dholbrooks@cityofclemson.org

Building and Related Codes

The Cityof Clemson has adopted the 2021 Building Codes (applicable section is Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances).

Purchase a copy of the International Codes

Additional building and fire codes can be found in the Fire and Life Safety section of the City's Ordinance.

Permit Process

Click here to view and download all applicable permit applications as well as the permit fee schedule.

Effective January 1, 2020
The Planning and Codes Administration will no longer accept Permit Applications after 4:30 p.m.  They will need to be submitted the next business day.

In order to obtain a permit, you must...

  • Determine the zoning of the property to assure the proposed use is permitted by City code.
  • Submit survey of property
  • Show proposed building and/or addition
  • Submit 2 sets of construction drawings (1 paper, 1 digital)
  • Submit completed Residential or Commercial Permit application
  • Pay Plan Review fee (if applicable)
  • Submit Grading Application/Fee (if applicable)
  • Submit Driveway Encroachment Permit (if applicable)
  • Plans Reviewed by City staff
  • Required changes to plans provided to applicant if necessary
  • Revise plans submitted/reviewed/approved
  • Impact fees paid (if applicable)
  • Business license is required for all contractors (documentation is required)
  • Permit application fee paid
  • Permit issued
  • Required inspections (foundation, rough-in, and final-plus others as needed)
  • Inspections required
  • Once all work is completed and approved, a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is issued (if applicable)
Please note that this is a basic outline and may not be all-inclusive. Commercial and multi-family projects generally require additional steps and/or documentation. Please call to discuss your project as early in the process as possible.

Planning and Codes Meetings, News, and Events Calendar