How much does a septic permit cost in Florence County, SC?

Septic permit fees in Florence County vary by permit type. New installation permits typically cost $200–$500, while repair permits are usually $100–$300. Contact SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office at (843) 661-4825 for current fee schedules.

How long does it take to get a septic permit in Florence County?

The septic permit process in Florence County generally takes 2–6 weeks, depending on soil evaluation scheduling and application completeness. Soil evaluations must be performed by a licensed soil scientist before applying.

Do I need a soil evaluation for a septic permit in Florence County?

Yes. Florence County requires a professional soil evaluation before issuing any septic permit. A licensed soil scientist evaluates soil type, depth, drainage, and water table levels to determine the appropriate septic system design.

Who handles septic inspections in Florence County, SC?

SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office oversees all septic system inspections in Florence County. Contact them at (843) 661-4825 to schedule an inspection or ask about requirements.

Can I install my own septic system in Florence County?

Florence County requires septic system installation by licensed contractors. All installations must be permitted through SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office and pass inspection before the system can be used.

Septic & well regulations in Florence County, SC

Florence County is located in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina. Florence County lies in the Pee Dee region with alluvial soils near the Great Pee Dee and Lynches rivers and sandy loam uplands. Upland soils are generally well-drained with moderate percolation rates. Understanding local permit requirements and soil conditions is essential before installing, repairing, or inspecting a septic system.

Permits & Requirements

New Installation

Site evaluation and septic permit required from SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office before installation. A licensed installer (Tier 1–3) must be retained for construction. Soil evaluation determines system type per R.61-56 standards. Permit fee is $150 with 5-year validity.

Repair

Repair permit required from SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office. A licensed contractor must assess the failure and submit a repair plan compliant with R.61-56. Existing system modifications must meet current SCDES standards for separation distances and soil suitability.

Inspection

Voluntary inspections available through SCDES-licensed inspectors. While South Carolina does not mandate point-of-sale inspections, lenders and buyers frequently require them for real estate transactions. Inspection typically costs $250–$500 and covers tank condition, baffles, and drain field evaluation.

Florence County Environmental Health

SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office

(843) 661-4825

Contact the county environmental health department for permit applications, soil evaluation scheduling, and regulatory questions.

Soil & Terrain Characteristics

Florence County lies in the Pee Dee region with alluvial soils near the Great Pee Dee and Lynches rivers and sandy loam uplands. Upland soils are generally well-drained with moderate percolation rates. River bottomlands feature heavier clay soils with seasonal flooding and poor drainage.

County-Specific Considerations

Florence is the Pee Dee region's largest city and commercial hub. Municipal sewer serves the city core, but surrounding rural areas depend heavily on septic systems. The intersection of I-95 and I-20 drives commercial and residential growth in areas beyond sewer reach. Floodplain properties along the Great Pee Dee River face development restrictions.

Find Services in Florence County

Septic Pumping

Florence County

Septic Inspection

Florence County

Septic Installation

Florence County

Well Water Testing

Florence County

Well Pump Repair

Florence County

Well Drilling

Florence County

Emergency Services

Florence County

Water Treatment

Florence County

Drain Field Repair

Florence County

Septic to Sewer Conversion

Florence County

Aerobic Septic System

Florence County

Well Water Filtration

Florence County

PFAS Water Testing

Florence County

Related Resources

Florence County Overview Inspection Checklist How to Choose a Septic Company

Septic Permits & Regulations in Florence County — FAQ

How much does a septic permit cost in Florence County, SC?: Septic permit fees in Florence County vary by permit type. New installation permits typically cost $200–$500, while repair permits are usually $100–$300. Contact SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office at (843) 661-4825 for current fee schedules.
How long does it take to get a septic permit in Florence County?: The septic permit process in Florence County generally takes 2–6 weeks, depending on soil evaluation scheduling and application completeness. Soil evaluations must be performed by a licensed soil scientist before applying.
Do I need a soil evaluation for a septic permit in Florence County?: Yes. Florence County requires a professional soil evaluation before issuing any septic permit. A licensed soil scientist evaluates soil type, depth, drainage, and water table levels to determine the appropriate septic system design.
Who handles septic inspections in Florence County, SC?: SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office oversees all septic system inspections in Florence County. Contact them at (843) 661-4825 to schedule an inspection or ask about requirements.
Can I install my own septic system in Florence County?: Florence County requires septic system installation by licensed contractors. All installations must be permitted through SCDES Pee Dee Regional Office and pass inspection before the system can be used.