A Beachfront General Permit from SCDES BCM is required for activities within the beachfront critical areas, including the installation of utilities or service lines, drainage improvements, fences, driveways, small wooden decks, landscaping, and dune management activities like planting dune vegetation, installing sand fencing, or adding beach-compatible sand from an upland source.  

Applying for a Beachfront General Permit

The Beachfront General Permit application process includes submitting a complete permit application form and sketch of the proposed project. The applicant is also required to notify adjoining property owners and the local government via certified mail and run a 1-day legal ad in the local newspaper, which opens a 15-day public comment period for beachfront activities. There is no application fee for Beachfront General Permits. 

Please visit ePermitting and select the “BCM Critical Area Activities” form to apply online. 

Contact

SCDES BCM staff are available to assist property owners. If you suspect authorization may be required for your beachfront activity, or if you have questions related to authorization requirements, please contact SCDES BCM’s Beachfront Management Section at (843) 953-0200, or visit the Project Manager Finder Application to find contact information for SCDES BCM project managers by geographic area.