A Critical Area Line (CAL) is the boundary between the upland and the Tidelands/ Coastal Waters critical area, and any activities seaward of the CAL may require a critical area permit. CALs are determined by SCDES BCM staff upon request and may be valid for up to 5 years from the date the CAL is certified by SCDES BCM staff.
SCDES requires a current, Department-certified CAL for the following activities:
- Erosion control structure (ECS) within the Tidelands critical area
- Recreational docks over 900 linear feet
- Living shorelines if they are located at the marsh/upland interface
- Boat ramps
- Stormwater permits on lots adjacent to the Tidelands
- Septic permits on lots adjacent to the Tidelands
- Port activities; and
- Public infrastructure projects (e.g., SCDOT roadway projects)
Local governments can require a certified CAL for a variety of activities including erosion control structures, construction with buffers and setbacks, planning, subdivisions, and real estate transactions. CAL establishment and/or review can additionally be requested for general interest.
Submitting a Critical Area Line Request
A CAL request can be submitted via ePermitting using the BCM Critical Area Activities application form. The applicant will have the ability to request a CAL independently or request a CAL in conjunction with another BCM activity, such as an erosion control structure. The applicant should follow the form in chronological order and answer all questions. There is no administrative fee for a critical area line request.
Contact
SCDES BCM staff are available to assist property owners. If you suspect authorization may be required for your activity, or if you have questions related to authorization requirements, please contact SCDES BCM’s Critical Area Permitting Section at (843) 953-0200, or visit the Project Manager Finder Application to find contact information for project managers by geographic area.