Plumbing Contractor Permit Requirements in Charleston, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a plumbing contractor in Charleston, Charleston County, South Carolina.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $400–$1,200 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all licenses
Get my personalized route — $14.99

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of South Carolina

1 stop

  1. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

    Official government source

    $50 one-timeImmediate (online via MyDORWAY)

City of Charleston / Charleston County

3 stops

  1. South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation — Plumbing Contractor License

    Plumbing contractors in South Carolina must be licensed by SC LLR. Requires passing a Master Plumber exam and demonstrating experience in the trade.

    Official government source

    $150–$250 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. City of Charleston Revenue Collections Division — Business License

    Charleston requires an annual Business License for any business operating within city limits, with fees based on gross revenues. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

  3. Charleston County / Charleston Plumbing Permit (per project)

    A separate permit must be pulled with the local building/plumbing department for each job. Inspections are required upon job completion.

    Official government source

    $50–$300 per project1–5 business days

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,200 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all licenses

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides