FENCE RULES – GEORGETOWN (COUNTY), SOUTH CAROLINA
OVERVIEW
Residential fences are permitted on private property within the unincorporated areas of Georgetown County, South Carolina, subject to local regulations.
The County’s regulatory framework is notably distinct because it explicitly states that permits are not required for fences, provided they meet specific height and placement standards. Regulations regarding “open” versus “closed” fence styles in front yards are applied through zoning standards, and fences in overlay districts (such as the Waccamaw Neck Commercial Corridor) are subject to additional district requirements. Properties located within city limits (such as Georgetown City, Pawleys Island, or Andrews) follow their respective municipal rules instead. Homeowners association (HOA) requirements and private covenants may also apply.
Compiled from the Georgetown County Zoning Ordinance (Article VI and Article X) and the Building Department FAQ, as of February 2026.
GOVERNANCE
South Carolina does not publish a statewide residential fence code. For properties located within Georgetown County’s unincorporated jurisdiction, fence standards are administered by the Planning Department and the Building Department.
Fence regulation is primarily addressed through the Zoning Ordinance (specifically the FAQ clarification on “Open vs. Closed” fences) and overlay district standards. The Building Department manages structural safety but explicitly exempts standard fences from permitting. A critical governance feature in Georgetown County is the distinction between “Open” fences (permitted anywhere) and “Closed” fences (restricted in front yards). County requirements do not override HOA requirements or private covenants.
PERMIT AND APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS
For standard residential fences, Georgetown County does not require a formal building permit.
• Building Permit Exemption: The County explicitly states: “Permits are not required for fences.” This exemption applies as long as the fence does not exceed 6 feet in height and complies with all zoning placement rules.
• Exceptions: While not a “building permit,” approval from the Planning Commission is required to install a “closed” (privacy) fence in a front setback area.
• Swimming Pool Exception: Fences serving as safety barriers for swimming pools must comply with the 2018 ISPSC (International Swimming Pool and Spa Code) and require a pool permit checklist review.
FENCE PLACEMENT RULES
Fences must be located entirely on the owner’s private property.
• Open Fence Setbacks: May be constructed in any area of the property, including the front yard setback, provided they do not obstruct vision.
• Closed Fence Setbacks: Permitted in side and rear yards but are prohibited in the front yard setback unless specific approval is granted by the Planning Commission.
• Waccamaw Neck Commercial Corridor Overlay: Commercial properties in this district must ensure that bare galvanized chain link fencing is used only when not visible from adjoining properties or public thoroughfares.
• Rights-of-Way: Fences are strictly prohibited within public road rights-of-way.
• Utility Notification: South Carolina state law mandates that SC 811 be contacted at least three full business days prior to breaking ground on any fence project. The required waiting period excludes the day of the notice, weekends, and holidays, allowing utility operators time to verify and mark underground lines. Excavators must strictly adhere to the ‘tolerance zone’ by utilizing only hand tools or soft digging methods within 24 inches of any utility indicators.
FENCE HEIGHT AND VISIBILITY RULES
Georgetown County regulates fence height primarily through zoning standards and vision clearance safety.
• Height Limits:
• Maximum Height: Fences shall not exceed an overall height of 6 feet.
• Vision Clearance: Fences must not obstruct the vision of auto or pedestrian traffic using the street. This can restrict solid fencing in the “sight triangle” at intersections and driveway connections.
MATERIAL AND CONSTRUCTION LIMITS
The County imposes specific style definitions that determine where a fence can be placed.
• Open vs. Closed Classification:
• Open Fences: (e.g., split rail, picket with spacing) Permitted in any yard.
• Closed Fences: (e.g., solid privacy, stockade) Prohibited in the front yard setback without Commission approval.
• Waccamaw Neck Overlay (Commercial/Visible Areas):
• Prohibited/Restricted: Bare galvanized chain link is restricted from view.
• Preferred Materials: Wood palisade, lattice, or black plastic-coated fencing (if screened with landscaping) are preferred or required in visible corridor areas.
• Maintenance: Fences must be maintained in a good condition. Buffer areas (which may include fences) must be monitored to ensure the structure is maintained.
PRIVATE RESTRICTIONS
HOA requirements and private covenants operate independently from Georgetown County regulations. Private rules may impose fence height, material, placement, or approval requirements that are more restrictive than County standards (e.g., prohibiting chain link or requiring specific colors). This is particularly common in Waccamaw Neck and resort communities. County permit exemption does not override private restrictions.
REVIEW AND ENFORCEMENT CONTEXT
Fence issues are typically reviewed during permit or approval review when required, and through complaint-based code enforcement. Examples include:
• A “closed” (privacy) fence is installed in the front yard setback without Planning Commission approval.
• A fence exceeds the 6-foot maximum height limit.
• A fence obstructs the vision of traffic at an intersection.
• A fence in the Waccamaw Neck Overlay violates material standards (e.g., visible galvanized chain link).
USING THIS INFORMATION
This page provides general orientation on how residential fence rules are structured and applied within the unincorporated areas of Georgetown County, South Carolina, based on publicly available materials reviewed as of February 2026.
It is not legal advice and does not replace official ordinances, permits, surveys, or professional guidance.
Rules and interpretations may change, and application may vary based on zoning district, site conditions, easements, rights-of-way, and private restrictions such as HOA covenants. Before purchasing materials or beginning construction, confirm current requirements and any site-specific limitations with the Planning Department and the Building Department and any applicable private agreements. If this page conflicts with official ordinances, published guidance, or direction from Georgetown County staff, the official sources control.
For legal advice or legal interpretation, consult a licensed attorney.