Town Government Citizen Services Public Safety About Our Island How Do I... Employment Opportunities Contact Us Topic Index
     
 
Online Renewals & Tax Payments
Business License Look-up
Business Licenses
Business Changes
License Renewal Info
Taxe & Fee Info
Other Town Requirements
Forms & Applications
Related Links & Numbers
Frequently Asked Questions

Other Town Requirements for New Businesses

Building Permit

All plans for new construction or renovation must be reviewed by the Town's Building & Fire Codes Division and a permit issued before construction begins. Permit fees are calculated as a percentage of the total cost of construction. The Building & Fire Codes Division of the Town conducts fire safety inspections on all new and renovated commercial buildings. New or renovated buildings shall receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or final approval prior to business startup.

Development Plan Review

New construction or renovations may constitute new development according to the Town’s Land Management Ordinance. The Town's Planning Division maintains information on uses permitted through zoning and must review any development projects for impact, proper zoning and location. All new businesses must be reviewed for zoning location and use. A review fee may be assessed.

Corridor Review Approval

Any business owner constructing a new building, or changing the size, material or exterior color of an existing building, may be subject to the review criteria of the Town’s Corridor Review Commission.

Sign Permit

Any business owner requesting a new sign or changes to an existing sign must receive a sign permit. An application for a sign permit should be submitted to the Town's Planning Staff for approval.

Fire Safety Inspections

The Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue Division will conducts routine fire safety inspections in existing commercial buildings to eliminate unsafe conditions.

Contractor License

Please note: all contractors may require a state and/or local license. Please check requirements with the Town's Building & Fire Codes Department.

State Requirements

State Tax Commission

Any new business should contact the South Carolina Tax Commission to determine legal requirements for reporting, applying for a tax ID number and certificates. If the business is retail, a State Retail License must also be obtained.

Health Department Inspections

Any food related business, such as a meat market, restaurant, or grocery store must comply with health standards. The Beaufort County Health Department provides this inspection.