Building FAQ

Is a permit required to repair or replace a roof?  

A roofing permit is needed for repairs to or replacement of a roof.
Note: Specialty Licensed Roofing Contractors are limited to no more than $5,000 of roofing work, including labor and materials, unless a Bond has been filed with the South Carolina Labor, Licensing and Regulation Division.  

How do I apply for a contractors license through LLR?

Click here to view current LLR Applications. 

What is the policy on getting refunds for permits?

For permits without plans review: (residential and some minor commercial)

1. For a permit application costing $50.00 or less there shall be no refund.
2. If a permit application has been processed but a permit has not been issued, a refund of the full amount paid, less a $50.00 processing fee will be made if the application has not expired and a “Refund Request Form” has been completed by the original permit applicant.
3. If a permit has been issued but no inspections have been performed, a refund of the full amount, less a $100.00 processing fee will be made if the permit has not expired and a “Refund Request Form” has been completed by the original permit applicant.
4. If a permit has been issued and an inspection has been performed, no refund will be made.
5. If a permit has been issued for 180 days or more, no refund will be made. Permit extensions can not be used to extend the refund period beyond the original 180 days.

For permits with plans review: (most commercial)

1. For a permit application costing $50.00 or less there shall be no refund.
2. If a permit application had plans to be reviewed but a permit has not been issued, a refund of the full amount less the plans review fee plus a $50.00 processing fee will be made if the application has not expired and a “Refund Request Form” has been completed by the original permit applicant.
3. If a permit application had plans to be reviewed and a permit has been issued but no inspections have been performed, a refund of the full amount, less the plans review fee plus a $100.00 processing fee will be made if the permit has not expired, and a “Refund Request Form” has been completed by the original permit applicant.
4. If a permit has been issued and an inspection has been performed, no refund will be made.
5. If a permit has been issued for 180 days or more, no refund will be made. Permit extensions can not be used to extend the refund period beyond the 180 days. 
   • Note: The “Plans Review Fee” is 1/2 of the “Permit Application Fee”.
     Example: $100 (permit fee) + $50 (plan review) = $150 total permit application fee 
     See: Commercial Permit Fee Calculator

What is needed to obtain a Fire Sprinkler System Permit?

• Completed and signed “Fire Sprinkler System Permit Application”
• Required application fees paid
• Proof of a current Sumter City-County Business License
• Proof of a current Fire Sprinkler Installation License from the State Fire Marshall
• Signed and Sealed Fire Protection Sprinkler System Specification Sheet
• Signed and Sealed Fire Protection Sprinkler System Certificate of Compliance
• Shop drawings – 2 sets (must be the same as those sent to the SFM for approval)

Will the City of Sumter accept digital or electronic seals & signatures on plans in lieu of wet?

Yes. Per the SC Code of Laws Uniform Electronics Act, it is acceptable to provide digital seals and signatures.