Annexation

Annexing into the City of Charleston is free and simple. To start the process, homeowners submit a signed petition, and City Council votes to approve it. You do not have to attend any meetings or contact any public service providers...we take care of everything for you! We guarantee the switch to the city will be hassle-free and not interrupt your life.

For detailed annexation information in each area of the City:

• West Ashley Annexation Information
• James Island Annexation Information
• Johns Island Annexation Information
• Cainhoy Area (Berkeley County) Annexation Information

Helpful Resources

• Download an application below to drop off or mail in:
  • Cainhoy (PDF)
  • James Island (PDF)
  • Johns Island (PDF)
  • West Ashley (PDF)
• Email to request a tax/fee/service comparison
• Review Annexation Process

Annexation in Charleston

In South Carolina, residents are afforded the opportunity to specifically request as an individual (or group of neighbors) to incorporate their homes into the surrounding city. Properties that are currently not in the City but are surrounded by City limits are sometimes called "Donut holes". Donut holes in our area are small areas within the city that are touching city limits but are still under the jurisdiction of Charleston County. Many donut holes of unincorporated properties exist in James Island, West Ashley, Johns Island, and Cainhoy.

The city reaches out to the homeowners of those areas to offer them the advantages of annexation.

Annexation Defined

Annexation means incorporating your property into City limits. It is the process of transferring parcels of land from unincorporated areas of a county into the service area and jurisdiction of a city. Properties brought into the City receive City garbage pickup, emergency services, public services and much more.

Annexation Process

• Submit application: Property owners sign an "Application to Join City of Charleston" and submit it to the City of Charleston Planning Division via mail, email, fax or delivery
• Annexation: The City's Annexation Coordinator present your application to City Council at two separate meetings for approval. At the second meeting's approval, your property is officially within the city limits of Charleston, and your City services will begin. You are welcome, but not required to attend any meetings.
• Services Switch and Receive a City Zoning: Upon annexation, we will notify all public service providers of the change in jurisdiction for you (i.e. 9-1-1 services, tax offices, garbage pickup, etc). Next, your property needs to be given a City of Charleston zoning classification. This zoning corresponds to the zoning that the property had in Charleston or Berkeley County (unless a different zoning is discussed/requested). Zonings are heard by Planning Commission and approved by City Council. Again, you are not required to attend these meetings.