If you are a new resident to the City of Charleston, you will be issued a garbage container for your household garbage upon request. Please submit an online request with the link listed below or call (843) 724-7311 to request a container. Residential containers are available in three sizes to suit the needs of the customer. Most customers use a 96-gallon container. A record of each assigned container is maintained to control and ensure against container loss.

During the holiday week, your collection generally occurs one day later than your regular day. You may check the City’s Website (www.charleston-sc.gov) or visit the City’s Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/CityCharleston) for the exact dates your garbage or trash will be picked-up.

You can register for almost every activity and/or program offered by City of Charleston Recreation online by visiting the recreation sign up page here. You can search for activities, or if you know the activity # of the program you'd like to sign up for, just enter it in the activity number search field.

Yes! Our programs are open to anyone and everyone, despite your residency. Some programs do have different resident and non-resident prices. 

After registration ends, teams will be formed and given to the coaches. Coaches will contact you once they receive their teams.

Costs vary depending on the type of event, the number of participants, the time of the event, and other variables. To determine the actual cost of an event, an application must be submitted online. Pricing sheet can be found HERE.

No, in fact, we prefer that you call from the scene of the crime (if it is safe), your residence, or your business. Check fraud, transaction card fraud, and other bank-related cases are often best reported during business hours at the bank itself. A police officer will be dispatched as soon as possible to respond directly to your location and speak to you in person. Response times vary based on call priority, traffic, and other factors, but it is the department's goal to respond as quickly as possible. It is our policy to take reports in person. Only in rare instances are reports filed over the phone.  You may also file an incident report online by visiting www.charleston-sc.gov/onlinereporting. 

You can call (843) 720-2412  for assistance or come to the Records Office at the Police Department headquarters at 180 Lockwood Boulevard. The cost of the Police report is $5. There is no cost for crime victims to obtain their incident reports. Be sure and bring a state-issued ID/license. You must be able to provide information about the incident report you are requesting, such as:

• Date
• Incident
• Location
• Suspect
• Time
• Victim, Etc.

You may schedule off-duty Charleston police officers to provide security for your event that takes place within the City of Charleston. However, the department makes no expressed guarantees an off-duty job will be filled. 

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST OFF DUTY OFFICERS

Background Check

Effective Monday, May 5, 2014, the Charleston Police Department will no longer provide background checks. For an official comprehensive background check, please visit the SLED website.

Fingerprinting

• Cost: $5 per card
• Offered Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• You will need to present your State issued ID/license
• You must bring the fingerprint cards provided to you by the employer/organization/ agency. We do not provide fingerprint cards.

Complaints or compliments can be made in person, by phone, in writing, or through this website. All complaints, including anonymous complaints, are accepted and reviewed with follow-up activity to be assigned to the appropriate personnel. Keep in mind that if you file a complaint anonymously, we will not be able to follow up with you on your complaint.

Contact Information

If you would like to file a complaint or compliment, please contact the Office of Internal Affairs:

• Send a letter to or visit:
  Charleston Police Department
  Office of Internal Affairs
  180 Lockwood Boulevard
  Charleston, SC. 29403-5123
• Call the Office of Internal Affairs at 843-720-2447.
• You can also fill out the  Officer Comment Card Fill-In Form to email the information to the Professional Standards Office.
• Email Internal Affairs at internalaffairs@charleston-sc.gov. 

Please call (843) 720-2467 to inquire about property and retrieving items.

The opportunity to observe police patrol activities is offered to citizens through the cooperation of the Chief of Police. Strict adherence to the following instructions is necessary to safeguard participants and to minimize the possibility of interference with normal department activities. A valid form of identification is required by the Department to complete the process.

• For instructions and necessary paperwork for Ride-Alongs (18 years of age or older): Ride-Along Agreement and Release (PDF)

All paperwork should be emailed to Join CPD or mailed to:
180 Lockwood Boulevard
Charleston, SC 29403

If there are any questions, please call 843-725-9619 for CPD’s Recruiter.

There are areas in the City where skateboarding is prohibited. Please review the map to make sure you are in compliance with the restricted areas.

• Skateboard Use Areas (PDF)

Employees may have visible tattoos while at work. Tattoos, body art, or brands, anywhere on the body, that are commonly associated with gangs, supremacist or extremist groups, or that are sexist, racist, or advocate religious discrimination, or drug use are prohibited. Tattoos are explicitly prohibited from being visible above the collarbone on the neck, face, or head and visible with an open collar shirt. Additionally, tattoos will not extend below the wrist onto employees' hands. The only exception is a tattoo of one wedding band, on a ring finger, on one hand. A tattoo, brand, or body art that is deemed indecent will be covered while the employee is at work. 

The Charleston Police Department will vet all exposed tattoos, body art, and brands through the Criminal Intelligence Unit. The Department reserves the right to require employees to conceal their tattoos, body art or, brands if deemed necessary to conform to evolving community standards, attitudes, or beliefs. This policy and its exceptions do not grant permanent approval to display any tattoos, body art, or brands subsequently deemed unacceptable for display, and employees may be required to cover them at any time. If an employee has any tattoo, body art, or brand that meets one of the above-prohibited criteria, the employee will be required to remove or alter the prohibited marking (at his/her expense) or face disciplinary action, up to and including termination. 

The Chief of Police or his designee shall make the final determination as to whether tattoos, body art or brands are inappropriate.

The ordinance prohibits parking or locking a bicycle to:

• Meters
• Stop Signs
• Street Lights
• Street Trees
• Other legal encroachments on the sidewalk of King Street between Spring Street and Market Street

Parking bicycles in such a manner impede the public right of way creating a safety hazard for pedestrians and can block or impede the ingress and egress of public and private property.

Violation

Bicycles that are in violation of this ordinance will be removed and transported to the Charleston Police Department. A storage fee of forty-five dollars will be required to recover a bicycle removed under the ordinance. This ordinance is intended to create a safer and more vibrant King Street business district.

Parking Spaces

The City has installed over 100 public bike parking spaces, including five new bike corrals, on King Street between Calhoun and Spring Streets to accommodate public bicycle parking in a safe and convenient manner.

Additional Information

• Bicycle Rack/Parking (PDF)

To register your bicycle with the Charleston Police Department, print and fill out the Bicycle Registration form and bring it to the Records Office at the Police Department headquarters at:
180 Lockwood Boulevard
Charleston, SC 29403

Additional Information

• Bicycle Registration Form (PDF)
• The cost of registration is $1.

All vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers on Upper King St (between John St and Spring St) will use one of five pick-up/drop-off zones on and around King St. This includes rideshare users, who will be routed to the zones through the Uber or Lyft app. 

Pick-Up/Drop-Off zones will be active through the Uber and Lyft apps from 6 p.m.-3 a.m., 7 nights a week. During this time, vehicles should not stop on Upper King outside of the designated Pick-Up/Drop-Off Zones. 

You can finda  map of the zones here. 

Yes. A business license is required for all businesses that are located within City limits and businesses that come into the City to conduct business. Applications can be obtained online or from the Business License Office which is located in the Permit Center at 2 George Street. Questions regarding your business license may also be answered between 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday by calling (843) 724-3711.

A Business License Certificate of Occupancy is required for all restaurants that are located within City limits. Applications can be obtained online or from the Revenue Collections – Business License Office, which is located in the Permit Center at 2 George Street. 

External approvals that may be required to open a restaurant include: 

• Any business serving food requires a Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) permit and inspection. Contact the SCDHEC Food Protection Division at (803) 896-0640 or online. 
• A license from the state of South Carolina is required if you intend to sell or serve alcoholic beverages. Contact South Carolina Department of Revenue’s Alcohol Beverage Licensing Division at (803)898-5864. 
• Charleston Water Systems (CWS) requires the installation of a grease trap for all businesses that prepare food. CWS will determine the size needed for your establishment. Click here to learn more.
• CWS also requires payment of impact fees. Fees are assessed based on the number of patron seating. Please contact CWS at WasteWaterInspectors@charlestoncpw.com. 

To vend food from a truck on private property you must first obtain written approval from the owner of the property. You will then apply for a new Business License CO and include the written approval of the property owner with your submittal. A Business License CO is required for all businesses and non-profits that are located within City limits. Applications can be obtained online or from the Revenue Collections – Business License Office which is located in the Permit Center at 2 George Street. A Business License CO application process is an opportunity for the City to confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the property’s zoning district and that the structure meets applicable building and fire code requirements. Please submit your application to Revenue Collections – Business License Office. The office will then forward the application to Zoning, Fire Marshal, and Building Inspections Divisions for review. These Divisions may contact you with questions regarding your application and to schedule necessary inspections. Note: Any business serving food requires a SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) permit and inspection. Contact the SCDHEC Food Protection Division at (803) 896-0640 or www.scdhec.gov.

Yes, both state and local ordinances address littering. Anyone can review City ordinances at: https://www.municode.com/library/sc/charleston.

If you see someone littering from a vehicle, you can report them to the statewide Litter Busters Hotline at 1-877-7LITTER (1-877-754-8837). Have the following information ready: Item littered, Time, Car's location, Make and model of car, and License plate number. An officer will take down the information and track the owner of the vehicle through the state Department of Public Safety. The owner of the vehicle will receive a notice that he or she was witnessed littering and they will be reminded that there are stiff penalties for littering in South Carolina. This letter is just a courtesy letter and does not constitute a ticket of any sort.

Call the Customer Service Desk 843-724-7311 to report graffiti in Charleston. Call 843-577-7434 immediately if you see someone painting graffiti or posting flyers.

Garbage and trash collection is handled by the City’s Environmental Services Division. You may contact them at 843-724-7364 with questions or concerns about residential or commercial garbage and trash collection. Or find more information about their services under the Public Service Division on the City web page. Recycling is handled by Charleston County- 720-7111.

If you are a new resident to the City of Charleston, you will be issued a garbage container for your household garbage upon request. Please submit an online request with the link listed below or call (843) 724-7311 to request a container. Residential containers are available in three sizes to suit the needs of the customer. Most customers use a 96-gallon container. A record of each assigned container is maintained to control and ensure against container loss.

If your garbage can was stolen or vandalized you need to report it to the Police Department at (843) 577-7434. To order a replacement container, or to report repair/service needs due to vandalism or graffiti, please call (843) 724-7311 or enter an online service request. When calling for service, please give the service address, telephone number, your name and the case number given to you by the Police Department. Please empty and wash out the damaged containers and place them at the curb on the scheduled day of repair.

Household hazardous waste (HHW) can harm the environment, especially when disposed of incorrectly. To make getting rid of these materials safe and easy, the Charleston County Environmental Management Department has nine convenience centers where Charleston County residents can drop off their HHW.

Used motor oil can be dropped off for recycling Charleston County’ Bees Ferry Landfill located at 1344 Bee’s Ferry Road. You may contact them at (843) 571-0929 or visit their website for disposal information.

Please report the error to the City of Charleston’s Information Technology Department by submitting a request on our Citizen Service Desk.

Please report the error to the City of Charleston’s Information Technology Department by submitting a request on our Citizen Service Desk and provide as much information as possible about the page you are trying to access and the error received. 

A Public Defender may be appointed for offenses that you may be sentenced to jail time. The defendant must meet the eligibility requirements as determined by the judge.  After the Public Defender Application has been completed judges will approve or deny. 

To obtain a Fence Permit you will need to submit the following:

1. Home Owners Association approval if necessary
2. Your property’s plat. This will need to show property lines, the residence, and any easements. If you do not have a copy of your plat and cannot find one, you can draw your own.
3. Completed Building Permit application.
4. If the property falls in the Board of Architectural Review (BAR) purview, you will need to complete their application.

Once you have all of your necessary documents, you will need to submit your package through the City's CSS portal.

ENCROACHMENT PROCESS

After you have received your approval through our Zoning and BAR (if required) and your fence is being installed in a drainage easement you will need to complete an encroachment application. In addition to the encroachment application, you will need to provide the Zoning approved plat and a payment of $25.00. Please note that the encroachment permitting process can take up to four weeks. For questions and inquiries regarding encroachments, email Tracie Rennell.

If you have received a City of Charleston parking ticket, you may pay the citation online or in person. To pay online please go to our website. You must have your citation number and a valid debit card or credit card to make a payment. To pay in person please go to the Revenue Collections Parking Division office at 180 Lockwood Boulevard on the second floor using cash, check, debit card, or credit card. You may also mail the citation and payment (only checks or money orders accepted by mail) to: City of Charleston Revenue Collections Parking Division 180 Lockwood Boulevard, 2nd Floor Charleston, SC 29403

If you want to appeal your City of Charleston parking ticket, you must make an appointment with an adjudications officer within 30 days of the date the ticket is issued.  Please sign up for an appointment at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/cityadminhearing.  If you have any questions, please contact Parking Revenue Collections at (843) 724-7375.

Yes.  However, if you are a non-citizen, you must have acceptable documentation that you are a legal resident of the United States.  The documentation must be presented when a job offer is made.

Only online applications will be accepted.  Applications may submitted through the employment portal: www.charleston-sc.gov/employment    

Visit www.charleston-sc.gov/JoinCFD to learn more. 

The Charleston Fire Department recruits for Firefighter approximately once per year. This varies depending on hiring needs. The only means of applying is online. To apply, go to the Employment page and search for Firefighter Trainee.

Yes.  However, upon employment, all Firefighters have  to move into the State of South Carolina.

The Charleston Fire Department may offer a standard or a fast-track recruit program, both require a similar application and interview process.  The fast-track program requires certain certifications in order to participate in an accelerated recruit academy.  

You must be at least 18 years of age on or before the date of application.

Yes.

We are thankful for your service!   A five-point preference will be awarded on the written test for honorably discharged veterans or service members currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. To qualify for the veteran’s preference points, applicants must:

• Have separated under honorable conditions from any of the branches of the armed forces of the United Stated.
• Served on active duty for 181 consecutive days or more.

For points to be awarded, above documentation must be received prior to the written examination.

Please visit www.charleston-sc.gov/JoinCFD and explore information regarding our hiring process.

Yes.

The City of Charleston does not have a maximum age limit.

No.  You will have to present two (2) forms of identification at the time of hire (usually a driver’s license & social security card).

Yes.  You will have to upload a copy at the time of application to obtain your Veteran Preference Points.

Criminal history and convictions will be considered during the application process.  Sworn public safety positions require closer scrutiny by hiring authorities during the background screening process.  Disclosure of all criminal history is required for the background screening process.

It is not possible to list every act or omission that may disqualify an individual from performing the safety sensitive duties of this position. The following are some of the more obvious:
 
 Criminal History
 

• Conviction of any felony or any crime involving moral turpitude
• Conviction of any crime which carries a 6-month jail sentence or more
• Any conviction of domestic violence, including simple assault against a domestic partner, spouse, child or parent
• Adult commission of undetected crimes of a serious or repetitive in nature

Drugs

• Any involvement in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs as an adult
• Juvenile involvement in the sale or distribution of illegal drugs is an area of concern which will be given careful scrutiny in the context of the full review
• Any illegal possession of heroin, cocaine, hallucinogens or any other schedule 1 or 2 drug, or any derivative thereof, within the last 7 years
• Illegal possession of anabolic steroids within the last 3 years
• Illegal possession of marijuana or a derivative thereof within the last 24 months

Traffic Violations

• Must have a driving record that reflects no more than three moving violations or at fault/contributable accidents, or any combination thereof, in the past 36 months.
• Moving violations and preventable accidents that are indicated on the applicant’s driving record but are more than 36 months old will be considered on a case by case basis
• No driver’s license suspension in the past three years
  Points may be negated by attending defensive driving school offered by the Division of Motor Vehicles prior to application being submitted
• Any conviction of the following within the last 5 years:
  1. Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
  2. Refusal to take blood or breath test
  3. Eluding police, racing, or leaving the scene of an accident

Others

• Less than honorable discharge from any military service. 
• Untruthfulness and/or intentionally withholding of information on any application, interview or paperwork associated with this application. Examples of intentional withholding of information would include the following:
  1. Deliberate inaccuracies or incomplete statements
  2. Cheating on any exam or testing associated with the application

Note:  This is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of background disqualifiers. Applicants who are successful in the initial testing will undergo a thorough background investigation. Areas of concern will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis within the context of the full review. Examples of the areas of concern may include but are not limited to the following:
 

• Reduction of charges as a result of a plea agreement or other form of sentencing disposition prior to a conviction in any of the aforementioned criminal and driving history categories
  Crimes committed against a juvenile, including undetected crimes 
• Patterns of reckless and/or irresponsible driving
• Multiple convictions of driving under the influence
• Illegal drug possession that does not fall within the parameters of the above
• Less than honorable discharge, erratic work record, or unfavorable work employment references
• Pending litigation or prosecution for criminal offenses must be resolved prior to consideration for employment.

Those with a valid EMT or Paramedic certification must obtain South Carolina reciprocity by their reporting date/first day of the Academy. Visit the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control website for more information: https://www.scemsportal.org/

Carefully review the application packet to determine what specific certifications may be required or will be accepted.

Yes. You will need to present photo identification, or you will not be allowed to take the exam.

Specific date(s) and time(s) will be offered during each process.  At this time, we do not offer alternate test times. 

Yes. The City of Charleston Fire Department will only accept Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) certification from other “licensed” agencies or municipalities. You must show proof of successful completion from a licensed agency within the past 12 months from February 1, 2020.

Firefighters must carry an array of specialized tools and equipment that can weigh over 70 pounds, plus a breathing apparatus that weighs 40 pounds.

Yes. Candidates must complete and pass a medical examination that includes a cardiovascular fitness component.

Yes, and you will be subject to random drug testing throughout your career.

The City of Charleston accepts applications for Firefighter Trainee on a continuous basis. However, the date of the next testing process is based on the needs of the city.

We don’t know at this time. The number of people hired varies from year to year, depending upon the number of employees retiring, the amount of employee turnover, and the number of new stations opened and the budget.

The Charleston Fire Department is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against race or gender.  All candidates have to pass the same physical ability exam.   Women enjoy respect in the Department because they have demonstrated their abilities in order to be hired.   In training everyone is held to the same standard.   During the CFD Training Academy, one of the most important things instructors look for is that recruits are giving 100%.

The Recruit Academy lasts approximately 26 weeks.  Those who successfully complete the recruit program are placed in the field as probationary firefighters for approximately 6 months.   During that time period an on-going structured training program will be provided along with monthly evaluations.   Probationary firefighters return to the Training Academy for a final probationary exam.

Firefighting involves extremely hard, skilled physical work, and firefighters must be able to handle emergency, life-or-death situations.   Firefighters must also be willing learners.   There will be continuous in-service training throughout their careers keeps them up-to-date on the newest technologies and latest fire suppression methods. Training in the fire service encompasses many subjects, such as building construction, emergency medical procedures, hazardous materials, technical rescue, public education, community relations.   Firefighters must have strong social skills, and the ability to think and communicate clearly in very stressful situations.

The first promotional opportunity is to Assistant Engineer.   You must have 1 year on the job.  This position consists of a written and practical exercise.

Every station is designed to accommodate a crew for 24 hours. This includes:

• Dorm
• Exercise equipment
• Kitchen
• Restrooms
• Showers
• TV room

Sleeping is permitted, as is cooking, working out, and studying, although you must be ready to respond to alarms and fulfill other duty requirements at all times.

The Charleston Fire Department is structured to mirror a military hierarchy.   The station is a microcosm of that, beginning with the firefighters, a fire engineer (driver) in charge of the apparatus, and a Captain in charge of the entire crew.   Each area of the city has a Battalion Chief in charge of operations and stations in his or her Battalion.

Fire Prevention Week has its roots in the Great Chicago Fire. The fire occurred on October 9,1871. It killed 300 people and left 100,000 homeless.

The fire triangle represents the three elements needed for a fire to occur. All three elements must be present at the same time to have a fire. The fire will continue to burn until one element is removed. The three elements are:

• Fuel - something to burn
• Heat - Hot enough to make the fuel burn
• Oxygen - 21% is needed for optimum burning, exactly the percentage we need to breathe

Captain David Kenyon of the Chicago Fire Department invented fire poles in 1878. Fire poles have fallen out of favor in recent years due to injuries. Many fire stations built today are single story structures that do not utilize fire poles.

Fire sprinkler systems have been putting out fires since 1860. Although there have been some design improvements, the basic technology has remained the same for over 130 years. Most recently, fire sprinklers have started to appear in single family homes.

A large fire in Boston, in 1679, led to the organization of the first paid fire department in America. The city imported a fire engine from England and employed a chief and 12 firefighters. The first volunteer Fire Company was formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania , in 1736. Benjamin Franklin served as America’s first Volunteer Fire Chief.

In the early days of the fire service, fire trucks were horse-drawn. In those days, nearly every firehouse had a resident dalmatian. The job of the dalmatian was to direct the horses, keep the horses company, and guard the firehouse. Today we do not keep horses in the fire station, but many firehouses still have a dalmatian. The resident dalmatian is still responsible for guarding the firehouse and the fire trucks.

The Maltese Cross represents the heroic ideals of saving lives and extinguishing fires. The emblem was borrowed from the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. The Knights were an organization that existed in the 11th and 12th Centuries helping the poor and the sick. The Knights of St. John later assisted the Knights of the Crusades in a relief effort to the Island of Malta, the island for which the Maltese Cross was named. The Maltese Cross came to represent the principles of:

• Charity
• Chivalry
• Dexterity in service
• Generosity to friend or foe
• Loyalty
• Protection of the weak

This program meets all regulatory requirements for current CPR standards.  Participants will be issued an American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) CPR/AED card when they successfully complete the course. Participants who stay to complete the optional STOP-THE-BLEED add-on course will receive a certificate for that as well.

This program is designed for people with no prior medical knowledge or training.  Those seeking recertification in CPR/AED may use this course to complete that requirement. 

No.  This course is intended for non-medical personnel.  BLS is a credential specific to first responders/medical personnel. 

CPR cards issued by this program are good for a period of two years.  It is the card holders responsibility to find a CPR Refresher class.  The Charleston Fire Department CPR Program is there for initial certification and while we’re happy to have you back – we cannot guarantee class seats for renewal!

The Charleston Fire Department CPR Program is currently in its pilot phase for 2019 and intend to host 4 classes with a student cap of 18 per class. If the program is successful, our goal is to expand this offering in 2020.

Bike share is innovative and fun 24/7 transportation. It is perfect for both point-to-point trips and long scenic rides. Users can download a mobile app, sign up for the system, and pick up a bike from any of the convenient bike hubs and return it to any other bike hub within the system area.

There are 27 stations located around the Charleston Peninsula.

To view the bike share hub locations and a real time look at the number of bikes at each hub, check out the Holy Spokes system map.

Users can purchase different levels of membership online or via the SoBi mobile app on a smartphone.

Once registered, a rider can access the map of hubs which will indicate how many bikes are available at each hub. Users can simply walk up to a bike to use it or reserve a bike in advance using the mobile app. The booking time is 15 minutes. To unlock a bike, simply enter your 6-digit account number and 4 digit pin code onto the keypad on the back of a bike. This will unlock the bike and you are ready to ride.

When you arrive at your destination, return and lock the bike at a designated Holy Spokes station. The bike is now available for others to use. Always end your ride within the system area. Please note riders should always end their trip within the system area and the bike must always be securely locked to a fixed object when locking a bike or putting it on hold.

View the system area map. The area covers the Charleston peninsula to roughly just north of Heriot Street.

Users will receive a $5 fee when they lock the bike and end their ride at a non-designated Holy Spokes station.

Review Hub locations.

If a user decides to ride a bike out of the system, lock the bike and end their ride there, that user will be charged a $50 “Out of System” fee. Feel free to ride the bikes anywhere but make sure to return them to the system area when finished to avoid this fee.

Please see the Holy Spokes pricing page for a full breakdown of the subscription levels and their costs.

Yes, the bikes do have a “Hold” feature. If a user wants to pop in a coffee shop and hop back on the same bike, simply press the “Hold” button on the keypad on the back of the bike and you will be prompted to lock the bike.

This will avoid the $5 out of hub fee as well as hold the bike for the user for up to 30 minutes. During this time the bike will not be available for other users to rent.

In 1996, a private bike share program was launched in Charleston. Unfortunately, theft became an immediate issue as users did not lock their bikes when finished riding. 11 years later, bike share has evolved and now incorporates the smart bike. Gotcha Bike, owner and operator of Holy Spokes, designed a Global Positioning System integrated smart bike specifically intended for bike share.

Gotcha is able to track all of the bikes at all times and they cannot be unlocked without a registered user’s personal identification number code and account number.

No. You are able to register for a membership on a computer via the Holy Spokes website and once registered, you can simply approach the bike, enter your account and Personal Identification Number  and ride.

Yes. Users who are on any of the standard payment plans, including “Founding Members” are able to rent up to three bikes at a time on their account. Users on a discounted pricing plan will only be able to rent one bike at a time.

Holy Spokes’ bike share system is available to everyone who is 16 years of age and older, 16 and 17 year old riders must have the permission of their parent/guardian.

The difference in bike share versus bike renting is that it is completely self-sufficient and the user does not have to return the bike to the same location that it was picked up from. System bikes also track the user’s calories burned, carbon dioxide emissions reduced and money saved versus driving (all of this information is accessible on the mobile app or the website under the “Usage” tab).

Yes, whether you are a Charleston local who commutes all too often, a frequent visitor, or just in town for the day, Holy Spokes is perfect for you. With our 27 convenient locations across the peninsula, you can spend a day riding around town and indulging in Charleston’s beautiful scenery, use it to commute or to hop around town.

On the listing of the Board, you will see a "Join" button when a Board seat is open for applications.

Select the "Join" button for the board, commission or committee you would like to apply to join. Select "Apply" next to the seat you would like to apply for and then click "Apply Now" at the top right corner of the page. You will be taken to a screen to create an account. Be sure you remember the Username and Password you create! Then you will be taken to an online application.

Information Requested

Information required is indicated with a "*" Please provide as much information as possible. Under "Availability" please include any relevant information. For example, you might note you are unavailable for daytime meetings.

You will be provided with an opportunity to include a "Brief Resume of Education and Experience. We also encourage you to upload a full resume/curriculum vitae (CV). You may also upload letters of recommendation.

Save/Submit

You may save your application as a draft so you can come back to it later. To do so, you would log back in when you are ready and click on "My Applications." When you are ready to submit your application, press "Submit Application."

For each Board, there is an organizer. Please contact that person and communicate the changes/additions you would like to make.

Basic Fire Reports

Basic fire reports can be obtained by visiting Charleston Fire Department Headquarters at:
1451 King Street
Charleston, SC, 29403

Full Reports & Additional Records

Requests for a full report or additional records must be made through the FOIA Records Center.

Call the fire inspection request line at 843-973-7230.

Listed below are the stations that sell these items: 

• Station 2 – T-Shirts – 262 Meeting Street
• Station 6 – T-Shirts – 5 Cannon Street
• Station 9 - T-Shirts, stickers, and patches - 1451 King Street
• Station 15 – T-Shirts and patches – 162 Coming Street
• Station 11 – T-Shirts and patches – 1517 Savannah Hwy
• Station 12 – T-Shirts – 1352 Old Towne Rd (West Ashley)
• Station 17 – T-shirts and stickers – 1830 Bicket Road (Johns Island)
• Station 19 – T-shirts - 1985 Bees Ferry Rd

Check out this link below on how to best check on your smoke alarms: 

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/gallery/smoke-alarms/b-roll/b-roll-5.html

We will provide and install free smoke alarms and batteries for homes in need of assistance.  Please note that we do not hand out alarms, we must schedule the installation.  Please call the fire department at 843-720-1981 or submit a request through our on-line smoke alarm request.  

We do not refill or service fire extinguishers, please contact a licensed fire protection vendor in the area.

We do not fill swimming pools, please contact your local water authority for details and requirements.  

We do not inspect chimneys, we encourage you to contact a professional contractor to inspect and ensure proper operations.

To request a tour, visit www.charleston-sc.gov/CFD. At the bottom of the page, click “Submit a Request.” You’ll be directed to another page where you can select “Fire Safety Program.” From there, you’ll find the option to request a station tour.

If you are interested in hosting a training for your company, business or the public, please contact Travis Cruz (cruzt@charleston-sc.gov) or Chief. Sarah Bootle (bootles@charleston-sc.gov). 

There are 5 primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires.

For use with ordinary materials like cloth, wood and paper.

Often found in homes and businesses

For use with combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints.

Often found in homes and businesses

For use with electrical equipment like appliances, tools or other equipment that is plugged into an outlet. Class C fire extinguishers use an agent that doesn't conduct electricity.

Often found in homes and businesses

For use with flammable metals.

Often found in factories

For use with vegetable oils, animal oils and fats in cooking appliances.

Often found in commercial kitchens (restaurants, cafeterias, catering businesses)

You can look at our open positions on our website https://www.charleston-sc.gov/1566/Employment-Opportunities

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Due to the volume of applications we receive, applications are accepted only for posted positions.

Although we accept resumes, applicants are required to complete the City of Charleston employment application for open positions. It is important that the application be completed in its entirety.

Yes, a separate application is required for each position of interest.

Applicants will be contacted by the Hiring Supervisor if they are selected for an interview.

Please refer to the Employment Opportunities page to view the positions we are currently accepting applications for.

If you are selected for a position, you will be contacted by the Hiring Supervisor or Human Resources.

No. If a property is currently in the Town, the property cannot be annexed. If a property is in the City, it also cannot be annexed by the Town. However, many areas of the previous Town of James Island prior to 2011 are not included in the current Town boundaries. This means that some properties are located in unincorporated areas that are neither in the Town nor in the City. These properties are eligible to annex into the City of Charleston.

Not all former residents of the Town of James Island are eligible to join the City. To see if your property is eligible to annex into the City, email us to find out.

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. 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. "Donut holes" are small areas within the City that are touching city limits but are still under the jurisdiction of Charleston County.

 Yes, home- or business owners in West Ashley that qualify to join or annex into the City receive Charleston's property tax credit and a huge reduction on their circulating water system bills. Homes in the St. Andrews PSD (County jurisdiction) do not qualify.

You must join the City to receive the discounts.

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.

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. 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. "Donut holes" are small areas within the City that are touching city limits but are still under the jurisdiction of Charleston County.

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.

You can search your property using our GIS Map. The green shaded areas are in the City of Charleston. You can find more useful maps on our GIS page, https://gis.charleston-sc.gov/ .

The City of Charleston has created an easy-to-use and mobile friendly web portal that will allow constituents to select a drain of their choice to adopt.  The interactive map shows which drains are available to adopt and where.  

To get started, visit the web portal (available via City of Charleston mobile app): 

https://gis.charleston-sc.gov/adopt-a-storm-drain/ 

In the web portal you can:

• View and adopt available drains
• Review program details
• Read terms and conditions
• Submit Field Inspection Reports

Tips!

• The web portal is both desktop and mobile device friendly!  Consider bookmarking the web portal address and/or adding it to the home screen of your favorite mobile device.  The web portal is also easily available in the City of Charleston mobile app!
• You can use your mobile device to easily complete Field Inspection Reports.  Consider including proud pictures of your drain, both before and after cleanings!

Instructions for easy access to the web portal on a mobile device (pick all 3 options, or choose 1!)

OPTION A: Download the City of Charleston mobile app from your app store.  The web portal is located in the "maps" section.  

OPTION B: Bookmark the page on your favorite browser.

OPTION C: Add the web portal to your mobile device home screen:

On Apple phones/tablets, click the share button, then scroll the bottom reel, past the Copy, Print options and select the + button that says ‘Add to Home Screen’.

On Android devices, click the ‘more’ button, then select the ‘Add to Home Screen’ option.

or visit: https://www.howtogeek.com/196087/how-to-add-websites-to-the-home-screen-on-any-smartphone-or-tablet/

Anyone!  Individuals, families, businesses, schools, and organizations of all types such as churches, clubs and sports teams.  Users are encouraged to only adopt drains that you or your organization can effectively and reasonably monitor.

We encourage users to only adopt storm drains nearby them regularly, such as on their home or business street or on a regular walking route, but a citizen or business may adopt any drain that is currently listed as adoptable on the Adopt-A-Drain website.

There is currently no limit to the number of drains adoptable by one individual or business. However, while we appreciate an adopter’s willingness to adopt multiple drains, we encourage users to only adopt a number that you or your business can effectively and reasonably monitor.

Currently, the program is only available for drains that are owned and maintained by the City of Charleston and by Charleston County.  SC DOT owns many of the storm drains in the region and at this time has chosen to opt out of participating in the Adopt a Drain program. 

There are three ways to easily access the Adopt-a-Drain web portal on your mobile device.

1. OPTION A:  Download the City of Charleston mobile app from your app store.  The web portal is located in the "maps" section.  
2. OPTION B:  Bookmark the page on your favorite browser.
3. OPTION C:  Add the web portal to the home screen on your mobile device, instructions on how to do this for both Apple and Android devices are below:

On Apple devices, click the share button, then scroll the bottom reel, past the Copy, Print options and select the + button that says ‘Add to Home Screen’.

On Android devices, click the ‘more’ button, then select the ‘Add to Home Screen’ option.

or visit: https://www.howtogeek.com/196087/how-to-add-websites-to-the-home-screen-on-any-smartphone-or-tablet/ 

While the City and County do have an extensive digital inventory of storm drains and over 10,000 have been mapped already, we are currently reviewing that inventory and once a drain has been verified by staff, it will be made visible on the Adopt-A-Drain website.  SC DOT owns many of the storm drains in the region and at this time has chosen to opt out of participating in the Adopt a Drain program.

We added a reporting feature for missing drains to the web portal, so now anyone can easily report a missing drain or request one be added to the program.   

Storm Drain Marking Program

You can help let others know “Don’t Pollute, Storm Drains Lead to Waterways!” by adding a marker on your adopted drain.  

It’s easy and free! Storm drain marking program materials are available free of charge upon request.  

To obtain a marker, you may contact Charleston Clemson Extension at:

- (843) 729-4523 (Beatriss Calhoun, Water Resource Agent), or 

- (843) 722-5940 (main office)

Report New Markers

Report any new markers you add by completing a short “Field Inspection Report” in the web portal.  (Simply login and click on your drain!).  

Stormwater vs. Wastewater 

• Stormwater is not treated.  Stormwater is rain water that does not soak into the ground. It flows over roads and parking lots and into storm water drains, which empty directly into waterways.  "All drains lead to the ocean."
• Wastewater, or sewage, comes from drains and toilets in homes and businesses. It’s treated at a wastewater treatment plant before being released back into a waterway.  

Review the "How To Guidelines".  We recommend that you adopt drains that can be monitored at least once a week, remove debris as needed and/or before a rain or storm event if is safe to do so, and report a drain that is full inside with debris and requires mechanical cleaning. Although not imperative, to help us monitor the success of this program, please periodically submit a Field Inspection Report via the web portal to let us know your drain has been inspected.  

Please remember, each storm drain is located in a unique area and could have unique needs.  Some drains are located nearby trees that shed leaves often or during particular times of year and may need to be monitored more often, while some drains may be in more open areas and that could need less attention.  

It’s Easy!  Here’s How It Works!

1. Monitor the adopted drain weekly and remove debris on and around the drain as needed- particularly before a rain or storm event if it is safe to do so.
2. Clear debris within the curb area several yards along each side of the storm drain, especially an uphill side where debris will likely flow towards the drain.
3. Report your efforts!  Let us know you have inspected your drains by periodically submitting a simple “Field Inspection Report” (mobile friendly).  The report is simple and asks whether a drain needed service or not.  You can attach pictures to the report too.  For example, if you service the drain, consider uploading a "before" and "after" image to the report.  

Learn more about the Field Inspection Report

INSPECTION & DEBRIS REMOVAL

• When possible, clear your storm drain prior to, and following, any rainfall.
• Always sweep, rake or shovel glass. Never pick up sharp objects with your hands.
• Never touch hazardous or medical waste including automotive fluids and hypodermic needles. Report these items and anything else that may be hazardous to the non-emergency police number at 843-577-7434.
• Garbage bags, buckets, brooms and landscaping gloves are generally helpful when inspecting and cleaning a storm drain.
• Sweep material away from the storm drain, not into it — and capture it for disposal as you can.
• To the extent possible, place recyclables and garbage into your residential bins (or commercial bins if you’re adopting near your workplace).
• Clear surface debris only; let City of Charleston Stormwater crews handle garbage or hazards inside the catch basin.
  NEVER ATTEMPT TO ENTER INTO A STORM DRAIN.
• Clear debris within the curb area several yards along each side of the storm drain, especially the uphill side.
• Do not use power tools. Carry tools carefully to avoid hitting others. Always use the right tools for the job.
• Please complete and send a Field Inspection Report after inspecting and servicing your adopted drain. Click on your adopted drain send a report.
• Never attempt to clear debris if there is moving water greater than knee deep or that prevents you from having a clear view of the drain.
• Be cautious when walking on potential slippery and uneven surfaces.

GENERAL SAFETY

• Call 911 for emergencies. If injured while volunteering, please immediately seek necessary medical attention.
• Safety comes first!
• Wear durable or heavy, closed toe, shoes/boots, preferably with ankle support.
• Wear gloves and durable pants, tops, jackets, and hats.
• Always stay hydrated.
• Wash hands and any clothing after contact with stormwater runoff, which can contain pollutants, including bacteria. Have first aid supplies available.
• Clear immediately in front of and the area several yards along each side of your adopted storm drain only when safe. If a drain is still clogged after you removed the surface debris, please contact Operations at 843-724-7367 or submit a request online to have the drain mechanically cleaned.
• Make sure an adult is present and supervising any person under the age of eighteen who may be assisting with the inspection and cleaning of a storm drain.
• DO NOT attempt to, remove, lift, move or reset a storm drain grate, cap, or lid. They are very heavy, can cause injury, and most likely will cause an injury.
• Always be courteous to fellow volunteers and neighborhood residents; never use vulgar language or engage in threatening or disruptive actions or conversation.

TRAFFIC SAFETY

• Wear highly visible, brightly colored or reflective clothing to alert traffic and drivers of your presence near the road.
• Where possible, stay out of the street. Work from the sidewalk or curbside and watch for traffic.
• Do not clear drains in the middle of any street.
• Do not inspect or clean drains at night.
• Walk across streets at signals and crosswalks, not mid-block. Always work with a partner.
• Do not go into storm drains and do not block travel lanes.
• Work facing traffic.
• Be aware of your surroundings, make sure to watch for cars; whenever possible, work with a partner who can watch for traffic hazards while you are cleaning the storm drain.

Yes, the "Field Inspection Report" is simple and mobile device friendly!

Submitting a Field Inspection Report after you inspect and/or service your adopted drain helps us monitor the success of the program and identify how often drains need to be cleaned and where the cleaned drains are located.  

Submitting a report is easy, and you can do it from your favorite mobile device.  In the web portal, simply click on your adopted drain and then click on the button titled "Send Field Report".  

The Field Inspection Report will pre-populate with your Official Drain Identification Number and you simply fill out the date and indicate whether you serviced the drain or if it was already clear upon your inspection.  (you will need to be signed in to your account)

Please upload photos of your drain!  Include "before" and "after" pictures to highlight your efforts!

Field Inspection Report Example

For City of Charleston drains:

Please submit a request to have the drain mechanically cleaned using the Citizen Service Desk or call (843) 724-7367.

For Charleston County drains: 

Please contact Charleston County Public Works front desk at (843) 202-7600.

View and or download the flyer from the City's Public Service Environmental Services Division about Garbage, Trash & Refuse.

Yes, after logging in you simply select a drain you have previously adopted and there is an option to un-adopt.

Prevent Blockages

Pollutants such as leaves and litter debris that seem to be in constant movement in wind and water can build up around the surface of storm drains and prohibit stormwater from properly flowing off of streets and sidewalks into drainage infrastructure, ultimately resulting in flooding and ponding around the drain.  On top of surface ponding, when leaves, yard debris, and garbage are able to enter storm drains they can also move into pipes which can become clogged with these pollutants.  Clogged pipes can not only exacerbate flooding but can lead to costly maintenance that could be avoided.  Many pipes lie beneath roadways, making them difficult to access and clean regularly.

Protect Water Quality

When it rains, much of the stormwater travels along the surface of the ground and picks up pollution in its path, including fertilizers and pesticides, motor oil, dirt, pet waste, and garbage.  When this runoff enters storm drains it does not get treated (only wastewater is treated), but instead flows directly to the waterways that we use for fishing, swimming and more.  Adding unnecessary nutrients in the form of leaves, yard debris, or fertilizer to local waterways could lead to algae problems and low levels of oxygen that fish and other sea creatures need to survive.  The EPA actually considers stormwater and the pollution it carries, the greatest threat to the health of our water bodies.  

The ordinance was amended in December 2023, with changes set to take effect on July 1, 2024, allowing a six-month grace period for businesses to adjust.  While most regulations remain the same, a few specific changes will affect a limited number of businesses.

The updated regulations are as follows:

• Prohibition of Extra Thick Plastic Bags: Businesses are no longer permitted to use extra thick plastic bags. Encouraging customers to bring reusable bags can help save costs and reduce waste. Providing a bag incentive refund at checkout and using signage in parking lots can promote this behavior. Paper bags are also permissible.
• Drive-thru and Take-out Utensil Policy: Drive-thru and take-out businesses may still offer disposable cutlery, but only upon customer request, affirmative response, or through self-service stations or dispensers.  This measure aims to reduce unnecessary automatic inclusion of utensils in to-go bags, thereby saving costs and minimizing plastic waste.

For resources and information please visit www.charleston-sc.gov/plastic

For questions about the ordinance, please contact your respective jurisdiction:

• City of Charleston:  call Katie at (843) 724-3789 or email mckaink@charleston-sc.gov 
• Town of James Island: call (843) 795-4141 or email info@jamesislandsc.us 
• Charleston County:  call (843) 720-7111 or email recycle@charlestoncounty.org

For questions about what products are recyclable, please contact the Charleston County Recycling Center: 

• Web: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/recycle-what.php
• Phone: (843)720-7111
• Email: recycle@charlestoncounty.org

In Charleston, our environment is essential to our economy.

This ordinance is designed to protect the engine of our economy and livability of our City so businesses, particularly those influenced by tourism, and residents can continue to enjoy what the beauty and bounty of Charleston's waterways offer for generations to come. 

These new measures are about cleaner streets and waterways, preserving the beauty and livability of Charleston for generations to come. 

Plastic bags and containers are convenient, but they also —

• Trash Our Neighborhoods and Waterways: 

More than 302 million tons of plastics are discarded worldwide each year¹.  Plastic waste ends up on Charleston’s streets and 7.6 tons are in Charleston Harbor alone.²

• Threaten Wildlife Health:

As many as 100,000 marine animals have been injured or killed by entanglement with or ingestion of plastic waste.³

• Pose Risks to Human Health:

Plastics never fully biodegrade, but when pieces of these bags and containers are eaten by animals, the plastic enters our food chain.

1: https://ourworldindata.org/plastic-pollution#empirical-view

2: https://today.citadel.edu/change-leading-research-dr-john-weinstein/ 

Provide Information

You can help your community by first providing assistance and information to establishments about the new regulations and encouraging managers to visit our resources online at www.charleston-sc.gov/plastic.  The webpage is designed specifically to help facilitate a smooth transition with information on the new code requirements that we hope businesses find helpful.  

Report Violators 

If you find establishments are not responsive to your outreach and warning efforts, please report potential violators ONLINE via the City’s Citizen Service Desk web portal at https://www.charleston-sc.gov/879/Citizen-Support-Center.  The web portal has an option to upload photographs if you choose to include any.  You can choose to report anonymously.

The ordinance applies to all organizations and businesses within the City of Charleston, including any City of Charleston facility or property, City sponsored event, or other event (public or private) within City limits.  

This includes but is not limited to:

• Concession and event vendors
• Farmers markets/stands
• Food trucks
• Grocery stores
• Liquor stores
• Restaurants and bars
• Retail stores
• Takeout stands
• Schools
• Government
• Non-profit organizations

 Yes.  Regulations apply to all sales, activities and events within the City of Charleston limits, including, in City facilities and on City property.  

This includes public events and private events within City limits.  For example, a vendor for a wedding held within City limits would need to comply with the regulations.

By definition in the City's ordinance, RECYCLABLE shall mean any material that is accepted by the Charleston County recycling program.

Visit the Charleston County website  for more information on materials accepted for recycling at https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/recycle-what.php.  

If you have specific questions about a particular product not listed on their website, please contact the Charleston County Recycling Center at: 

• Phone: (843)720-7111
• Email: recycle@charlestoncounty.org

By definition in the City's ordinance:

• COMPOSTABLE shall mean all the materials in the product or package, when composted in an industrial or municipal compost operation, will break down, or otherwise become part of, usable compost (e.g. soil-conditioning material, mulch) in a safe and timely manner. 
• Compostable food service ware must meet ASTM-Standards for compostability and any bio-plastic or plastic-like product must be clearly labeled, preferably with a color symbol, to allow proper identification such that the collector and processor can easily distinguish the ASTM standard compostable plastic from non-ASTM standard compostable plastic. 
• Compostable products are considered compostable under this section only if a business establishment or food or grocery establishment using the products is composting them with an industrial or municipal compost operation.

Visit the Charleston County website  for more information on materials accepted for composting and information on how to participate in Charleston County’s Composting Program: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/compost-program.php 

 On January 1, 2020 the ordinance went into effect and became enforceable.  

The ordinance was signed into law on November 27, 2018 with an effective date of January 1. 2020.  This offered a 13-month grace period to support a smooth transition and allow time for businesses and organizations to best plan ahead for enforcement starting on January 1, 2020.

Reusable bags and reusable food service ware are ideal, as possible.  

Remember to bring your own reusable bags and encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags and/or own reusable food service ware (such as takeout containers, reusable straws, etc.,) as this is the best way to reduce the amount of waste that goes to the landfill or ends up in the environment.  

When disposable food service ware is necessary, encouraging the proper disposal of compostable and recyclable materials is important.  If an organization provides compostable containers, ensure the vessel to compost is available.  Also remember, all disposable service ware must be free of any food residue to be accepted for recycling in Charleston County.  If food waste cannot be easily removed, your business may be a better candidate for compostable products.

The intention of this ordinance is not to hurt our business community. You may request an exemption at any time for any unique circumstances that may arise.  

Establishments may file for a temporary exemption if you qualify for one of the below reasons.  Read below to see if you qualify, and how to apply.  

• Undue Hardship or Practical Difficulty (includes excess inventory) not generally applicable to other persons in similar circumstances (up to one year exemption, applies to entire Article V)

Applications for an Undue Hardship or Practical Difficulty (not including excess inventory) should prove proactive efforts have been made and be substantiated with factual evidence of why the hardship or difficulty exists despite best efforts to uphold the spirit of the ordinance.

Applications for excess inventory should include proof excess inventory was purchased prior to 11/27/18, the date of ratification.  The City may ask for information periodically on inventory reduction and remaining stock.

• Public Health and Safety Requirement or Medical Necessity to use the product (up to one year exemption, applies to foam products only)

If you qualify for either of the above reasons, the next step is for you to complete an exemption application(Temporarily Suspended due to Covid-19).  Make sure to explain clearly why you feel like you qualify for an exemption.  Please also remember to attach documents that support your claim.   Please note, approved requests may be posted publicly on the City’s webpage. 

No.  Plastic bags such as produce bags, bread bags, newspaper bags, dry cleaning/garment bags, garbage bags, pet waste bags, bags used for charity or emergency and medical supplies, bags that are used inside stores for bulk foods and other items, bags for meats and produce, bags for unwrapped bakery goods, and bags for flowers and plant wrappings are all still allowed.  

Yes.  Customers may bring any type of bag with them to transport purchases.  The City encourages residents to remember their reusable bags!

No.  Per the ordinance, please provide your customers an option to transport their purchases free of charge, and please encourage the use of reusable bags.  

No.  Paper bags are not required to be made with recycled-content, but the City encourages establishments to use recycled-content paper bags as possible.

The Livability and Tourism Department has primary responsibility for enforcement of the regulations.  

If a code enforcement officer determines that a violation has occurred, a written warning accompanied with outreach about the law and what is needed to comply will typically be a first step.  If it happens again or becomes clear a retailer is intentionally not complying they can be fined. 

Yes!  The City of Charleston is collaborating closely with nearby jurisdictions to ensure our ordinances are similar so it is easy for businesses with multiple locations to plan ahead.  

Starting January 1, 2020, the new regulations will take effect in the City of Charleston, Town of James Island, and in the unincorporated areas of Charleston County.  These same regulations are already in effect in the Town of Mount Pleasant, as of April 2019.

Allowable Mattresses

• Any size mattresses are allowed.  
• Mattresses: which are defined to include any sleep surface covered with ticking or fabric that contains resilient material, such as steel innersprings, foam, fiber, or other filling or upholstery materials, used alone or in combination, regardless of size or shape.  (This includes all types of memory foam mattresses, with or without cooling gels, including the Purple Mattress.)
• Box springs (also commonly called Foundations): which are defined to include a ticking- or fabric-covered structure used to support a mattress or sleep surface, and may be comprised of a frame, foam, springs or other structure, or other materials, used alone or in combination, and includes both adjustable bases or foundations and stationary foundations.

NOT acceptable conditions or types:

• Bug infested / Bed Bugs
• Wet/frozen
• Soiled/moldy
• Torn or broken/crushed
• Futons
• Fold-out sofa bed
• Mattress pads or toppers
• Infant sleeping pads
• Air/water beds
• Commercial/ retail oriented

Other Mattress Disposal Options 

• If you are buying new, we recommend checking with the retailer to see if they will recycle your old one.
• You can donate mattresses in good condition, such as Goodwill.  (we recommend a quick google search to find donation sites).  
• You can give mattresses away via a local gifting group. Some groups to visit are Buy Nothing, Freecycle, Craigs List, Facebook Marketplace and more.
• Soiled mattresses unable to be donated should be left curbside according to your trash pickup schedule.

Please bring an ID or utility bill showing your address is within City of Charleston limits.  

For anyone located outside of City of Charleston limits, you may still recycle your mattress for a fee from a private vendor, find out more and schedule your pickup online here: https://bedshred.com/

You may still leave your mattress curbside on your scheduled trash collection day, but it cannot be recycled this way.  We tested this during the pilot project, the claw pulls it apart and then it is extra challenging to transport and the recycling facility doesn't accept it in broken pieces.

No.  The drop off sites are for residents only.  Per City Code Article IV, Section 14-47: (c) It shall be the responsibility of an establishment, institution or business to make appropriate arrangements for collection and disposal of all bulk and quantity items except as herein provided and to transport such items to a state permitted landfill site.

However, mattress retail stores are encouraged to collaborate with BedShred to recycle old mattresses they collect, or to reach out to the City’s Sustainability Division for potential collaboration opportunities.

The old mattresses and/or box springs are dismantled into separate components (steel, foam and wood) and used to make new products.  Old mattresses or their components are never refurbished or reused in bedding again.  Mattresses will be transported to a special facility in South Carolina called Nine Lives Recycling to undergo the unique mattress processing method.  

1. STEEL that can be smelted down and made into new items like bicycle spokes;
2. WOOD (from box springs) that can be used to construct new things like bookcases and shelves or for craft projects; and
3. FOAM that can be repurposed into carpet padding and moving pads.

When all is said and done, the process leaves only 10% of each mattress being discarded as compacted waste, keeping 90% of the mattresses out of the landfill!

View pictures and more information about the mattress recycling process: https://bedshred.com/pages/bedshred-mattress-disposal-and-recycling-process

Mattresses are bulky and springy so they don’t compact well and take up lots of valuable space in landfills.  Save precious landfill space and give your mattress parts a new life by recycling your old mattresses and box springs.  

Mattresses are a huge problem for landfills and we can repurpose these materials instead of adding unnecessary waste to the environment.  Many national retailers are only offering one-sided mattresses and directing consumers to replace them more often. Landfills are also seeing an influx of returned mattresses from online retailers. The compaction rate of a discarded mattress is 400% less than regular garbage. A cubic yard of compacted garbage typically weighs between 1,500 and 1,800 lbs. A cubic yard of compacted mattresses weighs about 250 lbs. and can leave voids in the ground.

Contamination is a real challenge with any compost program because it is not possible or safe to have staff sort through piles of food scraps removing items that shouldn’t be there.  (Ew, that’s gross too!)  Plus, preventing contamination on the front end helps to ensure the final product is free of inorganic materials and safe to use.

That means, if any food scrap carts are contaminated with items that can’t be composted, the WHOLE CART WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR COMPOSTING and instead, must be disposed of in the garbage.  

The locks on the carts are one level of protection to help ensure that everyone who wishes to participate in the program is trained ahead of time to help prevent contamination so all the food scraps collected can indeed be composted and your efforts are not wasted.  

TO OBTAIN THE LOCK CODE

Please register for the program which will also take you through a short training on acceptable items, then the lock code will be provided. Register at https://forms.gle/M7RUJn2imuAwcXZ76.  

This is your preference, either are accepted.  However, any liner bag used MUST BE certified compostable, from BPI.  (BPI=Biodegradable Products Institute) 

Note, product labels can be misleading.  Those bags labeled "biodegradable" or "environmentally friendly", etc. without the BPI certification ARE NOT ALLOWED.  

These will not break down fast enough to compost and will cause an entire cart to be landfilled.  Please beware of misleading products.  

Yes, they are different!  All compostable items are biodegradable, but not all biodegradable items are compostable! 

Biodegradable, by definition, has no time requirement, so a product could take 100 years to biodegrade.  Whereas compostable products follow strict ASTM Standards and have a short time limit in days, not years.

In addition, biodegradable materials can sometimes leave behind metal residue and other non-natural byproducts, whereas, compostable materials create compost (also called humus) that is 100% natural and safe to have in our environment.

Please make sure all items going into food scrap carts are certified BPI compostable and you will be following the strict ASTM standards properly.  Thank you.

Yes, in fall 2022 the program officially opened up to all residents living in the Charleston region thanks to new partners, Charleston County and Folly Beach!

Please, NO yard debris, the food scrap carts are for food scraps ONLY!  

Yard debris is already picked up curbside and sent to the compost facility.  For more information on curbside yard debris collection for the City of Charleston visit https://www.charleston-sc.gov/348/Trash-Yard-Waste-Collection or please contact your local jurisdiction.

But if they are both being composted, why can’t I mix them?  There are lots of reasons!

• To make compost, it is necessary to follow a recipe.  The recipe requires certain parts of green material, (like food scraps), certain parts of brown material, (like yard debris), and a certain amount of moisture, aeration and heat.  Following the recipe is really important for optimum decomposition and a healthy compost pile, and utilizing a variety of material sources is important too.  
• The Bees Ferry Compost facility is professionally managed and needs to obtain the raw ingredients separately in order to make compost.  The compost facility will then mix the raw ingredients together based on the ratios of the recipe.
• Plus, food waste breaks down at a different rate than yard waste, so the facility handles yard debris differently than food waste, which often needs to be broken down into smaller pieces.

Drop sites are hosted by various partners.  Each drop site is separately managed and maintained by their host.  Please report any issues or maintenance concerns to the drop site host.  Contact information for each host is listed on the Drop Site Map.

For questions, concerns or ideas for improvement on the program in general, please report those to the Charleston Composts Program Manager, Katie at mckaink@charleston-sc.gov or 724-3789.  

This is not a permanent program, this is a pilot program that will last at least 6 months and may last up to one year. The pilot is grant funded, and we will be testing options as we go to help ensure we create the most successful program we can.

Should the pilot program be successful, we can then seek more funding for the program to continue and consider additional drop site locations.    

You can store food scraps in almost any reusable container, ideally with a tight fitting lid.  The key is to make the bin easy to access while you cook, whether it’s on your countertop, in a nearby cabinet, or even on your patio.  You can also keep the scraps in the freezer or refrigerator to halt decomposition while softening the cell wall structure.   

Note, fruit flies can occur if your kitchen bin is left out without a lid. Any issues with pests or odor can often be easily remedied.

We recommend you empty your kitchen bin weekly to help keep decomposition and associated odors out of your kitchen.  

You may choose to empty it more or less often- remember you can store food scraps in your freezer without any odors.

Yes.  BPI certified compostable liner bags or BPI certified compostable to-go food containers are accepted in this program as we will be using a commercial compost facility.  

However, please note, these are generally not able to break down properly in a backyard compost pile.

Food scraps the City collects will be taken to the Bees Ferry Compost Facility in West Ashley by a certified hauler.  

There, the scraps will be converted into compost and kept away from our landfills.

The City’s food scrap carts will be emptied at least twice per week by our contracted hauler.  This may increase in frequency as food scrap collection and participation in the program increase.

There are many benefits to composting!

• Cuts down on trash and expenses. Charlestonians throw away over 15,000 tons of food scraps each year, making up 1/4 of the city's collected garbage. Composting saves space and taxpayer money needed for disposal in landfills.
• Combats climate change. Food waste recycling will help meet 3 Charleston Climate Action Plan goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from landfills and protecting our air and water from pollution to fight climate change.
• Protects against flooding. Composting nourishes our soil for healthier parks and gardens and increases stormwater absorption capacity to help reduce flooding. 
• Saves plants and animals. Composting reduces the need for expensive and polluting chemical fertilizers, makes plants healthier, and can be implemented without harming wildlife or ecosystem health.

It’s free!  To participate, please fill out the registration form at https://forms.gle/M7RUJn2imuAwcXZ76.  

Registration is required to participate for a couple reasons.  You will need a lock code to deposit your food scraps in our bins, we will provide this once you register and go through a 5-minute training.  We also need a way to mail you program information and notify you of project updates and potential changes as we test options, like if a cart moves locations.  

Please keep in mind this is a pilot project so the program is subject to change, especially after the first six months, we appreciate your flexibility on this as it will help ensure we have a successful program moving forward.  

For specific hours of each site, please see the Drop Site Map.  Drop sites located in parks are open when the parks are open, which is daily, dawn to dusk.  

The most up to date drop site locations are listed on www.charleston-sc.gov/compost.  Please keep in mind, these are subject to change and will be updated on the website.

Accepted food waste and organic material:

• Cooked meats and fish, including shells and bones
• Egg and dairy products
• Food preparation scraps and plate scrapings
• Fruits and vegetables
• Bread, dough, bakery items, pasta and grains
• Coffee grounds, coffee filters and tea bags
• Consumable liquids
• Wooden skewers and cocktail sticks
• Food-soiled paper, for example:
  • Kitchen paper towels
  • Paper napkins
  • Waxed cardboard and paper bags
• BPI certified Compostable serve ware

Not accepted in food waste deliveries:

• Raw meat or fish
• Butcher wastes, trimmings or renderings
• Oils, fats or grease
• Plastic of any type, for example:
  • Plastic bags or food wrap
  • Produce baskets or netting
  • Plastic or latex gloves
• Foil, wire or rubber bands
• Painted or treated wood, metal or glass
• Non consumable liquids

Remember, if you are in doubt, THROW IT OUT!

For questions about whether specific items are compostable that are not listed above, please reach Charleston County at (843) 720-7111 or email recycle@charlestoncounty.org.  

Industrial composting at Bees Ferry has a few major differences from backyard piles:

• Larger piles (windrows and aerated static piles)
• A more diverse assortment of acceptable materials (like meat, dairy, cheese, bioplastics and paper compostable wares, for example)
• The decomposition process is faster in general - so 30-45 days vs. 6-12 months
• The finished product is generally more robust because it has been well managed and aerated properly.

Image of Bees Ferry Compost Facility courtesy of Charleston County.

Yes, of course, you may participate in both at the same time.  The City’s program will take cooked meats, bones and dairy products, which are typically not appropriate for backyard piles, so feel free to bring those and any extra food scraps to the drop off sites.

Composting in your backyard is easy and a great way to keep all the nutritious compost on your property so you can reap the benefits in your own gardens.  

For tips on how to compost in your backyard, visit: 

• https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/environmental-management/compost-at-home.php 
• https://des.sc.gov/sites/des/files/Documents/BLWM/Recycling/OR-1705.pdf

Charleston County is hoping to give away new backyard compost bins in spring 2022.  

If you would like a new backyard bin, please check their website for more information as it becomes available.

Unfortunately, no.  This new program is for residents only, not businesses or organizations.  We are utilizing grant funding, which is earmarked to support residential composting only and our funding is extremely limited.

However, there are other ways businesses and organizations can compost!  

The City actually piloted a restaurant composting program back in 2016, with promising results which can be replicated.  

The results showed once organizations serviced by private garbage and recycling services understood how they are actually being charged for garbage and recycling services, many were able to reduce those fees and apply the difference to compost hauling fees.  

More information on the pilot and how businesses can compost is located here: https://charleston-sc.gov/2645/Business-Composting

DO NOT SIGN IN THIS WAY unless your existing CSS login information is the same as what you use for Google/Apple/Microsoft/Facebook. If you use a personal email for Google/Apple/Microsoft/Facebook, but a business email for CSS, then your CSS account will NOT properly link to your records when you sign in.

These are one-click logins authenticated based on your existing Google/Apple/Microsoft/Facebook account. Clicking one of these buttons will sign you into CSS using the same email and password you use for Google/Apple/Microsoft/Facebook.

If the customer does not receive a link, click Back to sign in>Create an account using the same information. This will confirm a duplicate account sending a verification code from Community Access Identity. 

NOTE: This will not create a new account. Existing information will be transferred.

If customer no longer have access to original CSS registered email a new registration must be completed. Once submitted the account will be reviewed, approved, and linked appropriately if necessary to a company or previous account.

Click reset password>enter your email> and follow the instructions in the email to reset the password. 

Log into CSS. In the upper right-hand corner, click on your username > My Account > Personal Info. Change the name or email address and click Save. Note this does not change the email address for registrations only for CSS correspondence.

Log into CSS. In the upper right-hand corner, click on your username > My Account > Address. Enter the address and click Save. Note this does not change the business address and Customers should contact the Business License for further assistance.

If a customer enters the incorrect login credentials, they will receive an “account locked” error message. Click Unlock account>enter email address>follow the instructions in email to unlock account. Contact the Digital Services Specialist if further support is needed.

Log in to CSS>click My Work>My Permits, change Display drop down box to Active. Enter address in search bar for permit. Note: Do not enter the address in the search box before changing filter as the default setting will only show last year’s permits and may not locate the permit. 

To check if permit was received you may check two places at the top in the black bar click on dashboard>My Permits>View My Permits>and in the Display drop-down change if from Active to All>if you see your permit application was received. Another option is top in the black bar click on My Work>in the Display drop-down change if from Active to All>if you see your permit application was received.  Click on Permit number to review submission and for permit status.

Customers can see the case by searching but not access the case to request inspections, pay fees or print attached documents.

This problem is caused by there being several contacts for the customer in EnerGov or contact information may not be on master permit. Customers should contact the Digital Services Specialist for assistance.

You can search your property using our GIS Map. The green shaded areas are in the City of Charleston. More useful property search tools by visiting our Charleston City GIS website, using the MAPNET feature.

Contact the Digital Services Specialist for assistance.

The customer is logged into CSS and sees their permit but cannot request an inspection. This is caused by the customer not being a contact on the master permit. Contact the Permit Center for assistance.

Inspections have a priority order for the inspections to be done. Sometimes this order is not applicable to the permit.

However, if you see Link to Building Permit, it means there was/is construction work being done at this location. It will not allow an inspection if there are outstanding inspections on the construction permit.  Contact the Inspections to confirm prerequisites.

Inspections must be passed before scheduled new inspections. Contact the Inspections to confirm or reschedule and pass prerequisite inspections.

See “Today’s Inspection” link on the CSS home page or under the “View” tab in the black banner menu when logged into CSS. Inspections are in order of when they will be completed. Contact  Inspections and your Primary Inspector (8-4, M-F) for an estimate on when they will be at your property.

After requesting an inspection, the screen will refresh and now you can see the inspection listed. Alternatively, click on the Dashboard and scroll down to My Inspections and view the Requested inspections.

Once a requested inspection has been scheduled, a customer cannot cancel or change the requested inspection date in CSS. Contact Inspections for assistance.

Inspection results are in the Checklist. Click on Permit number > Inspections button > Inspection number > Checklist.

Click on Dashboard and scroll down to My Inspections. The red Requested bubble will have a count of requested inspections.

All sub/trade permit applications should be submitted via businesslicense@charleston-sc.gov. See Applications & Guidelines for further instructions under Trade Permits.

Try to enter only the street number and the name of the street without the street modifier or unit number, e.g. enter 1650 30, not 1650 30th Street. If your address is still not found, you are not in City of Charleston’s jurisdiction and found an error contact the Digital Services Specialist for assistance.

In the CSS portal, “Holds” are alerts or actual holds. Contact the Permit Center to confirm this and get information on how to lift hold.

Permit may not have been invoiced yet. Reach out to our Revenue Collections Division if your status is “Release for Insurance” or Invoiced and unable to pay.

Invoices may be paid on CSS homepage under the Pay Invoice if you know the invoice number. A customer is logged into CSS and sees the invoice but cannot pay it. The CSS/Contact is not on the invoice as a billable contact. Contact the Permit Center for assistance.

The status of a permit can be found by using the “Search Permits” tool located on the CSS homepage. Customers listed as an authorized contact on a permit may see additional details when they are logged into their CSS account. These details are found the “Reviews” tab, and include:

• Status of an individual review

• Date an individual review was completed

• Anticipated permit due date

Please view our guide before troubleshooting: How to Print a Permit Placard (PDF)

CSS allows printing for certain permits and doesn’t allow print function for business licenses or operational permits. If the permit has not been paid in full or is not in “Issued” status. If paid and printout not available for printing, contact our Revenue Collections Division for assistance.

Approval comments or permit placard documents are in Attachments on the permit detail page. If you do not see the documents needed contact the Digital Services Specialist for assistance.

Any additional submissions after the initial submittal should be emailed to permits@charleston-sc.gov as there is no subsequent notification system. An email is required as notification for your documents to be reviewed and processed.

Documents submitted through CSS must be reviewed and accepted by staff before they are fully processed into our system. They will not be available to be viewed through CSS. Documents will be made available online to be viewed by applicant and the general public once they have been approved. If a document has been approved, but you cannot locate it in the portal, please email permits@charleston-sc.gov to see if the document can be made available online.

There are two areas to look. One way, click on Permit number > Review tab > Click arrow to expand the review > Comments. The second way will be located under the Permit number>Attachments tab.

Currently business license applications are not available for online submission. Applications will be accepted by mail, in-person at 2 George St or emailed to businesslicense@charleston-sc.gov.  See New Business Licenses for further instructions one different types or business licenses available.

If a customer has CSS portal renewals are available through portal. Log in-click on my work tab-my license-blue renew blue button.  Enter gross into reported receipts and follow steps. If not see Business License Renewals for further information.

If you no longer own your business or if your business closed during the previous year, you must download, complete, and submit the Cancellation of Business License Form (PDF) to businesslicense@charleston-sc.gov. 

If you sell your commercial location business, the new owner must file for a new business license. Business licenses are not transferable to new business owners. See New Business Licenses for further assistance.

The new Certificate of Occupancy application must be completed. See Certificate of Occupancy for more assistance.  

See our Hospitality Tax  or Tour Tax  page for more information.

Log in to CSS>Upper right-hand corner, drop down box next to your name>Click on My Business>Click business number>Blue File Now

This problem is caused by there being several contacts for the customer in EnerGov, or accounts may require manual input. Customers should contact Hospitality for assistance.