Beta — site is under development, information may contain errors. Read disclaimer

Hanahan Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Key Zoning Facts

Planning Department
City of Hanahan Planning Department(843) 747-7457
Building Code Edition
SC Building Codes (IBC/IRC based)
ADUs Allowed
No
Primary District
R-1 Single-Family Residential (Standard)
Max Height
35 ft

Hanahan Zoning Overview

Hanahan is a city of approximately 25,681 residents in Berkeley County, South Carolina. The city manages land use and development through its local zoning ordinance, which divides the municipality into residential, commercial, and industrial districts with specific development standards for each.

Hanahan's zoning framework includes standard single-family zones (R-1, 10,000 sq ft minimum), compact single-family zones (R-2, 7,500 sq ft minimum), a commercial district (C-1), and an industrial zone (I).

Key Zoning Districts

The R-1 district requires minimum 10,000 sq ft lots with 25-foot front setbacks, 8-foot side setbacks, and 20-foot rear setbacks. The R-2 district allows 7,500 sq ft lots with 20-foot front, 5-foot side, and 15-foot rear setbacks. Both districts have a 35-foot maximum building height.

ADU Regulations

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) regulations have not been confirmed for Hanahan. South Carolina does not have a statewide ADU mandate, so ADU policies are determined at the local level. Contact the Hanahan Planning Department to verify whether ADUs are currently permitted and what requirements may apply.

Development Process

Development in Hanahan generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the city's planning and building departments. The process typically involves:

  1. Zoning Verification -- Confirm that your proposed use is permitted in the applicable zoning district
  2. Site Plan Review -- For commercial and multi-family projects, submit a site plan for review
  3. Building Permit -- Apply for a building permit with construction documents
  4. Inspections -- Schedule required inspections during construction
  5. Certificate of Occupancy -- Obtain final approval before occupying the structure

For projects that do not conform to existing zoning, property owners may need to seek a variance, special exception, or rezoning through the local board of zoning appeals or planning commission.

Key Considerations

Before starting any development project in Hanahan, property owners should:

  • Verify the zoning classification of their property
  • Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements
  • Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
  • Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
  • Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
  • Contact the planning department at (843) 747-7457 for pre-application guidance

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Hanahan and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Hanahan Planning Department or municipal code before making development decisions.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Hanahan

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — South Carolina

  • Building Code: SC Building Codes Council (IBC/IRC based)
View South Carolina zoning overview

County — Berkeley County

  • Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
  • Check HOA CC&Rs and deed restrictions for additional requirements.

Primary Zoning Districts

R-1Single-Family Residential (Standard)
Min Lot
10,000 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
8 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft
R-2Single-Family Residential (Compact)
Min Lot
7,500 sq ft
Max Height
35 ft
Front Setback
20 ft
Side Setback
5 ft
Rear Setback
15 ft
C-1Commercial
Min Lot
None
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
10 ft
Side Setback
0 ft
Rear Setback
10 ft
IIndustrial
Min Lot
None
Max Height
45 ft
Front Setback
25 ft
Side Setback
10 ft
Rear Setback
20 ft

ADU Rules in Hanahan

ADUs:Not Allowed

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Hanahan are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Hanahan permit fees →

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the zoning for my property in Hanahan?
Contact the Hanahan Planning Department at (843) 747-7457 or visit the city website for zoning district descriptions and permitted uses.
What building code does Hanahan follow?
Hanahan follows the SC Building Codes (IBC/IRC based) as adopted by the SC Building Codes Council. Contact the local building department for specific requirements and local amendments.
Do I need a permit for home improvements in Hanahan?
Most structural modifications, additions, and changes of use require a building permit. Contact the Hanahan building department for specific requirements.
Can I build an ADU in Hanahan?
ADU allowances have not been confirmed for Hanahan. South Carolina does not have a statewide ADU law. Contact the Hanahan Planning Department to verify whether accessory dwelling units are permitted.