Thank you for operating a business or starting a business in Clover. To make it easy for you, review this list of commonly asked questions about starting a new business and operating a business within the town. If you would like to pay a license or permit fee with a credit card, attach the credit card authorization form to the application.
Business License
All businesses and/or vendors, excluding those exempted by law, are required to obtain a business license. The business license year is from July 1 to June 30. Licenses must be renewed before July 31 to avoid penalties. Download the current year's business license application. Contact at Sherry Kempster (803) 222-9495 for more information regarding the Town's Business License program.
Zoning Permit
Before a new business can operate or a new building or dwelling can be built, the zoning classification of the proposed location must be determined. Applicants are required to complete a Zoning Permit Application. The fee is $35. Contact Victoria McKelligett at (803) 222-9495 for more information.
Building Permit
Permits are issued for new construction, remodels, additions and alterations. Contact Victoria McKelligett at (803) 222-9495 to find out more about building permits, contractor and plan requirements, etc. You may also click here for more information. Building permit fees are based on the value of the job. Download the permit application and building permit fee schedule. Contact Victoria McKelligett at (803) 222-9495 for more information regarding fees.
Fire Inspections
Fire inspections of commercial properties are conducted to ensure compliance with the International Fire Code with a specific emphasis on life safety conditions. All new businesses opening in the Town of Clover will be inspected. All existing businesses are inspected annually. Click here for more information.
Signs
The Town's zoning ordinance sets forth regulations regarding the placement, construction, replacement and enlargement of signs. New signs require a zoning permit and may possibly require a building permit. Changing or replacing the permanent copy on an existing lawful sign does not require a zoning permit. Contact Victoria McKelligett at (803) 222-9495 for more information.
Water/Sewer Service
Opening a water/sewer account with the Town requires an application, deposit and connection fee. If you are establishing service for a newly developed property, a tap fee is also required. Contact Jessica Knight at (803) 222-9495 for more information.
Garbage Service
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2015, the Town of Clover will no longer require commercial, religious or civic organizations to participate in a Town-managed program. All non-residential uses will need to provide for the disposal of their own garbage. Contact Jessica Knight at (803) 222-9495 for more information.
Hospitality Tax
The local hospitality tax of 2% is applied to the total amount charged for prepared or modified foods and beverages intended for immediate consumption and sold within the Town limits. Restaurants, bars and convenience stores that sell prepared items are required to collect and remit the local hospitality tax. Download the reporting form. Contact Sherry Kempster at (803) 222-9495 for more information regarding the Town's Hospitality Tax program.
Landscaping, Parking and Buffers
The Town's zoning ordinance sets forth regulations regarding landscaping, parking and buffers for new and existing commercial businesses. Contact Victoria McKelligett at (803) 222-9495 for more information regarding requirements for new development and altering existing properties.
Other resources for businesses
Utility Providers
For information about economic development, visit the Economic Development page or contact Town Administrator Allison Harvey at 803-222-9495.