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1. How do I apply for the 4% legal residence special assessment or the agricultural use assessment?

Applications are available in the Assessor’s Office (Public Service Administration Building, Office 120) or online.

Applications must be completed by January 15th in the year following the purchase or ownership change.

2. If my primary residential property contains rental or business structures, can I receive the 4% legal residence special assessment?

The 4% assessment would only apply to the portion of the property used as your residence. The 6% ratio would apply to the remainder of the property.

3. How do I appeal the Assessor’s appraisal of my property?

Assessor’s Office

To appeal an appraisal, the property owner must object in writing to the Assessor’s Office.

The Assessor’s Office schedules a hearing between the property owner and the Assessor, Deputy Assessor or staff appraiser to discuss reasons for the appeal. After the hearing, the Assessor’s Office sends the property owner a letter describing decisions and appraisal changes if any.

Board of Assessment Appeals

If the property owner has any further objections, they must object in writing and mail to the Boards of Assessment Appeals within 30 days. The Board then schedules a hearing, and after the hearing notifies the property owner in writing of the results.

Administrative Law Court Division

If still aggrieved, the property owner may file an appeal (in writing) with the Administrative Law Court Division in Columbia. To appeal a "Notice of Change of Classification Appraisal and Assessment," the property owner must do so within 90 days of the date of the notice.

4. How do I obtain a mobile home moving permit?

You must submit the following to the Assessor’s Office in the Public Service Administration Building (Office 120), located at 201 W Main Street in Kingstree:

• Title or Contract of Sale
• Paid water and sewer receipts and/or septic tank permit from the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC)
• Valid E-911 address
• Moving within the county: paid receipt from County Treasurer for all taxes due to date.
• If moving out of the county: paid receipt from County Treasurer for advance taxes.

Decals & Fees

All mobile home owners must register and obtain a decal costing $5 from the Tax Assessor’s Office. Any change in ownership requires a new decal. Mobile Home owners retiring title are not exempt from decal requirement.

Fees for Mobile Home permits are $50, plus a $100 inspection fee paid to Code Enforcement office.

Town of Kingstree

For mobile homes within the City Limits of Kingstree, please see Town of Kingstree for more information.

Note: Mobile Home Requirements

• All mobile homes dated after June 1994 must be wind zone II or better.
• All used mobile homes coming into Williamsburg County must have a moving permit from the county where previously located.
• All mobile homes entering the county must be 1976 or newer.

5. How do I obtain a Building Permit (Residential or Commercial project) application and how much does it cost?

You may obtain a Building Permit application and permit costs from the Code Enforcement Office; visit the Code Enforcement Department page for more information.

6. Where do I find information on requirements when subdividing property?

All requirements for property in the rural areas of the county are found in the Land Development Regulations book, which can be obtained from the Code Enforcement Office in the Public Service Administration Building (Suite 121), located at 201 W Main Street in Kingstree. 

Additional Requirements

For properties within the City Limits of Kingstree, Hemingway or Andrews consult with the respective city for any additional requirements such as:

• Cul-de-sac radius
• Lot size
• Set backs
• Street widths, etc.

7. How do I record a plat?

All plats must be submitted for approval to the Williamsburg County Planning Commission (Code Enforcement Office) and stamped approved prior to submission to Assessor’s Office for assignment of new parcel identification number.

8. How do I obtain exemption for churches or other non-profit properties?

An application and instruction sheet can be obtained in the Assessor’s Office upon request. For more information, contact the Assessor’s Office.

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1. Is there a satellite tax office in Williamsburg County?

Yes. The satellite tax office is located at the former Chavis School, found at:
2118 S Hemingway Highway 41-51
Hemingway, SC 29554

Satellite Office Hours

Tuesday
8:30 am to 1 pm 

Thursday
1 to 5 pm

For More Information

For more information, contact the Auditor’s Office.

2. How do I change my address on my tax records?

The answer to this question depends greatly on which tax record needs to be updated. To assist with this the Auditor’s Office has created a helpful guide to assist taxpayers in updating their addressing information; to access it, visit the Changing Addresses on Tax Records page.

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1. How do you determine what my motor vehicle is worth?

• The SC Department of Revenue (DOR) determines the value of motor vehicles within the state by using a set of nationally accepted standards and guidelines established by the auto industry.
• County auditors throughout the state use the DOR Motor Vehicle Values manual to establish the fair market value in preparing your motor vehicle tax bill.
• The manual lists each model and make of most available motor vehicles.
• When values are not provided by DOR, then other nationally recognized sources are used.
• The vehicle’s fair market value is multiplied by the assessment ratio set by law to determine the assessed value.
• The assessed value is then multiplied by the millage rate to determine the amount of taxes owed.
• Motor vehicle taxes are the only personal property taxes due a year in advance (in accordance with state law).

2. What is the assessment ratio on motor vehicles in South Carolina?

• An amendment to the South Carolina Constitution, Article X, Section 1(8)(B)(1) reduced the assessment ratio on personal motor vehicles including motorcycles from 10.5% to 6% over six years beginning with the 2002 tax year.
• This reduced assessment ratio applies only to personal automobiles, personal light trucks, and personal motorcycles.
• The laws were changed in 2006, to amend the gross vehicle weight to 11,000 pounds or less and the net vehicle weight to 9,000 lbs or less to qualify for the 6%.
• All medium and heavy trucks classified by the manufacturer are valued at 10.5%.
• All other motor vehicles will continue to be assessed at 10.5%.

3. When are vehicle taxes due?

• Personal property taxes on motor vehicles and recreational vehicles must be paid before your license plates can be renewed.
• Taxes are due throughout the year on a staggered monthly schedule.
• You have 45 days after moving to South Carolina to register your vehicle.
• If you purchased your vehicle through a dealership and did not transfer tags, you have 120 days from the purchase date of the vehicle to pay the property taxes.
• If you live in this state only part of the year and consider another state your home residence, you are still required to register your car in SC if the vehicle will be here for 150 days or more.

For More Information

For more information, contact the nearest office of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); contact the Kingstree DMV by phone 843-354-9217.

4. How do I get a high-mileage adjustment?

• The amount of the high-mileage adjustment is based on a table provided by the SC Department of Revenue.
• Odometer readings are subject to visual inspection by Auditor’s Staff.
• You may mail, fax, or personally present your appeal to the Auditor’s office.
  • If you file an appeal, your appeal does not extend the due date.
  • You should file the appeal early in the month so that you can receive a revised tax bill in time to pay it and renew your registration prior to the expiration of your tag decal.
• Once your renewal date has expired, appeals for high mileage cannot be granted for that year’s taxes (in accordance with state law).
• If your vehicle is over 15 years old, it does not qualify for the high mileage reduction. The value is already at a minimum charge.
• If you do not receive a tax bill at least 45 days before your vehicle tag renewal is due, contact the Auditor’s office immediately.

5. When I bought my car, the dealership told me they would take care of the taxes and tags. Why did you send me a tax bill?

The dealership was referring to the state sales tax and the license plate; the bill you received from the County Auditor is for the personal property tax due on the vehicle. Taxes are due 120 days from the purchase date.

If you do not pay the taxes due by the due date, a notice will be sent to the Department of Motor Vehicles to suspend your driver’s license. If your driver’s license is suspended for non-payment of property taxes and you also hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), it will also be affected by the suspension.

If you receive a property tax bill and you no longer own the vehicle, contact the Auditor’s office immediately concerning a possible proration of taxes owed.

6. I received a tax bill on a motor vehicle that I have sold. What do I need to do?

• When you sell or dispose of a vehicle, you are required to surrender the license plate within 30 days of sale to a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Office.
  • If you surrendered the license plate to DMV, you may request a refund from the Auditor’s office for the unused months remaining on the registration.
• If you transferred the license plate to a new vehicle, refer to the FAQ regarding transferring license plates.
• If you are transferring your vehicle license plate within the last 90 days of the expiration date, you may have problems with the renewal unless all paperwork has been processed timely with DMV.
• Prior to transferring the license plate to your new vehicle, you should have a new registration decal on the license plate.

7. If I want to transfer my license plate to a replacement vehicle, what do I need to do?

• Take the registration of your previous vehicle and the Bill of Sale for your replacement vehicle to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and register your replacement vehicle and perform the transfer.
  • You will not need to pay taxes on the replacement vehicle until the anniversary of the license plate/registration renewal month.
• Legislation was passed requiring the Department of Motor Vehicle to develop a system that would prevent customers from transferring a license plate to a vehicle after the first time without first paying the property taxes.
  • This legislation was effective beginning January 1, 2006.
  • See State Appropriations 2007-2008 DMV Proviso 36A.7 for more details.

8. If I move out of this state, what should I do with my South Carolina license plate?

• After you have registered your vehicle in your new state of legal residence, mail or bring your South Carolina plate and registration to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• The DMV will send or give you form 5051; the Auditor’s Office needs DMV form 5051 and proof of registration in your new state of residence to issue any eligible refunds.
• Refund will be processed for the unused months if the taxes have been paid.

9. How do I apply for an active-duty military exemption for my vehicle(s)?

• If your home of record is not South Carolina, you do not have to pay personal property taxes on your motor vehicles, or other personal property, while stationed in this state.
• The personal property must be registered in the service member’s name to qualify for 100% exemption (if ownership is joint but not with spouse, only 50% of the exemption will apply).
• This exemption does not include county property taxes on real estate.
• The service member can submit their latest Leave and Earnings Statement to the Auditor’s office along with copy of military ID.
  • You can mail, fax or deliver the form.
• This exemption is valid for one year, and you will need to reapply every year.

10. How do I apply for the senior citizen discount?

There is no senior citizen discount on motor vehicle taxes.

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does offer discounts on the semi-annual license renewal fee for persons 64 years of age or older. Visit the DMV website to check registration fees. For those 64 years of age, the fee is $22 for passenger vehicles every two years instead of the regular $24, and for those who are 65 or older, the reduced fee is $20 every two years for passenger vehicles (instead of $24), $30 for trucks with gross vehicle weight of 6000 pounds or less.

Even though vehicle registration is renewed only every other year, it should be noted that county personal property taxes are due every year.

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1. What items require the payment of personal property tax?

In South Carolina, personal property encompasses:

• Aircraft
• Motor vehicles
• Recreational vehicles
• Watercraft (including boats, motors, and personal recreational vehicles like wave runners and jet skis, etc.)

Personal property tax also applies to equipment, furniture, fixtures and machinery primarily used by businesses.

2. When are personal property taxes due?

With the exception of motor vehicles, personal property taxes must be paid by January 15 of the following year, unless that day falls on a county holiday or weekend.

Personal property taxes on motor vehicles and recreational vehicles are due throughout the year on a staggered monthly schedule and must be paid before your license plates can be renewed.

3. How is the value of personal watercraft/aircraft determined?

Values of personal property are kept current through annual updates by the SC Department of Revenue and the SC Department of Natural Resources.

4. I sold the personal property you have billed me for. What do I do with this bill?

If you owned the property on December 31, preceding the current tax year, you are responsible for the taxes for that entire year; for example, if you owned a boat on December 31, 2010, you are responsible for paying the taxes by January 15, 2012. Personal property is taxed in arrears (except for motor vehicles).

If you purchase personal property on or after January 1, you will not have to pay county taxes on it until January of the following year.

This information does not apply to motor vehicles.

5. Can I appeal the value on my boat or airplane?

Yes, you have until the taxes are due to appeal in writing to the Auditor’s office. It is important that you contact SC Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and call the Auditor’s office when you receive a tax bill, if after December 31st of the previous year, you have junked, abandoned, destroyed, or sold the water craft. If the property taxes are unpaid, the taxes follow the watercraft and become the responsibility of the new owner, if you try to sell the watercraft.

Someone from the Auditor’s office will review your personal property appeal or discuss other status of the watercraft.

The appeal of the value of the boat or airplane does not extend the due date of the taxes.

6. If I own a business or residential rental property, how are taxes determined on associated personal property?

Owners of businesses using equipment, furniture, fixtures or machinery are required to file an annual personal property tax return with the Williamsburg County Auditor. If you have a business and do not file the form PT-100 with the SC. Department of Revenue, then you are required to file with the County Auditor.

7. When are business-related personal property tax returns due?

• Returns must be filed by April 30 of each year or on or before the last day of the fourth month after the close of the accounting period regularly employed by the taxpayer, for income tax purposes.
• Currently, there are no provisions in the law to allow for an extension of filing returns.
• As with other forms of personal property (except motor vehicles), taxes are levied in arrears.
• If you owned the property on December 31 of the tax year, you are responsible for the taxes for that entire year.
• If you purchase personal property on or after January 1, you will not have to pay property taxes on it until January of the following year.

8. What happens if I don't file my business-related personal property tax return on time?

The Auditor is required by law to estimate all accounts in which a return was not filed.

Estimates may be higher than the original filed amount.

9. Are all boats & motors taxable?

Boats or outboard motors with a fair market value of $500 or less are not taxable.

10. Are boat trailers taxable?

No, not in South Carolina.

11. I want to buy a watercraft, what are the steps to do so for property tax purposes?

First, take the title numbers and check with the county in which the owner lives to make sure all back taxes are paid. If the taxes are unpaid, in accordance with SC. law, the taxes follow the watercraft and become the responsibility of the new owner.

Section 50-23-295

1. A certificate of title to watercraft or an outboard motor may not be transferred if the department has notice that property taxes for property tax years beginning after 1999, are owed on the watercraft or outboard motor. 
2. A person who knowingly sells a watercraft for which he owes unpaid and outstanding property taxes, or on which he knows there is a property tax lien, is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction, must be fined not more than one thousand dollars and imprisoned not more than thirty days.

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1. What is the Homestead Exemption Program?

In 2007 the SC Legislature passed legislation that completely exempts from your tax bill all taxes levied for school operating purposes on the value of your legal residence. The Homestead Exemption credit continues to completely exempt the value of $50,000 for all purposes except for school operating purposes (already exempted by the new 2007 legislation).

This program is often confused with the Application for Special Assessment as Legal Residence (4%) which is processed by the Tax Assessor’s Office. The Homestead Exemption and the Legal Residence Special Assessment are two separate programs and must be made with two different applications.

2. Do I qualify for the Homestead Exemption Program?

Qualifying Statements

If statements 1, 2, and 3 are true, you are qualified to receive the Homestead Exemption:

1. I hold complete fee simple title or life estate to my primary residence.
2. As of December 31, preceding the tax year of the exemption, I
   • Was a legal resident of South Carolina for one year
3. As of December 31, preceding the tax year of the exemption, I

• Was 65 years of age, or
• Was declared totally and permanently disabled by a state or federal agency having the authority to make such a declaration, or
• Was legally blind as certified by a licensed ophthalmologist.

Surviving Spouse Benefit

The surviving spouse of a qualified or potentially qualified recipient may also receive the benefit if:

• You are the surviving spouse of a qualified Homestead recipient
• You are the surviving spouse of a person who was not otherwise qualified for the Homestead Exemption but failed to make application in the year that they would have received the exemption at the time of his/her death.
  • And, if you remarry, you would not qualify for the surviving spouse benefit for the Homestead Exemption.

3. When can I apply for the Homestead Exemption on my primary residence?

The Williamsburg County Auditor’s Office may accept applications during the following periods:

• Application Period
  • The year after you turned 65 or classified 100% disabled or legally blind, apply between April 1st and August 15th to receive the exemption on property tax bill mailed in the fall.
• Post-application Period
  • Apply between July 16th and before the first penalty date of the tax year that the exemption can first be claimed. If you did not file during the application period, you must do so during the next tax year by that period’s first penalty date, January 15th.
  • If you apply during the post-application period and you qualify, you may be eligible for a refund for the preceding year.

4. Where do I apply for the Homestead Exemption Program?

You may apply for the Homestead Exemption at the Williamsburg County Auditor’s office. If you are unable to go to the Auditor’s office, an agent can make an application on your behalf.

For more information, contact the Auditor’s Office.

5. What documents are needed to apply for a Homestead Exemption?

Proof of your eligibility is required. This may entail a number of documents, depending on why you are eligible:

• If you are applying due to age, bring your birth certificate or Medicare card, and your South Carolina Driver’s License.
• If you are applying due to disability, you will need to present documentation from the state or federal agency certifying the disability and your South Carolina Driver’s License or South Carolina Identification.
• If you are applying due to blindness, you will need to present documentation from a licensed ophthalmologist and your photo identification.
• A copy of your Social Security Card is requested.
• If the property is owned jointly, identification for on the co-owner is requested.

6. Do I need to reapply annually?

No. It is not necessary to reapply annually, except when there is a change of ownership as a result of death or a change in occupancy.

7. When is it necessary to reapply?

It is necessary to reapply when one of the following occurs:

• Change in disability status
• Change in ownership
• Rental of your home
• Remarriage of the surviving spouse

8. What is the benefit?

How the Homestead Exemption Program Can Reduce Your Property Tax Bill

Example of a tax bill with credits for school operations (school tax credit savings) and homestead exemption:

• Value of Home = $62,500
• Assessment ratio for Legal Residence (4%): $62.500 × 0.04 = $2,500
• Total assessed value = $2,500
• Assessed value times total Millage for all purposes (285 mills): $2,500 × 0.285
• Total Taxes due before any credits = $712.50

New school tax credit savings:

• $62,500 × 0.04 × 150 mills school operations = ($375)

Homestead exemption credit:

• $50,000 × 0.04 × 135 mills
• (285 total - 150 school operating) = ($270)

Total tax bill with both credits: $712.50 - $375 - $270 = $67.50

Example Only

This is an example and may not apply the same benefit for your property.

This example does not include any credit for the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST).

9. Is there other important information I may need, or someone I can contact for assistance or questions?

Other Important Information

If your deed is in your name and your spouse’s name, you up to the full limit of the exemption as long as one of you meet the eligibility requirements. If your deed is in your name and someone other than your spouse’s name, you will only get a portion of the exemption equal to the amount of interest you have in the property as listed on your deed.

Assistance

The Williamsburg County Auditor’s Staff will answer any questions regarding eligibility status and application procedures. Please call 843-355-9321, ext. 5600 with any questions regarding the Homestead Exemption Program.

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1. How is the SC Department of Revenue involved in the exemption process?

The SC Department of Revenue certifies exemptions for real estate to the County Tax Assessor and exemptions for vehicles to the County Auditor.

To access the forms and instructions for determining exemption eligibility or applications for exemption (Form PT-401 and Form PT-401-I), visit the Department of Revenue website.

2. What other property tax exemptions are available for the disabled?

Disability Exemption

All disability exemptions from property taxes are listed in Section B of the Department of Revenue’s Form PT-401-I (Application for Exemptions Instructions). These instructions are from SC Code of Laws Section 12-37-220, General Exemptions from Taxes. The Application for Exemption Form PT-401 must be submitted to the Department of Revenue and a copy of the approval given to the County Auditor for the exemption of property taxes.

Guardian Motor Vehicles

One personal motor vehicle owned or leased by a legal guardian of a minor who is blind or required to use a wheelchair when the vehicle is used to transport the minor. The following must accompany the application/have copies provided:

• Vehicle(s) registration card
• Bill of sale or title
• Statement from physician certifying the minor child is blind or required to use a wheelchair with the effective date
• Copy of the original birth certificate showing parents name or court documentation of legal guardianship

3. Are there any exemptions for active duty or retired military?

Military Exemption

You may qualify for military exemption.

All military exemptions from property taxes are listed in Section B of the Department of Revenue’s Form General Exemptions from Taxes. The Application for Exemption (Form PT-401) must be submitted to the Department of Revenue and a copy of the approval given to the County Auditor for the exemption of property taxes.

For More Information

If you need more information, there is a Department of Revenue Office in Columbia; please contact them by phone at 803-898-5000.

4. What property is included in the Active Duty Military Exemption and how do I apply?

• If your home of record is not South Carolina, you do not have to pay personal property taxes on property that you own while permanently stationed in this state.
• This exemption does not include county taxes on real property.
• The exemption covers:
  • Aircraft
  • Boats and outboard motors
  • Campers
  • Mobile homes (occupied by the owner)
  • Motor homes
  • Motor vehicles (including trucks)
  • Personal recreational watercraft (like wave-runners and jet-skis)
• The property must be singularly titled in the name of the military service member in order to qualify for a 100% exemption.
  • Check with your County Auditor for the percentage of exemption, if the property is registered in more than one name.
• If there is a non-military co-owner, only the percentage of ownership will be applied for the military exemption.
• In order for your mobile home to qualify, it must be the service member’s primary residence.
• To obtain the exemption, the service member can submit the current (period covered is current or two months prior) Leave and Earnings Statement along with a copy of military ID and submit it to the Williamsburg County Auditor’s Office.
• The documents can be submitted by mail, fax, or in person.
  • For more information on contacting or visiting the office, view the Auditor’s Office page.
• The exemption is valid for only one tax year, so it will be necessary to reapply each year.

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1. How does the property tax system work?

In simplified terms, there are three elements to South Carolina’s property tax system:

• Assessment ratio
• Market value
• Tax rate

The tax rate is generally reflected in "mills," or "millage rate." A tax mill represents a tax liability of one penny per $1 of assessed value; for example, a tax rate of 300 mills translates to $0.30 tax per $1 of assessed value. 

This is true for both real estate and personal property.

2. What do you mean by assessment ratio?

An assessment is the market value of a piece of property on a certain date, multiplied by the assessment ratio which applies to that piece of property, e.g., a 4% assessment ratio for an owner-occupied house.

3. If I mail my tax payment, what is the last date it can be postmarked before being considered late?

It must be postmarked no later than the due date to avoid penalty.

If the due date falls on a weekend or a county holiday, the due date is extended to the next business day afterwards.

4. Whom do I complain to about high taxes?

• Taxes are set by the governing body/bodies where the property is located.
• County Council, School Boards, and the applicable city council and/or special purpose district determine how much money must be collected to fund their budgets and the tax rate necessary to meet their budget.
• Property taxes make up only a portion of the total amount of revenue needed to fund the budget.
• Fees, state collected revenues and other sources of income make up the remainder.

5. What is the value of a mill and does it change?

The value of a mill is always one tenth of a cent, or one thousandth of a dollar; for example, a tax rate of 300 mills translates to $0.30 tax per $1 of assessed value.

This is true for all types of property.

6. How do I apply for a military exemption on my mobile home?

If your home of record is not South Carolina, you do not have to pay personal property taxes while permanently stationed in this state.

In order for your mobile home to qualify, it must be your primary residence. It must also be registered and titled in the service member’s name to qualify for 100% exemption (if joint ownership is not with a spouse 50% of the exemption will apply).

This exemption does not include county taxes on real property. To obtain the exemption, you can submit your latest Leave and Earnings Statement and photocopy of current military ID to the Auditor’s office. You can mail, fax or hand-deliver these documents to the Auditor’s Office to receive the exemption. This exemption is valid for one year, and you will need to reapply every year.

For More Information

For more information or to submit your documentation, contact the Auditor’s Office.

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1. What is the SC Tax Relief/Legal Residence Discount? Who qualifies? How do I know whether I have it?

Property owners can apply for the SC Tax Relief/Legal Residence Discount for their one legal residence in the state of South Carolina. This means that the qualifying property’s market value would be assessed at a ratio of 4% rather than 6% to obtain the property’s assessment (assessed value) for tax purposes.

Even on a "home place" some of the property may not qualify, for example:

• Acreage above five acres
• Commercial property
• Property receiving another discount, such as agriculture use
• Rental homes
• Second homes

You can look at the information in the upper right hand of your tax bill to see whether the billed property has Legal Residence. The property tax notice you received will have an assessment of 4% on the owner occupied line of the tax notice.

Assessor’s Office

The Assessor’s Office has the forms that you can pick up, fill out and submit through their office; for more information, contact the Assessor’s Office. 

2. I own a motor home. Can it qualify as my residence?

A motor home that:

• Is used as a primary or secondary residence; and
• Is eligible for the mortgage interest deduction on a federal tax return; and
• Has a bathroom, sleeping and cooking facilities, is eligible to be taxed as a residence. (Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Publication 936 - Qualified Home Section)
• However, the taxes are still due in advance, as for personal property, and to be taxed a residence, an application must be made with the County Auditor.

3. I own a boat or watercraft. Can it qualify as my residence?

A boat or watercraft that:

• Is used as a primary or secondary residence; and
• Is eligible for the mortgage interest deduction on a federal tax return; and
• Has a bathroom, sleeping and cooking facilities, is eligible to be taxed as a residence. (Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Publication 936 - Qualified Home Section)

4. I own a trailer used for camping and recreational travel that is pulled by a motor vehicle. Can it qualify as my residence?

A trailer (camper) that is pulled by a motor vehicle that:

• Is used as a primary or secondary residence; and
• Is eligible for the mortgage interest deduction on a federal tax return; and
• Has a bathroom, sleeping and cooking facilities, is eligible to be taxed as a residence. (Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Publication 936 - Qualified Home Section) However, the taxes are still due in advance, as for personal property, and to be taxed as a residence an application must be made with the County Auditor.

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1. What are the tipping fees at the landfill?

• Class II Landfill (CDL) is $35 per ton
• Special Waste is $50 per ton with prior approval per the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control
• The fees are applied to business, commercial, and industry waste disposal.
  • Citizens are not charged a fee

2. What are the future plans for solid waste disposal for the landfill?

We encourage all citizens or interest parties to please attend County Council meetings and/or call for questions.

For more information, please call the County Supervisor Office at 843-355-9321.

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1. How long does the recruitment process take?

Sometimes, it may be several weeks or longer between steps in the recruitment process. This ensures fair evaluation and allows us to find the best person for the job. The time and effort are worth it; a job may be waiting for you!

2. What if I am not selected or not interviewed?

Our objective is to hire the best person for the job, so competition is keen. Each job opening generates many applications. Each hiring manager reviews their applicants for job knowledge and skill sets to find the best match for their department. We encourage you to continue to apply for positions for which you are qualified. 

We appreciate your patience and interest in our jobs.

3. What should I do if I am called in for an interview?

Be sure to know:

• Time and place you should appear for the interview
• Name of the person who contacted you
• Phone number (important if you can’t make it or an emergency occurs)
• The position for which you are being considered

4. What are the steps of the selection process?

The steps of the selection process vary depending on the position. For example, an applicant screening and selection interview may be all that is required. On the other hand, applicants may be required to pass a written exam or a panel interview. Decisions about the selection process are made by the hiring manager and Personnel when the position opens.

5. How do I contact the hiring manager regarding the position for which I am applying?

We receive a large volume of applications. If you are selected for an interview, Personnel or the hiring department head will contact you. If you have specific details you would like to share with Personnel, you may want to attach a cover letter communicating that information.

6. What should I do if my address or phone number change?

Please send Personnel a letter, email, or fax with your name and new contact information to be placed with your application. If we are unable to contact you because you have moved or changed your phone number, your name will be withdrawn from consideration.

7. If I want to apply for more than one job, do I have to submit more than one application?

Yes. You must submit a separate application for each job. You may apply for as many jobs as you wish as long as the positions are currently open.

8. Can I apply for the same position more than once?

You only need to apply for each position once. As soon as we receive your application, Personnel manager will have access to your information. You will be contacted if selected for an interview.

9. May I submit my resume without a completing a County Employment Application?

Williamsburg County application is required for each position that you are interested in applying for and a resume can be attached to supplement the application, but not as a replacement.

10. What if the job opportunities section has no openings?

If this section has no openings listed it means we are not recruiting for any position at this time.

11. How will I know what jobs I’m qualified for and when to apply?

When a position becomes available for recruitment, the County will issues a job announcement for the position. This announcement contains a brief job description, statement of minimum training and experience, and a description of any special qualifications that may be required, e.g. licenses, certifications.

Opening and closing dates appear on every job announcement. Be certain your application is received by the Personnel Department by 5 pm on the closing date. Depending on the number of applications received the closing date may be extended and the job announcement will read open until filled.

12. How do I get information about job openings with the County?

Job openings are updated continuously. Just visit our Job Opportunities page to see available positions, or visit the South Carolina Employment Security Commission at:
590 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Kingstree SC 29556

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1. How do I get a driveway tile?

Call the Public Works office at 843-355-8900 and put in an application over the phone.

2. When will my road be worked?

All County roads are maintained on a regular schedule; for more information contact the Public Works office at 843-355-8900.

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1. How can I purchase properties seized for non-payment of taxes?

Attend the tax sales annually. The dates of delinquent tax sales are advertised in local newspapers before each sale.

2. If I pay someone else’s delinquent tax bill, does the property become mine?

No. Anyone can pay a tax bill. However, payment of someone else’s tax bill does not give one claim to the property.

3. If my property is sold at the delinquent tax sale, can I get it back?

When real property/mobile homes are sold at a delinquent tax sale, the defaulting taxpayer has one year from the date of the sale to redeem the property. 

In order to redeem property before it is conveyed to a new owner, the defaulting taxpayer must pay the redemption amount. This consists of the taxes, penalties, plus interest on the bid amount (the amount for which the property was sold at the tax sale).

4. Do I need to register for the sale and is there a fee for this?

Yes, you must register for the sale. No, there is not a fee.

5. What methods of payment are accepted?

All bids must be paid in cash or certified funds before the close of business day.

6. How much interest can I earn?

The interest due to the bidder may not exceed the opening bid amount submitted on behalf of the Forfeited Land Commission (FLC), which is the amount of outstanding tax liability due on the property. Interest increases by 3% each quarter of the redemption year for a maximum of 12% possible interest earned.

7. When can you void a tax sale?

If there is a failure to perform any action necessary to pass title, the Tax Collector may void a tax sale any time before the passing of the tax deed.

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1. How can I register to vote in Williamsburg County?

There are three ways to register to vote in Williamsburg County:

• By mail
• In-person
  • County libraries:
    • Hemingway
    • Kingstree
  • City Halls:
    • Greeleyville
    • Hemingway
    • Kingstree
    • Lane
  • Registration and Election Office:
    126 S Jackson Street
    Kingstree, SC 29556
  • Any public assistance agency (i.e. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Social Services (DSS), etc.)
• Internet
  • You must sign, and mail, fax or email your application to the Voter Registration Office. 

2. What should I do if I register to vote at one of the locations or during a special voter registration drive but never receive a voter registration certification from the Registration Office?

You should contact the local Registration and Election Office to make sure that your application was received and processed. If there is an election scheduled that you want to vote in, you should call no later than 30 days prior to make sure that you are registered prior to the deadline.

3. What if I forget to update my address prior to the election I want to vote in?

• Up to 2 weeks before any election: Update your address and still go to your new precinct to vote a complete ballot.
• 2 weeks through Election Day:
  • Option 1: Go to the Registration and Election Office to update your address and vote a complete ballot.
  • Option 2: Go to your old precinct, complete a change of address form, and vote a limited ballot that will only have Federal, Statewide, and Countywide offices on it (no district races).

4. What if I move from one county to another within South Carolina during the 30 days prior to an election?

You can go to the Registration and Election Office in the county where you currently reside to register to vote.

5. How can I find out what precinct and voting districts I am registered in?

You may inquire at the South Carolina Election Commission website to view your voter record. You can even get driving directions to your precinct from this site.

6. Do I have to register by party in South Carolina?

No, you do not register by party. However, you must choose which political party primary you want to vote in for each election.

7. Does the way I vote in a primary effect the way I must vote in the General Election?

No, you may split your vote in the General Election any way you want.

8. What if I will not be 18 years of age until the date of the General Election?

As long as you will be 18 by the day of the General Election you may register. You are also eligible to vote in the Primary Election that precedes the General Election even if you are 17.

9. I lost my voter registration card, what should I do now?

To get a replacement for a lost voter registration card, please contact your local county board of voter registration. If you can’t manage to get your card replaced, a valid South Carolina driver’s license or a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) state issue ID card can be used as proof of identity at your local precinct.

10. How can I vote if I cannot go to the polls on election day?

You or a member of your immediate family may:

• Call or write the Registration and Election Office to request that an absentee application be mailed to you. A signed application must be received at the office no later than 4 days prior to the election for a ballot to be mailed.
• You may visit the office in person, complete the application and vote up until 5 pm the day before the election.
• Complete the Absentee Ballot Application

11. Do we have "early voting" in South Carolina?

No, we do not have "early voting" in South Carolina. We have "absentee voting."

12. Who is eligible to vote by absentee ballot?

The following are eligible to vote by absentee ballot:

• Students, their spouses, and dependents residing with them outside the county of residence
• Armed Forces, Merchant Marines, their spouses, and dependents residing with them
• Persons serving with the American Red Cross or with the United Service Organizations (USO) who are attached to and serving with the Armed Forces
• Employment: Those persons who are required by their employment obligations to be absent from their county of residence or at their place of employment in their county of residence on election day during the hours the polls are open and who will be unable to vote in person.
• Persons with physical disabilities
• Governmental employees, their spouses, and dependents residing with them who are out of their county of residence on election day during the hours the polls are open
• Death in the family, or attending funeral within a three day period before the election
• Persons on vacation (who by virtue of vacation plans will be absent from their county of residence and unable to vote in person)
• Poll managers, certified poll watchers, county registration board members and staff, and county election commission members and staff working on election day
• Overseas citizens
• Persons attending sick or physically disabled person
• Persons serving as jurors in state or federal court on election day
• Persons admitted to hospital as an emergency patient on the day of an election or within a four-day period before an election
• Persons sixty-five of age or older
• Persons confined to a jail or pre-trial facility pending disposition of arrest or trial

13. When can I request an absentee ballot?

You may request ballots for every election scheduled during the entire calendar year, anytime after January 1st. You must specify which elections you want absentee applications for.

14. Can I vote if I am convicted of a felony?

You can register again after you have served your entire sentence and probation time. You must provide documentation showing the completion of service.

15. Can I register to vote if I am not a U. S. citizen?

No, you must be a legal citizen of the U.S. to vote.

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1. What are the areas of service?

• Sandridge and Red Road Communities near Kingstree, SC
• Bryans Crossroads, Salters, Greeleyville Crossroads
• Gausetown Road Community from Hemingway Highway (Highway 261) to Wilson Chapel Road, White Oak Community, Martin Luther King Jr. (Highway 377) from Bryans Crossroads, Shaw Corner Road to Thurgood Marshall (Highway 527)
• Indiantown, Nesmith, Morrisvile System including the Morris Corner Community
• Millwood, Bloomingvale, and Piney Forest Area

2. How much does it cost to get water?

• $750 water tap fee
• $50 connection fee
• Total of fees: $800
• A deposit of $75 is required if property not owned by applicant (such as connection being requested by a tenant)

3. How much will I be billed/how much will it be?

Bills are mailed out at the end of the month and are due on the 15th of the following month, and a 10% penalty will be added to the bill if not paid by the 15th of the following month.

The base costs are:

• 0 to 3,000 gallons is $36.75
• Every 1,000 gallons after the first 3,000 is an additional $3.95

4. Do you have any future projects in mind?

• Trio, Earle, and Mouzon Areas
• St. Lawrence-Blakeley (Pending)

Please contact the Water and Sewer Office by calling 843-355-8997 for information on specific areas to be served.

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1. What is a Boil Water Advisory? Is it the same as a Boil Water Notice?

Boil Water Advisory

A Boil Water Advisory (BWA) is a public statement advising customers to boil tap water before consuming it. Advisories are issued when an event has occurred allowing the possibility for the water distribution system to become contaminated. 

An advisory does not mean that the water is contaminated, but rather that it could be contaminated; because the water quality is unknown, customers should assume the water is unsafe to drink and take the appropriate precautions. 

Boil Water Notice

An advisory is different from a Boil Water Notice, which is issued when contamination is confirmed in the water system. During a notice, all customers must boil their water before consuming it or use bottled water.

2. What should I do during a Boil Water Advisory or Notice?

During the Advisory/Notice

You should:

• Boil tap water vigorously for at least one full minute prior to using it for drinking or cooking (the minute starts when the water begins to bubble). This includes water used for:
  • Brushing teeth
  • Making ice
  • Washing raw foods
  • Preparation of drinks
  • Water for pets
• Boiling removes harmful bacteria in the water that may cause illness. 
• Wait for the water to cool before using it, or store it in the refrigerator in a clean container.
• Throw away ice made during the time the advisory or notice was issued, as freezing does not kill bacteria.

Afterward

After an advisory or notice has been lifted (if contamination of the water system did occur), you should flush household pipes, ice makers, water fountains, etc. prior to using for drinking or cooking. Flushing simply means letting the water run to ensure that no contaminated water remains in your pipes. 

Follow the these guidelines for flushing:

• Run all cold water faucets in your home for one minute
• To flush automatic ice makers, make three batches of ice and discard
• Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle
• Run drinking water fountains for one minute
• Run water coolers with direct water connections for five minutes.

3. Do I still need to boil my water if I have a filter system on my faucet or refrigerator?

Most point-of-use (POU) filters are designed to improve the aesthetics of water (improve taste and odor), not remove harmful bacteria.

You can learn about the capability of your filter by contacting the manufacturer, or NSF International, an independent testing group located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. To reach NSF International, call 800-673-8010 or visit the NSF International website for more information.

If in doubt, you should boil your water or use bottled water even if you have a filtering system.

4. Is the water safe for washing dishes, laundry, and bathing?

• The water is safe for washing dishes, but you should use hot, soapy water (you may add one tablespoon of bleach per gallon as a precaution) and rinse dishes in boiled water. 
• There are no restrictions on doing laundry. 
• The water is also safe for bathing during an advisory or notice.
  • If the water is contaminated by a chemical that will cause harm on contact, the Williamsburg County Water Authority will issue a "Do Not Use Notice", meaning the water should not be used for bathing.

5. How long must a Boil Water Advisory or Notice be in effect?

An advisory or notice will remain in effect until test samples show the water is safe to drink. Testing for bacteria requires 18 to 24 hours to complete, depending on the type of test used. The samples are incubated to actually grown bacteria, if any are present. As a result, advisories and notices will be in effect for at least 18 to 24 hours.

6. What are total coliform bacteria?

Total coliform bacteria are a collection of microorganisms that live in large numbers in the intestines of humans and animals, as well as in most soils and surface water. A sub-group of these microorganisms is the fecal coliform bacteria, the most common member being E. coli. These bacteria occur naturally in lakes and streams, but indicate that the water is contaminated with human or animal waste and therefore may pose a health risk to people who drink it. 

The water treatment process removes these bacteria from the water, but events such as a water main break or a loss of pressure in the water distribution system may allow these bacteria to enter water lines through cracks in pipes or back-siphoning from a residential plumbing system. Boiling water vigorously for one minute will kill these bacteria and make water safe to drink.

7. How will I be notified if my home/business is affected by an advisory or notice?

By regulation, Williamsburg County Water Authority must follow certain public notification efforts, which include dissemination to media outlets, door-to-door notification, and any other means to notify water users.

8. Under what circumstances will Williamsburg County Water and Sewer issue a Boil Water Advisory or Notice?

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC or DHEC), through the State Primary Drinking Water Regulation (R. 61-58), regulates water utilities and specifies instances when an advisory or notice must be issued.

An advisory must be issued in the following instances:

• If untreated water reaches the distribution system
• Loss of pressure in the entire distribution system or a significant portion of the system
• A water main break where dirt and debris have entered the distribution piping
• Prior to a hurricane making landfall (in this situation, the advisory would be issued by DHEC)

A Boil Water Notice must be issued under the following circumstances:

• When test samples indicate the presence of total coliform bacteria

These situations are not the only times when an advisory or notice should be issued. Specific situations, upon consultation with DHEC, may also require an advisory or notice.

9. Why must the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) issue a Boil Water Advisory in preparation for a hurricane?

State drinking water regulations require DHEC to issue a Boil Water Advisory for the affected geographic areas before a Hurricane makes landfall. Because a hurricane may cause damage to the water system that may make the water unsafe to drink, and because the hurricane may disrupt methods of public notification after a storm, the advisory must be issued before the hurricane strikes. 

After the storm, you should stay tuned to radio reports for further instructions. Williamsburg County Water Authority will dispatch crews to begin surveying damage and making repairs immediately after the storm. If sampling shows that the water has been contaminated by bacteria Williamsburg County Water Authority, will issue a Boil Water Notice; if tests show the water is safe to drink, Williamsburg County Water Authority will lift the advisory.

10. How will I know when the advisory or notice has been lifted?

Williamsburg County Water Authority will issue a repeal of the advisory or notice when the water is safe to drink; stay tuned to radio and television stations for updates. Williamsburg County Water Authority will also post information on this website and post an automated message on the Customer Service phone menu system, which can be access by dialing 843-355-8997.

11. Since an advisory is a precautionary measure, will I get sick if I drink the water? What if I drank some water before I found out about the advisory?

Until test results show the water is safe to drink, you should not drink the water without boiling it first. During an advisory, chances are, if you are in good health, you will not get sick from drinking the water; however, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems should not drink the water until it is deemed safe to drink. 

Symptoms of illness caused by bacteria in the water may include:

• Cramps
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Nausea, or other symptoms

Please note that these symptoms are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.

12. What are a Do Not Drink Notice and a Do Not Use Notice?

A Do Not Drink Notice will be issued when the water contains a chemical contaminant that cannot be removed by boiling. In this case, bottled water should be used for drinking or cooking.

A Do Not Use Notice will be issued if there is a contaminant in the water that may be inhaled or otherwise harmful on contact.