Storm Recovery Update: Permit Fee Waivers and Debris Removal Progress

Greenwood, S.C. –  Greenwood County Council has once again approved waiving building permit fees for repairs related to damage caused by Hurricane Helene. This decision aims to ease the financial burden on residents as they continue recovery efforts.

Residents requiring a permit for Hurricane Helene-related repairs must add their name to the County’s eligibility list by March 7, 2025. Once approved, petitioners will have until May 6, 2025, to apply for the appropriate permit to repair or replace hurricane-related damage or debris. After issuance, permit holders will have 180 calendar days to complete the permitted work, subject to any extensions approved by the Building Inspection and Permitting Department.

Additionally, individuals who paid a permit fee between December 1, 2024, and February 5, 2025, for Helene-related repairs may be eligible for a refund. Those wishing to apply for a fee waiver or request a refund can do so on the Greenwood County website by completing a Permit Relief Application or in person at 1025 Deadfall Rd E, Greenwood, SC 29649. For questions concerning permit relief, call the Building Inspection and Permitting Department at (864) 942-8424.

Debris Removal Update

Hurricane Helene debris collection efforts continue throughout Greenwood County. The County has partnered with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to complete debris pickup along state and county-maintained roads. Greenwood County has already completed debris collection on all privately maintained roads.

SCDOT estimates that 75-80% of debris has been collected and anticipates finishing all remaining debris collection by the end of February 2025. County residents do not need to report remaining debris at this time, as county staff are systematically working through areas and reporting outstanding piles directly to SCDOT. Once SCDOT completes debris removal, Greenwood County will resume its regular leaf and limb collection services. Additionally, Convenience Centers are accepting non-hurricane vegetative debris.