FAQs • Beaufort SC • CivicEngage

1. What is the Boundary Street Redevelopment Corridor project, and why is it needed?

Building a better Beaufort is the goal of a $30 million investment in Boundary Street to create a safer and more scenic entry to the city, provide better commercial and retail locations, and improve traffic conditions.

A financial impact analysis indicates the local economy will see $5 in benefits for every $1 invested in the Boundary Street Redevelopment District.

The project includes:

Creating commercial/retail nodes
Expanding the Spanish Moss Trail in partnership with Beaufort County
Providing alternate ways for people to reach commercial/retail locations, including bike and walking paths, improving efficiency
Realigning the intersection of South Carolina (SC) 170 and Boundary Street to make it safer and to help traffic flow more smoothly
Retrofitting, re-investing, and redeveloping neglected areas of the corridor

The work is part of a larger effort to reconfigure Beaufort from near the Marine Corps Air Station to annexed areas of Lady’s Island, thus creating a unified and connected neighborhood designed for people, not just cars.

2. What areas of Boundary Street will be affected?

The Streetscape project will go from Neil Road to Greenlawn Drive. The utility work will extend to Ribaut Road. There will be no work done east of Ribaut Road.

The streetscape for the area between Greenlawn Drive and Ribaut Road will be done in the future when the City can secure funding.

3. When will work start, and how long will it take?: Construction started in early January 2016. The entire project, approximately 1.5 miles including side road improvements, is expected to be substantially complete in 2018.

4. What kind of traffic problems and delays should we expect?

Project management will work to keep traffic disruptions to a minimum throughout this project, but some delays are inevitable. For daily updates, visit the Boundary Street Update page. Local media will be asked to share regular updates and announcements about lane closures or traffic pattern changes.

It is anticipated that a significant portion of the necessary work will occur at night to minimize traffic disruptions. The current lane-closure rules are:

During daytime work, lanes may be shifted, but four lanes of traffic will be open
Lanes can be closed only at night, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Monday through Friday
On Sundays, lanes can be closed between 1 p.m. and 6 a.m. Monday
Other lane closures and detours will be submitted to the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) on an as-needed basis and are anticipated only in extreme conditions or unforeseen circumstances
On Saturdays, South Carolina Department of Transportation rules allow lane closures at any time

To minimize impact on business along the construction path, it will be a priority for contractors to maintain access to driveways and store entrances throughout the project. Please pay extra attention when driving through the construction zone.

5. Will Boundary Street be reduced to two lanes? How will the design of Boundary Street be changed?

Current Street

Currently, US 21/Boundary Street consists of two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction separated by a single 15-foot two-way left turn lane. The roadway serves approximately 40,000 vehicles per day.

Updated Street

The updated and improved US 21/Boundary Street will consist of two 11-foot travel lanes in each direction separated by a 17-foot raised landscaped median with a sidewalk on the north shoulder and 10-foot multi-use path on the south shoulder.

Bottom Line

There will still be a total of four traffic lanes on Boundary Street, two in each direction. In an emergency, three, or even all four of the lanes, can be reconfigured to help people evacuate the area.

6. What will be the speed limits on Boundary Street and the Parallel Road?: During construction, the speed limit will be reduced to 35 miles per hour for the safety of workers. Speeding fines may be increased, and enforcement is needed to ensure the safety of work crews in the work zone. Once constructions is over, the speed limit is expected to return to 40 miles per hour.

7. Isn’t the landscaped median a waste of space that could be used for more lanes of traffic?

Safety Research

Numerous studies have shown roadways with divided medians to be significantly safer than roadways with center turn lanes. Publications such as the Highway Safety Manual (American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials) and the Access Management Manual (Transportation Research Board) cover these safety benefits in depth.

Plan Benefits

The median breaks are located to utilize the existing and proposed street network and parallel streets to form a complete network of interconnected blocks and streets. This plan is designed to improve traffic flow from Boundary Street to the various street alternatives.

Improving safety is a key point for this project. Adding the landscaped medians will make Boundary Street safer for drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, a side benefit is that it creates a more visually pleasing entrance to City of Beaufort and its National Historic Landmark District.

Cost

Landscaping will be designed to minimize maintenance costs.

8. Why are improvements needed on Polk Street?: A key vision for the Boundary Street Corridor is a network of walkable routes to be built north of Boundary Street. Along wider sections of Polk, there will be parallel parking on both sides of the street, narrowing to parking on only one side (the northern side) as the road moves closer to Ribaut Road. Sidewalks will be built.

9. How will the new Boundary Street design affect truck and emergency vehicles?

In February 2012, a video classification of traffic was conducted and found that 98% of vehicles traveling the Boundary Street Corridor were passenger vehicles, 1.5% were single unit trucks, and less than 1% were combination tractor-trailers. The improvements for Boundary Street and South Carolina (SC) 170 are designed to accommodate single unit trucks and intermediate tractor trailers.

Emergency Vehicles & Evacuation Scenarios

Periodic breaks in landscaping will allow for median crossings by emergency vehicles. Also, emergency responders will develop response plans that take into account the geometry of the improved road. The Beaufort Fire Department and Police headquarters are located near the intersection of Ribaut Road and Boundary Street, putting them extremely close to the affected portions of Boundary Street.

Traffic signals will include an emergency vehicle pre-emption system to improve response times, reduce potential for crashes and minimize obstructions to emergency vehicles along the corridor. This system coordinates green lights for responding emergency vehicles. Opposing and conflicting traffic lanes are given red lights.

In addition to these design features, the parallel road and system of gridded streets will be useful for emergency vehicle access. Also, the raised median doesn’t preclude the use of all four lanes for outbound traffic in times of evacuation.

10. What are the economic benefits expected from this project, especially to the business along Boundary Street?

The anticipated economic benefits to business owners along the improved section of Boundary Street Include:

A more attractive and landscaped roadway, which improves the likelihood of shoppers choosing to visit the Boundary Street shops and restaurants
Removal of overhead utility lines will make it safer for drivers to enter and exit businesses and will make the area much more visually attractive
Safer access to their business, making their location more appealing to drivers
Smoother traffic flow at key intersections

Analysts expect a $5 benefit for every $1 invested in the Boundary Street Redevelopment District.

11. Where’s the money coming from for this project?

The total estimated cost to develop and build this important safety project is about $32 million. The Boundary Street Redevelopment Corridor project budget is funded through three sources:

The Beaufort County one cent sales tax of $11.346 million
The City of Beaufort's Tax increment financing (TIF) II estimated contribution of about $8.223 million
A Federal Highway Administration Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant of $12.63 million

The Boundary Street Redevelopment Corridor plans caught eyes at the federal level in 2011 as Beaufort earned the 16th largest Department of Transportation (DOT) grant that year and the largest in South Carolina history. Of the 848 applications for the TIGER III grant in 2011, only 48 were awarded funding; about 6% of the total applications received.

12. Are there any environmental impacts to the construction or overall design?

As a part of the National Environmental Policy Act, studies were conducted to assess for the possible effects of this project on the social, cultural, and natural environments. The project may require minimal amounts of bank stabilization along Boundary Street and will include construction of an elevated boardwalk along the marsh line of Battery Creek.

The project won’t result in permanent loss of aquatic function within the marsh or result in any adverse impacts to the natural environment. All necessary environmental certifications and permits will be obtained prior to construction of the project.

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Boundary Street Corridor Improvement Plan - Bid Process

1. Will Disadvantaged Business Enterprises be included in the construction work?: A minimum of 13% of all sub-contracting work will be required to go to South Carolina Department of Transportation-approved Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs).

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Boundary Street Corridor Improvement Plan - Design

1. What are the plans for traffic signals and new intersections?

View a diagram of the planned traffic signals and intersections (PDF). A few high points include:

There will be a designated U-turn lane at Hogarth Street to enable westbound/outgoing traffic to turn around to easily reach businesses such as Sea Eagle Market and others
Traffic signals include a relocating signal at the new intersection of South Carolina (SC) 170, a new signal at Polk Street, an existing signal at Hogarth Street, a new signal at Enmark and Carolina Cove, and the existing signal entering the K-Mart Shopping Center
Traffic signals will be upgraded to include decorative mast arms. Additional upgrades include Traffic Adaptive technologies to improve coordination and traffic flow, emergency vehicle preemption, traffic cameras, and traffic data management system
Traffic signals will include left-turn lanes where necessary and left-turn signals to improve safe access and to minimize the potential for crashes

2. Are roundabouts, also called traffic circles, still part of the plan?

No; the Traffic Study that was conducted as part of the 2009 Boundary Street Improvements Feasibility Study indicated that a roundabout at the South Carolina (SC) 170 and US 21/Boundary Street intersection wouldn’t function adequately due to the high traffic volumes. The intersection will remain under signal control.

A roundabout originally planned for the intersection of Ribaut Road and Boundary has also been postponed.

3. Will all the overhead utility lines be put underground as part of this project?

Yes, for the affected section of Boundary Street, overhead utility lines will be moved below ground.

To improve safety and the appearance of this main entry to Beaufort, utility companies agreed in the Summer of 2014 to move their various lines and cables from overhead poles into an underground “duct bank." This applies to the area between Neil Road and the City Hall/Beaufort County Government Complex at Ribaut Road. The poles will be removed as well.

The end result will be a safer road for drivers, a more attractive entrance to the City of Beaufort, and a lower chance of utility lines being knocked down by storms.

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Building Codes

1. What are the requirements to do work in the City of Beaufort?

Permit Requirements

1. A permit is required for most work / improvements (excluding some interior remodeling including painting, doors, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops, and similar finish work).

2. General Contractor requirements:

A City of Beaufort Business License is required
A South Carolina State License is required for any of the following:
- General Contractor (Residential or Commercial work over $5,000)
- Residential Home Builder (Residential work only)
- Specialty Contractor (Residential work only; not to exceed $4,999.99 or be bonded through SC Labor, Licensing, and Regulations [LLR])

3. Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, and Mechanical Contractors:

A City of Beaufort Business License is required
A South Carolina State License is required for any of the following:
- Specialty Contractor (Residential work only; not to exceed $4,999.99 or be bonded through SC Labor, Licensing, and Regulations [LLR])
- South Carolina Mechanical Contractor's License (Residential or required for all Commercial work)
- For gas work; Mechanical Plumber or Specialty heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor license is required for any gas work (including putting pressure on a gas line)

Work on Your Own Property

A homeowner who owns his own home and lives there and is performing work himself may be issued a permit (after completing a Disclosure Statement and having it recorded at the Register of Deed's office). A homeowner cannot work on a home he owns that is for rent or for sale per Section 40-11-360(5) of the Contractors' Licensing Act.

Work on Someone Else's Property

Any individual performing work on someone else's property is considered a contractor and is required to have the items listed in numbers 1 and 2.

Caution

If a contractor requests that the owner obtain the permit, please don't. If this happens, the contractor may not be properly licensed, bonded, and therefore may not want to be responsible for his work. If you have any doubt as to a contractor's qualifications, please do not hesitate to call 525-7040.

2. As a homeowner can I be my own contractor and do I need a building permit?

Homeowners

As a homeowner, you can be your own contractor, as long as you comply with state law.

But before you do anything, call the Building Codes Office (843-525-7040) to see if a permit is required before beginning any work.

Permits are required if you, as the homeowner, or your authorized agent (your contractor), intend to:

Construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure or
Build, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system

South Carolina state law requires work to be performed by an appropriately licensed contractor. A homeowner may act as their own contractor as long as they are in compliance with South Carolina state law (40-59-260). The state law exception will require that a homeowner’s disclosure statement be completed with the Beaufort County Register of Deed’s office and submitted along with the permit application.

Why are permits needed?

The reason for the permits is a simple one. It is to ensure adequate maintenance of buildings and to adequately protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people and to ensure compliance with the applicable regulations. The codes are ever changing and sometimes a homeowner may not be aware of these changes. We ensure that the work is performed properly and meets standards.

3. What information do I need to provide the City in order to obtain a building permit?

The proper forms must be completed and construction plans provided beofre a permit is issued.
You will need to list any and all sub-contractors that will be required to complete the project.
You will need the total cost of the project (i.e, cost of materials and labor).

4. When must I pull a permit and how long does it take for a building permit to be approved?

A permit is required for most work / improvements. This excludes some interior remodeling including:
- Cabinets
- Countertops
  - Note: If new cabinets or countertops involve changes in electric, plumbing or HVAC, you must get a permit.
- Carpeting
- Doors
- Painting
- Papering
- Tiling
- Similar finish work
Approval time depends on the type of permit you're requesting. Permit applications that require plans to be reviewed will take longer to review before issuing.

5. As a business owner or rental property owner can I be my own general contractor?

Commercial: For non-residential projects, work performed by the owner is limited to nonstructural and non-mechanical portions of the project.
Residential: No. Per Section 40-11-360(5) of the Contractors' Licensing Act states an owner may perform the work himself provided that the structure, or appurtenances, including the improvements, are intended for the owner's sole occupancy or occupancy by his or her family and not intended for sale or rent and the general public does not have access to the structure.

6. How long is a permit good for?: A permit is good for 6 months from the date of issue. An extension may be granted if the owner or contractor can provide a reason why the extension is warranted.

7. How do I file a complaint regarding weeded lots or trashy conditions around a house?

You can put your complaint in writing and submit it in one of the following ways:

Call 843-322-7965
Email: Email the City Codes office
Fax: 843-986-5606
Mail:
Building Codes Department
1911 Boundary Street
Beaufort, SC 29902

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Business License FAQs & Terms

3. Are there any other special requirements for a business license?

1. Who is required to purchase a business license?: Every person involved or intending to become involved in any calling, business, occupation, or profession; in total or in part, within the City of Beaufort is required to pay an annual business license fee based on gross income. Gross income is defined as the total revenue a businesses received or accrues during a calendar year collected or to be collected from business done within the city limits Beaufort. Gross income excludes incomes from business done wholly outside of the City of Beaufort on which a license tax is paid to another municipality.

2. I live in the City of Beaufort, but I work from home, what type of license do I need?: If you live in the City of Beaufort and operate a business from your home, you will need to complete the annual Business License Application and Home Occupation Application (PDF).

Additional requirements include:

All businesses or trades must have copies of any required South Carolina licenses, registrations and/or inspections for your type of business.
All restaurants and prepared food related businesses required Health Department approval.
Retail sales businesses are required to obtain a South Carolina sales tax ID number.
If alcohol, beer, or wine is to be served, State law requires a DOR permit, a copy of which must be presented with the Business License application (PDF).
All food truck vendors will be required to obtain a city food truck permit.
Vending and amusement machine distributors are required to provide a list of machines and their locations. A business license is required, as well as a machine permit for all amusement machines prior to placement.

4. Are commercial and residential contractors required to be licensed in your city?: Yes, all contractors (defined as) a person, licensee, subcontractor, or business entity that enters into an agreement to perform any service to work to provide a certain product in exchange for valuable consideration (includes, but shall not be limited to a subcontractor, contract employee, or a recruiting or staffing entity), who performs work in the city limits of Beaufort is required to obtain a City Business License (PDF) regardless of whether the business is physically located within city limits or outside the city limits. The contractor's business license fees are abased on the contract amount of the job.

5. Are there any other applicable fees?

Fees include:

Hospitality Fee: There is a 2% local fee imposed on the gross proceeds derived from the sale of all prepared food/beverages and is paid by the consumer to the provider. The fees collected are to be remitted to the City of Beaufort monthly by the 20th.
Local Accommodations Fee: There is a 3% local fee imposed on the gross proceeds from the rental of any accommodations within the City. These fees are to be remitted to the City of Beaufort monthly by the 20th.
Group Events Business License is a temporary license for the specific special event.
Food Truck Permit requires business license, inspection, and City decal prior to operation.

6. Does the City of Beaufort have any business license incentives?

The City offers a 3-year graduated rate for New businesses located within the city limits. This includes:

The first year of operation, the business only pays the base fee
The first year renewal, the business will pay 40% of the applicable rate
The second year renewal, the business will pay 60% of the applicable rate
The third and subsequent renewals the business will pay 100% of the application rate

7. Can I transfer my license to someone else?: Business licenses are not transferable from one owner to another. The new owner must apply for a business license in their name.

8. What forms of payment are accepted?

The City of Beaufort accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards.

Payment Portal

With the implementation of our Beaufort Payment Portal, payments can be made conveniently from your computer, tablet, or smart phone.

9. How long is a City Business License valid for?: Except for a Group Event Business Licenses or a Temporary Contractor's License, a company's initial business license is valid from the time they begin operations through December 31st. Every year thereafter, the license requires renewal. Learn more on our City Business License Renewal page.

10. Are there any special requirements for closing my business?: If you have closed your business, or plan on closing your business, please complete the City of Beaufort Business Closure Form.

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Construction-Related Licensing in South Carolina

1. How can I become a licensed home builder?: View the answer on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.

2. How can I become registered as a specialty contractor?: View the answer on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.

3. How can I become a licensed home inspector?: View the answer on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.

4. How can I look up a South Carolina State License?: View the answer on the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website.

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Financial Transparency

1. What are the City of Beaufort's revenue sources?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

2. How does the City divide up the General Fund expenditures among departments?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

3. How much does the City receive from the South Carolina Accommodations Tax?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

4. What are the State Accommodations Tax funds spent on?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

5. How much is the City receiving from charges for services?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

6. How much is the City receiving in general property taxes?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

7. How much does the City receive from other governments; federal, state, and local?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

8. How much does the City spend on retirement and other employee benefits?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

9. How much does the City spend on employee salaries?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

10. Do stormwater utility fees cover the cost to operate and maintain the stormwater system?: See the answer at OpenGov.com.

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Fiscal Year 2015 Committee Recommendation

South Carolina in the 1980s established a two percent tax on overnight accommodations in addition to the statewide sales tax. State laws stipulates how those monies are to be allocated.

A small portion of the Accommodations Tax (ATAX) money stays in the local municipality or county where it is collected. The remainder must be used to attract and provide for tourists and must be spent on tourism-related expenditures.

Local revenues from the so-called "bed-tax" are designated to fund programs that promote tourism and attract visitors.

3. What is the Beaufort Tourism Development Advisory Committee (TDAC)?

State law providers for local government such as the City of Beaufort to establish advisory committees to review requests for Accommodations Tax revenue and to submit recommendations to the local government body.

The goal was to reduce political pressures and to increase local accountability.

Ultimately, though, the City Council makes the decision on how to spend the money.

The TDAC is an advisory body appointed by Beaufort City Council to:

Conduct interviews as needed
Recruit appropriate applicants for Accommodations Tax grants
Screen the requests
Submit recommendations to the Beaufort City Council

In Fall 2014, the Tourism Development Advisory Committee included:

Chip Dinkins (Chair)
Laura McAlhaney
Jane Sidwell
Mary Ann Thomas
Gail Westerfield

4. How did the TDAC decide who to recommend funding for the Fiscal Year 2015?

Applications were made available August 8 and the deadline for submittal was September 5. Applicants were required to make personal presentations of their requests to the committee on September 15.

For the current year, Fiscal Year 2015, the City of Beaufort allocated $230,000 in accommodations taxes for distribution.

Committee members reviewed each application, considered how the request fit into overall mission to promote tourism within the state's tax guidelines, and then heard in-person presentations from each group seeking funds.

One of the committee's priorities was stretching each grant dollar as far as possible. For instance, marketing materials and promotions that included an Internet component (website, Facebook, other social media, etc.) earned more attention that print-only projects. Projects that demonstrated partnerships with other organizations also earned attention.

5. What is the Beaufort City Council's role in this?: The City Council is scheduled to discuss the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations October 14, 2014 with a final a vote and approval tentatively set for October 28.

6. Who is recommended to receive money in this fiscal year?

For a complete listing of the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations, please view the TDAC 2015 Recommendations (PDF).

Although City Council may change the grants amounts recommended by the TDAC, the committee's funding list spends all but $16, 725 of the available $230,000. The largest recommended grants were:

$90,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for general marketing
$35,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for Visitors Center operations
$30,000 to the Black Chamber of Commerce for cultural marketing/Gullah Festival/Gullah Christmas
$15,000 to Main Street Beaufort for special projects, events and destination marketing
$11,800 to Penn Center on St. Helena Island for Heritage Celebration marketing
$11,500 to SC. Lowcountry Tourism for marketing

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Fiscal Year 2016 Committee Recommendation

South Carolina in the 1980s established a two percent tax on overnight accommodations in addition to the statewide sales tax. State laws stipulates how those monies are to be allocated

Local revenues from the so-called "bed-tax" are designated to fund programs that promote tourism and attract visitors.

3. What is the Beaufort Tourism Development Advisory Committee (TDAC)?

The goal was to reduce political pressures and to increase local accountability.

Ultimately, though, the City Council makes the decision on how to spend the money.

The TDAC is an advisory body appointed by Beaufort City Council to:

Conduct interviews as needed
Recruit appropriate applicants for Accommodations Tax grants
Screen the requests
Submit recommendations to the Beaufort City Council

In Fall 2015, the Tourism Development Advisory Committee included:

Chip Dinkins (Chair)
Vimal Desai
Laura McAlhaney
Jane Sidwell
Mary Ann Solem
Susan Sauer
Gail Westerfield

4. How did the TDAC decide who to recommend for funding for Fiscal Year 2016?

Applications were made available August 8 and the deadline for submittal was September 11. Applicants were required to make personal presentations of their requests to the committee on September 16.

For the current year, Fiscal Year 2016, the City of Beaufort allocated $275,518 in accommodations taxes for distribution.

5. What is Beaufort City Council's role in this?: The City Council is scheduled to discuss the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations September 22, 2015 and October 20, 2015 with a final a vote and approval tentatively set for October 27, 2015.

6. Who is recommended to receive money in this fiscal year?

For a complete listing of the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations, please view the TDAC Recommendations 2016 (PDF).

Although City Council may change the grants amounts recommended by the TDAC. The largest recommended grants were:

$90,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for general marketing
$75,000 to the University of South Carolina - Beaufort Center for the Arts for renovations
$35,000 to Main Street Beaufort for special projects, events and destination marketing
$35,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for Visitors Center operations
$30,000 to the Black Chamber of Commerce for cultural marketing/Gullah Festival/Gullah Christmas
$20,000 to Santa Elena Foundation for general marketing

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Fiscal Year 2017 Committee Recommendation

South Carolina in the 1980s established a two % tax on overnight accommodations in addition to the statewide sales tax. State laws stipulates how those monies are to be allocated.

Local revenues from the so-called "bed-tax" are designated to fund programs that promote tourism and attract visitors.

3. What is the Beaufort Tourism Development Advisory Committee (TDAC)?

The goal was to reduce political pressures and to increase local accountability.

Ultimately, though, the City Council makes the decision on how to spend the money.

The TDAC is an advisory body appointed by Beaufort City Council to:

Conduct interviews as needed
Recruit appropriate applicants for Accommodations Tax grants
Screen the requests
Submit recommendations to the Beaufort City Council

In Fall 2016, the Tourism Development Advisory Committee included:

Jonathan Sullivan (Chair)
Vimal Desai
Laura McAlhaney
Jane Sidwell
Mary Ann Solem
Susan Sauer
Gail Westerfield

4. How did the TDAC decide who to recommend for funding for Fiscal year 2017?

Applications were made available August 8 and the deadline for submittal was September 23. Applicants were required to make personal presentations of their requests to the committee on September 30. For the current year, Fiscal Year 2017, the City of Beaufort allocated $282,867.38 in accommodations taxes for distribution.

5. What is the Beaufort City Council's role in this?: The City Council is scheduled to discuss the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations October 18, 2016 with a final a vote and approval tentatively set for October 25, 2016.

6. Who is recommended to receive money in this fiscal year?

For a complete listing of the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations, please view the TDAC Fiscal Year 2017 Recommendations (PDF).

Although City Council may change the grants amounts recommended by the TDAC. The largest recommended grants were:

$90,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for general marketing
$75,000 to the University of South Carolina - Beaufort Center for the Arts for renovations
$35,000 to Main Street Beaufort for special projects, events and destination marketing
$35,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for Visitors Center operations
$30,000 to the Black Chamber of Commerce for cultural marketing/Gullah Festival/Gullah Christmas
$20,000 to Santa Elena Foundation for general marketing

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Fiscal Year 2018 Committee Recommendation

South Carolina in the 1980s established a two percent tax on overnight accommodations in addition to the statewide sales tax.

State laws stipulates how those monies are to be allocated. A small portion of the Accommodations Tax (ATAX) money stays in the local municipality or county where it is collected. The remainder must be used to attract and provide for tourists and must be spent on tourism-related expenditures.

Local revenues from the so-called "bed-tax" are designated to fund programs that promote tourism and attract visitors.

3. What is the Beaufort Tourism Development Advisory Committee (TDAC)?

The goal was to reduce political pressures and to increase local accountability.

Ultimately, though, the City Council makes the decision on how to spend the money.

The TDAC is an advisory body appointed by Beaufort City Council to:

Conduct interviews as needed
Recruit appropriate applicants for Accommodations Tax grants,
Screen the requests
Submit recommendations to the Beaufort City Council

In Fall 2016, the Tourism Development Advisory Committee included:

Jonathan Sullivan (Chair)
Vimal Desai
Laura McAlhaney
Susan Sauer
Jane Sidwell
Mary Ann Solem
Gail Westerfield

4. How did the TDAC decide who to recommend for funding for Fiscal Year 2018?

The Applications were made available on August 10, 2017 with an original application deadline September 15, 2017. Due to the threat from Hurricane Irma, the deadline was extended until September 29, 2017. Public Notices were published in the Island Packet for both the original deadline and the revised deadline. Applicants were required to make personal presentations of their requests to the committee on October 13.

For the current year, Fiscal Year 2018, the City of Beaufort allocated $200,903 in accommodations taxes for distribution.

5. What is the Beaufort City Council's role in this?: The City Council is scheduled to discuss the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations October 24, 2017 with a final a vote and approval on November 14, 2017.

6. Who is recommended to receive money in this fiscal year?

For a complete listing of the Tourism Development Advisory Committee's recommendations, please view the TDAC Recommendations 2018 (PDF).

Although City Council may change the grants amounts recommended by the TDAC. The largest recommended grants were:

$130,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for general marketing
$30,000 to the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce for Visitors Center operations
$15,000 to the SC Lowcountry and Resort Island Tourism for general promotions
$7,000 to Santa Elena Foundation for general marketing
$6,903 to Beaufort History Museum for permanent exhibit renovations
$6,000 to Historic Beaufort Foundation for Battle of Beaufort Exhibit
$4,000 to Friends of the Spanish Moss Trail for mobile app updates
$1,000 to Exchange Club of Beaufort Ghost Tours for the benefit of CAPA
$1,000 to Historic Beaufort Foundation for Experience Beaufort Package

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Hurricane FAQs

1. What is the difference between a tropical storm watch and warning?

A hurricane or tropical storm watch means storm conditions are possible in a specified area. This watch is usually issued 48 hours before storm-force winds (39-73 mph or higher) are expected in an area. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding.

A hurricane or tropical storm warning means storm conditions are expected in a specified area. This warning is usually issued 36 hours before storm-force winds (39-73 mph or higher) are expected in an area.

2. What are the categories of hurricanes and what do they mean?

The Saffir-Simpson Scale classifies hurricanes by maximum sustained winds. However, please keep in mind a storm may have stronger wind gusts.

Categories 1 through 5:

Category 1: 74 to 95 MPH sustained wind speed
Category 2: 96 to 110 MPH sustained wind speed
Category 3: 111 to 129 MPH sustained wind speed
Category 4: 130 to 156 MPH sustained wind speed
Category 5: Over 157 MPH sustained wind speed

These categories only highlight potential damage and impacts form the wind. This does not address other potential hurricane related impacts, such as storm surge, flooding, and tornadoes.

Please also be mindful to not classify a storm by “just a category X.” There are many variables which can affect the severity of a hurricane such as if it is arrives at high tide. Remember, many factors are in a hurricane equation and each storm and its potential damage is unique. It is always best to err on the side of safety than to take a cavalier attitude towards hurricanes and tropical storms.

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3. What can I do to prepare for a storm?

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division Hurricane Guide has details about personal plans, zones, emergency shelters and links to other agencies and information. https://scemd.org/stay-informed/publications/hurricane-guide/.
Follow the City of Beaufort on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and NextDoor.
Use the Beaufort County Hurricane Hotline for updated information. The phone number is 1-800-963-5023.
Remember the 5 P’s: People (pets), prescriptions, paper (i.e., important documents), personal needs (i.e., medication, etc.), priceless Items (i.e., pack your photos albums, etc.), and have a plan for each category.
Make a paper record of all your contact information for your family and friends in case there is no cell phone service.
Take photos of your property and home before and after the storm for insurance documentation.
Secure any loose articles (i.e., outdoor furniture, potted plants or décor items) on your property that could become airborne and cause damage, or block pipes or ditches.
Know your evacuations options and plan possible routes and hotels or housing arrangements.
If you have a pet, know which hotels accept pets during a hurricane.
Have a supply of at least two weeks’ worth of prescribed medications before you travel.
Conduct inspections of drainage features around your house and property, including gutters, and remove any blockages.
Turn off irrigation systems.
Remove items which may hold water to deter mosquito breeding after the storm passes.
Obtain flood insurance now. Most homeowner insurance policies do not cover flooding. The federal government administers flood insurance. More information is available at the National Flood Insurance Program at www.floodsmart.gov. Please be mindful you live in the Lowcountry; therefore, the entire region is flat and flood prone.
Best advice: Leave PRIOR to an evacuation order. You can better control your destination and route. Once an evacuation order is called, SC Highway Patrol officers and local officers will direct your path of travel, which may add to frustration and increase travel time to your intended destination.
Remember, if you decide to stay during an evacuation order, emergency services may be suspended due to unsafe weather conditions. Each resident who stays during an evacuation has to be prepared to address a health or safety situation alone.
Please be patient and help your neighbor. The City of Beaufort is working around the clock to manage the storm; however, everyone has a role in the community’s safety and recovery.

4. Who has the authority to issue an evacuation order?: In South Carolina, only the governor can issue a mandatory evacuation order. Your local county and municipal officials are following the governor’s directive and may enact local measures to support and augment an evacuation order as needed for public safety.

5. What are the evacuation routes?: For our area, the evacuation route will flow north and west. Lane reversals are possible and should be expected during an evacuation. Evacuation routes can be found at https://www.scemd.org/prepare/know-your-zone/.

6. Can I evacuate before an evacuation order?: During a pending storm, early evacuation is encouraged. As a former emergency manager said, “When you see a storm brewing, it’s a perfect time to plan a trip to visit friends or family.” If you leave before an official evacuation order, you can travel freely via any route. Once an evacuation order is issued, you may have to take a prescribed route out of town and endure traffic congestion. If your schedule permits, leaving as soon as you are able can prevent congestion and personal frustration.

7. What local agency leads during hurricane season?

The Beaufort County Storm Center is managed by the Beaufort County sheriff, and is the lead emergency management agency for all of Beaufort County. It has a direct link to the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, and during emergencies that office coordinates all response activities countywide through the Beaufort County Emergency Operations Center. The County Emergency Operations Center is staffed by critical support functions and representatives from all municipalities and military bases in the county as well as representatives from the Beaufort County School District.

Following the governor’s lifting of an evacuation order, a policy group made up of senior representatives in the Emergency Operations Center provide input to the Beaufort County emergency manager regarding re-entry procedures.

The City of Beaufort follows the directives of Beaufort County Emergency Management during a hurricane or critical incident. The City of Beaufort activates its own Emergency Operations Center, within the Fire Department, and its representatives are available to assist you with information during such an event.

8. What are the best sources of information during a storm?: During a hurricane, the City will update its social media accounts frequently to ensure our residents are receiving the most recent, accurate information. Please be mindful to check if the information you are sharing and/or believing is attributed to a reliable source such as state, county or local government agency.

9. What if I need a shelter during a storm?

There are NO shelters available in Beaufort County during a hurricane. Beaufort County, also known as the Lowcountry, is comprised of low-lying land surrounded by marshes, rivers and other bodies of water. There are no shelters in Beaufort County due to its flat land and being flood prone.

In previous years, the Red Cross has opened some shelters in Jasper County during storm events. Please call the Red Cross Lowcountry Chapter (843-764-2323) for more information, or follow them on social media.

This brochure from the Beaufort County Storm Center has information on where people can be picked up and brought to a shelter during an evacuation.

Additionally, a list of shelters will be available on https://scemd.org/stay-informed/emergency-shelters/

10. What if I need transportation to a shelter?: If you need transportation to a shelter prior to a storm, please call Palmetto Breeze, the Lowcountry’s public transportation system at 843.757.5782. Please plan ahead; its buses cease operation once the storm and/or high winds begin.

11. What happens if I stay in town during a mandatory evacuation order?: Mandatory evacuation orders are issued to save the lives of residents as well as first responders. If you choose to ignore the mandatory evacuation order, be prepared to be self-sufficient during, and for the first 72 hours after, a storm. High winds during storms prohibit travel of emergency response vehicles, and debris following storms, may also prevent travel. In addition, mandatory evacuations also include closure of hospital facilities. This means medical care is unavailable until after evacuation orders are lifted. Be prepared to be without electrical power as well.

12. What do I do if my house loses power?

Ask if the power outage is isolated to your home or is it neighborhood wide or systemwide? Check with neighbors to assess the situation.
It may sound counterintuitive, but one of the first things you should do during a power outage is unplug any electrical appliances or electronics to prevent spikes once the power is restored. Ideally, sensitive electronics or devices should be on surge protectors to prevent damage.
Turn the air conditioner off to prevent a surge once the power comes back on.
Check your property for damage. Report any fallen power lines. Don’t touch or go near any downed lines.
Do not use any flooded electrical outlets, appliances or circuit breaker boxes until they’ve been checked by a professional.

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Impact Fees FAQ

1. What are development impact fees?

A development impact fee is a one-time payment imposed by a local government for new development’s proportionate share of the capital cost of infrastructure. The development impact fees are collected from new construction at the time a new building permit is issued. Beaufort County conducted a development impact fee study in July 2020 and County Council adopted the recommended development impact fee rates for northern and southern Beaufort County as a result of that study. The study demonstrated that as a result of projected land uses, densities, and population growth estimates over the next 10 years within northern Beaufort County, there will be a need for expanded parks and recreation facilities, library facilities and transportation improvements to support such projected new growth and maintain a reasonable level of service standards.

The State of South Carolina grants the power for cities and counties to collect development impact fees on new development. Beaufort County adopted a development impact fee ordinance for the collection of parks and recreation, transportation, and library impact fees on May 22, 2023. The City of Beaufort entered into an intergovernmental agreement with the County on May 24, 2023, for the collection, on the County’s behalf, of development impact fees for parks and recreation, transportation, and library services. The collection of the new impact fees went into effect on June 5, 2023.

Separately, the City adopted a development impact fees ordinance for fire services on April 13, 2020. This addressed substantial growth and new construction within the municipality, which requires additional fire services infrastructure capacity and maintenance. Those fees went to effect January 1, 2021.

2. Why are impact fees assessed?: These fees help to offset the financial impact a new development places on public infrastructure, such as roads, parks, and libraries.

3. What is the amount assessed on a new home?

It depends on the square footage of the home. For example, for a 2,300-square-foot-home, a developer would pay a one-time fee of $466 for library services, $1,006 for parks and recreation services, and $3,135 for road services, for a total of $4,607 in impact fees. In addition, in the City of Beaufort, developers pay $305.43 fire impact fee for a 2,300-square-foot home.

4. Who pays the impact fees?: Developers and builders of new residential property development pay for library, parks, and road impact fees. Developers of new commercial property pay only the road impact fee.

5. I have owned my home in Beaufort for 10 years. Do impact fees affect me?: No.

6. If I buy a newly built home in Beaufort, will the impact fee affect the cost of that home?: The developer may decide to add some or all of the cost of the impact fees into the price of the home.

7. If I am building a new home for myself, will I have to pay an impact fee?: Yes, as long as the homeowner is acting as the general contractor and obtaining the building permit.

8. If I buy an existing home in Beaufort, will the impact fees affect the cost of my home?: No.

9. What are examples of some of the projects that will be funded through impact fees?: Several infrastructure improvements are needed in northern Beaufort County and are attached to the intergovernmental agreement signed by the City of Beaufort and Beaufort County. Some of these projects are within the City of Beaufort and will receive a level of funding through impact fees. These include the construction of a parallel road to Boundary Street, Calhoun streetscape improvements, and improvements along Ribaut Road and park improvements for several City-owned parks. Other roads, parks, and library projects in northern Beaufort County are included in the County development impact fee ordinance.

10. Are impact fees assessed throughout Beaufort County?: Yes, but the development impact fee rate schedules are different for northern and southern Beaufort County.

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MUNICIPAL COURT FAQS

1. HOW DO I PAY MY FINE?: Payments for traffic citations can be made at http://www.beaufortcourt.org/. You must provide your last name and ticket number to pay your fine online. Money Orders, Certified Checks and Cashier’s Checks made payable to the Beaufort Municipal Court and can be mailed to 1901 Boundary Street Beaufort, South Carolina 29902. We do not accept out of state personal checks. Payments can also be made in person at 1901 Boundary Street, Beaufort, SC 29902.

2. DO YOU TAKE CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS?: Yes, we take credit/debit cards for fines. We accepted Visa, MasterCard, & American Express.

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Online Payments

1. Who is Official Payments?: Official Payments is the leading provider of electronic payment solutions and provides our clients with the most reliable way to process payments. Our network of partnerships including the IRS, 27 states and the District of Columbia, 350 plus colleges and universities, and 3000 plus municipalities enables us to the largest selection of payment services and solutions.

2. What are the advantages of using Official Payments?: Faster payment via Internet, flexibility to pay credit card balances over time, rewards from card issuers that carry such programs. You'll also have the Satisfaction of knowing your payment has been officially paid through a trusted and secure service provider authorized by the IRS.

3. What are the benefits of using the online payments system?: By making an electronic payment, customers gain control of their payments. They can pay their obligation over time and on their own schedule. Paying by credit card may provide your customers with use of their money for an additional 30 to 60 days, depending on the credit card billing cycle. Paying by electronic check saves time and effort. Your customers are able to avoid long lines and don’t have to worry about their checks getting lost in the mail.

4. How do I earn card reward points?: Depending on the nature of the card reward program, your customers can earn points, miles, or money back for the payments they make. The value of the reward can exceed the cost of the convenience fee incurred. Explore the special offers brought to you by Official Payments and our approved partners by visiting the Official Payments website.

5. Why is there a convenience fee and why I am paying for it?: Official Payments charges a convenience fee for processing the payment transaction. This fee is not charged by or paid to our clients. The convenience fee is assessed to cover operating costs and the costs associated with servicing thousands of transactions. Users will be informed of all charges and fees before authorizing the payment.

6. Will I be able to view the convenience fee before submitting my payment?: Yes. Official Payments will calculate and present the convenience fee based on the information you provided. You will also be presented with the Terms and Conditions of using our system. Use the “Accept” button to proceed with the payment or “Decline” to stop the payment process.

7. How safe is Official Payments system?: The system has been tested and proven. The IRS and more than 3000 state and local governments have chosen Official Payments as an electronic service provider for their customers. The information gathered is private and will not be forwarded to anyone.

8. Will I receive confirmation of my payments?: You will receive a confirmation number at the end of the transaction. This confirmation number and your card or bank statement will provide confirmation of your payment.

9. Who do I call if my payment does not appear on my card or bank statement?: Call Official Payments’ customer service toll free line at 1-800-847-4567. Press 1 for English or 2 for Spanish.

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Short Term Rentals