In early 2026, the agency launched its Permitting Dashboard, available below, to provide current information on environmental permitting statuses and time frames. SCDES remains committed to modernizing its permit review processes while also guiding how our state grows responsibly. 

• Last year, SCDES processed over 53,000 requests for permits, licenses, and certifications serving homes, businesses, farms, utilities and communities.
• Our goal is to issue permits within 90 days, upholding the standards for environmental protection, while also providing guidance to improve the quality of applications.
• While many programs already meet the 90-day timeframe, SCDES is always looking to implement innovative strategies and identify areas for continuous improvement.
• SCDES’s dedicated professionals are committed to achieving this goal, but we can’t do it alone. If you're a permit applicant, please use the resources below, including the contact information provided, to help learn your role in having the permitting process be as streamlined as possible. 
   

Responsibilities For Applicants and Design Professionals

Applicants and design professionals are also key to this success. Before submitting applications, here are several steps you can take to help us meet the 90-day goal.

• Review the latest guidance and submission process from the program’s website.
• Request a pre-application meeting. SCDES has identified the need for pre-applications for certain categories of applications.
• There are several ways to schedule a pre-application meeting:
  • in ePermitting via the Pre-Application Request Form,
  • by reaching out to a specific program contact,
  • by visiting Permit Central or emailing Ryan Ariail.
• Perform a final self-review of the application and supporting documentation prior to submittal for quality and completeness.