Bill > H3931

This bill amends South Carolina's coastal permit and environmental review processes by establishing specific timelines for permit applications and reviews. For coastal tideland and wetland permits, the Department of Environmental Services must now act on applications within 90 days of determining them administratively and technically complete, with a shorter 30-day timeline for minor developments. The bill also introduces a provision that if the department does not request additional technical information within 15 days after the public comment period, the application is considered complete and must be decided within the prescribed timeframes. Additionally, the bill allows the department to hire third-party independent engineers to assist with their work and establishes that coastal zone consistency certifications for navigable waters permits in coastal counties are automatically approved if not reviewed within 30 days, and for other permits within 90 days. If a permit is denied, the department must provide specific reasons aligned with the chapter's provisions. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval, aiming to streamline and expedite the coastal permit review process while maintaining environmental oversight.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3931&session=126&summary=B