Bill > H4726

This bill amends South Carolina law to allow municipalities to annex areas that have been completely surrounded by the municipality for at least five years, with some specific exceptions for borders that include state lines, military installations, state or national parks/forests, or lakes and rivers. The annexation process requires the municipality to provide public notice at least 30 days before the first reading of an annexation ordinance, including publication in a local newspaper and written notification to property taxpayers in the proposed annexation area. The public notice must include a map of the proposed area, a legal description, details about public services to be provided, associated taxes and fees, and a projected timeline for service implementation. The bill creates a new section (5-3-105) in the South Carolina Code to codify these annexation procedures, and will take effect upon the Governor's approval. This legislation provides a clear, structured approach for municipalities to expand their boundaries when an area is essentially already enclosed within city limits.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4726&session=126&summary=B