Berkeley County is located in the southeastern part of South Carolina. It was formed in 1882 and named after John and William Berkeley, two colonial governors of Virginia. The county seat is Moncks Corner, which serves as the administrative center.
Geography and Economy
Berkeley County covers approximately 1,100 square miles, with much of the area consisting of forests, lakes, and rivers, making it a region rich in natural beauty. The county is bordered by the Cooper River, Lake Moultrie, and Lake Marion, providing abundant opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
The economy of Berkeley County is diverse, with a mix of manufacturing, agriculture, and service industries. The presence of industrial parks, a growing port economy, and proximity to Charleston has driven its industrial growth. Major employers include multinational corporations like Google and Volvo, which have operations in the area.
Government and Administration
Berkeley County operates under a council-administrator form of government. The county council consists of representatives from various districts, with a county supervisor serving as the chief executive officer. The government provides various services, including public safety, public health, and infrastructure maintenance.
Education and Demographics
Berkeley County is part of the Berkeley County School District, one of the largest in the state. There are also opportunities for higher education in nearby Charleston.
According to the latest estimates, the county has a population of around 236,000 people. The area has seen significant growth in recent years, largely due to the expanding housing market and its appeal to families and businesses.
![Photo of Building and Code Enforcement]( "Photo of Building and Code Enforcement")
Biography
![Photo of Building and Code Enforcement]( "Photo of Building and Code Enforcement")
Providing Building Inspection Service for new construction and providing Codes Enforcement of Berkeley County Ordinances to ensure the citizens of Berkeley County Government are provided a safe and healthy place to live and work.
Department Functions
- Conduct Residential and Commercial Building Inspections for all types of construction
- Conduct Residential and Commercial Plan Reviews For Code Compliance
- Conduct Commercial Plan Reviews For Sprinkler Systems and Fire Alarms
- Building Code Interpretation
- Fire Marshall Service
- Manufactured Home Installation Inspections
- Codes Enforcement for the County Zoning Ordinance
What kind of inspections do we do?
- Building
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Mechanical
- Gas
- Fire Sprinkler and Fire Alarm
- Signs
- Towers
- Swimming Pools
- Construction Trailers
- Manufactured Home Installation
Note: Contact the Building Inspection Department or Permitting Department for the detailed inspection list under each type or discipline.
Request for inspection made before 10 am will receive next day inspections
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Biography
Summary Court Judges (Magistrates) have countywide jurisdiction over traffic, criminal, and civil matters that fall within the guidelines of magistrate level cases.
Department Functions
The Summary Courts are under the guidance of the South Carolina Court Administration. Magistrates are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon the advice and consent of the Senate.
Each county has a chief magistrate appointed by the Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court.
Magistrates generally have criminal trial jurisdiction over all offenses subject to the penalty of a fine, as set by statute, but generally, not exceeding $500.00 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, or both. Assessments and court costs may be added to the fine.
In addition, they are responsible for setting bail, conducting preliminary hearings, and issuing arrest and search warrants.
Magistrates have civil jurisdiction when the amount in controversy does not exceed $7,500.
Magistrate civil jurisdiction include such matters as Summons and Complaints (Small Claims), landlord/tenant actions, sales of abandoned property, and Claim and Delivery.
Additionally, magistrates may also issue Restraining Orders under the Harassment and Stalking statute as well as Emergency Orders of Protection when Family Court is not in session.
These services are provided by magistrates in different areas of the county for the convenience of the citizens.
For these services, citizens would see the magistrate in the area in which the person lives that they are attempting to take to court. For an arrest warrant the public would need to contact their local law enforcement agency.
Biography
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