Welcome to Summerville, the Flower Town in the Pines, where charm and Southern hospitality blend gracefully with the modern and progressive. Summerville is rich in history and focused on economic development that preserves the past while building for the future.
Steeped in the natural beauty of lush pines and blooming azaleas, Summerville — a Tree City USA community — may be a small town, but when you’re a small town with big charm, anything is possible.
Summerville is recognized as a nurturing community where children can grow and develop. Located just minutes from Charleston and the beaches, our world-class sports venues and superior schools make Summerville a truly special place to work, live and play.
Read a short history of the town of Summerville.
Access calendars to view upcoming events.
Watch a video tour of Summerville, its real estate, local economy, nightlife, and more.
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Biography
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Mayor – Russ Touchberry
A native of Summerville, SC, Russ Touchberry graduated from Fort Dorchester High School in 1997 and graduated with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from The Citadel in 2001. He has since worked in the Transportation Industry, holding varying roles in the Public and Private sectors.
Russ is a:
- Registered Professional Engineer in the State of SC
- Graduate of the AASHTO National Transportation Leadership Institute
- Graduate of Leadership Dorchester
Russ’ previous service:
- Town of Summerville Council District 3
- Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce
- Vice Chair of the Planning Commission for Dorchester County
- Board Member of the Civil Engineering Advisory Committee to The Citadel
- Past Chairman of the Board for the Dorchester Children’s Center
- Board of Trustees of Pinewood Preparatory School
- Past President of the Civil Engineers Club of Charleston
He presently works as the Field Office Principal overseeing the Construction Services for HDR in South Carolina and represents SCDOT as the Project Engineer for the US-17 (Speedway) Widening Project. He lives in Summerville, SC, with his beautiful bride, Jamie, and their two children, Sage and Beckham.
Committee Involvement
- Planning and Development
- Public Works
Biography
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About Us
The Parks and Recreation Department of Summerville is dedicated to offering high-quality facilities and leisure opportunities to both residents and visitors. We take pride in our programs and facilities and we are confident that you will find an activity or facility that suits your recreational needs.
Biography
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Administrative Services
The Administrative Services Department facilitates the policies, directives, and legislative actions set forth by the Town Council in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
Functions
Some of the day-to-day functions include:
- Coordination of all town council meetings, workshops and retreats
- Administration of the annual budget
- Management of various grant programs
- Human resource development and recruitment
- Public information
- Development of procurement policies
- Information technology management
- Coordination of all legal matters
- Various other administrative functions
Services
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Biography
Mission
The Building Department’s mission is to ensure public safety, health, and general welfare by enforcing standards for structural strength, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation in all structures within the Town of Summerville. The department aims to enhance the safety of life and property from fire and other hazards associated with the built environment. These potential hazards could arise from:
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- Alteration
- Demolition
- Removal
- Repair
- Use and occupancy of buildings, structures, or premises
Permits & Inspections
All building permits can be applied for by clicking here for the online portal.
To achieve the Building Department’s goal, we require permits and inspections for new buildings, renovations, and repairs to building structures and systems. This includes installing and maintaining all electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing work. Under this definition, the following projects also require a permit:
- If your gas or electrical service has been off for six months or more, a permit is required for a safety inspection before service can be restored.
- Installation of modular storage buildings
- Roofing work
- Swimming pool installation
- Vinyl siding installation
Carpet installation and painting do not require a building permit.
Exterior painting of commercial buildings may require approval by the Town’s Design Review Board. Please contact Planning and Zoning at 843-851-4213 for more information.
Register of Deeds
Additional Phone Numbers
Inspection Request Phone: 843-851-5200
