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Addressing

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1. How can I go about obtaining an address for my house/mobile home/business, etc.?

You may apply for an address in the Addressing Office located in the County Administrative Center at:
1437 Amelia Street
Orangeburg, SC 29115

Before an address can be assigned to mobile homes, a septic tank permit must be obtained from Department of Health and Environmental Control prior to assignment of an address.

2. How long does the address assignment process take?

Some lots within subdivisions and mobile home parks already have addresses assigned to them. Addresses for these locations can be obtained immediately from the Addressing Department. If staff from the Addressing Office must visit your location, an address is generally available within 4 to 5 working days of the application having been received.

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Animal Control

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1. What office should be called to report animal complaints?

The Orangeburg County Animal Control Office takes all complaints regarding domestic animal disturbances such as barking dogs, dogs running at large, etc. within the County. The responding Officer will investigate the complaint and initiate action for resolution as required. Contact the Animal Control Office at 803-534-0045.

2. What should be done with dead animals?

Contact Animal Control at 803-534-0045 or the Division of Public Services at 803-533-6164 for finding assistance in disposal of dead animals on public property or roads. If the dead animal is on private property, the property owner is responsible for removal.

3. What should be done with an injured or wounded animal?

Notify Animal Control at 803-534-0045. Please take the animal to a veterinarian if it is your pet.

4. Does Orangeburg County have a leash law?

Orangeburg County’s Animal Control Ordinance outlines the definition of what is considered an "animal at large" and specifies what constitutes legal justification for taking such animals into custody.

Please refer to the County Animal Control Ordinance documents for more information.

5. Who do I contact if I get bitten by an animal?

Seek immediate medical attention. If a citizen witnesses a dog or cat attacking a person, notify the rabies control officer in the health department (South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control can be reached at 803-898-3432) or Animal Control Office to receive instructions as to what to do. Remember, “Rabies Kills” - no bite should be ever considered minor!

6. Do dogs and cats have to be vaccinated for rabies?

Yes. Orangeburg County Ordinance states that all dogs and cats must be currently vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian and the vaccination tag must be displayed around the animals neck.

7. Does Orangeburg County Animal Control have dog and cat traps available for the public to use to capture stray animals?

No, the traps are used by officers on complaint calls on a first-call, first-serve basis, pending an emergency situation. The citizen would need to contact Animal Control, 803-534-0045, and once an officer has responded to your complaint you must sign an agreement allowing a trap to be set.

8. Who removes and handles wildlife such as ducks, raccoons, snakes, etc.?

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, who can be reached at 800-922-5431, handles all wildlife.

9. Can I surrender my animal to Animal Control and is there a fee?

No, pet owners are responsible for finding homes for their unwanted pets. You may contact Animal Control at 803-534-0045 for assistance if you have questions.

10. Does Orangeburg County have an adoption program?

Yes! The Orangeburg County Animal Control pet adoption program runs Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm. Any animals that the shelter has available for adoption can be viewed on our Facebook page.

11. Does Animal Control spay or neuter pets?

No. Any person wishing to have their animal spayed or neutered can contact a local veterinarian of their choosing.

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Auditor

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1. Why did the Treasurer send my bill to the wrong address?

The Treasure does not maintain property or owner records. The Assessor maintains Land and Building records while the Auditor maintains Personal Property and Vehicle records and these records are dependent on taxpayers to notify their office of change in address.

2. How do I apply for high mileage discount on my vehicle?

To apply for a high mileage appeal, mail or bring a signed statement with mileage to the Auditor’s Office before the due date.

3. Why am I being charged taxes for the vehicle I just purchased? The dealer told me he would take care of tags and taxes.

The dealership is allowed to pick up your tags on a vehicle without paying local property taxes. When the dealer states that they are taking care of your taxes, they are referring to sales tax, which is paid at the local Department of Motor Vehicles.

4. When are the taxes due on my motor vehicle?

Taxes on motor vehicles and recreational vehicles must be paid before your license plate tags can be renewed. These taxes are due by the last day of the month in which your tags expires.

5. Didn’t I pay the taxes when I bought my vehicle?

When you purchase a vehicle from a dealership, their personnel are allowed to pick up your registration and license tags without paying the local property taxes. The tax you paid to the dealership at the time of purchase was the South Carolina state sales tax. This allows you a 120-day grace period to delay payment of personal property taxes on your new vehicle.

6. Why did the Treasurer raise my taxes?

The Treasurer does not determine property tax amounts. The amount of the money needed is decided by each of the area’s taxing authorities. The Assessor’s Office determines appraisal values for real property while the Auditor Calculates the tax.

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Business Licenses

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1. What is a business license?

Business licenses are permits issued by government agencies that allow individuals or companies to conduct business within the government’s geographical jurisdiction. It is the authorization to start a business issued by the local government.

2. Who is required to obtain a license?

Every person engaged or intending to engage in any calling, business, occupation or profession, in whole or part, within the limits of County of Orangeburg, South Carolina is required to pay an annual license fee for the purpose of doing business and obtain a business license.

3. When do I need a business license?

An annual business license fee is required any time a person or business:

1. Is physically located in Orangeburg County
2. Conducts business in the unincorporated areas of Orangeburg County, i.e., outside a city limits, regardless of where the business is located

4. When does the business license expire?

All business licenses expire on April 30th.

5. When is payment due for the business license?

Payment is due upon applying for all new businesses and March 31st for all business license renewals.

6. What gross should be reported for the license renewal?

Your business license should be renewed based on the gross income for the previous calendar year (January 1st through December 31st) or portion thereof if your company did not operate the entire year.

7. How is the fee calculated?

The cost for the business license is calculated by using the gross income as required by South Carolina Code Section 4-9-30(12) and the rate scale set in the ordinance. For help, call 803-268-2923.

8. Are rates calculated the same for revenue in the millions?

After income exceeds one million, the rates start declining and there is a cap at ten million. Any revenue over ten million does not require additional fees.

9. When will penalties be assessed?

On May 1st a 5% penalty will be assessed. The penalty will increase 5% each month the license fee is delinquent.

10. Are there different rates for in-county and out of county businesses?

Yes, the out of county fees are double the in-county rates.

11. If I am doing more than one type of business activity at my business, do I need more than one business license?

It depends; the current ordinance requires a separate license for each place of business and for each classification of business conducted at one place. However, a business may choose whether or not to identify how much revenue is generated by each type of business occurring at the business. If the business does not wish or is not able to separate the amount of income generated by each business activity, the business license fee will be calculated on the combined gross income. However, each business activity may require different County approvals.

12. My business is in a City or Town, do I also need a County License?

No, if your business is not located in unincorporated Orangeburg County and you do no business in the unincorporated areas of the County, you will not need a County license.

13. If I own land with trees and wish to sell them do I need a license?

If you are a landowner only selling trees occasionally, no. If you are in the business of buying and selling trees, probably.

14. If a company is coming in to buy my trees, do they need a license?

No, that is not considered conducting business; that is no different than buying goods at a store.

15. I have a roadside produce stand or produce truck etc. Do I need a business license?

No, Agricultural products are exempt from County vendor licenses. SC Code Sec. 40-41-90

16. Are any businesses exempt from the County’s business license requirement?

Yes. State law (Sec 4-9-30(12)) establishes that certain businesses are exempt from County business licensing requirements. These include the following:

1.  teachers, ministers, and rabbis;
2.  telephone, telegraph, gas and electric utilities or other utilities regulated by the Public Service Commission;
3.  insurance companies, and
4.  businesses making loans secured by real estate (unless it has a premises located in the county but outside a municipality).

Other businesses exempted from all (county or city) business license taxes by State or US law include the following:

1.  Vendors selling produce
2.  air express and passenger interstate transportation;
3.  alcoholic beverages;
4.  banks and building loan companies;
5.  credit unions, both state and federal;
6.  Marketing Cooperative Associations and Mutual benevolent aid associations; and
7.  Workers’ Compensation insurance premiums.
   
   
   

17. Does the County of Orangeburg provide retail licenses?

No, we offer county business licenses. You will need to contact Jeff Moore with SCDOR to obtain a state retail license.

18. What if my business closes? What should I do?

If your business closes during the year, you are to notify the Business License Department within 10 days of the closure. You will be responsible for paying a closeout fee on the gross of the business from January 1st to the closing date.

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Clerk of Court

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1. How is a jury selected?

Each year, the State Election Commission provides each county with a list of potential jurors. These names are collected form voter registration, drivers license and state identification card information. Jurors are then selected through random computer selection. 175 jurors are drawn for each one week term.

2. Do I have to serve on jury duty?

You must serve on jury duty unless:

• You are over 65 years of age
• You have provided a doctors excuse stating that you have an illness that will not allow you to serve
• You have provided this office with verification that you are teacher or full-time student (You may then be transferred to a summer term) - You will be given a chance to speak to the Judge to discuss any other reasons you feel would keep you from serving

3. How do I get a copy of my court records?

You may come in to the office and copy anything that is in your file. The fee is 50 cents per page. Keep in mind that unlike Circuit court, where most records are available for public inspection, many family court records are considered confidential and may only be inspected with special permission. Confidential records include:

• Abuse and Neglect
• Adoptions
• Juvenile Cases
• Termination of Parental Rights
• Any other sealed records

4. May I pay my child support with a credit card or personal check?

Credit cards are not accepted, personal checks are accepted unless you have had a check returned in the past. Once you’ve had a check returned, checks will no longer be accepted.

5. My child just turned 18 years old, do I still have to pay child support?

You must pay child support until your case has been terminated by a Judge. You must petition the Court through your attorney or if you do not have an attorney, you may fill out an emancipation form, available in this office or on our website.

6. I was served with a rule to show cause, but I have paid my child support current. Do I still have to come to court?

Yes. If you do not, a bench warrant could be issued for your arrest.

7. Has my child support been paid?

You can call our automatic answering system at 803-268-1010 to find out. After entering your case number, you can find out when the last payment was made, and whether there is a bench warrant or a rule date.

8. How do I get someone out of jail on a Family Court case?

They must first have a hearing to find out the Judge’s ruling. In some cases the Judge has already given a cash bond amount when the bench warrant was issued. This bond must be paid in cash only at the Clerk of Court’s office and then a discharge will be given.

9. How do I get someone out of jail on criminal charges?

You must go to whichever office set the bond. If a magistrate set the bond, then you must go to that Magistrate. If a Circuit Court Judge set the bond, then you need to go to the Clerk of Court’s Office to post the bond.

If the Judge ordered a surety bond, an immediate family member may put up their property. It must be free and clear of any liens or mortgages in the amount needed. You must have an Attorney do a title Search for you on the property. If needed forms are available for the Attorney in our office located at:
151 Docket Street
Orangeburg SC, 29115
If the Judge gave a 10% option, then you may post cash money.

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Delinquent Tax

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1. Where is the tax sale held and what time does it begin?

The sale is held on Monday, December 5, 2022 at 10:00 am at the:

Orangeburg County Conference Center

1645 Russell Street

Orangeburg SC 29115

2. When and where do you advertise for the sale?

Property to be offered for sale will be advertised in the Times and Democrat newspaper for three consecutive weeks for real estate and two consecutive weeks for mobile homes.

3. Can you send me a list of the liens that will be available?

A list of properties to be sold can be obtained from the Times and Democrat newspaper or at Delinquent Tax.

4. Do I need to register for the sale and is there a fee for this?

All prospective bidders must be registered in order to participate in the tax sale. The cost of registration is $20. Bidders must register on-line at  Delinquent Tax .

5. What form of payment do you accept?

Cash, money order, cashier’s check, and personal checks with a letter of credit from your financial institution. All bids must be paid in full at the end of the sale.

6. What happens to the properties that are not sold at the auction?

The opening bid is submitted on behalf of the Forfeited Land Commission (FLC). If there is no bid, the property will be considered purchased by the FLC and may be available for assignment at a date to be announced.

7. Can I bid without attending (via mail, or a representative)?

No mail bids are accepted; however, you may send a representative.

8. Will I receive a clear title?

The successful bidder of property at a tax sale acquires the title without warranty and buys at his/her own risk. We issue a tax deed and the owner is responsible for any further actions to be taken. Please consult with your attorney.

9. What is the interest rate?

The interest schedule is:

• Months one, two, and three at 3%
• Months four, five, and six at 6%
• Months seven, eight, and nine at 9%
• Months ten, eleven, and twelve at 12%

However, in every redemption, the amount of interest due must not exceed the amount of the bid on the property submitted on behalf of the forfeited land commission pursuant to section 12-51-55.

10. What if my sale is voided?

If before a tax title has passed the official in charge of the tax sale discovers that there is a failure of any action required to be properly performed, the official may void the tax sale and refund the amount paid, plus interest in the amount actually earned.

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Orangeburg Area Development Center

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1. How do I sign my child up for your programs?

Come by the Development Center and fill out the appropriate registration material. A birth certificate or proof of age is required for registration in all child related activities. Registration for child development and after school programs take place around mid June. Registration for the after school program may take place anytime during the school year, basketball registration takes place in November and December, and the STAR and adult exercise programs are on-going and individuals may sign up anytime throughout the year.

2. What does it cost for my child to participate in your program?

Most of our programs are free, although there is a weekly fee for the Child Development Program and a one time fee for the after school and summer programs. Some additional cost may be applied for supplies. The Orangeburg Area Development Center does not provide transportation to and from our programs. Fees may very, so feel free to contact us.

3. Do I have to be an Orangeburg County resident to participate?

Yes. Participants must be residents of Orangeburg County.

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Permits / Inspections

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1. How do I find a certified lead risk assessor, inspector, or contractor in my area?

Look under "Lead" in the phone book or call the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323 or go online to LeadListing. You may also contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Program at 404-562-8994 or go online to EPA/Lead.

2. How do I find a certified mold risk assessor, inspector, or contractor in my area?

At this time, the state of South Carolina does not license mold inspectors. However, there are several professional associations that offer training and certification for mold inspectors. We recommend searching online or in the Yellow Pages for a "certified mold inspector".

3. How do I find out if a builder/contractor has a state Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) license?

State licensing can be verified online through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR)’s Licensee Lookup or by contacting LLR at 803-896-4300.

4. Where can I find general information about lead?

Please contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 800-424-5323 or go online to EPA/Lead.

5. Where can I find general information about mold?

Please contact South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC)’s Air Quality Bureau at 803-898-4123. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has mold information on its Mold page.

6. Where can I get a list of building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors?

The Building Inspection Division does not recommend contractors or keep a list of contractors for public use. Local contractors can be found listed in the phone book under categories such as:

• Air Conditioning Contractors
• Building Contractors
• Electric Contractors
• General Contractors
• Heating Contractors
• Home Builders
• Home Improvements
• Plumbing Contractors

We recommend that homeowners check if a builder/contractor has an active state contractor’s (LLR) license before hiring a contractor.

7. Who do I call about lead disposal issues?

Please contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC)’s Bureau of Land and Waste Management at 803-896-4000 for questions about the disposal of wastes painted with lead-based paint or go online to DHEC/Land and Waste.

8. Who do I contact regarding asbestos inspections/removal?

Please call the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC)’s Air Quality Bureau at 803-898-4123 or go to DHEC online for more information at DHEC/Asbestos.

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Probate Court - Estate

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1. What does it mean to "probate" a will?

Probate means the Will is admitted as valid under South Carolina law. Informal probate admits the will as valid. Formal probate requires a hearing to confirm the validity of the will. If the will has erasures, white-out, or other markings, the Court may require a formal probate proceeding.

2. How do I know if I need to go through the Orangeburg County Probate Court?

If the deceased was a permanent resident of Orangeburg County, was a non-resident holding property in Orangeburg County, or has a right to take legal action in this county the estate must be processed through the Orangeburg County Probate Court.

3. What if the deceased did not have a will?

When someone dies without a will, their estate is called "interstate". In this case, the State delegates who inherits and in what amount.

4. Do I need an attorney to probate a will?

For formal probate or appointment, an attorney is recommended. This requires the filing of a Summons/Petition/filing fee and then service of the pleadings on the interested parties. A hearing will then be set for the presentation of testimony. Since a hearing is not required for informal probate and/or informal appointment, an attorney is not necessary in this case.

5. What is an Executor?

Before the law changed in 1987, a person appointed to handle an estate could have been called an Executor/Executrix or Administrator/Administratrix. Today the person appointed to handle an estate is called the Personal Representative (PR).

6. How does a Personal Representative get appointed?

Appointment of a Personal Representative is granted informally to a person who has priority under South Carolina law. Usually, the Personal Representative is named in the will by the deceased. However, priority can result through the will, by law, by renunciation, or by termination. Any person with priority may nominate another. A person without priority may only be appointed through formal proceedings. Following the service of the formal Summons/Petition, a hearing will be scheduled to determine who is the appropriate person to administer the estate.

7. What are the duties of the Personal Representative?

The Personal Representative is responsible for collecting, protecting, and administering the estate. This includes giving Notice to all interested parties, filing an Inventory of the estate, making sure assets are secure during probate time, paying required claims and costs, and making sure the heirs/devisees receive their final distributions.

8. Where do I start and how much does all of this cost?

If the decedent had a will (testate), within 30 days from date of death, submit the original will and a certified copy of the death certificate to the Orangeburg County Probate Court. Obtain initial paperwork from the Probate Court to begin the probate procedure. If the decedent did not have a will (intestate), obtain initial paperwork to be completed from the Orangeburg County Probate Court.

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Sheriff's Office - Bond Procedures

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1. Where can I find information about bond procedures?

All questions regarding bond procedures should be directed to Orangeburg County’s Regional Magistrate Court.

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Sheriff's Office - Copper Laws

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1. What are "Copper Laws" and when did they take effect?

South Carolina’s new nonferrous metal bill, Act Number 68, took effect August 17, 2011. Act Number 242 took effect December 15, 2012 deleting previously issued 48 hour permits.

2. What is the weight limit for transportation?

A permit is needed to transport more than 25 pounds of nonferrous metals.

3. What are your procedures for the permit?

To obtain a permit valid for 24 months, you must provide us with information about yourself and the vehicle that you will be using to transport the nonferrous metal. Permits can be obtained in person at:
1032 Chestnut Street
Orangeburg, SC 29115

All permit applications are taken between 8:30 am and 4 pm.

4. Where should I go to get the permit?

The law requires you to obtain the permit from the county in which you reside. You may use the permit to transport metal to other counties.

5. How many times a year can I get a temporary permit?

Act Number 242 eliminated temporary permits. All permits are now issued for 24 months.

6. What happens if I get stopped while transporting the metal?

Give the officer your permit paperwork or your permit number.

7. I am a business owner; how does the law affect me?

A licensed business owner whose work regularly includes transportation of nonferrous metal are exempt from this law.

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Sheriff's Office - Criminal Warrants

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1. Why does the process of serving a warrant take such a long time?

Service of warrant is dependant on the ability of law enforcement to locate the defendant. Usually defendants move several times without leaving a forwarding address, thus prolonging the time it takes to locate them and serve the warrant.

2. When a person is locked up on a warrant, how long does it take before they go before a bond court judge?

The judicial system requires that after incarceration a defendant must appear before a judge to hear their charges in 24 hours.

3. How far does Sheriff's Office travel for extradition of a warrant?

There is no limitation. Extradition is determined based on the type of warrant and charges for individual.

4. If an individual that has an active warrant with Sheriff's Office and lives in another county, can Sheriff's Office make an arrest?

Yes, with the assistance of that county’s sheriff’s office or department. Another option is if a magistrate from the other county countersigns the warrant.

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Sheriff's Office - Desk Sergeant

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1. Can I come in or call to have an incident report completed?

Yes, the desk sergeant is available to take an incident report:
1520 Ellis Avenue
Orangeburg, SC 29118

The desk sergeant is available from 8:30 am until 5 pm.

2. What type of crimes can I report to the desk sergeant?

The desk sergeant can take all reports of any type. If your report requires follow up investigation, it will be forwarded to the appropriate division.

3. Can the desk sergeant document my incident if I had property damage?

If there is any property damage or evidence needs to be collected, it is best to call dispatch at 803-534-3550 for a deputy to respond to your location.

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Sheriff's Office - Detention Center

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1. How can I reach the Detention Center?

The County of Orangeburg operates the Orangeburg-Calhoun Regional Detention Center. The Detention Center can be reached at 803-539-2091.

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Sheriff's Office - Directed Patrol

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1. What is Directed Patrol?

Directed Patrol is a service of the Sheriff’s Office to citizens and business owners for a limited period of time. Residents who have recently experienced an incident in their home or business may request an officer to check their home daily for not more than seven days. There are certain criteria that must be met prior to a home or business being placed on the directed patrol service.

Please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 803-533-5827 for more information or to inquire about this service for your property.

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Sheriff's Office - Orders of Protection

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1. Where can I go to request an order of protection?

The order must be filed in the Clerk of Court’s Office in the county in which the abuse occurred, where you live, where the person who committed the abuse lives, or where the parties resided together.

2. What information do I have to provide?

For people living in a household, you must indicate specific time, place, details of the abuse, and other facts and circumstances.

3. Who does the order protect and from what?

The order protects the abused person or persons from being abused, threatened to be abused, or molested. The order prevents any communication or attempts to communicate. The order also prevents entering or attempting to enter the petitioner’s:

• College
• Home
• Job
• School
• University
• Other location as the court may order

4. How long is the term of the order?

The term of the order is not less than 6 months, not more than one year. However, the order of protection can be ended by an order of dismissal and may be extended or terminated by either party. An order issued by a magistrate expires as provided under the terms of the order or upon issuance of a subsequent order by family court.

Family court may modify the terms of any domestic abuse order.

5. What happens if the order of protection is violated?

30 days in jail or a fine of $200 or may constitute contempt of court punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $500.

6. The person I need an order against doesn't live with me; who is considered a household member?

Household member means spouses, former spouses, persons who have a child in common, or a male and female who are cohabiting or have formerly cohabited.

7. How do I obtain an order of protection during non-business hours or when Family Court is not in session?

A magistrate can issue an order whenever the family court in his/her county is not in session. A person requesting an order of protection should not be required to go into an adjoining county’s family court to petition for an order of protection.

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Sheriff's Office - Retrieving a Vehicle from Impound

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1. My vehicle was towed, when can I retrieve it?

If your vehicle was seized, a notice of the seizure will be given to the registered owner and the vehicle will not be released to the owner.

Vehicles that are brought in because they were involved in a criminal act or towed because they were abandoned will be released to the registered owner only with a valid picture identification. However, they will not be released to the owner until the vehicle is cleared through investigations. There are special cases that a vehicle can be released to another individual.

If a vehicle is towed in for any reason, the tow bill must be paid in cash before it can be released.

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Sheriff's Office - Tenant/Landlord Issues

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1. How much notice must be given before either the landlord or the tenant can end the rental agreement?

If your agreement is written, the amount of notice should be stated in that document. If you have an oral agreement, either the landlord or the tenant may end the rental agreement by giving proper notice to the other party. Proper notice is seven days if you rent by the week and 30 days if you rent by the month. The notice must be in writing.

2. What happens to the security deposit if the landlord sells the place you are renting?

You have a right to have your security deposit returned to you when the rental agreement ends.

3. I can't afford to have my water turned on right now; can I be forced to move out?

Yes. It is illegal to live in unsanitary conditions and not having working plumbing is considered one of those conditions.

4. If I have not paid my rent, can the landlord take any of my property?

The landlord must first appear before a magistrate, the magistrate must issue a distress warrant, and then you can be served with the distress warrant. The distress warrant allows the landlord to hold your property although some property cannot be taken.

If you are served with a distress warrant, you should consult a lawyer immediately. If you move out and leave some property, the landlord still has to obtain permission from the court to hold and sell your property.

5. Can my landlord evict me for complaining about the condition of my apartment?

It is illegal for a landlord to retaliate on a tenant for complaining.

6. Can my landlord evict me if I am criminally convicted for breaking the law in my home?

The landlord has the authority to remove someone from their property if criminally convicted of an act that takes place in their home. It is illegal to use your home to commit a crime or allow your family or anyone else to commit a crime in your home.

7. Can the landlord refuse to make repairs if I'm late or behind in paying rent?

The landlord must comply with requirements of state and local buildings and housing codes which generally require the property to be kept in good repair. The landlord is responsible for providing what is known as essential services to the rental units. With few exceptions, the landlord must provide sanitary plumbing or sewer services and electrical and gas connections, used for heating, hot water or cooking. The landlord must also maintain a reasonably good and safe working order of all appliances supplied or required to be supplied by him.

8. What can the landlord do if I damage his property?

The landlord can send you a written notice that the damage must be repaired within 14 days. If you do not have the repairs made within 14 days, the landlord may enter the apartment and make the repairs and may also petition the court to evict you.

9. Does the law help me if I have been discriminated against in renting an apartment?

If you feel you have been discriminated against, you should call the Housing Discrimination Hotline. The toll-free number is 800-424-8590.

10. Is there any limit to how much rent I can be charged?

There is no rent control in South Carolina unless you live in housing where your rent is based on your income.

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Sheriff's Office - Vehicle Auctions

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1. My car is in the Sheriff's Office impound lot; will I be notified before it is sold at auction?

All registered owners and lien holders of a vehicle must be notified via certified mail giving them 60 days to get the vehicle or it is subject to be sold at public auction. We will advertise an auction in the Times and Democrat 14 days prior to the sale and post the list of vehicles to be sold in the County Court House and the Sheriff’s Office at:
1520 Ellis Avenue
Orangeburg, SC 29118

We do allow owners to retrieve their vehicles up to the day before the auction at 5 pm.

2. How does the auction work?

On the day of the sale, the gates open at 8 am and the sale begins at 9 am. Every one that wishes to bid must register with the auctioneer before 9 am; there is no charge for that.

We do not accept personal checks to make a purchase during the auction. Only cash is accepted. Local businesses may pay with a business check.

If you purchase a vehicle at the auction, we request that you retrieve the vehicle the same day. However, if arrangements can be made specifically for those individuals who purchase multiple vehicles.

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Treasurer

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1. How can I make my payment?

You can make a payment in person at the Orangeburg County Administration Centre or you may also make a payment online. The Treasurer’s Office and the Delinquent Tax Collector’s Office are located on the first floor. Please make all checks or money orders made payable to Orangeburg County Treasurer. If mailing a payment, please mail the check to:
Orangeburg County Treasurer
P.O. Box 9000
Orangeburg, SC 29116-9000

The Treasurer’s Office accepts:

• Cash
• Checks
• Money Orders
• VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Cards

2. If I mail my payment, how do I receive a paid receipt?

After your payment is processed, we will mail your receipt to the mailing address listed on the tax bill. If you filled out the change of address information attached to the remittance, we will send the receipt to the new address indicated on the form.

3. Can I make a partial payment of my tax bill?

No. South Carolina state law does not allow the Treasurer to accept partial payments for individual tax bills.

4. When are the taxes due on my motor vehicle?

Taxes on motor vehicles and recreational vehicles must be paid before your license plate tags can be renewed. These taxes are due by the last day of the month in which your tag expires.

5. How do I receive my renewal sticker for my vehicle?

If you pay your vehicle taxes on time, you will receive your registration renewal sticker in the mail (usually within 10 days of payment). Please make sure that your address is correct and that your insurance certification is provided when required. The registration renewal fee charged by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles appears on your tax bill every other year. If you pay your vehicle taxes after the expiration of your license tag, you will need to go to a local Department of Motor Vehicles office to show your paid tax receipt. Then, a new sticker will be issued to you in person. If this occurs in a year when you were charged a renewal fee on your tax bill, the Department of Motor Vehicles will charge you a late renewal fee at that time.

6. Didn't I pay the taxes when I bought my vehicle?

When you purchase a vehicle from a dealership, their personnel are allowed to pick up your registration and license tags without paying the local property taxes. The tax you paid to the dealership at the time of purchase was the South Carolina State sales tax.

7. Why can't I search the Tax System records by license tag number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

The State of South Carolina has a stalking law which prohibits a search by tag or VIN number. Therefore, no one can find out your name or address simply by recording your vehicle information and accessing this site.

8. When is the last day to pay my current taxes without penalty?

Taxes on real and other personal property (not motor vehicles) are due by January 15 of the following year without penalty. For example, a real estate property tax bill dated November 2000 is payable by January 15, 2001, without penalty. The penalty structure on real estate and other personal property (not motor vehicles) is as follows:

• 3% penalty due if paid after January 15
• Additional 7% due, or 10% total, if paid after February 5
• Additional 5 % due, or 15 % total, if paid after March 16, and the bill is sent to the Delinquent Tax Department

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Veterans Affairs

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1. What is the Veterans Affairs Department?

We are the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, "VA" for short. We offer a wide range of benefits to our Nation’s veterans, service members, and their families.

2. What does the Veterans Affairs offer?

Benefits and services fall into these major categories:

• Burial Benefits
• Dependents’ and Survivors Benefits
• Disability Benefits
• Education Benefits
• Health Care
• Home Loans
• Life Insurance
• Vocational Rehabilitation

3. Who is eligible for Veterans Affairs benefits?

You may be eligible for benefits if you are:

• An active duty service member
• A member of the Reserves or National Guard
• A surviving spouse or child of a deceased veteran
• A veteran
• A veteran’s dependent

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Victim Services

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1. If I need to find out about the status of my case or make an adjustment to the information to my report who do I contact?

There are several options that you can consider:

1. The Sheriff’s Office at 803-531-4647 and supply the information to the Desk Sergeant.
2. The Communications Department at 803-534-3550 and ask the Dispatcher to relay a message for the Deputy who responded to your call.
3. Contact your assigned Victims Advocate.

2. After the bond hearing what happens next?

If the case has a General Sessions charge, you will be contacted by the Solicitor’s Office Victims’ Advocate.

If it is a Magistrate level charge then the Magistrates Court will notify you in addition to a Victims’ Advocate from the Sheriff’s Office about the status of the case.

3. How will I know if the suspect in my case has been released from the Orangeburg Calhoun Detention Center?

A representative from the Detention Center will contact the victim(s) in the case upon release of the suspect. If you need further information, please contact the Detention Center at 803-531-4658.

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Voter Registration

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1. What do I need to register to vote?

Requirements include:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a citizen of the U.S. (Proof of residency)
• Be a resident of the County and polling precinct in which the elector (voter) offers to vote
• Neither be under court order declaring the elector mentally incompetent nor serving a term of prison resulting from the conviction of a crime
• Not have been convicted of a felony, or any offense against the election laws, unless the elector has served his/her entire sentence, including probation and parole time, or has received a pardon

2. Where can I register to vote?

You can register to vote at:

• Any library or health department
• Chamber of Commerce
• Department of Motor Vehicles
• Department of Social Services
• Main office of the Voter Registration and Election Commission located at:
  1437 Amelia Street
  Orangeburg, SC 29115

3. If I register to vote, will I also be called for jury duty?

Potential jurors are randomly selected from voter registration lists as well as driver’s license and Department of Motor Vehicle identification lists. Your chances of being selected for jury duty are just as great if you have a South Carolina driver’s license.

4. Where do I vote?

Your polling place is determined by what voting precinct boundary you reside in and is designated on the bottom line of your voter registration card.

5. What Congressional District am I in?

Orangeburg County has two Congressional Districts. Joe Wilson is the Congressional Representative for District 2. James Clyburn is the Representative for District 6.

6. I have lost my registration card. Can I still vote?

Yes, as long as you have a valid, unexpired South Carolina driver’s license. You may also request a duplicate card by mail, phone, or in person from the Voter Registration and Elections Office.

7. What can I do if I cannot make it to the polls on election day?

State law allows for absentee voting in advance of any election if the elector qualifies under one of the various reasons allowable such as for members of the Armed Forces, physically disabled, persons on vacation, persons 65 years of age or older, etc. Please contact the Office of Voter Registration to see if you are eligible for absentee voting.

8. How does one qualify to vote absentee?

If you will be absent from the County on Election Day, you may request an absentee ballot. You may be absent due to employment, vacation, etc. If you are over 65 years of age, you are qualified to vote absentee. Members of the military and their dependents are eligible to vote absentee. Other qualifications are:

• Attending a sick or disabled person
• A certified poll worker or poll worker
• Confined to a jail or pre-trial facility pending disposition of arrest or trial
• Death or funeral in the family (3 days prior to the election)
• Emergency hospital patient (admitted 4 days prior to election)
• Jury duty
• Physically disabled individuals
• Students (their spouses or dependents also)
• U.S. citizen permanently residing outside the U.S.
• U.S. citizen temporarily residing outside the U.S. due to employment (serving with the American Red Cross, United Service Organizations, Peace Corps, etc.)

9. May I request an absentee ballot for my neighbor?

No. Only the individual, a member of their immediate family, or a designated authorized representative may request an absentee application.

10. May I take my wife, husband, child, mother, or father their ballot?

No. Ballots are given to the voter either in person or by mail only. The individual in question may vote in our office which is the absentee precinct or by mail. In emergency situations, please check with our office.

11. If I do not vote in the Primary Election, can I vote in the November or any general election?

Yes. You do not have to vote in a Primary Election to be eligible to vote in a November General or Special General Election.

12. What party am I registered with?

The State of South Carolina does not register by party. You will choose a party only when you vote in a Primary Election. If you chose a party in a Primary Election, when the next Primary Election comes you are not obligated to stay with that party. You may switch back and forth, if you so desire.

13. Is assistance offered at the polls?

Yes. A voter can request assistance if they are blind, physically disabled, or unable to read and write. A voter may receive assistance from anyone they choose except their employer, an agent of their employer, or an officer or agent of his union.