The bill H. 4726 proposes to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 5-3-105, which grants municipalities the authority to annex areas by ordinance under specific conditions. The proposed legislation allows for annexation if the area has been completely surrounded by the municipality for at least five years, or if it is surrounded except for its border with certain entities such as state lines, military installations, state or national parks, or bodies of water.

Additionally, the bill outlines procedural requirements for municipalities before initiating the annexation process. At least thirty days prior to the first reading of the annexation ordinance, municipalities must notify the public through a newspaper publication and inform property taxpayers within the proposed area. The public hearing must include essential information such as a map and legal description of the area, details on public services to be provided, associated taxes and fees, and a timeline for service provision. This act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 5-3-105
Latest Version: 5-3-105