Office of Small Business Opportunity

Hospitality Taxes Business owners can pay Richland County hospitality taxes online.
Business Updates Update the County if your business activities, name, address or ownership have changed.
Accommodation Taxes Businesses offering short-term accommodations can pay Local Accommodations Taxes online.
Rental Properties Rental properties require registration in Richland County.
Visitors Richland County has the attractions and hospitality you’re sure to love.
Purchase Order Conditions Terms and conditions for Richland County purchase orders.
Information Technology The backbone of the County’s digital infrastructure, developing secure, efficient, and innovative technology services for residents and employees.
Pet License A pet license identifies and protects your dog or cat if they get lost and signals it is vaccinated against rabies.
Lost and Found Pets Take these steps to bring pets back home.
Animal Services Keeping communities safe by promoting responsible pet ownership and protecting against the diseases carried by pests.
Stray Cats Learn how you can help control the community cat population.
Spay/Neuter Voucher Learn about spay/neuter vouchers available for pets and Trap Neuter Return (TNR) programs.
When a Pet Dies Know the options available for burying or removing deceased pets.
Fire Inspection Review of fire plans for compliance with County and state regulations.
Emergency Management Find steps to plan and prepare for disasters, and sign up receive alerts.
Hazardous Materials Enforcing the local laws on chemicals or substances that may be harmful to people or the environment.
Fire Inspections Review of fire plans for compliance with County and state regulations.
Fire Marshal Protecting lives and property through fire safety education and enforcement of fire and safety codes.
Inspections Understand inspections and requirements for Richland County.
Courts and Judicial System Ensuring justice and public safety in Richland County through civil, criminal, family, and probate legal proceedings.
Public Defender Provides legal defense to individuals charged with crimes who cannot afford to hire an attorney.
Solicitor Chief prosecutor of the Fifth Circuit handling criminal cases on behalf of the State of South Carolina for Richland and Kershaw Counties.
Civil Court Resolves disputes between people, businesses, or organizations.
Magistrate Forms Court forms for Magistrate Court from South Carolina Judicial Branch.
Know Where It Goes Common items and where to recycle or dispose properly.
Pet Laws and Help Learn the rules for pets and how to handle common situations.
Roadside Cleanup Community clean sweeps and anti-litter enforcement.
Commercial Pet Breeder Permit A permit to ensure pet breeding businesses are in a suitable location and pass inspection.
Homes and Communities Find Richland County programs and services to strengthen communities.
Common Pleas Forms Court forms for Common Pleas from South Carolina Judicial Branch.
Master-in-Equity Court Rosters
Child Advocates Court-appointed advocates for children through Family Court and beyond.
Land and Buildings Understand how values are assessed for land and buildings.
Roads and Drainage Maintaining County roads and storm drain systems.
Bond Court Determines whether a person arrested for a crime can be released before trial and under what conditions.
Building Permits Understand permitting steps for homeowners and contractors in Richland County.
Property Maintenance Share the location of a neglected, unsafe or abandoned home or building.
Plan Review Understand the plan review process for Richland County.
Commercial Inspection Schedule building inspections in the correct order to avoid delays.
Residential Inspection Schedule home inspections in the correct order to avoid delays.
Property Search Search for Richland County properties by tax map number, address or owner.
Stay Up To Date Sign up for the County's weekly newsletter!
Columbia-Richland Fire Careers Learn about firefighter positions with the Columbia-Richland Fire Department.
Sheriff's Department Careers Learn about careers and internships with the Richland County Sheriff's Department.
Events Find upcoming public meetings and events based on your interests.
Ordinances View codified ordinances and non-codified ordinances.
Get Involved Attend events and meetings, or apply to serve in your community.
Elected Offices Learn about Richland County officials, their roles, and contact details.
Coroner Investigates deaths that are sudden, unexpected, or unattended to determine cause and manner of death.
Conservation Protecting our natural, cultural and historical resources through outreach, grants, and special projects.
Surrender or Rehome a Pet Tips to help find a new home for a pet.
Vector Control Providing treatments and public education on insects that can spread diseases to humans.
Animals Get connected to lost and found pet resources, report a cat or dog concern, and obtain a County pet license to reflect current vaccinations.
Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center Part of the criminal justice system, this is where people are held after being arrested in Richland County.
Transportation Penny Provided funding for hundreds of neighborhood improvement projects, including road widenings, intersection upgrades, dirt road pavings, sidewalks, bikeways, greenways and more.
Operational Services Safeguarding public facilities for departments to serve residents, businesses, and visitors efficiently.
Treasurer Collecting taxes, maintaining bank accounts, investing funds, and maintaining trust with efficient and helpful service.
Detention Center Careers Learn about job opportunities at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Assistant County Administrators Assistant County Administrator direct and coordinate different departments within Richland County.
Small Local Business Enterprise Certification (SLBE) Qualify to bid on Richland County contracts for construction, services, and goods and appear in our directory.
Finances Explore budgets, tax reports, and financial transparency resources.
Neighborhood Improvement Program Supporting the long-term health of neighborhoods by investing in resident-directed projects and planning.
Planning and Development Services Providing guidance to develop property in Richland County from concept to completion.
Disclaimer Review the legal disclaimer for the website.
Privacy Review the privacy statement for the website.
Business Taxes
Mobile Home Setup Understand the requirements for registering or relocating mobile homes in Richland County.
Subdivision Plan Review Ensure subdivision plans meet code requirements.
Commercial Plan Review Ensure commercial plans meet code requirements.
Emergency Services Providing professional and cost effective emergency and public safety planning, response and recovery programs for County residents.
Business Understand business license and business tax requirements, plus small business certification and support.
Engineering Oversight, maintenance and enhancements of transportation and infrastructure systems.
Permits Explore types of permitting and requirements for Richland County.
Public Works Providing for your safety, health and welfare as you interface with public infrastructure.
Legislative Delegation and Veterans Affairs Uniting elected leaders and Veterans Affairs to serve and strengthen resources for our veterans and their dependents.
New Development Guiding responsible growth across Richland County.
Procurement and Contracting Promoting full and open competition for purchasing goods and administering contracts.
Vendor Registration Register to bid and receive notifications of Richland County opportunities.
Upcoming Solicitations View upcoming opportunities to bid on Richland County projects.
Current Solicitations View active opportunities to bid on Richland County projects.
Transportation Information about roads, drainage, stormwater, and Jim Hamilton-LB Owens airport.
Risk Management Identifying, assessing, and managing risks across all County operations.
Register of Deeds Recording and maintaining real estate records and other land-related documents for public access.
Columbia Area Development Partnership Driving high-impact economic growth in Richland County through new industry and workforce investments.
Affordable Housing Development Investing in the development, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing in unincorporated areas of Richland County.
Building Permitting and Inspections Protecting communities by ensuring homes, businesses, and public spaces are safe and up to code.
Finance Maintaining the fiscal integrity of the County’s financial records, issuing payments, producing reports, and performing audits.
Administration County Administration oversees the day-to-day operations to serve the public and carry out the policies set by County Council.
Watercraft Understand how taxes are calculated for watercraft.
Campers and Motor Homes Understand how taxes are calculated for campers and motor homes.
Utilities Behind the scenes 24/7, every day of the year to ensure citizens have clean drinking water and safe, reliable sanitation services.
Vehicle Tax
Fair Housing View Richland County information about fair housing.
Business Personal Property Tax
Recording Fees View recording fees by document type for Register of Deeds.
Become a Friend of RSWCD Fund local conservation efforts as a Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Friend.
Land Development Details for developers about our land development processes.
Budget and Strategic Management Supporting County departments through financial guidance and managing awarded grant funds.
General Sessions Forms Court forms for General Sessions from South Carolina Judicial Branch.
Court Calendar View upcoming court dates and schedules for all case types.
Animal Care Advisory Committee Provides oversight and recommendations regarding improving animal care services.
Building Codes Board of Appeals Hears and decides on appeals to the decisions of the Building or Fire Official.
East Richland Public Service Commission Oversees functions of constructing, operating, maintaining and financing a sanitary sewage collection and treatment system throughout the district.
Manufactured Homes Understand the requirements for registering or relocating manufactured homes in Richland County.
Solicitor Serves as the County’s chief prosecutor, responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and overseeing diversion programs.
Minor Home Repairs Provides repairs to income-eligible homeowners for critical health and safety needs on their home.
Community Development Block Grants Grants from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Small Business Hub Find guidance for your small business to grow and discover new opportunities.
Auditor Applying tax rates, ensuring rates are correctly applied and maintaining public records on local taxes.
Administrator The County Administrator serves as the administrative head of Richland County, directing and coordinating the operation of agencies and administrative activities established by County Council.
Curbside Pickup Learn how to set up curbside service and what's accepted for both recycling and garbage.
Jobs Discover employee benefits, browse open positions, and apply for employment.
Probate Forms and Terms Access Richland County Probate forms and understand related terms.
Hospitality Tax Information Hospitality tax details and total sales tax rate in different jurisdictions for different types of purchases.
Mailing Address Change Change the mailing address for a home, building or land record.
Auditor Calculates and prepares property tax bills based on assessed values and applicable tax rates.
Water or Sewer Service Apply for water or sewer service via email, fax, by mail or in person.
Detention Center Get detainee information, visitation guidelines, and mail rules.
Community Relations Council Works to make the Midlands a better place to live and work for all residents
Historic Columbia Foundation Operates and manages two historic properties.
Business Taxes Find information for business personal property, hospitality, and accommodation taxes.
Flooding Learn about local flood management, safety and property protection.
Emergency Solutions Grant Helps individuals and families in our community experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their homes.
Ombudsman Your personal guide to County services. Reach out to find answers and get assistance.
Support Payments How to establish, pay, or check the status of Family Court payments.
Trash and Recycling Learn what items go where for curbside and drop-off centers.
Drop-Off Centers Residents may use the drop-off garbage and recycling centers free of charge.
Employee Benefits Review the comprehensive benefits package for employees.
Probate Judge Handles matters such as wills, estates, guardianships, conservatorships, and marriage licenses.
Richland County Bailey Bill Special property tax assessments for rehabilitation of historic buildings.
Organization Understand County departments and how services are structured.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Academy Learn about our accelerated medical training program for EMT certification.
Conservation Grants Funds available to help promote conservation and historic preservation.
Performing Arts Center Board Sets policy, priorities and rates for the Ira and Nancy Koger Center for the Arts.
Richland County Neighborhood Council Provides residents an information exchange and advises local officials on issues affecting communities.
Richland County Recreation Commission Delivers quality recreation programs in order to better promote health and improve the quality of life in Richland County.
River Alliance Board Creates community benefit from 90 miles of the region’s rivers.
Transportation Penny Advisory Committee Reviews, comments on, and provides recommendations to County Council regarding use of the one-cent additional sales tax.
Nulla Bona Committee Decides which taxes are non-collectable and should be deleted from the tax rolls.
Grants and Community Outreach Empowering Richland County by securing and managing grants that drive sustainable growth, strengthen communities, and support vital services.
Community Development Mailing List Sign up to receive emails from Richland County Community Development regarding grant opportunities and information.
Small Claims A division of Magistrate Court that resolves disputes involving $7,500 or less.
Register of Deeds Officially recorded real estate records for Richland County.
Taxes Find information on property, motor vehicle, and business taxes, including online payment options and tax-related forms.
Rent Conservation Equipment Equipment is available for rent in Richland County and the Twenty-five Mile Creek Watershed.
Historical Marker Program Understand the steps to propose an historical marker.
Protect Your Land Landowners can protect their land through conservation easements
Enrich: African American History Tour Explore African American landmarks and special sites in Richland County.
Richland County Ag + Art Tour
Conservation Education Mini-Grants Apply for up to $1,000 in grant funding to support conservation projects and youth environmental education initiatives.
Subscription Data Services A fee-based subscription service for online viewing of records related to Richland County deeds and estates.
Small Business Resources Explore our local community partnerships.
Assessor Valuing and listing all real property for tax purposes and maintaining property ownership records.
Business License Get the forms and learn the steps for a new business license application for Richland County.
Business Service Center Helping businesses navigate the local licensing process and meet County requirements for hospitality and accommodation taxes.
Court Appointed Special Advocates Assisting families and advocating for children through Family Court matters and beyond.
Public Safety Careers Explore jobs dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of the public.
All Available Jobs Browse all Richland County jobs and apply online.
Self-represented Procedures Review Master-in-Equity self-represented procedures.
Water and Sewer Pay your water and sewer bill, or apply for utilities services for residential or commercial projects in covered areas.
Clerk of Court Manages court records and oversees the administration of court cases, including civil, criminal, and family court matters.
General Sessions A division of Circuit Court that handles felony and serious misdemeanor criminal cases.
Criminal Court Handles cases where someone is accused of breaking the law, from minor offenses to serious crimes.
Family Court Handles legal matters involving families, such as divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and juvenile issues.
Conservation Learn about conservation and protection efforts for our area's natural, cultural and historical resources.
Budget View the budget timeline with recorded meetings and documents.
Emergency Medical Services One of the busiest and most highly respected emergency medical services response teams in South Carolina.
Midlands Regional Convention Center Authority Engages in all aspects and activities related to the Convention Center.
Internal Audit Committee Reviews all areas of County operations which County funds are levied, collected, expended, or otherwise used.
Conservation Education Find resources for teachers to inspire students on conservation topics.
Maps (GIS) Explore our mapped datasets designed to support a variety of Richland County operations.
Application Neighborhood Enrichment Grant application.
Plans and Reports View the plans for public input and reports regarding the strategic use of Federal funds.
License Renewal Renew your annual business license online, by mail, or in person.
Hours and Closures View business hours, parking information, and holiday closings.
Government and Community Services The Richland County Government and Community Services Department connects Richland County residents with their local government.
Food Service Establishments Understand the requirements for food service establishments connected to Richland County sanitary sewer systems.
Delinquent Taxes Understand what happens when taxes go unpaid and how to avoid penalties.
Elections Public Records Request Request public records related to voter registration and elections.
Magistrates View Magistrate Court Judges by location and court information.
Historic Preservation Grants Grants available for site restoration and preservation education and research programs.
Tax Sale Information, instructions and bidder registration for the annual tax sale and sealed bid auction.
Natural Resource Grants Grants available for protecting and enhancing water quality and natural areas.
Commercial Utilities Understand the steps required for commercial utilities projects.
Educational Materials Educational materials are available for Richland County educators to borrow for classroom use.
Americans with Disabilities Act Notice Review the Americans with Disabilities Act Notice.
Purchasing Browse open and upcoming bid opportunities and register as a Richland County vendor.
Vehicle Tax Vehicle taxes are due each year by the last day of the month your decal expires.
Strategic Plan Track progress on strategic planning and performance management goals.
Aircraft Understand how taxes are calculated for aircraft.
Zoning Assists residents, developers, and business owners with information about land use and zoning classifications.
Foreclosure Sales Review Master-in-Equity information regarding foreclosure sales.
Traffic Court Handles citations and tickets for driving violations.
2026 Court Updates Review the Master-in-Equity 2026 Court updates.
Neighborhood Enrichment Grants Provides funds for neighborhood-based groups for beautification, safety, health, leisure, and engagement projects.
Neighborhood Improvement Partner with the County to develop neighborhood plans and coordinate improvement projects.
Zoning Overlays Zoning overlays maintain the unique architectural, natural, cultural, and historic attributes of neighborhoods.
Master-in-Equity Procedures Review Master-in-Equity procedures.
Master-in-Equity Fees Review Master-in-Equity fees.
Judge Lawrence Order of Reference Checklist Review the Master-in-Equity Order of Reference checklist.
Economic Development Committee Works to assist new companies considering locating in Richland County and existing companies considering expanding operations.
Development and Services Committee Meets regarding the operational matters, economic development, functions and activities of Public Works and Engineering.
Rules and Appointments Committee Reviews, provides oversight, and serves as advisory body on the rules of the County Council concerning appointments to County boards, commissions, and committees.
Title VI Richland County's Title VI statements, procedures and reporting.
Administration and Finance Committee Functions as a committee of ways and means.
Ad Hoc and Short-Term Committees Groups that form for specific tasks or objectives and end when completed.
Business Service Center Appeals Board Hears appeals on actions related to County business licenses.
Hospitality Tax Advisory Committee Reviews applications and makes recommendations regarding the allocation and distribution of the County Promotions portion of hospitality tax funds.
Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee Makes recommendations on the expenditure of revenue generated from the Accommodations Tax.
Master-in-Equity A relatively quick and inexpensive means of litigation resolution for civil, non-jury matters over $7,500.
Treasurer Collects and distributes property taxes and manages the County’s financial assets.
Water or Sewer Bill Pay your Richland County water or sewer bill online, by phone, in person, by mail or set up automatic drafts.
Probate Contacts Contact list for Probate Court.
Midlands Workforce Development Board Helps strengthen and improve our nation’s public workforce system.
The Township Auditorium Oversees the performing arts venue to provide quality services to the community.
Voter Outreach Learn about voter education services available for local organizations.
Music Festival Commission Oversees the execution of music festivals in Richland County.
Library Board of Trustees Oversees and guides the long-term strategies for the ongoing success of Richland Library.
Report an Issue Not sure where to turn? The Richland County Ombudsman's Office is your one-stop contact for answers, requests and problem-solving.
Seed Sanctuary Residents can request free vegetable, herb and wildflower seeds.
Utilities & Services Utilities & Services
Grants Find funding opportunities for communities, organizations, nonprofits and more.
Accommodation Grants Available financial support for tourism-related projects that attract visitors for overnight stays.
Community Impact Grants Financial support for organizations offering innovative and needed services for all citizens.
Hospitality Grants Available financial support to organizations or projects with a mission to attract tourists.
Sheriff Enforces the law and provides public safety services including criminal investigations and patrols.
Tax Payment Plan Request a monthly payment plan to manage your property tax bill.
Property Valuation Understand how real property is valued for taxation in Richland County.
Legal Residence Reduce the assessment ratio from 6% to 4% when you meet residency and ownership requirements.
Subscription Data Services A fee-based subscription service for online viewing of records related to Richland County deeds and estates.
Assessment Appeal Follow the outlined process to appeal your property's valuation within 90 days of notice.
Mapping and Records Access County property data and maps and update information if needed.
Property Tax Learn how three key County offices work together and how to read the tax bill.
Report Prison Rape The Detention Center maintains a zero tolerance policy for sexual harassment of inmates.
Human Resources Developing and implementing policies, procedures and programs to support County employees.
Conservation Plans and Projects Learn about our ongoing conservation projects and how you can get involved.
Business Personal Property Taxes Businesses pay taxes on business-related furniture, fixtures and equipment.
Board of Voter Registration and Elections Oversees all aspects of elections in Richland County, from voter registration to certification of results.
Voter Registration and Elections Providing every citizen the opportunity to register to vote and maintaining the integrity and accuracy of elections.
Commitments Learn about involuntary commitments for mental health or substance use.
Guardians and Conservators Procedures for petitioning for conservator and/or guardian for an incapacitated adult or application for conservator for a minor.
Marriage Apply for a marriage license, or request a certified copy of your completed license.
Estate Records Access Probate Court records information in person, by mail and online.
Marriage Licenses Apply for a marriage license, or request a certified copy of your completed license.
Courts & Safety Ensuring justice and public safety in Richland County through civil, criminal, family, and probate legal proceedings.
Probate Court Handles estate administration, estate and trust litigation, appointment of guardians and conservators, civil commitment, and issues marriage licenses.
Planning Commission Plans programs for the physical, social and economic growth, development and redevelopment of the unincorporated area of the County.
Richland County Early Voting Locations All Richland County early voting locations.
Richland County Polling Location Precinct List All Richland County polling location precincts.
All Elections Learn about upcoming elections in Richland County.
Legislative Delegation Serves as liaison between the various levels of government, individual citizens and the elected Senators and House Representatives of Richland County, in the South Carolina General Assembly.
Road Maintenance Fees View the total revenue collected for Richland County road maintenance by fiscal year.
Office of Small Business Opportunity Helping small businesses grow and compete through guidance and resources.
Pay Taxes Pay your Richland County taxes online, in person, by mail or request a payment plan.
Public Information Office Increasing public awareness and understanding of Richland County Government and serving as a media contact.
Stay Up To Date Sign up to receive Richland County Government information.
Tax Exemptions Review the different qualifications for tax exemptions on real property and vehicles.
Public Records Steps to request non-exempt public records in accordance with the SC Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Stormwater Promoting stormwater drainage and water quality enhancement.
Election Workers Learn about poll manager training and election worker opportunities.
Apply to Serve Apply to interview for posted vacancies in citizen service boards, committees, and commissions.
Common Pleas A division of Circuit Court that hears civil lawsuits involving large claims, such as injury cases, contract disputes, or property matters.
Early and Absentee Voting Learn about early voting and qualifications for absentee voting.
Community Development Administering grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to improve low-income neighborhoods.
Voting and Elections Register to vote, or check your registration ahead of elections.
Government View local laws, elected officials and the many opportunities to participate in Richland County Government.
Departments Learn about the different departments of Richland County Government.
Comprehensive Planning Learn about the long-term plan for Richland County’s growth, development, and preservation.
Property & Business Explore property, business, tax and development information.
Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (CMRTA) Promotes transportation opportunities for all citizens within Richland County and a limited service area in Lexington County.
Lexington Richland Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Provides alcohol and drug abuse services to Lexington and Richland Counties.
Richland Memorial Hospital (Prisma Health) Board of Trustees Oversees the operation and governance of the hospital system.
Central Midlands Council of Governments Guides area-wide development wit research, planning and technical assistance.
Board of Assessment Appeals Hears appeals related to property tax disputes between the Assessor and the taxpayer.
Riverbanks Park Commission Governs the Riverbanks Park Special Purpose District for the financial stability of the zoo.
Board of Zoning Appeals Guides development in accordance with existing and future needs, suitability, and the Comprehensive Plan.
Airport Operations Learn about airport operations and pilot information.
About the Airport Learn about airport history, commission and partners.
Airport Facilities Learn about the airport facilities and send a request.
Forfeited Land Available Learn how forfeited properties are sold, including offer forms and payment instructions.
Jim Hamilton-LB Owens Airport A single runway general aviation facility supporting transportation and economic development needs.
Connect with OSBO Complete the interest form to connect with the Office of Small Business Opportunity.
Reports Richland County is a leader in transparent financial reporting.
Airport Commission Advises County Council on development, maintenance and operation of Jim Hamilton-L.B. Owens Airport (CUB) and promotes aviation in Richland County.
Homeownership Assistance Provides down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a home in unincorporated Richland County.
Estates Open an estate after death, search for pending estates, and search estate records.
Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Promotes natural resource conservation through education, demonstrations, technical and financial assistance.
Conservation Commission Protects the County's natural, historical, and cultural resources and promotes nature-based recreation and eco- and heritage tourism

Property and Business Top Tasks

Government Top Tasks

Office of Small Business Opportunity