What is Annexation?

Annexation is the systematic expansion of a city’s corporate boundaries into unincorporated (not already part of a local governmental jurisdiction) areas, and a corresponding extension of city services to the newly-annexed areas. South Carolina state statutes allow annexation to be undertaken when there is contiguity to the proposed property.

Why Does the City of Greenville Annex?

Through annexation, the tax base of the entire urban area is available to meet the needs of the urban area. Additionally, the City of Greenville can offer public services in an efficient, consistent, equitable, and cost effective manner.

Many residents and property owners of newly annexed area benefit from having improved fire protection, municipal traffic management and street maintenance, street lights, availability of basic water and sewer facilities, solid waste (garbage) collection, and other standard municipal services which the City of Greenville provides.

How Does a Parcel or an Area Qualify for Annexation?

In order to qualify for annexation, an area must meet several specific requirements set forth in the State statutes.

The Greenville County Planning Commission Staff are responsible for collection of data concerning land development and population growth which helps determine qualifying annexation areas in accordance with the four development standards listed above.

Who Can Annex?

Anyone whose property is contiguous (touches) the existing city limits line may petition to annex into the city.

How do I Annex?

State Law governs annexation procedures in South Carolina. Property owners may file a 100% petition if their property is contiguous. All persons having an ownership interest in the property must sign.

A second method, the 75% petition, may be used for multiple parcels. This property must be contiguous at some point. At least 75% of all property owners within the petition area must sign. The signatories must also represent 75% of the total assessed land value.

Petitions are applied for through the Greenville County Planning Commission. This body makes recommendations to the City Greenville Council for approval.

The City of Greenville’s Annexation office located in Economic Development will assist you in determining the best method of annexation for your property. They will develop a financial analysis and explain in detail the benefits of annexation.

For more information on annexing into the City of Greenville, you may call or e-mail Tracy Dozier with your address, telephone number, tax parcel number (if known) or location of the property, and any other pertinent information about the property to doziert@greatergreenville.com or phone 864-467-5723.