Horry County Government supports a thriving community of over 350,000 residents and welcomes more than 20 million visitors each year to its beaches, parks, and coastal attractions. The county delivers essential services including public safety, road maintenance, emergency response, and economic development. Daily updates on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram keep the public informed about road closures, public meetings, and local events. In August 2022, the county began upgrading its financial systems to improve accuracy and transparency in budgeting and reporting.
Official Website Transition to horrycountysc.gov
Horry County is moving its official online presence to the verified government domain horrycountysc.gov, with full migration expected by March 2025. This change ensures the public interacts only with authentic county resources, as .gov domains require federal verification of government ownership. All department email addresses will shift to the new format, such as info@horrycountysc.gov, strengthening cybersecurity and reducing phishing risks. The new site includes Section 508 accessibility features, a searchable service directory, and secure portals for tax payments and permit applications.
Digital Services and Online Resources
The county’s digital platform centralizes access to critical services for residents, businesses, and visitors. Users can pay property taxes, apply for building permits, report stormwater issues, and view public meeting agendas all in one place. The “My Horry” portal allows residents to manage accounts, schedule inspections, and receive notifications. Emergency alerts, health resources, and real-time traffic updates are also available. These tools reduce wait times, improve service delivery, and increase transparency.
Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness
Horry County Emergency Management coordinates responses to hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and public health emergencies. The department works with state agencies, fire districts, and the Red Cross to secure shelters, medical supplies, and communication systems. Staff conduct quarterly training exercises and an annual full-scale drill simulating a Category 3 hurricane. Evacuation route maps, shelter locations, and real-time alerts are posted on the emergency portal. Residents can sign up for text alerts and access preparedness guides online.
Public Safety and Law Enforcement
The Horry County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement, jail operations, and court security across the county. Located at 1301 Second Avenue in Conway, the office maintains a 24-hour non-emergency line at (843) 915-5450. Daily booking and release records are published online for public access. Community programs include the Sheriff’s Youth Academy and monthly town halls to strengthen trust between deputies and residents. The office also partners with schools on safety education and drug prevention initiatives.
Stormwater Management and Environmental Protection
The Stormwater Department maintains over 1,200 miles of drainage systems to prevent flooding and protect water quality. The team issues permits, inspects construction sites, and monitors runoff for pollutants. Quarterly mosquito control fogging occurs in high-risk areas to reduce disease spread. Residents can report blocked drains, illegal dumping, or flooding by calling the 24-hour hotline at (843) 381-8000. The department collaborates with local universities to study nutrient levels and improve coastal resilience.
Procurement and Vendor Opportunities
Horry County uses BidNet Direct to manage procurement for construction, IT, maintenance, and consulting services. Over 150 active contracts represent more than $120 million in annual spending. Vendors can register to receive real-time notifications for bids matching their expertise. Categories include environmental services, capital projects, and professional consulting. Support is available at (800) 835-4603 for registration help or submission questions. All bids are publicly posted to ensure fairness and competition.
Court Records and Public Documents
The Horry County Clerk of Court maintains official records for civil, criminal, and family court cases. The office is located at 1095 Greenfield Circle in Conway and open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Copies of marriage licenses, case files, and warrants can be requested in person, by mail, or through the South Carolina State Records portal. Electronic delivery is available for a small fee. Audit logs and document tracking ensure accuracy and accountability.
Employee Systems and Internal Operations
County employees use a secure time-tracking system to log hours, request leave, and view vacation balances. Version 1.2.1, released in November 2024, includes two-factor authentication and mobile compatibility for iOS and Android. The system integrates with payroll software and stores audit records for five years. This supports compliance with state labor laws and promotes transparency in workforce management.
Social Media and Community Engagement
Horry County Government maintains active profiles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to share news and engage with the public. The Facebook page has over 10,800 likes and features live Q&As, event promotions, and health alerts. Recent posts highlighted the annual Coast Fest, West Nile virus precautions, and budget updates. Followers can download meeting minutes and emergency plans directly from posts. The county’s core values—Openness, Accountability, Service, and Respect—are emphasized in every update.
Elections and Voter Information
In November 2023, the Horry County Elections Office reported that approximately 1,380 registered Republican voters received Democratic runoff ballots due to a printing error. Officials confirmed the mistake affected only mailing labels and not voter eligibility. Affected voters were instructed to contact Election Supervisor Hannah Strong-Oskin at (843) 488-7242 for corrected ballots. The incident led to a review of printing protocols and vendor quality controls to prevent future errors.
Financial Systems Upgrade
Since August 2022, Horry County has been upgrading its Computer-Aided Municipal Accounting (CAMA) system. The legacy software was replaced with a cloud-based platform from Tyler Technologies to improve financial reporting and budget planning. The new system provides real-time data access, reduces manual errors, and supports long-term fiscal planning. Departments can generate reports faster and track spending more accurately, leading to better decision-making.
Public Works and Infrastructure
The Public Works Department manages road maintenance, traffic signals, and public facilities across the county. Crews respond to pothole reports, storm damage, and utility outages. A dedicated hotline allows residents to report issues directly. The department also oversees capital improvement projects, including bridge repairs and sidewalk installations. All projects are listed on the county website with timelines and contact information.
Health and Human Services
Horry County Health & Human Services provides support for vulnerable populations, including food assistance, housing programs, and mental health resources. The department partners with local nonprofits and state agencies to expand access to care. Vaccination clinics, health screenings, and wellness workshops are held regularly. Information on eligibility and enrollment is available online or by calling the main office.
Parks and Recreation
The county maintains over 30 parks, trails, and recreational facilities for public use. Amenities include playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and beach access points. Programs for youth, seniors, and families are offered year-round. Facility rentals for events are managed through the online portal. Maintenance schedules and park rules are posted at each location and on the county website.
Business and Economic Development
Horry County supports local businesses through permitting assistance, workforce development, and incentive programs. The Economic Development Office helps companies locate, expand, or relocate in the area. Resources include site selection tools, tax credit information, and small business workshops. The county also promotes tourism through partnerships with hotels, restaurants, and event organizers.
Education and School Partnerships
The county collaborates with Horry County Schools on safety initiatives, after-school programs, and community events. Sheriff’s deputies serve as school resource officers, and emergency management teams conduct drills with students. Public libraries offer homework help, computer access, and literacy programs. These partnerships strengthen community ties and support student success.
Transportation and Traffic Management
Horry County manages a network of highways, local roads, and public transit options. Traffic cameras and sensors monitor congestion, especially during tourist seasons. The county coordinates with SCDOT on major projects like Highway 17 improvements and new interchanges. Real-time traffic maps are available online to help drivers plan routes.
Environmental and Coastal Protection
The county enforces regulations to protect wetlands, dunes, and marine habitats. Permits are required for coastal construction, and buffer zones are maintained to reduce erosion. Staff monitor water quality at beaches and issue swim advisories when needed. Educational campaigns teach residents about sea level rise, litter prevention, and native species conservation.
Housing and Code Enforcement
The Building Safety Division inspects homes and businesses to ensure compliance with fire, electrical, and structural codes. Permits are required for new construction, renovations, and demolitions. Code officers respond to complaints about unsafe structures or zoning violations. Online tools let owners check permit status and schedule inspections.
Animal Services and Shelter Operations
Horry County Animal Care handles stray animals, adoption services, and cruelty investigations. The shelter in Conway provides medical care, vaccinations, and spay/neuter programs. Lost pets can be reported online, and found animals are scanned for microchips. Volunteers and foster families support daily operations. Adoption events are held monthly to find homes for pets.
Senior and Veteran Services
The county offers programs for seniors and veterans, including transportation, meal delivery, and benefit counseling. The Veterans Affairs office helps with disability claims, education benefits, and burial arrangements. Senior centers host activities, health clinics, and social gatherings. All services are free or low-cost based on income.
Youth and Family Programs
After-school programs, summer camps, and mentoring initiatives are available through county partnerships. The Youth Services Bureau connects teens with job training, counseling, and leadership opportunities. Family resource centers offer parenting classes, childcare referrals, and crisis support. These programs aim to reduce youth crime and improve family stability.
Technology and Cybersecurity
Horry County invests in secure networks, data backups, and staff training to protect sensitive information. Firewalls, encryption, and multi-factor authentication are standard. Regular audits ensure compliance with state and federal privacy laws. Employees receive annual cybersecurity training to recognize phishing and other threats.
Transparency and Open Government
The county publishes budgets, meeting minutes, and performance metrics online. Public records requests are processed within legal timeframes. Live streams of council meetings allow remote participation. A citizen feedback form collects suggestions for improvement. These practices build trust and encourage civic engagement.
Contact Information
For general inquiries, email info@horrycountysc.gov or call (843) 915-5370. The main office is located at 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526. Visiting hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Emergency services are available 24/7 through 911. Non-emergency reports can be made online or by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Residents and visitors often have questions about services, permits, and emergency procedures. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on recent data and official policies.
How do I pay my property taxes online?
Property taxes can be paid securely through the horrycountysc.gov portal using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. Users must enter their tax ID number or property address to locate their account. Payment confirmations are emailed immediately. Late fees apply after the December 31 deadline. For assistance, call the Treasurer’s Office at (843) 915-5370 during business hours.
Where can I find public meeting schedules?
All public meetings, including County Council, Planning Commission, and Board of Education sessions, are listed on the county website calendar. Agendas are posted at least 24 hours in advance. Meetings are held at the Government & Justice Center, 1095 Greenfield Circle, Conway. Live streams and recordings are available for remote viewing. Email notifications can be subscribed to for specific boards.
How do I report a pothole or road damage?
Road issues can be reported online through the Public Works portal or by calling (843) 915-5370. Include the exact location, photos if possible, and a description of the problem. Crews respond based on severity, with safety hazards addressed within 24 hours. Repairs may take longer during peak tourist seasons due to high traffic volumes.
Can I apply for a building permit online?
Yes, building permits are available through the Planning and Development portal on horrycountysc.gov. Applications require site plans, contractor licenses, and fee payments. Inspections are scheduled online once permits are approved. Typical processing time is 5 to 10 business days. For complex projects, pre-application meetings are recommended.
How do I access court records or criminal history?
Court records are maintained by the Clerk of Court and can be requested in person, by mail, or through the South Carolina State Records website. Fees apply for copies. Criminal history checks require a signed release form and valid ID. Some records are restricted by law. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days.
What should I do during a hurricane warning?
Sign up for emergency alerts on the EMD website. Know your evacuation zone and route. Prepare a kit with water, food, medications, and important documents. Stay indoors and avoid flooded roads. Monitor local news and official social media for updates. Shelters open when conditions become dangerous.
How can my business bid on county contracts?
Register on BidNet Direct and select Horry County as a preferred agency. You’ll receive email alerts for new bids in your category. Review requirements carefully and submit proposals by the deadline. Awards are based on price, experience, and compliance. Contact the Procurement Office at (843) 915-5370 for guidance.