If you process, handle, cook, store or distribute food or plants in your business, you will need to receive special permits from your county health department. See www.scdhec.com.

If you plan to sell or serve alcoholic beverages, you will also need special permits.  Contact the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission at 30 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC  29201 or (803) 898-5864.

Some professions and businesses (for example, schools, nurseries, real estate brokers, etc.) require additional licenses or examinations.  To learn about special permits that may be required for your business, contact the Department of Consumer Affairs at PO Box 5757 (3600 Forest Dr.), Columbia, SC  29250-5757 or (803) 734-4200.  See www.scconsumer.gov.