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We’re excited to introduce our new bi-monthly Development Services newsletter! It’s designed to keep you updated on everything from permits and building requirements to site plans and pre-clear inspections. As we work to make this newsletter as helpful as possible, we’d love your feedback. Please send any suggestions or topics you’d like to see featured to KatieK@hiltonheadislandsc.gov.
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 Pictured L-R: Kisha O'Donnell, Wendy Posey, Katie Kabala, Chris Lewis
Are you in the process of planning a new construction project or applying for a permit? If so, meet our planning team members committed to making sure your experience with the Town is smooth and efficient.
Katie Kabala, Community Development Services Manager
Katie is committed to streamlining processes and supporting applicants as their permits move through the Town’s system. If you have any questions about the permitting process, need guidance on using the Town portal website, or have general inquiries about permitting and planning, don’t hesitate to reach out to her.
Trey Lowe, Development Program Manager
Trey began working as a Planner for the Town in June 2022 and advanced to Senior Planner six months later. His experience in real estate development and sales has been instrumental in his current role ensuring codes and development applications align with the Town's Comprehensive Plan.
Chris Lewis, Building Official
Chris has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, including 16 years with the City of Spartanburg. He is now your go-to expert at the Town for any questions related to building codes.
Kisha O'Donnell, Community Development Review Coordinator
Kisha has moved from her former role as Services Coordinator to a vital behind-the-scenes position as the Community Development Review Coordinator. She plays a key role in ensuring projects are completed successfully and works diligently to bring them across the finish line.
Wendy Posey, Applications and Permits Manager
Wendy ensures that our processes run smoothly and is the main contact for large commercial projects, demolitions, and tents.
Our Community Development Information Center (CDIC) team is here to guide you through the permit and application process. Whether you're a homeowner managing a renovation or a developer with a large project, we're ready to help at every step. Please email all applications to CDIC@hiltonheadislandsc.gov, and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our knowledgeable staff is eager to assist you and help make your next project a success!
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 Renovation Work
When completing a bathroom or kitchen renovation, building plans are required if any plumbing, electrical, or structural walls are moved, removed, or added. Before you start renovations, you must take photos to document the room/layout, even if the project does not require building plans.
Commercial Building License
Condominium complexes with a minimum of 16 units per building or four stories and above are considered commercial buildings. Under the commercial building category, a commercial builder license must be acquired if work exceeds $10,000.
Pre-clear Insprections
We’ve streamlined the permitting process to make things smoother. For permits involving any groundwork, the first required inspection is the pre-clear. When you pick up your permit, please inform our team right away if the property is ready for this inspection so we can get it scheduled promptly. As a reminder, no groundwork or construction should begin until the pre-clear inspection has been successfully completed.
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Chris Lewis plays a pivotal role in the Town’s Planning Department, overseeing the permitting and development processes and enhancing customer service experiences. With his background, he brings a unique perspective and in-depth knowledge to his position as the Town's Building Official.
You recently moved to the island. What drew you to the Lowcountry?
To me, Hilton Head Island has always been one of the most beautiful places in South Carolina, and the architecture of the lowcountry has always appealed to me from my time working in the architecture field. When I found myself at a crossroads in my career, I could stay where I was and be content, or I could take a chance at something I had only dreamed about. I found the perfect combination of opportunity and fulfillment when I was offered the position of Building Official here at the Town of Hilton Head Island.
What are you looking forward to most during your first year on the island?
I’m excited about building a strong team at the Town. Our high standards require attention to detail, which is one of my greatest strengths. My goal is to make our permitting and review process the best in the state. I want our customers to see us not just as a regulatory body they must navigate, but as a partner that helps turn their vision into a reality as smoothly as possible. When your project succeeds, our island thrives.
So far, what have been your favorite discoveries on the island? As a huge fan of history, I've found it fascinating to learn about the Gullah community and how the island has changed over the past century. One of my favorite spots is Fish Haul Beach, where I can escape the crowds, relax, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. I'm also a big fan of seafood, and The Boathouse has become a family favorite for its great food and the quality time we get to spend there together.
You used to vacation on Hilton Head Island but now that you live here, where is your ideal vacation spot? I enjoy being in nature and just soaking up peace and calm on the beach or by the river in the mountains. I’m also an avid musician, so places that are rich in music, arts and architecture, like New York or Chicago, are high on my bucket list. I have found a little bit of all that here on Hilton Head Island, so give me a shaded porch with a beach view, a good guitar in my hand, and my family by my side, and I think that would be my ideal spot to spend a lot of time.
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The best way to manage your projects is through the Town of Hilton Head Island's Citizen Self Service (CSS) Portal. In this portal, you can apply for permits including single-family renovations, pay invoices, and request and view inspections. Our website has a page dedicated to using the portal with how-to guides and videos. Check it out at www.hiltonheadislandsc.gov/css/.
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Video topics include how to register, how to submit a permit online, and how to pay an invoice online. The written guide covers those topics and many others. We recently added several application types that you can apply for online including bathroom and kitchen renovations, window and door replacements, pool renovations, deck repairs, ductwork, and more. For projects that don’t require plan review, most online applications are approved for permits within a few hours.
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