Wildlife removal in South Carolina
In South Carolina, nuisance wildlife control is regulated by the SCDNR. Depredation permits are required for trapping outside open seasons, though exceptions exist for property owners trapping within 100 yards of their residence. Off-site relocation of furbearing species is generally illegal.
Get connected with a provider in South Carolina
Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.
What South Carolina law allows
- A Depredation Permit is required from SCDNR to trap or take wildlife out of season.
- Property owners do not need a permit if trapping furbearers or squirrels within 100 yards of their residence.
- It is generally illegal to relocate trapped furbearing nuisance wildlife off-property in South Carolina.
- Trapped animals must either be released on-site (on the same property) or humanely euthanized.
Rules paraphrased from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) — the primary source. Last reviewed 2026-07-16.
Relocation rules
Off-site relocation is prohibited under South Carolina law for trapped furbearers due to disease concerns. Captured nuisance animals must be released on-site or humanely euthanized.
Bat rules
Bats are protected in South Carolina and cannot be killed. Exclusion is the only lawful remedy and must be done outside of the summer breeding season.
City guides in South Carolina
Charleston
Charleston County · Common calls: raccoons, bats, squirrels
Mount Pleasant
Charleston County · Common calls: raccoons, squirrels, bats
Summerville
Dorchester County · Common calls: squirrels, raccoons, bats
Rock Hill
York County · Common calls: squirrels, raccoons, bats
Fort Mill
York County · Common calls: squirrels, raccoons, bats
South Carolina wildlife law FAQs
Can a professional relocate a trapped animal in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina law generally prohibits the relocation of trapped furbearing wildlife off-property. Trapped animals must be released on-site or humanely euthanized.
Do I need a permit to trap a squirrel in my yard in SC?
If the animal is causing active damage and is captured within 100 yards of your home, no permit is required. Otherwise, a Depredation Permit must be obtained from SCDNR.
Talk to someone about your wildlife problem
Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.