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Hampton County, South Carolina once again finds itself at a crossroads. A new proposed ordinance being considered by its county council would regulate the temporary use of recreational vehicles (RVs) as dwellings – a move county officials say will protect public health, safety, and neighborhood integrity. But many low-income residents, disaster victims and those struggling to survive the prevailing economic hardship in Hampton County say this ordinance could make their fight for stable housing even harder.
The ordinance has been in discussion before the county’s planning commission since September 2024, but many residents were surprised to hear about it in recent weeks At a glance, the “temporary recreational vehicle use” ordinance seeks to bring order to RV living by limiting temporary use to specific circumstances, like hardship due to disasters, hunting season stays and construction site residences. While it establishes rules for safety, electrical hookups and sanitation, it also expressly prohibits long-term RV living – a reality many of Hampton’s poorest residents rely on to survive.
With nearly 20% of Hampton County’s residents living below the poverty line – and an average per capita income of just $44,723 – many families struggle to afford traditional housing. Residents are concerned this ordinance could unintentionally push some of the county’s most vulnerable residents into homelessness.
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RELATED | STATE AUDIT EXPOSES HAMPTON COUNTY
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County officials have stated unregulated RV living can pose risks to public health and safety as many of these vehicles lack proper sewer, water and electrical connections – potentially leading to unsanitary conditions. Limiting RVs as permanent residences would prevent environmental hazards and ensure that all dwellings meet health and safety standards.
In its current form, the ordinance would require any RV visible from an arterial street – and used as a temporary dwelling – to be screened by natural vegetation, a fence or an approved barrier such as a berm or hedges. According to the ordinance, this helps preserve the integrity of existing neighborhoods and ensures residential areas remain in compliance with long-term land use plans.
But one resident noted the cost of installing fencing could be prohibitive to some individuals.
Citizens have expressed a great deal of concern over the ordinance – claiming the negative impact it could have on the community would far outweigh any of the perceived benefits. Some believe the ordinance even limits the ability of property owners to live on their own land in an RV – even if they have access to necessary utilities.
This has rightfully raised concerns about government overreach – and the right of individuals to use their private property as they see fit.
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“I’ve heard multiple stories of not only council members or commission members and staff telling people that, oh, if they can afford a camper, they can afford a home,” Hampton County resident David Paul Murray said during a recent council meeting. “I assure you, there’s a large price difference between a camper and a home.”
According to Murray, the cheapest home currently for sale in Hampton county is asking $89,000 – for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom 800-square foot home.
“And if we know anything about most of the homes for that price in this area, they will need repairs,” he said. “They will need upkeep.”
In a post on Facebook, Murray argued “Hampton county has a responsibility to take care of its citizens.”
“We are some of the highest taxed and poorest citizens in the state of South Carolina,” he said. “Our options are limited (as) to what we can afford.”
FITSNews has reached out to Hampton County council members and county administrator Lavar Youmans for comment regarding the ordinance. This story will be updated with their response should one be provided. And in keeping with our open microphone policy, we welcome intelligent submissions from anyone with thoughts on this issue.
What’s next? A joint planning commission/county council meeting has been scheduled for next month to discuss the proposed RV ordinance. That meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. EDT at the BT Deloach Building. Citizens are encouraged to attend and provide input.
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UPDATE
Hampton County’s public information officer responded to our request for comments regarding the ordinance. Included in the response was a document (.pdf) responding to the most frequently added questions regarding the proposed ordinance along with the response below…
“Thank you for reaching out regarding Hampton County’s proposed RV ordinance. We deeply appreciate your interest in this important issue and are grateful for the opportunity to provide some clarity. We understand that this topic is very important to many in our community, and we want to reassure everyone that our ultimate goal is to work together with the community to find solutions that support the well-being and safety of all residents.
This proposed ordinance is part of our larger “Navigating Hampton County Forward” initiative, which is dedicated to establishing clear, transparent, and effective governance for the future. At its core, this initiative focuses on thoughtful financial management, operational efficiency, economic growth, and fostering open communication—all to ensure that today’s decisions contribute to the long-term prosperity and safety of our community.
Specifically, the ordinance addresses our broader goal of enhancing governance by improving existing processes and decision-making practices. We believe that clearer procedures within our Building & Planning Department will help provide consistent, transparent, and effective service to all residents.
We want to emphasize that the draft ordinance has been developed with considerable input from county staff and public feedback during Planning Commission meetings. We know that some concerns remain in the community, and we want to make sure everyone has a chance to be heard. While the joint County Council and Planning Commission meeting on April 22 at 6 PM will be a workshop for Council and the Planning Commission to study and discuss the issue together, we want to remind everyone that public input is an important part of this process. Opportunities for the public to share feedback have already taken place at all Planning Commission meetings and regularly scheduled County Council meetings, and there will be three readings and a public hearing, all of which will occur at County Council meetings, where public comment will be heard.
As we move forward, we are fully aware of the potential impacts these changes might have, and we approach every decision with compassion. Our aim is not only to provide clear regulations but also to support our residents, particularly those who may be facing challenges. With that in mind, the proposed ordinance includes provisions such as a grandfather clause and temporary residency permits, designed to minimize disruptions and offer assistance to those in need.Hampton County PIO Williams
We truly value the ongoing feedback from our community and invite continued conversations as we refine this proposal. As discussions progress, we will share further information, ensuring that every step we take reflects our commitment to thoughtful, inclusive, and empathetic decision-making for the benefit of everyone in Hampton County.“
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THE ORDINANCE…
(Hampton County)
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR …
Jenn Wood is FITSNews’ incomparable research director. She’s also the producer of the FITSFiles and Cheer Incorporated podcasts and leading expert on all things Murdaugh/ South Carolina justice. A former private investigator with a criminal justice degree, evildoers beware, Jenn Wood is far from your average journalist! A deep dive researcher with a passion for truth and a heart for victims, this mom of two is pretty much a superhero in FITSNews country. Did we mention she’s married to a rocket scientist? (Lucky guy!) Got a story idea or a tip for Jenn? Email her at jenn@fitsnews.com.
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4 comments
It’s all Murdaugh’s fault!
Good report. The money spent on propane in the cold will be high. RVs are not well insulated. Used RVs are higher priced because of demand in storm damaged areas and inflation. I seen both sides. Some people may not be as willing to maintain trash, or care about septic. The wording of the ordinance looks like there are variances that would give grace to those who cannot fund the required barrier. But wave that requirement for a period. Churches may help, but im betting they are strapped.
I would look at the cost of the fees and the price of the penalty for non compliance! As usual I suspect the couty is via once again for more of your money!! Now, the question is would they handle that money in the best way?? Better look at the record!
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