Annexation

Changing districts doesn’t mean changing your life...

Joining the City of Charleston is free and simple. To join, homeowners submit a signed application, and City Council approves it. You do not have to attend any meetings or contact any public service providers. We will do everything for you. We guarantee the switch to the city will be hassle-free and not interrupt your life.

For detailed annexation information in each area of the City:

• West Ashley Annexation Information
• James Island Annexation Information
• Johns Island Annexation Information
• Cainhoy Area (Berkeley County) Annexation Information

James Island Update

Since the 3rd town on James Island was disbanded, a 4th Town has incorporated but many former Town properties are now in Charleston County jurisdiction. Properties that are in the County can now apply to join the City of Charleston. Residents may apply to join the city and begin receiving city services and benefits.

Helpful Resources

• Download and mail an application for the following:
  • Cainhoy (PDF)
  • James Island (PDF)
  • Johns Island (PDF)
  • West Ashley (PDF)
• Email to request a tax/fee/service comparison
• Review Annexation Process

Annexation in Charleston

In South Carolina, residents are afforded the opportunity to specifically request as an individual (or group of neighbors) to incorporate their homes into the surrounding city. Many donut holes of unincorporated properties exist in James Island, West Ashley, Johns Island, and Cainhoy.

The city reaches out to the homeowners of those areas to offer them the advantages of annexation. Donut holes are small areas within the city that are touching city limits but are still under the jurisdiction of Charleston County.