Overview
South Carolina regulates vending machines through business registration, sales tax compliance, and local health permits for food vending operations. The state has business-friendly regulations with reasonable compliance requirements and follows the 2017 FDA Model Food Code.
Local governments may impose additional requirements. Charleston and Columbia have specific business licensing requirements for vending operations.
Business Registration
Business registration is required for vending operators in South Carolina.
Registration Agency
South Carolina Secretary of State →
Registration Types
- LLC Formation ($110 filing fee)
- Corporation Formation ($135 filing fee)
- Partnership Registration ($110 filing fee)
- Foreign Entity Registration ($225 filing fee)
- Trade Name Registration ($10 filing fee)
Business entities must maintain a registered agent and office in South Carolina. Annual reports required for corporations and LLCs.
Sales Tax
Tax Application
- General sales tax applies to vending: Yes
- Food tax variation: Same as general
- Local rates possible: Yes
- Resale certificate required: Yes
- Filing frequency: monthly for most businesses
Vending operators must collect 6% state sales tax plus local sales tax up to 3%. Sales tax license required for all retailers.
Registration
Forms: ST-3 (Sales Tax License Application), ST-8A (Resale Certificate)
Vending Operator License
Vending operator license is not required in South Carolina.
Machine Registration
Machine registration is not required in South Carolina.
Health Permit & Food Code
Health permits are required for:
- Machines dispensing potentially hazardous foods (TCS)
- Micro markets
- Fresh food vending
Agency: South Carolina Department of Public Health
Food Code: 2017 FDA Model Food Code
Inspections: At least annually
Micro Markets
Micro markets are recognized in state code.
Permit required: Yes
Specific Requirements
- Food establishment permit required
- Certified food protection manager
- TCS foods require temperature control
- Adequate supervision or monitoring
Product Restrictions
Restricted Products
- Alcohol: Prohibited in vending machines. South Carolina requires licensed establishments for alcohol sales with trained staff and age verification.
- Tobacco: Prohibited in accessible vending machines except in adult-only establishments. Age 21+ requirement. Employee-assisted sales required.
- CBD/Hemp: Hemp products must comply with South Carolina Department of Agriculture hemp regulations. THC content must not exceed 0.3%.
- Age Verification: Strict age verification required. ID required for anyone appearing under 30.
Placement Rules
Schools
Federal Smart Snacks nutrition standards apply. South Carolina Department of Education administers school nutrition programs.
Public Buildings
Must comply with state procurement regulations. Vendor registration may be required for government contracts.
Private Property
Property owner permission required. Subject to local zoning and ADA accessibility requirements.
ADA & Accessibility
Must comply with ADA requirements including accessible routes and operable controls.
Electrical & Fire Code
Must comply with South Carolina Building Code and local fire codes.
Local Permits
South Carolina has home rule, meaning local jurisdictions can impose additional requirements.
Typical Local Requirements
- City business license
- Local health permits (if delegated)
- Building permits for installations
Example Localities
Charleston
Business license required for vending operations. Health permits through Charleston County Health Department. Building permits for installations.
Columbia
Business license required. Health permits for food vending through Richland County Health Department. Zoning compliance required.
Penalties & Enforcement
Common Violations
- Sales tax non-compliance
- Food safety violations
- Operating without health permits
Penalties
- Sales tax penalties: 5% of tax due per month
- Food safety violations: permit suspension
- Business license violations: fines up to $500
Key Contacts
South Carolina Department of Revenue
Phone: (844) 898-8542
South Carolina Department of Public Health
Phone: (803) 898-3432
South Carolina Secretary of State
Phone: (803) 734-2170
Frequently Asked Questions
What sales tax rate applies to vending machines in South Carolina?
South Carolina charges 6% state sales tax plus local taxes up to 3%. You need a sales tax license and must collect tax on all taxable sales.
Are health permits required for food vending machines?
Yes, machines dispensing potentially hazardous foods and micro markets require food establishment permits. Certified food protection manager required, and permits cost around $185.
Do I need individual permits for each vending machine?
No, South Carolina does not require individual machine registration. You need business registration, sales tax licensing, and health permits for food vending, but not per-machine permits.
Can I sell tobacco products through vending machines?
Tobacco vending machines are prohibited except in adult-only establishments. Age 21+ requirement applies, and employee-assisted sales are required.
Do local governments require additional permits?
Yes, cities like Charleston and Columbia require business licenses for vending operations. Health permits may be delegated to local health departments. Check with local authorities.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Penalties include 5% per month on unpaid sales taxes, permit suspension for food safety violations, and fines up to $500 for business license violations.
Sources
- South Carolina Department of Revenue - Sales Tax
- South Carolina Department of Public Health - Food Safety
- South Carolina Secretary of State - Business Filings
- South Carolina Department of Education - School Nutrition
- South Carolina Department of Revenue - ABC
- City of Charleston - Business Licenses
- City of Columbia - Business Registration
- South Carolina Department of Revenue - Penalties