Brownfields Voluntary Cleanup Program
Brownfields Voluntary Cleanup Program supports public, nonprofit, and private entities with environmental assessment and cleanup to return South Carolina brownfields to safe, productive use.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Environmental Services
Due Dates:
Funding Amounts: SC BEST: $1 million statewide for assessments | Cleanup tax credits: 50% up to $50,000, plus completion credit | Eligible public/nonprofit borrowers: up to 50% loan forgiveness, capped at $500,000
Summary: Supports environmental assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment of South Carolina brownfields through a voluntary cleanup pathway and related financial incentives.
Key Information: The voluntary cleanup pathway provides liability protection for eligible Non-Responsible Parties.
Description
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) runs the Brownfields Voluntary Cleanup Program to help return underused, environmentally impacted properties to safe, productive use. Brownfields are properties where expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by actual or potential hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. The program provides a structured pathway for environmental assessment, remediation, and liability protection.
Working with local governments, developers, community leaders, and state and federal partners, SCDES connects environmental protection with economic development. Redevelopment encourages investment in land with existing infrastructure rather than untouched sites. Goals include eliminating environmental hazards, attracting private investment, creating jobs, supporting workforce housing, expanding parks and recreation, revitalizing distressed or rural communities, and preserving historic structures and community character.
