The South Carolina Supreme Court paused construction on a proposed 200-home septic-dependent development on Awendaw’s 182-acre White Tract on December 18, 2025, following advocacy from residents and groups like Friends of Coastal South Carolina and the South Carolina Environmental Law Project. This decision reinstates a stay amid concerns over stormwater permits, wetland impacts, and pollution threats to the adjacent Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Septic systems contribute to bacteria and nutrient pollution in Lowcountry waterways, exacerbating issues like oyster bed closures and unsafe recreation after floods.​
Environmental Risks
Septic tanks release pathogens and nutrients into coastal marshes, especially when failing, flooded, or poorly maintained, as tracked by Charleston Waterkeeper in local creeks. James Island Creek Watershed, impaired by fecal bacteria from septics, highlights these dangers in vulnerable areas. Heavy rains amplify spikes in harmful bacteria levels from high septic densities.​
James Island Efforts
The James Island Public Service District (JIPSD) received a SC Rural Infrastructure Authority grant for the Clarks Point project, extending sewer to about 185 properties currently on septics. Construction began in November 2024, including gravity sewers and a pump station along impaired waterways. Charleston Water System faces challenges converting low-income septic users due to high costs.​
Mount Pleasant Model
Mount Pleasant mandates sewer connections for new developments where available and earned a National Environmental Achievement Award for septic management. A 2021 law enables county septic owners to connect, with up to $9,000 in credits ($4,500 each from waterworks and town) covering most of the $10,000 average cost. A $15/month pilot inspects remote septics, serving 50 users to minimize environmental harm.
