Orientation Training Program

The SC Planning Education Advisory Committee (SCPEAC), established pursuant to Section 6-29-1310 (et. Seq.) South Carolina Code of Laws, seeks proposals by providers of educational programs and/or courses to be reviewed and considered for certification by the Advisory Committee.

Title 6, Chapter 29, South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act Of 1994, Article 9 requires a minimum 6-credit orientation program for those who are not exempt pursuant to Section 6-29-1350. Appointed officials (planning commissioners, board of zoning appeals members, or board of architectural review members) and professional employees (planning professionals, zoning administrator or official, or a deputy or assistant to the above) are required to comply with the educational provisions. See Section 6-29-1310 (et. Seq.) for further details.

Credit Hours are based on actual minutes of education including reasonable question and answer periods during the class. Note: Introductory remarks, business meetings, breaks, receptions, luncheons, etc. are not to be included in the computation of credit.

Pursuant to its responsibilities to compile and distribute a list of approved orientation programs/courses, the Committee has established minimal requirements for applicants to provide orientation programs. While the Committee will accept individual proposals for modules within the orientation program, the Committee will give priority to those sponsors submitting a complete orientation program proposal.

A 6-credit orientation program should cover at least the following topics:

Overview of the Comprehensive Planning Act
Description of Zoning and Land Development Regulations
Description of Related Regulations such as Capital Improvements Programs, Development Agreements, Design Regulations
Description of the roles and responsibilities of the Council, Planning Commission, Zoning Officer, Boards of Zoning Appeals and Architectural Review, and Appellate Processes—concepts of legislative, administrative, and quasi-judicial functions
Legal Issues for Planning and Zoning
Freedom of Information, Conflicts of Interest Provisions, Section 1983 Liability, and related Ethics

Preference will be given to proposals that utilize on-demand training that can track and confirm participation

Application Process

Applicants shall submit a detailed description of how they plan to deliver the Orientation Training Program. Committee members shall be given access to all program materials in the format in which the training is to be delivered. The Applicant shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Committee that the content meets the intent of the law and that attendance can be tracked and confirmed. A basic knowledge test is recommended. The Committee shall endeavor to complete its review within 30 days of receipt of a final and complete application.

Application for Accreditation of a Continuing Education Program or as a Sponsor Organization

Model for a Uniform Certificate of Attendance

Note: State law requires certification of attendance.

We have provided a model for A Uniform Certificate of Attendance for use in the Orientation Training Program. This is a suggested model to document attendance at the activities. See SC Code Sec. 6-29-1360. This is not a requirement but a suggested model.

A model Uniform Certificate of Attendance

Questions should be directed to:

Mr. Eric Budds(SCPEAC@masc.sc)
Deputy Executive Director
Municipal Association of South Carolina
p: 803.933.1228 | www.masc.sc