Annexation is how properties join the City of Walhalla and gain access to full city services and representation. The FAQ below answers the most common questions about Walhalla’s water service annexation covenant.
View Ordinance 2025-03.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It only requires future new water customers to sign an agreement granting approval to annex into the city if their property ever borders the city in the future. No current Walhalla water customer will be asked to retroactively sign an agreement or be forced to annex into the city.
No. State law requires that properties border a city before they can be considered for annexation. So, a new water customer living miles from the city limits would not be a candidate to be annexed into Walhalla.
No. If the water contract and covenant are signed, water service will be provided regardless of whether the property is inside or outside City limits.
The majority of cities with water systems in South Carolina have similar ordinances, and it is common practice. For example, in our area, Seneca, Westminster, Clemson, and Pendleton all have annexation covenants as a condition of water service.
No. Not one existing Walhalla water customer will be required to sign an annexation covenant agreement to maintain their water or sewer service, be forced to annex into Walhalla, or have to pay Walhalla city taxes as a result of this ordinance. This is a growth management strategy.
Depending on the property’s distance from Walhalla, it could take years, if ever, for new water customers on these properties to be subject to annexation. Many people live in their homes for years before selling them.
No. Walhalla’s ordinance exempts properties inherited from spouses and parents. These inheritance clauses are unique to Walhalla and not common in similar ordinances across the state.
No. The ordinance does not require tenants to sign an agreement.
No. It is a long process. City staff review annexation covenants at least once a year and make a recommendation on eligible properties to the Planning Commission, which must determine if annexing a property is in the city’s best interest and fits the city’s long-term growth plan. Annexation can only occur after the Planning Commission provides a recommendation and after two readings by City Council, with advance notice to the property owner of the public meetings and hearings.
Yes. The South Carolina Supreme Court has reviewed similar ordinances and found them to be legal. The provision of City services to outside users is a contractual matter and the city may impose conditions on the use of its services.