Do I need a permit for kitchen remodel in Oconee County (Unincorporated)?

It depends. Whether kitchen remodel needs a permit in Oconee County (Unincorporated) comes down to the details of your project.

South Carolina's statewide code adoption does not include the codes' administrative chapters (S.C. Code Section 6-9-50 and the Building Codes Council's adoption notice). The list of work exempt from a permit is set by each city or county ordinance, so ask your local building office before assuming an exemption applies. New circuits, relocated plumbing or gas lines, and wall changes are regulated work under the codes that every South Carolina city and county must enforce (S.C. Code Section 6-9-10). South Carolina modified the island and peninsula receptacle rule: at least one receptacle for the first 6 feet of an island countertop, at least two for an island over 6 feet long, and one within 2 feet of the outer end of a peninsula. South Carolina's amendment to NEC 210.8(A) requires GFCI protection for 125-volt kitchen receptacles that serve countertop surfaces and for those within 6 feet of a sink. This remodel moves walls, plumbing or gas lines, or adds electrical circuits. Replacing cabinets, counters and appliances in place is the part of a kitchen remodel most often exempt; layout and trade work are not. Each trade normally needs its own permit and rough-in inspection before walls are closed, and removing a load bearing wall usually needs a beam detail or engineering. Gas line changes are work many places restrict to licensed gas fitters or plumbers, and a pressure test is commonly part of the inspection.