S.C. Code Ann. § 57-25-440

The Department of Transportation is hereby authorized to issue permits for the erection and maintenance of outdoor advertising signs coming within the exceptions contained in subsections (a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(3) and (a)(4) of Section 57-25-430, consistent with the safety and welfare of the traveling public, and as may be necessary to carry out the policy declared in this article.