What Are Physical Fitness Center Special Deposit Bonds? 

Physical fitness center special deposit bonds protect consumers financially if they do not receive the full services or quality they pay for. The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs requires all physical fitness services and health spas to purchase a surety bond.

Who Needs a Physical Fitness Center Bond? 

South Carolina Code, Section 44-79-20 defines a physical fitness center as a facility or service which aids in physical fitness development through exercise or weight control. Businesses that qualify as physical fitness centers include the following:

• Health or exercise centers, clubs, studios or class providers
• Health spas
• Weight control centers, clinics and studios
• Tanning centers
• Athletic or sports clubs

How Much Do Physical Fitness Center Bonds Cost?

South Carolina physical fitness center special deposit bond prices vary based on bond amount and credit score. The bond amount is determined by the number of club members. 

With good personal credit, you can expect to pay a 1–3% premium rate for a physical fitness center special deposit bond. You can also save up to 25% with a multi-year discount. 

Apply today to get a personalized quote!

How Does a Physical Fitness Center Special Deposit Bond Work? 

By purchasing a physical fitness center special deposit bond, you enter a legal contract between three parties:

1. Principal: You, the health club or spa purchasing the bond
2. Obligee: The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs requiring the bond
3. Surety: The provider issuing the bond

The purpose of these bonds is to guarantee the principal will deliver all services as promised. This protects consumers from financial loss if a contract is broken. For example, if a gym unexpectedly goes out of business, the bond can be used to reimburse prepaid membership funds. 

How Do I Get a Physical Fitness Center Special Deposit Bond in South Carolina? 

SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get a special deposit bond for a gym or health spa. Just complete the following steps:

1. Apply to get a free quote within one business day
2. Buy online or over phone 
3. Receive your bond documentation in the mail
4. Sign and submit the bond form to your obligee

If you are a new licensee, you’ll submit the bond form along with your initial license application.

How Do I Renew My Bond?

Physical fitness center special deposit bonds expire annually. A SuretyBonds.com representative will contact you during the renewal period to discuss next steps. 

The surety can cancel the bond by providing 45-day’s written notice to the Administrator. If you have any questions, refer to our Surety Bond Renewal Guide or call 1 (800) 308-4358 to speak with an expert.

How to Start a Physical Fitness Center in South Carolina 

Before offering services to consumers, health and fitness facilities must get certified with The Department of Consumer Affairs. To start your physical fitness center business in South Carolina, complete the following steps:

1. Create an account with the South Carolina Licensure Gateway
2. Submit background check information
3. Complete the license application online 
4. Mail materials to the address below

South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs
Physical Fitness Services
P.O. Box 5757
Columbia, SC 29250-5757

What to Include in Your Physical Fitness Center Business Application

Be sure to include the following in your license application:

• A certificate of authority 
• The $50 application fee payable to the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs
• A copy of the most recent membership agreement, if applicable
• A copy of contract(s) to be used, if applicable
• A surety bond in the proper amount
• A copy of the rate sheet/price schedule for all services offered

If you are applying as a corporation or LLC, provide a copy of your Certificate of Existence and Articles of Incorporation/Organization. Copies can be obtained on the Secretary of State’s website or by calling (803)-734-2158