Building Regulations

Requirements

  • A permit is not required for fences under 6 feet high. They can be located within your property line. It is very important that you check with the Municipal Utilities at (692) 6325 to make sure that the fence does not encroach upon a utility easement where it may endanger underground utilities. Call South Dakota One Call at 1 (800) 781-7474 to have your utility lines marked.
    • If the fence is over 6 feet high, it is considered a structure and a permit is required. The same setbacks are required for this fence as for a structure. Fences or hedges over 30 inches high are not allowed in the front yard of interior lots or corner lots.
  • All electrical work must be done in conformance with the National Electric Code. It may be installed by the owner in an owner occupied structure or by an electrician licensed by the State and the City. All work shall be inspected by a state electrical inspector. Call the South Dakota Electrical Commission at 1 (800) 233-7765 for a permit.
  • All plumbing must be done in conformance with the Uniform Plumbing Code. It may be installed by the owner in an owner occupied structure or by a plumber licensed by the State and the City. All work shall be inspected by a State Plumbing Inspector. Call the South Dakota Plumbing Commission at 1 (605) 773-3429 for your permit.
  • All work shall be in conformance with the requirements of the International Building Code.
  • Building permits are required for all construction work within the City and on nonagricultural land in the Joint Jurisdictional Area (within approximately 3 miles of the City).
  • Brick or other large decorative mailboxes or objects are not allowed.
  • Driveways, approaches, public sidewalks, sidewalk ramps and curb cuts are controlled by the City engineer's office. A permit is required before any new installations or any changes are made.
  • For building additions, decks and garages, your title insurance (mortgage) drawing is very helpful in locating your project on the lot.
  • Property corners must be found and protected. It is a misdemeanor to disturb, remove or in any manner change any survey corner.
  • Sidewalks are the responsibility of the property owner. They shall be kept clear of snow in the wintertime and repaired or replaced as necessary to keep them safe for pedestrians. Sidewalks are required on all fully developed lots.
  • Zoning requirements must be met, including the proper use of the property, adequate yard size, setbacks and parking requirements. Any deviation from these requirements needs the approval of the Board of Adjustment.

Items listed are excerpts from various city codes and ordinances. For complete details, call the City engineer's office at (605) 692-6629.