Sioux Falls's Rental Property Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles rental property rules a little differently. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Repairs & Habitability

Sioux Falls enforces the 2021 International Property Maintenance Code citywide, setting the habitability floor landlords must meet for occupied rental units.

Key details: Code adopted: 2021 IPMC, effective Jan 1, 2023. Enforcing agency: Neighborhood revitalization division. Appeals body: 5-member property maintenance board. Max fine: $500 per day. Max jail: 30 days county jail.

Violations carry the citywide general penalty: a fine up to $500, up to 30 days in county jail, or both, with each day a violation continues counted as a separate offense.

Rental Registration

Sioux Falls requires every owner of a residential rental unit, including short-term rentals, to obtain a city permit before advertising, occupying, or letting the unit.

Key details: Permit fee: $50 per unit (since July 1, 2024). Training: 2-hour approved course required. Update deadline: 30 days to report changes. Administered by: Planning and Development Services. Penalty: General violation, § 10.999.

Renting, advertising, or occupying an unpermitted unit is punishable under the general penalty section § 10.999; the city may also deny a new application or revoke an existing permit after repeated health, nuisance, or code citations.

This is one of the stricter rules in Sioux Falls's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Sioux Falls's rental property rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Sioux Falls is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Sioux Falls's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.