Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Accessory Structures in Lincoln County, SD (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Lincoln County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

ADU Rules

Unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota does not allow accessory dwelling units in a shed or detached garage: § 154.248(B) states plainly that accessory buildings may not be used for dwelling purposes, so a garage apartment or backyard cottage is prohibited outright in the A-1, RR, and R-1 districts.

Lincoln County SD Accessory Dwelling Unit Ban

Heavy Restrictions

Lincoln County Code § 154.248(B)

(B) Time of construction. No accessory buildings shall be constructed upon a lot until the construction of a main building has been actually commenced, and no accessory buildings shall be used unless the main building on the lot is also being used. Accessory buildings may not be used for dwelling purposes.

Shed & Carport Rules

Accessory buildings like sheds in unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota must sit at least three feet from side and rear property lines when in the required rear yard under § 154.248, cannot occupy more than 30% of the rear yard, and are capped at 1,500 square feet in residential districts.

Lincoln County SD Shed Size and Setback Rules

Some Restrictions

Lincoln County Code § 154.248(C)-(D)

(C) Setback requirements. (1) Accessory buildings which are attached to or located within ten feet of the main building shall be considered a part of the main building and shall comply with the same yard requirements as the main building. (2) Accessory buildings not a part of the main building, when located in the required rear yard, shall be no closer than three feet to the side and rear prope...

All Lincoln County ordinances

See every category we cover for Lincoln County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Lincoln County Ordinance Hub →