Accessory dwelling units are quickly gathering popularity across the USA, and your South Dakota property could be the new home for one of these modern, versatile housing options. Known better as ADUs, these small modular homes are designed to complement the primary dwelling with extra space for guests, housing elderly parents, or as a short-term rental. Also known as a granny flat or in-law suite, ADUs are an ideal choice for South Dakota’s expansive lands so the full beauty of this state is enjoyed.
Imagine gazing out at one of South Dakota’s glacial lakes or mountains from the comfort of a beautiful modular home. Curious how you can get there? Zook Cabins is here to break down all the regulations around ADUs in South Dakota, providing straightforward information about zoning laws, specific city regulations, and more.
Are ADUs Allowed in South Dakota?
Yes, ADUs are allowed in South Dakota, but at this point, they are heavily restricted and limited, with only a few cities clearly defining regulations. However, this does not necessarily mean they are outlawed in counties without clear guidance; it just means you may have to work harder to make it possible. Think of conditional use permits and presenting your plans to the zoning department for an appeal. Unlike some states, South Dakota does not have a statewide law for ADUs, meaning it is left to the discretion of local government. Our recommendation is to work closely with your county or town’s zoning and building departments for the best chance at owning an ADU.
What Is Considered An ADU in South Dakota?
Currently, South Dakota defines an ADU as an independent living space with facilities for sleeping, cooking, and sanitation. The ADU must have its own private entrance, with separate utilities and sometimes its own parking space. It must always be smaller than the primary dwelling, and often owner occupancy is required in one of the units.
There are various types of ADUs, detached ADUs being the most popular. There are also attached ADUs, where the unit is built onto an existing house, or a conversion ADU where a basement, garage, or attic is converted to its own independent living space.
Can Park Model Tiny Homes Be Used As ADUs?
Park model tiny homes are our creative twist on tiny homes. They are built to RV standards, making them technically mobile, but they are designed to remain in one place, making them a more permanent option than most tiny homes. These can easily be used as ADUs, but because they are built to RVIA standards, certain South Dakota counties won’t allow them as an ADU. The best way to confirm your county’s stance on it is to reach out to the local zoning department and present them with the plans.
To help you learn about South Dakota and all of the other states that we deliver tiny homes to take a look at the table below.
| AL | IL | MN | NC | TX |
| AZ | IN | MS | ND | UT |
| AR | IA | MO | OH | VT |
| CA | KS | MT | OK | VA |
| CO | KY | NE | OR | WA |
| CT | LA | NV | PA | WV |
| DE | ME | NH | RI | WI |
| FL | MD | NJ | SC | WY |
| GA | MA | NM | SD | |
| ID | MI | NY | TN |
Can Log Cabins Be Used As An ADU?
Yes! The sprawling prairies of South Dakota are ideal for a classic, log cabin used as an ADU. Remember to start with a smaller model that will fit into the size requirements of the state, and you should be all set. A log cabin from Zook Cabins is timeless, with that cozy feel you would expect from a cabin, with craftsmanship and attention to detail. Contact our sales team today to see how you can make one your own!
Can Modern Cabins Be Used As An ADU?
A perfect alternative to the more rustic look of a log cabin is a modern cabin, fully designed with all the modern comforts, and with a sleek, trendy appearance. Just like the log cabins, browse our smaller models so the modern cabin turned ADU will fit the bill.
What is the Difference Between a Prefab ADU & a Modular ADU?
A common confusion when it comes to ADUs in prefab versus modular ADUs. The difference is slight, although important. Prefab ADUs are manufactured entirely in a factory, then delivered and installed on the lot. An example would be log cabin “kits” or fully assembled tiny homes that you can buy online.
In contrast, modular ADUs are constructed in sections in the factory, then delivered and assembled on site. This allows for any last minute adjustments and the perfect fit for the home. It’s a combination of building a house from scratch and using the perks of having pre-assembled sections. An accessory dwelling unit from Zook Cabins is built to all the building standards of a regular modular home.
When it comes to regulations, zoning laws don’t differentiate between the two.
What is the Minimum Size for an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
South Dakota does not impose a minimum ADU size, although certain cities may. Typically it’s around 300-400 square feet, but there aren’t clear guidelines for South Dakota cities regarding minimum size. Again, we suggest reaching out to your building or zoning department and asking them if there are any established minimum sizes for ADUs in South Dakota.
Can My ADU be Bigger Than My House?
No, as a reminder, ADUs are meant to provide extra space, not be the main unit on a property. A city like Sioux Falls caps ADUs at 50%-75% of the primary dwelling (depending on type of ADU).
How Close To My House Can I Build An ADU?
Setback requirements tend to follow the same standards for garages, sheds, and other accessory structures. This typically means a 10ft rear setback and 5ft rear setback. Your local zoning ordinances should confirm this.
Do You Need A Permit For An ADU in South Dakota?
Definitely. A general building permit is needed first of all, then electrical, plumbing, and HVAC permits as well. While permits vary by municipality, the major ones are always required. Contact your local building department and they will walk you through the process.
Are There Any Incentives or Grants for ADUs in South Dakota?
No, as of right now, there aren’t any financial incentives for building an ADU in South Dakota. However, this could change in the future, so keep your eye out for potential grants or funding. In the meantime, check to see if you qualify for other housing grants of some kind.
What Features are Included in An ADU from Zook Cabins?
Each modular ADU from Zook Cabins are fully designed and built out, with completed electrical and plumbing. We assist in all set up and assembly, and don’t leave before your ADU is ready to go.
Are Zook Cabin’s ADUs Built to Code?
Yes! We take pride in carefully matching and even exceeding all the local building codes for your area on your ADU. You won’t have to worry about any of that, just leave it to our experienced team!
Can an ADU Have Multiple Bedrooms and Bathrooms?
They sure can. As long as an ADU fits within the size limit, many times you are allowed to have two bedrooms and bathrooms. Most South Dakota cities cap it at two bedrooms, which is ideal for the space limit anyway.
Are ADUs A Good Investment?
Definitely. An ADU offers so many options, which is why they are so popular. You could rent it out, save on property taxes for your aging parents, or house adult children who need a little privacy while saving up their money to move out. Plus, you’ll have a guest house for all your friends and family! Most ADU owners report a very quick return on investment when they choose an ADU. If you have more questions, our financing team is happy to talk about loans and financing options for you!
What Counties in South Dakota Allow ADUs?
Does Aurora County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Currently, Aurora County does not publish a clearly defined, countywide ADUs ordinance for properties in unincorporated areas. In practice, this means a second living unit on a single lot is usually reviewed as either a conditional use or as a second dwelling, depending on zoning and lot size. ADUs are not treated as a guaranteed by-right option at the county level, and approval often depends on whether the unit is attached to the main home and how utilities are handled.
If your property is inside a city such as Plankinton or White Lake, city zoning rules apply instead of the county. The next step is to confirm whether your property is inside city limits, identify your zoning district, and contact the Aurora County Planning or Zoning office to ask how a second dwelling or accessory apartment is handled for your specific parcel.
Does Beadle County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Beadle County does not have a standalone ADU ordinance that clearly authorizes ADUs in unincorporated areas. Secondary living units are typically reviewed under general zoning rules for additional dwellings, which often require special approval and may be limited by lot size, density, and utility capacity. ADUs should not be assumed to be allowed by default at the county level.
Properties inside cities such as Huron are governed by municipal zoning codes, not county rules. Homeowners should first confirm whether their property is inside city limits and then contact the Beadle County Planning Department or the relevant city zoning office to ask whether accessory dwelling units or accessory apartments are permitted and what approval process applies.
Does Bennett County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Bennett County does not clearly publish regulations that specifically allow accessory dwelling units as a defined use. In most cases, a detached or separate living unit would be evaluated as a second dwelling and may require a conditional use permit or rezoning depending on the zoning district and lot characteristics. Utilities, access, and septic capacity are usually key factors in approval.
If the property is located within an incorporated town, local zoning rules control instead of county rules. The recommended next step is to contact the Bennett County zoning or planning authority and ask how a second living unit with a kitchen and bathroom is classified and whether it is allowed on your parcel.
Does Bon Homme County, SD, Allow ADUs?
As of right now, Bon Homme County does not appear to have a dedicated ADU section in its zoning regulations for unincorporated areas. As a result, accessory dwelling units are generally not treated as a by-right use and are often reviewed as an additional dwelling unit subject to zoning and density limits. Approval typically depends on zoning classification, lot size, and whether the unit is attached or detached.
If your property is inside a city such as Tyndall or Springfield, city zoning rules apply instead of county regulations. Homeowners should confirm jurisdiction first, then contact the county or city zoning office to ask how a second dwelling or accessory apartment is handled and whether a conditional use permit is required.
Does Brookings County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Brookings County does not clearly authorize accessory dwelling units through a countywide ADU ordinance for unincorporated areas. Secondary living units are usually evaluated under general zoning rules for additional dwellings, which may limit them to certain zoning districts or require special approval. ADUs should not be assumed to be allowed without review.
Within city limits, including the City of Brookings, municipal zoning regulations apply and may differ significantly from county practices. The next step is to determine whether the property is inside city limits, identify the zoning district, and contact the Brookings County Planning Department or city planning office to confirm whether an ADU or accessory apartment is permitted and what standards apply.
Does Brown County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Unfortunately, Brown County’s zoning code does not include a clear accessory dwelling unit category or specific rules for ADUs in unincorporated areas. That means a second living unit with its own kitchen and bathroom would likely be treated as an additional dwelling or require a zoning change or conditional use permit rather than being a straightforward by-right accessory unit.
If you’re considering an ADU in Brown County, first confirm whether your property is inside any city limits such as Aberdeen or not. Then contact the Brown County Planning and Zoning office and ask how a secondary dwelling with separate living facilities is classified in your zoning district. They can help you with the specific details for approval.
Does Brule County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It isn’t certain at this point. Brule County does not publish a specific accessory dwelling unit rule in its county zoning regulations, so there isn’t a clear path that says “ADUs are allowed with these standards.” Secondary living units are generally handled through broader zoning provisions, and you may need a conditional use permit or zoning interpretation for a detached or internal second unit. The county does issue zoning and building permits and handles conditional use reviews, but ADU language is not plainly visible in the general code.
To find out what Brule County allows, start by identifying whether your property is inside or outside an incorporated town like Chamberlain. Then reach out to the Brule County zoning office and ask where ADUs fit into their use categories, what standards they apply, and whether you need a conditional use permit or site plan review for your proposed unit.
Does Buffalo County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Buffalo County does not have an obvious ADU section published in its available zoning materials, which suggests the county treats additional living units as separate dwellings or requires case-by-case zoning approval. There’s no clearly defined ADU category with set standards for lot size, unit size, or parking in the general county text, so you cannot assume ADUs are automatically allowed.
If you are thinking about adding an ADU in Buffalo County, contact the county’s planning or zoning department to ask how a living unit separate from the main house is classified, whether it’s permitted in your zoning district, and what process is required for approval.
Does Butte County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Like its fellow SD counties, Butte County does not post a formal ADU section in the readily available zoning and subdivision documents, which means there’s no explicit accessory dwelling unit rule to point to for size or permit standards. Second living units are generally subject to the broader zoning scheme, and approval may depend on conditional use reviews or similar processes rather than a clear ADU rule.
For accurate, current information in Butte County, get in touch with the Butte County Planning and Zoning Office. Ask whether an ADU or accessory apartment is a permitted use in your zoning district, what criteria apply, and how the county treats utilities, setbacks, and parking for an additional living unit.
Does Campbell County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Unfortunately, we can’t confirm one way or the other. Campbell County’s publicly available zoning ordinances do not clearly contain a dedicated accessory dwelling unit definition and standards for unincorporated areas, so there is no obvious published path that simply says “ADUs are permitted here.” That suggests any proposal for a secondary living unit would need review under general zoning provisions like additional dwellings or a conditional use permit.
To determine what’s allowed in Campbell County, contact the Campbell County Planning and Zoning Department and ask how they classify a separate living unit on the same lot as a house.
Does Charles Mix County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Charles Mix County’s available zoning materials do not include a modern, dedicated accessory dwelling unit provision that spells out how ADUs are treated in unincorporated areas. There’s an older reference that allows an additional dwelling within a farmstead for family members with a building permit, but that is not the same as a current ADU ordinance with clear standards, and it’s not guaranteed for every property.
Because county zoning and building permit rules control this, your next step is to contact the Charles Mix County Planning and Zoning office or the County Commission and ask how they classify a separate living unit with cooking/sleeping/sanitation on your parcel, what process applies, and what setbacks/utility requirements you’ll need to meet.
Does Clark County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Clark County’s published zoning materials do not include a specific accessory dwelling unit category or clear ADU standards for unincorporated land. The zoning ordinance focuses on general land uses, and accessory buildings are allowed in certain districts, but there is no obvious text defining how a second, independent living unit is treated or permitted.
If you are thinking about an ADU in Clark County, start by confirming whether your property has a zoning designation that permits multiple dwellings or secondary units. Call the Clark County Planning and Zoning office and ask how they define and regulate a second dwelling unit on a single-family property, and what application or review (conditional use, variance, etc.) is needed.
Does Clay County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Clay County’s zoning ordinance does not present a clear accessory dwelling unit section or standard that says “ADUs are permitted with these criteria.” The text sets up general zoning districts and land use definitions, but it doesn’t explicitly recognize an accessory dwelling use with assigned regulations like size, parking, or placement.
To find out whether an ADU is allowed where you are, identify your parcel’s zoning district and contact the Clay County Planning and Zoning office. Ask how an independent living unit on the same lot as a primary home is classified, what approvals are needed, and whether any use conditions apply in your area.
Does Codington County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Currently, Codington County’s zoning ordinance does not include a formal accessory dwelling unit definition or standards. The code does talk about accessory structures, but that typically refers to sheds, garages, and similar buildings, not standalone living units, and does not provide a clear ADU path in unincorporated areas.
If you’re considering an ADU in Codington County, the safe move is to contact the Codington County Planning and Zoning office. Ask how they treat a second dwelling unit on a single-family property and what permit process (conditional use permit, zoning change, etc.) you can follow to have the ADU approved.
Does Corson County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It isn’t clear because Corson County does not appear to publish detailed accessory dwelling unit regulations for unincorporated property in the readily accessible zoning materials. Because zoning and building requirements in South Dakota are determined locally, the absence of a clear ADU section means an additional living unit is usually reviewed on a case-by-case basis or treated under broader dwelling definitions rather than a specific ADU rule.
If you want to pursue an ADU in Corson County, contact the Corson County Planning and Zoning office and ask how they classify a separate living unit, whether it’s permitted in your zoning district, and what steps you must take to get approval and ensure compliance with setbacks, utilities, and other requirements.
Does Custer County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Custer County itself does not have a formal countywide ADU ordinance for unincorporated land, and county planning/zoning officials indicate there is no county zoning/building code that explicitly governs ADUs. That means there is no published set of standards in the county text for ADUs, so you should not assume one is automatically allowed in rural Custer County. Local review for additional dwelling units is handled case by case under broader land use or building permit requirements, and utilities and wastewater compliance are important considerations because South Dakota requires structures to meet applicable building and wastewater standards.
If your property is inside the City of Custer rather than unincorporated county, city zoning does have a specific ADU section that allows one ADU per property where permitted and describes criteria like height, parking, and ownership conditions without a minimum size requirement. In either case, contact the Custer County Planning and Zoning Office for unincorporated parcels or the City of Custer Community Development and Planning for city parcels to confirm whether your zoning district allows an ADU and what approvals and standards apply.
Does Davison County, SD, Allow ADUs?
As of right now, Davison County does not publish a specific ADU section in county zoning ordinances that clearly authorizes accessory dwelling units in unincorporated areas. County zoning speaks to land uses broadly, and any second living unit with its own kitchen and bathroom would likely be evaluated as an additional dwelling unit or require a discretionary review rather than being automatically permitted as an ADU. There is no statewide minimum or guaranteed county ADU path that overrides local rules, so county zoning controls.
To find out what’s allowed for your specific property, start by confirming whether you’re inside a municipality like Mitchell or rural Davison County. Then contact the Davison County Planning or Zoning Office and ask how they classify a second living unit on a single-family property, what permit or review is required, and what standards apply.
Does Day County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Day County does not have a published county zoning ordinance with a clear accessory dwelling unit category or defined ADU standards for unincorporated land. In practice, this usually means that a second living unit on the same lot as a home must be reviewed under broader zoning rules that treat it as an additional dwelling unit or require a special application, and there isn’t a simple “ADU permitted” rule you can point to.
If you’re thinking about an ADU in Day County, the first step is to identify whether your property is within an incorporated city like Webster. If it’s rural, contact the Day County Planning or Zoning Office and ask how a unit with separate living facilities is classified in your zoning district and what approval process is needed.
Does Deuel County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Like surrounding SD counties, Deuel County does not have a clearly published accessory dwelling unit provision in its available county zoning material, so there is no obvious county rule you can cite that says ADUs are allowed or sets specific standards like size, parking, or setbacks. That absence generally means ADUs aren’t treated as a by-right use in rural areas and must be reviewed under broader zoning provisions or require special approval.
For accurate, current guidance, contact the Deuel County Planning and Zoning Office and ask whether a second living unit is permitted in your zoning district, how it is classified and what criteria must be met.
Does Dewey County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Dewey County’s published zoning materials do not include a dedicated accessory dwelling unit regulation for unincorporated land that tells you ADUs are allowed with specific standards. As a result, a separate living unit on a single-family lot will generally be assessed under the broader county zoning code, often as a second dwelling or conditional use, and there is no straightforward ADU category written in the county text.
To understand your options in Dewey County, contact the county’s Planning and Zoning Office with your parcel information. Ask how they classify a unit with its own living facilities, what the zoning district allows and how to move forward.
Does Douglas County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Currently, Douglas County does not have a published county zoning ordinance that clearly authorizes accessory dwelling units or sets specific ADU rules in unincorporated areas. The local zoning code focuses on general land uses and accessory structures, not a formal ADU category, so a second living unit typically requires a closer look by county zoning staff and may be handled as an additional dwelling or conditional use rather than a defined ADU.
If you are considering an ADU in Douglas County, the next step is to contact the Douglas County Planning and Zoning Office with your address and zoning district and ask how they treat a separate dwelling on a single-family property. Their staff should be able to answer your specific questions and point you in the right direction.
Does Edmunds County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It isn’t clear one way or the other as Edmunds County does not have a clearly defined accessory dwelling unit section in its zoning ordinance that tells you ADUs are permitted with specific standards. The county has zoning districts and processes for building permits, variances, and conditional use permits, but the published materials do not explicitly list “accessory dwelling unit” as an allowed or regulated use in unincorporated areas.
If you are considering a secondary living unit in Edmunds County, start by contacting the county’s Planning and Zoning Office. Ask how a separate living unit with kitchen/sleeping/bath is classified in your zoning district, whether a conditional use or variance is needed, and what setbacks, utilities, and parking standards apply.
Does Fall River County, SD, Allow ADUs?
There is very little information to go on as Fall River County does not maintain a planning and zoning department for unincorporated areas, and there is no published county zoning code that specifically authorizes accessory dwelling units. Rural landowners are responsible for complying with basic building and land use expectations, but there are no clear ADU rules at the county level you can point to.
If your property is within the City of Hot Springs or the City of Edgemont, city zoning rules apply and those cities may have their own ADU or secondary dwelling standards. For rural Fall River County, contact the County Commissioners or the county treasurer’s office to ask what permit process or land use review is appropriate for a secondary dwelling.
Does Faulk County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Currently, Faulk County does not publish a specific accessory dwelling unit regulation that tells you ADUs are allowed or sets requirements for them in unincorporated areas. County zoning generally defines land uses broadly, and a separate living unit with its own kitchen and bathroom is likely handled as a second dwelling or conditional use case rather than an established ADU right.
To find out what Faulk County allows for your property, contact the Faulk County Planning and Zoning or County Commission office with your parcel information. Ask how a second living unit on a single-family lot is classified and how to apply for a conditional use permit.
Does Grant County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Grant County’s publicly accessible zoning materials do not include a dedicated accessory dwelling unit section that clearly authorizes ADUs with defined standards in unincorporated areas. Land uses and accessory structures are regulated broadly, but there is no obvious ADU path that lists any unit size, parking, or placement rules for a secondary living space.
If you are thinking about an ADU in Grant County, reach out to the Grant County Planning and Zoning office or the County Commission. Ask whether a separate living unit on a single-family property is permitted in your district and what you will be required to have before moving forward.
Does Gregory County, SD, Allow ADUs?
As of right now, Gregory County does not have a clearly published ADU rule in the county zoning code that establishes ADUs as an allowed use in unincorporated areas with specific standards. The zoning materials focus on broader land use classifications, and a separate dwelling unit would typically be evaluated as a second dwelling or conditional use rather than under a formal ADU category.
To confirm what Gregory County allows on your parcel, contact the Gregory County Planning and Zoning Office. Ask how they define a secondary living unit for zoning purposes, whether it is permitted in your zoning district, and what process and standards you would need to satisfy for approval.
Does Haakon County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Just like the majority of SD counties, Haakon County does not have a clearly published accessory dwelling unit ordinance for unincorporated land, and the available zoning materials focus on general land use and permitting rather than an explicit ADU category. That means if you want a second living unit with its own kitchen and bath, it will likely be reviewed as an additional dwelling or through a conditional use or variance rather than a straightforward “ADU permitted” rule.
To figure out what’s allowed on your lot in Haakon County, contact the Haakon County zoning or planning authority with your parcel information. Ask how they classify a separate living unit on a residential property, whether it is permitted in your zoning district, and what approval and standards would apply.
Does Hamlin County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It is unknown as Hamlin County’s zoning ordinance does not currently include a specific accessory dwelling unit definition or standards that would tell you ADUs are allowed by right in unincorporated areas. The county uses a general zoning and permitting process with conditional use and variance applications for special cases, but there is no clear ADU section in the published text.
If your parcel is inside one of the cities in Hamlin County (Bryant, Castlewood, Estelline, Hayti, Hazel, Lake Norden), city zoning rules apply instead of the county’s. For a rural property, contact the Hamlin County Planning and Zoning Office and ask how they treat a separate living unit with kitchen and bath on a single-family lot, whether a conditional use permit is required, and what standards must be met.
Does Hand County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Hand County provides a permitting and zoning administration process, but its publicly available materials do not lay out a clean “ADU allowed with X standards” section you can rely on from the county website alone. So, you should assume the county will treat a second living unit as a land-use question rather than a straightforward ADU checklist.
To move this forward without spinning your wheels, contact the Hand County zoning administrator and ask whether a second unit is permitted in your zoning district and what path they want (conditional use permit vs permitted). Have your parcel number, a simple sketch/site plan, and whether it’s attached or detached ready, because that’s usually what determines how they classify it.
Does Hanson County, SD, Allow ADUs?
While Hanson County’s zoning ordinance is published, the accessible text does not clearly advertise ADUs as a defined, permitted use the way bigger cities do. In counties like this, “ADU” often isn’t the term they use; instead, they may evaluate it under broader categories. That makes the label less important than how the unit functions (separate kitchen, separate entrance, separate utilities).
Your next step should be to contact Hanson County’s zoning contact and ask how they classify a “second dwelling unit on the same parcel as a single-family home,” and whether it’s allowed in your zoning area.
Does Harding County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Harding County appears to have zoning ordinances administered through county offices, but a specific ADU standard is not readily published in a way that lets homeowners confidently self-verify “yes, ADUs are allowed” with clear size and placement rules. So you should treat ADUs as “possible, but not guaranteed” until the county confirms how your proposal fits their zoning categories and permit process.
If you’re serious about building or owning one, contact the Harding County office that takes building permit applications and administers zoning ordinances and ask what they require for a second living unit. This county-by-county confirmation step matters in South Dakota because there is no statewide ADU rule that forces counties to allow them.
Does Hughes County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Hughes County’s planning and zoning department administers land use and building permits for properties outside city limits, but the county does not have a clearly published accessory dwelling unit section in its zoning ordinances that tells you ADUs are allowed by right or with specific standards. Based on this, a conditional use permit is the way to go to receive a zoning exception.
If you’re considering an ADU in rural Hughes County, contact the Hughes County Planning and Zoning Office with your parcel information and ask how a unit with its own kitchen and bathroom is classified and what process is required. They can clarify whether one is treated as an accessory use or a separate dwelling and what setbacks, utilities, or parking requirements apply.
Does Hutchinson County, SD, Allow ADUs?
We can’t confirm one way or the other. Hutchinson County posts its zoning ordinances online, but there is no obvious accessory dwelling unit category or specific ADU standards in the published code that say ADUs are permitted in unincorporated areas with defined criteria. This usually means you will need to pursue a conditional use permit to own an ADU.
To find out what Hutchinson County allows on your property, contact the Hutchinson County zoning administrator and ask how they treat a separate living unit on a single-family lot and what application (if any) is needed for approval, including lot requirements and utility connections.
Does Hyde County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Hyde County does not have a clearly published ADU regulation in its online zoning materials. Because counties in South Dakota handle zoning locally and there is no statewide ADU law, that absence generally means a proposed ADU would be reviewed through a variance or conditional use permit rather than a specific “ADU permitted” section.
Your next step is to contact the Hyde County Planning or Zoning Office with your parcel and zoning district information. The zoning staff can take this information and offer you more concrete information about regulations for ADUs in your area.
Does Jackson County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Jackson County does not publicly list a defined accessory dwelling unit standard in its zoning code that would clearly allow ADUs with specific conditions in unincorporated areas. As a result, a second living unit on a property would typically be evaluated using broader land use or residential dwelling rules rather than a formal ADU path.
If you’re planning an ADU in Jackson County, contact the Jackson County Equalization or Zoning Office and ask how a separate kitchen/bath/living unit on your lot is treated, whether it is permitted in your district, and what application process and criteria apply.
Does Jerauld County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Jerauld County does not have an easily findable accessory dwelling unit provision in its published zoning materials, which means there is no clear county standard saying ADUs are allowed with specific size or placement rules. That often indicates that a second dwelling unit is reviewed under general zoning categories instead of an automatic ADU allowance.
To determine what is allowed on your parcel in Jerauld County, contact the Jerauld County Planning or Zoning Office. Ask how they classify a second living unit attached or detached from the main house, whether it is permitted in your zoning district, and what approvals and standards must be satisfied for placement.
Does Jones County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Like many other SD counties, Jones County does not have a published zoning ordinance that clearly defines or permits accessory dwelling units for unincorporated properties, and readily available county materials focus on general zoning and accessory buildings rather than ADUs. In practice this means a second living unit with its own kitchen and bathroom will likely be treated as a separate dwelling or reviewed through a conditional use or variance process rather than as an automatic ADU allowance.
If you’re considering an ADU, contact the Jones County zoning or planning office and ask how they classify a second dwelling unit on a single-family property, whether it is permitted in your zoning district, and what approval process and standards apply.
Does Kingsbury County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Unfortunately, Kingsbury County’s publicly available zoning information does not include a clearly defined accessory dwelling unit section that explains where ADUs are allowed and what standards apply. County zoning materials focus on permitting and verifying applications in general, without a specific ADU category, which means an ADU proposal would need to be evaluated under broader residential or conditional use rules.
For clarity on ADUs in Kingsbury County, reach out to the Kingsbury County Zoning Officer and ask how a secondary living unit is classified in your zoning district. Finding this out will help guide the next steps in the process.
Does Lake County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Lake County’s planning, zoning, and natural resources office manages unincorporated county land use, but there is no obvious published ordinance that specifically authorizes ADUs with set standards for living units separate from the main home. That means an ADU would usually be treated under general zoning categories or conditional use review, not under a clear “ADU permitted” rule.
If you want to build an ADU, contact the Lake County Planning, Zoning & Natural Resources Office with your parcel and zoning information. Ask how a unit with separate living facilities is classified in your district and what approvals and standards are required.
Does Lawrence County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It is unclear at this point. Lawrence County’s zoning ordinance is published and overseen by the county Planning and Zoning Department, but the available code text does not clearly lay out a specific accessory dwelling unit category that says ADUs are permitted with defined standards. That suggests any second living unit in the county would need to be reviewed under broader zoning rules or as a conditional use rather than under a dedicated ADU ordinance.
For accurate guidance, contact the Lawrence County Planning and Zoning Department and ask how they treat a separate residential unit on a single-family property, whether it is permitted in your zoning district, and what review and criteria apply.
Does Lincoln County, SD, Allow ADUs?
While Lincoln County’s Planning and Zoning Department administers zoning, subdivision, and building codes for unincorporated areas, there is no clear, published county ADU section that defines where accessory dwelling units are allowed and what standards apply. Given that local governments in South Dakota decide ADU rules on their own, a lack of a specific ADU ordinance usually means a second dwelling unit is handled via general zoning and permit review rather than a defined ADU path.
If you are considering an ADU in Lincoln County, reach out to the county Planning and Zoning Department with your parcel and zoning district information. They can help you from there.
Does Lyman County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Yes! Lyman County does have a published ADU definition in its zoning ordinance for unincorporated areas that lets homeowners add a unit within or attached to a single-family dwelling, and it caps the unit at 800 square feet of habitable area. This means an internal or attached ADU is a defined use with a size limit, and you need to meet district dimensional and building code requirements before approval.
For a property in Lyman County, confirm your zoning district and lot compliance first, then contact the county planning/zoning administrator to verify any permit or inspection requirements for your ADU before you begin design or construction.
Does Marshall County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Following the pattern of other South Dakota counties, Marshall County’s published zoning ordinance does not clearly spell out an accessory dwelling unit category or standards that tell you ADUs are permitted with specific criteria in unincorporated areas. The county has a zoning ordinance and permit requirement for structures in general, but no obvious ADU section you can rely on online.
If you are thinking about an ADU in Marshall County, start by reaching out to the Marshall County Zoning Administrator. They can answer your questions about size requirements and permits.
Does McCook County, SD, Allow ADUs?
McCook County does not have a clearly published ADU ordinance in the readily available county code, which means there is no expressed county standard that lets you build an accessory dwelling unit by right with defined criteria in rural McCook County. In many South Dakota counties, the addition of a second living unit on a property is typically reviewed under broader residential or dwelling definitions rather than under a specific “ADU permitted” rule.
To determine what’s allowed on your parcel, contact the McCook County Planning or Zoning Office. Ask how they classify a secondary living unit, whether it’s permitted in your zoning district, and what application type and standards apply.
Does McPherson County, SD, Allow ADUs?
McPherson County does not publish a clear ADU section in its available zoning materials, so it is not obvious from the published code whether ADUs are permitted in unincorporated areas with specific standards. That generally means a second dwelling unit with a separate kitchen and bathroom is treated under categories like “additional dwelling” and requires conditional review rather than automatic permission.
For accurate, up-to-date guidance in McPherson County, contact the local planning and zoning office with your parcel information and ask how a proposed ADU would be classified in your zoning district, what permits are required, and what standards apply.
Does Meade County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It’s possible. Meade County does allow tiny homes as long as they comply with state building codes and local zoning and permitting rules, which suggests the county does not prohibit small dwelling units outright and can accommodate units under the adopted building code standards. Tiny homes on permanent foundations must meet the South Dakota State Building Code (International Residential Code) requirements, and those on wheels are usually treated as RVs. This doesn’t specifically label them as “ADUs” but indicates the county’s zoning does not block similar small dwelling structures.
If you are planning an ADU in Meade County, contact the Meade County Planning and Zoning or permitting department to confirm whether the unit you want to build is permitted where you are, what permits you need, and what standards apply for an ADU.
Does Mellette County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Unfortunately, Mellette County does not publish a clear ADU ordinance in the available online county code text. The county does handle building permits, conditional use permits, and variances through its planning office, but there is no obvious rule that says “ADUs are allowed here” with defined standards. In most cases where counties lack an ADU category, a second living unit will be reviewed as a separate dwelling or through a conditional use process.
If you’re considering an ADU in Mellette County, contact the Mellette County Planning and Zoning or Equalization office with your parcel information. Ask how a unit with its own kitchen and bathroom is classified in your zoning district, whether it’s permitted, and what review and standards apply.
Does Miner County, SD, Allow ADUs?
No. Miner County’s zoning ordinance explicitly states that no accessory building may be used for residential dwelling purposes in unincorporated areas, which effectively means you cannot put living quarters (kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area) in a detached accessory structure under the accessory building rules. That language suggests the county does not permit typical detached ADUs under its accessory use provisions.
For a definitive answer on internal ADUs (units inside or attached to the main house) or other allowable secondary living units, contact the Miner County Zoning Administrator. Ask how such uses are classified in your zoning district and what permit or review process applies.
Does Minnehaha County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Yes! Minnehaha County does allow accessory dwelling units in the unincorporated county in districts that allow single-family homes, but they require a conditional use permit to be approved. That means you won’t get automatic approval by right; instead, you must apply to the Planning Commission and meet criteria like building code compliance. Detached ADUs have specific requirements relating to size, setbacks, and building standards tied to the main dwelling.
If you’re planning an ADU in Minnehaha County, start with the Planning and Zoning Office. Ask which zoning districts allow ADUs as a conditional use and what documents you need for the application.
Does Moody County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Based on available information, Moody County’s published zoning ordinance does not include a clear accessory dwelling unit definition or a section that would allow ADUs with specific criteria for unincorporated areas. The text primarily regulates general zoning districts and permitted uses, but without an explicit ADU category, a secondary dwelling unit is typically treated as a separate dwelling type or considered through conditional review.
To figure out what’s allowed on your property in Moody County, contact the Moody County Planning and Zoning Office. Ask how they classify a unit with independent living facilities and what process and standards are used for approval.
Does Oglala Lakota County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It isn’t clear one way or the other. Oglala Lakota County does not have a readily accessible online zoning code that clearly spells out accessory dwelling unit rules for unincorporated land. Much of the county’s land is under reservation jurisdiction, and zoning and permitting may be handled differently than typical county zoning ordinances. Because there is no obvious published ADU standard, a proposed second living unit is likely evaluated case by case and may require coordination with tribal, zoning, and building authorities.
If you are considering an ADU in Oglala Lakota County, contact the county or Tribal Planning/Zoning office directly. Ask how a unit with its own living facilities is treated in your area, what approvals are required, and what standards must be met, keeping in mind tribal lands may not use the same county zoning code process.
Does Pennington County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Yes! Pennington County is one of the few SD counties that do allow ADUs in unincorporated areas through a conditional use permit process under its county zoning code, meaning an ADU isn’t automatically permitted by right but can be approved if it meets criteria set by the county’s commission and planning department. Local review focuses on lot layout, utilities, access, and how the proposed ADU fits within the existing zoning and comprehensive plan.
If you’re considering an ADU in Pennington County outside city limits, contact the Pennington County Planning and Zoning Office and ask specifically about the ADU provisions in Section 324 of the zoning ordinance, what conditional use standards apply, and what documentation you’ll need for a permit application.
Does Perkins County, SD, Allow ADUs?
As of right now, Perkins County does have a zoning ordinance and a planning/zoning administrator, but there is no clear, published county code section that defines or expressly allows accessory dwelling units as a distinct use in unincorporated areas. In situations like this in South Dakota, a second living unit with a kitchen and bathroom would generally be evaluated under broader dwelling or conditional use provisions rather than a dedicated ADU standard.
Your next step is to contact the Perkins County Zoning Administrator to ask how the county classifies a housing unit separate from the main home on a single parcel, whether it’s permitted in your zoning district, and what permit or conditional use process and criteria would apply.
Does Potter County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It is uncertain at this stage. Potter County’s publicly accessible information does not show a specific accessory dwelling unit category or ADU standards in its zoning materials. Most South Dakota counties like Potter handle accessory structures and dwellings under general zoning rules without a clearly defined “ADU” section, so any separate living unit is typically reviewed as an additional dwelling, use change, or conditional use rather than an automatic ADU right.
For clarity on whether an ADU is allowed on your parcel in Potter County, contact the Potter County Planning and Zoning or Building Permit office and ask how they classify a second living unit on a single-family property, what zoning district allowances or restrictions apply, and what permits and criteria would be required.
Does Roberts County, SD, Allow ADUs?
It appears that way. Roberts County’s zoning ordinance includes references to “dwelling units in an accessory structure” and minimum lot area standards for various residential uses, which suggests the county does recognize living units tied to accessory structures under its zoning code. The published text does not clearly lay out a distinct ADU use with separate standards, but it’s very possible they’re allowed.
To confirm what’s allowed on your property in Roberts County, contact the Roberts County Planning and Zoning Office and ask how they treat a secondary residential unit in an accessory building (attached or detached), what minimum lot and yard requirements apply, and whether a special review like a conditional use permit is required.
Does Sanborn County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Like other South Dakota counties, Sanborn County does not publish a clearly defined accessory dwelling unit ordinance with set criteria in the county code that says ADUs are permitted in unincorporated areas. The county’s planning and zoning office handles building permits and zoning processes, but without a specific ADU provision online, a second living unit would typically be reviewed under broader dwelling categories or would require interpretation by zoning staff.
If you’re thinking about an ADU in Sanborn County, contact the Sanborn County Planning and Zoning or Equalization office, explain what type of unit you want (internal, attached, detached), and ask what permits or reviews are required.
Does Spink County, SD, Allow ADUs?
Currently, Spink County’s zoning ordinance does not currently include a defined accessory dwelling unit category or specific ADU standards. The county’s zoning material sets general land use regulations and requires building and conditional use permits for certain uses, but it does not expressly authorize ADUs as a permitted use with clear criteria. That means a second dwelling unit would likely be reviewed on a case-by-case basis under broader dwelling or conditional use provisions rather than as a simple, by-right accessory unit.
To find out what is allowed on your specific property, contact the Spink County Planning and Zoning Administrator in Redfield to ask more specific questions that provide clarity.