Building Permits in Pennington County, SD
Check permit requirements for home improvement projects in Pennington County. Select a project type below to see local requirements, estimated fees, and how to apply.
Key Exemptions in Pennington County
These projects typically don't require a building permit in Pennington County:
A small accessory concrete slab (walkway, patio pad, small equipment pad) of 200 square feet or less at grade is exempt from a building permit. Larger slabs that will support a future structure or are part of a building foundation fall under the building permit.
SD (including the City of Wall), a freestanding deck not more than 30 inches above grade and not more than 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2 (adopted by Ord. 735). County zoning setbacks and Wall city zoning still apply; call Pennington County Planning at (605) 394-2186 or Wall City Hall at (605) 279-2663 to verify before starting.
SD (including Wall), fences 7 feet or less are exempt from a building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2. County or Wall city zoning may regulate fence height (typically 4 feet front-yard, 6 feet rear/side) and setbacks. Most rural ranch fences are exempt regardless.
An at-grade uncovered concrete or paver patio is exempt from a building permit. Adding a cover, roof, or screen enclosure turns the covered area into an accessory structure requiring a building permit.
A retaining wall 4 feet or less measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, without surcharge, is exempt from a building permit under 2021 IRC R105.2. Drainage and erosion control remain the owner's responsibility.
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Pennington County Building Department
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Permit Guides
Read our in-depth guides for common home improvement projects: