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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Union County
A construction permit is required for any new structure or addition in unincorporated Union County. This includes buildings, garages, sheds, and other structures.
Note: Specific exempt categories are not publicly enumerated. Contact Union County Planning and Zoning at 605-356-3354 to determine permit necessity for any project.
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Site plans showing lot lines and measurements
- Drawings (may be professional or hand-drawn, must clearly show dimensions and lot location)
- Proof of property ownership or authorization
- Building code
- South Dakota law (SDCL Chapter 11-10) requires compliance with the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) if a local unit adopts building standards. Confirm specific code adoption status with Planning and Zoning office.
- Permit validity
- Permit becomes invalid if work is not commenced within six months. Work must be completed within one year of issuance.
- Contractor requirements
- South Dakota contractor's excise tax license required for all contractors. Electricians and plumbers must hold state-issued licenses.
Application process
Typical processing: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
- 01 Contact Union County Planning and Zoning Department by phone (605-356-3354) or visit in person at 209 E. Main Street, Suite 100, Elk Point, SD 57025.
- 02 Complete the Building Permit Application form.
- 03 Submit application with site plans showing lot lines and measurements, and drawings (professional or hand-drawn, must clearly show dimensions and lot location).
- 04 Provide proof of property ownership or authorization.
- 05 County Planning and Zoning reviews for zoning compliance with the 2008 Revised Zoning Ordinance.
- 06 Pay permit fees (contact office for current fee schedule).
- 07 Receive issued permit; post on site before construction begins.
- 08 Request inspections as required by permit conditions.
Typical processing time: Not publicly stated; contact department for current estimate
Fee schedule
Union County building permit fees
Contact department for payment methods and fee schedule. Payment likely made in person at 209 E. Main Street, Suite 100, Elk Point.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 605-356-3354 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Not publicly stated; contact department
- Inspection hours
- Not publicly detailed; contact department
- Time windows
- Not publicly detailed; contact department
Typical sequence: Not publicly detailed; contact department
Frequently asked
Common questions about unincorporated Union County permits
01 Do I need a building permit in unincorporated Union County, SD? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in unincorporated Union County, SD? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in unincorporated Union County, SD? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in unincorporated Union County, SD? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in unincorporated Union County, SD? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Union County Planning and Zoning Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.