Vacation Home Rental License in Pennington County

Effective June 26, 2024, all Vacation Home Rentals (VHRs) located within Pennington County but outside the jurisdiction of incorporated municipalities are required to have a VHR License.

The VHR licensing process helps ensure properties used as short-term rentals meet important health and safety requirements for guests. Because VHRs regularly accommodate visitors who may be unfamiliar with the property, the licensing process verifies that the home meets applicable County and State requirements, including adequate access, parking, occupancy limits, wastewater system capacity, and applicable health and safety standards.

By reviewing these requirements before a property operates as a VHR, Pennington County can help ensure short-term rental properties are appropriately equipped for the number of guests they accommodate and provide a safe environment for those staying there.

 

How to Apply for a VHR License

Follow these steps to complete your VHR License application:

Step 1: Download the Application

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

  • Ensure you have completed the application form and included all supporting information detailed in the application requirements.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted using any of the following methods:

  • Online: Email your completed application to plz@pennco.org. Once received, a planner will contact you via email or phone to collect payment and discuss your request.
  • By Mail: Mail your completed application and supporting documents to:
    • Pennington County Planning Department
    • PO Box 6160, Attn: P&Z, Rapid City, SD 57709
    • Be sure to include all required information. A planner will contact you once your application is received.
  • In Person: Drop off your application at the Planning Office:
    • Address: 900 Concourse Dr., Suite 160, Rapid City, SD 57703
    • Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday

Step 4: Await Payment Instructions

  • Payment is collected after a planner has reviewed your application. You will be contacted to finalize payment and discuss the request.

License Fee

The VHR License fee is $150.00, renewable every three years.

 

License Requirements

Zoning and Location Restrictions

  • Allowed Zoning Districts: Agriculture, commercial, and residential zones, including certain Planned Unit Developments (PUDs).
  • Prohibited Zones: Industrial zoning districts and properties with any portion of the dwelling located within floodway boundaries.
  • Lot Size: No minimum lot size is required.

Occupancy and Dwelling Restrictions

  • Maximum Bedrooms: Five (5) bedrooms per VHR.
  • Maximum Occupancy: Fourteen (14) guests, or the maximum capacity based on the onsite wastewater treatment system, whichever is smaller.
  • Number of VHRs per Lot: Limited to one per lot unless:
    • The property contains a multi-family/apartment dwelling.
    • The property is located in a commercial zoning district.

 

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating or advertising a VHR without a license or violating the VHR requirements may result in fines:

  • Advertising Without a License: $200.00 per day (from the date of notice).
  • Violating PCZO § 319 Requirements: $250.00 per day (from the date of notice).
Complete the VHR License Application and submit it online, by mail, or in person as detailed in the "How to Apply" section.
Licenses become effective 21 days after approval. Operation cannot begin before this time.
A VHR is a residential property rented out for short-term lodging, offering an alternative to traditional hotels and motels. 
VHRs are permitted in agriculture, commercial, and residential zones, including some PUDs. They are prohibited in industrial zones and properties within floodway boundaries.