Get a lodging establishment license for a bed and breakfast, specialty resort, hotel, or vacation home with these four steps. Ensure you review all relevant health and safety manuals and codes.
Review Statutes & Rules Find Additional Resources Construction Requirements
- Lodging Establishments Health and Safety Manual (Administrative Rules of SD):
- 44:02:02 Hotels | 61:15 - Fire Safety Standards
- 44:02:05 Specialty Resorts | SDCL 34-18-22.1 & SDCL 34-18-22.2 - Fire Safety Standards
- 44:02:06 Bed & Breakfast Establishments
- 44:02:08 Vacation Homes | SDCL 34-18-22.3 - Fire Safety Standards
STEP 1
Complete the Online Application and submit it with the correct fee.
Lodging Facility License Online Application
Fill out the plan review questionnaire and email it to the Regional Advisor. The advisor will contact you or send a written notification regarding approval or any required changes.
- Lodging Facilities Plan Review Questionnaire
- Lodging Facilities Checklist
- Water Recreational Facilities (pools, spas) Plan Review Questionnaire
- Egress Window Requirements
If your establishment is planning any construction or alteration projects, refer to the Construction Requirements for Establishments
STEP 2
Application Review
The Regional Advisor will review your application and contact you to schedule your inspection.
STEP 3
State Inspection
The Department of Health conducts an on-site inspection to determine compliance with administrative rules. The facility plan is approved once all areas comply with the appropriate Administrative Rules of South Dakota:
- ARSD 44:02:02 Hotels
- ARSD 44:02:05 Specialty Resorts
- ARSD 44:02:06 Bed & Breakfast Establishments
- ARSD 44:02:08 Vacation Homes
Questions? Contact a Health Protection Advisor in your region
STEP 4
Approval for Licensing
Steps 1-3 must be completed before issuance of a lodging license.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION LINKS
- South Dakota Hotel and Lodging Association
- Governor's Office of Economic Development, Business Start-Up Information
- South Dakota Retailers Association
- South Dakota State Plumbing Commission
- South Dakota State Electrical Commission
- South Dakota Department of Revenue
- Recommended Standards for Swimming Pool Design and Operation