South Dakota Pet Deposit Laws

Your South Dakota landlord has 14 days after your move-out date to return your security deposit along with an itemized statement of any deductions. This deadline is set by S.D. Codified Laws §43-32-24.

If your landlord misses the 14-day deadline, you can sue in South Dakota small claims court (up to $12,000) to recover your full deposit plus court costs. While South Dakota doesn't impose a penalty multiplier, the threat of court often motivates compliance.

No. South Dakota law under S.D. Codified Laws §43-32-24 explicitly prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear. This includes faded paint, minor scuffs, small nail holes, and carpet thinning from regular use. Deductions must be for actual damage beyond what normal living causes.

Yes, landlords in South Dakota may charge a separate pet deposit to cover potential pet-related damage. However, it is subject to the same rules as the main security deposit under S.D. Codified Laws §43-32-24: it must be returned (or itemized) within 14 days, and cannot be kept for normal wear and tear.

No. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot charge any pet deposit or pet fee for service animals (ADA) or emotional support animals (FHA). This applies in South Dakota and all 50 states regardless of state law. Charging a pet deposit for a service or support animal is illegal discrimination.