South Dakota Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rent (annual leases)South Dakota generally caps residential security deposits at 1 month's rent (annual leases) — the cap is not uniform. A lease demanding more than the cap that covers your situation may be unenforceable — the FAQ below covers the exact conditions.
Educational information: generated from our South Dakota law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How South Dakota compares
30 of 51 US jurisdictions cap security deposits by statute; the other 21 set no statewide cap (local caps can still apply in some cities). Here is how South Dakota compares with other states in our database.
Frequently asked questions
- How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in South Dakota?
- South Dakota generally limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (annual leases). Maximum 1 month rent for annual leases (no limit for month-to-month until 1 year). Additional deposits for special conditions (e.g., pets) may be allowed. Return within 14 days (45 days for itemized deductions). Failure to return: tenant can recover deposit plus up to $200 and court costs.
- Does South Dakota require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
- No. South Dakota does not have a statewide requirement that landlords pay interest on security deposits.
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in South Dakota?
- South Dakota landlords generally must return the deposit within 14 days (statement within 45) after move-out.
Check Your Lease Against South Dakota Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with South Dakota law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
Analyze My Lease FreeEducational tool — not legal advice. First analysis is free, no signup required.
More South Dakota lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota for your specific situation.