Box Elder, SD Security Deposit Laws 2026
South Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month(s) of rent. In Box Elder, that's $1,336 at the median 2BR rent of $1,336/month. Miss the 14-day return deadline and you could owe $2,672+.
In South Dakota, landlords must return security deposits within 14 days after move-out. The maximum deposit is 1 month(s) of rent. Failure to return on time or provide an itemized statement can result in penalties of $2,672 or more.
Key Takeaways — Box Elder Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 1 month(s) of rent = $1,336 at Box Elder's median rent
- Return deadline: 14 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 2x the deposit ($2,672)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in Box Elder
Under South Dakota law, landlords in Box Elder may collect a maximum security deposit of 1 month(s) of rent, regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. At Box Elder's median 2-bedroom rent of $1,336/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $1,336.
$1,336
max deposit (1mo × $1,336)
14 days
return deadline
$2,672
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 14-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your Box Elder rental, South Dakota law gives you exactly 14 days to either return the full deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions. The clock starts on the day the tenant surrenders possession — not when you inspect the unit.
What you can deduct from a security deposit in Box Elder:
- Unpaid rent
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs to restore the unit to move-in condition
- Costs for restoring or replacing personal property (if lease allows)
What you cannot deduct:
- Normal wear and tear (minor scuffs, carpet wear, faded paint)
- Pre-existing damage (document with photos at move-in)
- Professional cleaning if the tenant left the unit in reasonable condition
Penalty Warning
Violate South Dakota security deposit laws rules in Box Elder and you could owe $2,672+. At Box Elder's median rent of $1,336/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
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How Box Elder Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what Box Elder landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (Box Elder) | Max Deposit (1mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $921/mo | $921 | $1,842 |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,018/mo | $1,018 | $2,036 |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,336/mo | $1,336 | $2,672 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,743/mo | $1,743 | $3,486 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Pennington County.
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More Box Elder Landlord Laws
Security Deposit Laws in Nearby Cities
Own properties in multiple cities? Rules may differ locally:
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Download Free ChecklistReviewed by Rachid Abadli
Founder & CEO, LeaseBase · Sacramento landlord · Self-managing since 2019
LeaseBase is a property management platform — not a law firm. Consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.
