Clear Lake, SD Security Deposit Laws 2026
South Dakota limits security deposits to 1 month(s) of rent. In Clear Lake, that's $929 at the median 2BR rent of $929/month. Miss the 14-day return deadline and you could owe $1,858+.
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 $1,858 or more.
Key Takeaways — Clear Lake Security Deposit Laws
- Maximum deposit: 1 month(s) of rent = $929 at Clear Lake's median rent
- Return deadline: 14 days after tenant moves out
- Penalty for late return: Up to 2x the deposit ($1,858)
- Itemized statement: Required with any deductions
Security Deposit Laws in Clear Lake
Under South Dakota law, landlords in Clear Lake may collect a maximum security deposit of 1 month(s) of rent, regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. At Clear Lake's median 2-bedroom rent of $929/month, that means the most you can legally collect is $929.
$929
max deposit (1mo × $929)
14 days
return deadline
$1,858
max penalty for late return
Returning the Deposit: The 14-Day Clock
Once a tenant moves out of your Clear Lake 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 Clear Lake:
- 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 Clear Lake and you could owe $1,858+. At Clear Lake's median rent of $929/month, even a single violation adds up fast.
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How Clear Lake Rents Affect Deposit Amounts
Deposit amounts scale with local rents. Here's what Clear Lake landlords typically collect:
| Unit Size | Median Rent (Clear Lake) | Max Deposit (1mo) | Penalty Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $641/mo | $641 | $1,282 |
| 1-Bedroom | $708/mo | $708 | $1,416 |
| 2-Bedroom | $929/mo | $929 | $1,858 |
| 3-Bedroom | $1,292/mo | $1,292 | $2,584 |
Rents based on HUD Fair Market Rents (FY2026) for Deuel County.
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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.
