Departments

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a building permit?

  All buildings, structures, exterior remodeling and signs on property within the unincorporated area of Yankton County must have a valid Yankton County building permit. All building permits must be placed in a conspicuous place along the property's frontage to be visible from the nearest public access point.

  Violations will face penalties of up to $200.00 / violation, imprisonment up to 30 days / violation, or both. Violations will also face appropriate action or proceedings to prevent any illegal act, conduct, business or use in or about such premises in violation.

• Where do I get a building permit?

  Building permits are available on the Planning & Zoning Department page located on the Yankton County website. A detailed site plan must be submitted with all building permits.

• What is a Variance?

  A variance is a relaxation of the terms of the zoning ordinance where such variance will not be contrary to the public interest and where, owing to conditions peculiar to the property and not the result of the actions of the applicant, a literal enforcement of the ordinance would result in unnnecessary and undue hardship. As used in this ordinance, a variance is authorized only for area and size of structure or size of yards and open spaces; establishment or expansion of a use otherwise prohibited shall not be allowed by variance, nor shall a variance be granted because of the presence of nonconformities in the zoning district or uses in an adjoining district or because of conditions created by the landowner.

• How do I apply for a Variance?

  The applicant will complete a draft building permit, establish the undue hardship caused by the zoning ordinance, then complete the required application online located on the Planning and Zoning Department page of the Yankton County website. The applicant will attend a public hearing before the Planning Commission and the Board of Adjustment.

• What is a conditional use permit?

  Each Zoning District in Yankton County has permitted uses and structures and conditional uses. A conditional use is a use that would not be appropriate, generally or without restriction, throughout the zoning district, but which, if controlled as to number, area, location or relation to the neighborhood, would promote the public health, safety, morals, order, convenience, appearance, prosperity or general welfare. Such uses may be permitted in such zoning district as conditional uses, if specific provision for such conditional use is made in this ordinance.

• How do I apply for a Conditional Use Permit?

  The applicant will establish specific use in a zoning district which is not a permitted use or structure then complete the required application online located on the Planning and Zoning Department page of the Yankton County website. The applicant will then proceed with a public meeting in front of the Planning Commission and the Board of Adjustment.

• How can I report a public nuisance?

  The Planning & Zoning department is responsible for all county unincorporated property nuisance abatement. When reporting a public nuisance, please notify the Zoning Administrator.