South Dakota Radon Mitigation: Permits and Contractor Requirements

Contractor Certification in South Dakota

South Dakota's Black Hills region and eastern agricultural counties have significant radon-producing geology. SDDOH recommends testing all homes with basements.

Regardless of state licensing requirements, always verify that any radon contractor you hire holds current NRPP certification (nrpp.info) or NRSB certification (nrsb.org). These national certifications require passing a written exam and adhering to AARST ANSI installation standards.

Permit Requirements

South Dakota does not require a statewide building permit for radon mitigation in existing single-family homes. An electrical permit is typically required at the local level when a new circuit or outlet is installed for the radon fan. Confirm with your local building department before work begins.

Radon Zones in South Dakota

South Dakota has counties in EPA Radon Zone 1 & 2. Zone 1 counties have the highest predicted average indoor radon levels. Even homes in lower-zone counties can test high — the only way to know your home's actual level is to test it with a certified test device.

What South Dakota Homeowners Should Do

1. Confirm your test result. At or above 4 pCi/L on a confirmed long-term test, proceed with mitigation. At 8+ pCi/L, act without further delay.
2. Find 2–3 certified contractors. Search NRPP at nrpp.info or NRSB at nrsb.org for South Dakota-based certified mitigators. Get written quotes.
3. Confirm permit requirements. Ask your contractor: "Will you pull an electrical permit if new wiring is needed?" Confirm with your local building department.
4. Schedule installation. Standard SSD installation takes 3–8 hours. Typical cost in South Dakota: $800–$1,800.
5. Post-mitigation test. Wait 24–48 hours after installation, then run a radon test. Target: below 4 pCi/L, ideally below 2 pCi/L.

Frequently Asked Questions