Starting Your Business in Sioux Falls

Business Information Center
The Sioux Falls Business Information Center (BIC) combines the services of the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and SCORE. The BIC offers free and confidential services for business start-ups and existing businesses, including business planning, cash flow management, securing capital, and marketing assistance. Contact:

Federal Identification Number and Federal Self-Employment Tax
To comply with Federal Income Tax, Self-Employment Tax, Social Security and Unemployment Insurance regulations, new businesses must obtain an Employer Identification Number (Form SS-4). For business tax information, contact:

State Tax License
If your business will have a location in South Dakota, or will sell, rent, or lease any product or service in South Dakota, a State Tax License must be obtained for each business location. Contact:

The South Dakota Department of Revenue also oversees the collection of municipal, use, fuel, excise and other taxes.

Certificate of Incorporation
To be incorporated in the state of South Dakota, a Certificate of Incorporation must be obtained. Contact:

Trade Name Registration
If your business desires Trade Name Registration, it may be obtained through the Minnehaha Country Register of Deeds. Contact:

Special Licenses and Permits
Many businesses are required to have a special license or permit for specified products or services, such as food, liquor, taxi, pawn shop, contractor, vending, kennel, etc. Contact:

Food License
If food products are to be prepared and served, an inspection must be completed. Contact:

Zoning Code
Businesses, including home based businesses, must be permitted in the zoning district in which the building is located. To determine the zoning code for your location, contact:

Building Permits
A building permit must be submitted before any new construction or remodeling is to be undertaken. These permits are regulated by the applicable building codes such as structural, electrical, plumbing, fire, and other codes. In addition, your business location may need to be inspected and approved for public safety and adherence to these codes. Contact one of the following offices prior to beginning any remodeling or site alterations:

Protective Covenants
Business owners must adhere to the protective covenants placed by the City Planning Office. Some businesses are subject to building design requirements, such as those requiring a conditional use permit, or those located within a planned development district. Additional landscaping or other site improvements may be required as a part of the approval process. There may also be restrictions on signage, building materials, storage, parking facilities, fences, and minimum yard requirements. For more information, contact:

Port of Entry/Customs Office
The Federal Government approved a Port of Entry for Sioux Falls in 1995. The Port began operations in January of 1996. The Port's Customs Office allows freight and passengers to clear customs in Sioux Falls rather than another state. Persons interested in accessing Port Services are encourage to contact the Port Director at 605-728-7217.

Foreign Trade Zone
The Federal Government approved a Foreign Trade Zone in Sioux Falls. The Zone includes part of the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, Sioux Empire Development Parks III & IV, and two warehouse facilities. For further information contact the Sioux Falls Development Foundation at 605-339-0103.