South Dakota Mobile Home Park Closure Relocation Assistance

When a mobile home park closes in South Dakota, it can be a stressful time for renters unsure about their housing future. Knowing your rights, the legal process, and available assistance can help you prepare and make informed decisions. This guide explains the relocation assistance process in South Dakota and provides links to official resources and forms.

Understanding Park Closures in South Dakota

Mobile home park operators in South Dakota may decide to close or change the use of the property, which can require residents to relocate. State law sets out notice requirements and limited protections for residents, but it's important to know what help may be available and what steps to take.

Required Notice of Closure

• South Dakota law requires that park owners provide written notice to each mobile home owner at least 180 days before the park is scheduled to close or convert to another use.
• The notice must be delivered in person or by certified mail.
• If the park is being sold, new owners must honor this notice or issue a new notice if changes affect residents.

For more details, see the official South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-16-2.1 on termination of tenancy and notice requirements.

Is Relocation Assistance Provided in South Dakota?

Unlike some states, South Dakota does not require park owners or the state to provide direct financial relocation assistance when a park closes. However, the extended notice period is meant to give residents time to seek new arrangements.

• Residents are responsible for finding a new place for their home and covering moving expenses.
• Park owners may offer voluntary incentives, but this is not required by state law.
• Some federal HUD programs may provide limited relocation help in certain cases; contact the HUD South Dakota Field Office for more information.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

While South Dakota does not issue a specific relocation assistance claim form, park owners must provide the "Notice of Termination of Tenancy" when closing a park:

• Notice of Termination of Tenancy (No official form number)
  When used: Landlords use this notice to inform renters of park closure at least 180 days in advance.
  How to use: If you receive this notice, keep a copy for your records. If you believe you did not receive proper notice, you may file a complaint with the South Dakota Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.
• Complaint Form to Consumer Protection Division
  When used: If the park owner fails to give proper notice or violates your rights during closure, you can submit this form.
  How to use: Download and complete the form from the official website, then submit as directed on the form.

Where to Get Official Help

Residential landlord-tenant disputes, including issues with mobile home park closures, are handled by the South Dakota Circuit Courts. Learn more about the courts and how to file actions by visiting the South Dakota Unified Judicial System – Circuit Courts.

The key tenancy legislation for park closures and notices is South Dakota Codified Laws Chapter 21-16 – Forcible Entry and Detainer, specifically Section 21-16-2.1 for park closure notice requirements.

Action Steps If Your Mobile Home Park Is Closing

• Check the date on your "Notice of Termination" to confirm you have at least 180 days.
• Start exploring other mobile home parks or rental options as soon as possible.
• Request moving or relocation support from local non-profit organizations or state housing assistance programs.
• If you believe you have not received proper notice, file a complaint with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
• Retain all written communications and documentation related to notice and your tenancy.

Quick action after receiving a closure notice can help you better manage your options.

Key advice: South Dakota does not guarantee financial relocation assistance. Your most important protection is the required 180-day advance written notice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Park Closure Relocation in South Dakota

1. Does South Dakota require park owners to pay for relocation if a mobile home park closes?
   No, state law does not require park owners to provide financial relocation assistance. Your main right is to receive a 180-day written notice.
2. What official form do I use if I did not get proper closure notice?
   You can file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division using the Consumer Complaint Form.
3. How much notice does a park owner have to give if closing a park?
   Park owners must give at least 180 days' written notice before closing or changing the park’s use.
4. Where can I get help finding a new place or moving my home?
   Contact the HUD South Dakota Field Office or local housing agencies for guidance.
5. Which court handles disputes over mobile home park closures?
   Disputes can be handled by the South Dakota Circuit Courts.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• South Dakota does not provide mandatory relocation assistance, but you must be given at least 180 days’ written notice.
• File a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division if you do not receive proper notice.
• You are responsible for arranging and covering costs to move your home or find alternative housing.

Stay informed of your rights and get support early to make the transition smoother.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division: For complaints and questions.
• Official Consumer Complaint Form: For reporting notice violations.
• South Dakota Unified Judicial System – Circuit Courts: For legal disputes and information about small claims court.
• HUD South Dakota Field Office: Guidance on affordable housing and possible moving resources.

---

1. South Dakota Codified Laws § 21-16-2.1 – Notice of Termination Required
2. South Dakota Attorney General – Consumer Protection Overview
3. South Dakota Unified Judicial System – Circuit Courts

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations