Mitchell Council Approves First Step Toward Rental License Program

The Mitchell City Council has unanimously approved the first reading of a proposed ordinance to require rental licenses and inspections, potentially starting in January 2026. The law would mandate licensing for all rental units, regular inspections, and penalties for violations.

By Christal Blue May 21, 2025 11:51 am

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MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) The Mitchell City Council has unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance that would create a rental license and inspection program. If passed again, the ordinance would take effect in January 2026. Under the proposed law, all rental properties would need to be licensed and subject to inspections. If serious issues are found and not fixed, renters could be evicted. Owners who live outside Mitchell would need to appoint a local agent, and violations could lead to fines or jail time. A fee structure hasn’t been finalized yet, but $12 per unit per year has been suggested. Government-run and school-owned housing would be exempt. The city is still deciding whether to hire a full-time inspector or use a private company. A second reading is required before the ordinance becomes official. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here

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