Lawrence County SD Planning & Zoning

09/28/2026

09/23/2026

We just wanted to let the public know that anytime you are working on property that has a designated floodplain on it, a Floodplain Development Permit is required.....this may mean not just for a new house. Please contact our office with questions prior to moving ahead with a project.

You can also vie floodplain and other items on our GIS maps.

https://beacon.schneidercorp.com/Application.aspx?App=LawrenceCountySD&PageType=Map

The application can be found here:

https://www.lawrence.sd.us/FormCenter/Building-Permits-13/Floodplain-Development-Permit-FDP-76

Online access to maps, real estate data, tax information, and appraisal data.

09/08/2026

Official fire information for Lookout Fire 2026, located 1.5 miles northeast of Spearfish, Lawrence County, SD.

08/04/2026

🚨 **LAWRENCE COUNTY BURN BAN NOW IN EFFECT** 🚨

Effective immediately, the Lawrence County Commission has enacted **Resolution #2026-19**, implementing a temporary burn ban due to the increased wildfire risk throughout Lawrence County.

**The following activities are prohibited until the burn ban is lifted:**
🔥 Campfires, open burning, charcoal grills, and charcoal barbecues (propane grills are permitted)
🚭 Smoking outside of an enclosed vehicle or building
🪚 Operating internal combustion engines (such as chainsaws, generators, or ATVs) without a properly functioning spark arrestor
🔥 Welding or using acetylene torches or other open-flame equipment
🎆 Using fireworks, exploding targets, blasting caps, tracers, or other incendiary devices
🚙 Driving or parking motor vehicles off established roads in areas with dry vegetation
⚠️ Other activities prohibited under South Dakota fire protection laws

**Please Note:** Cities and towns within Lawrence County have the authority to regulate burning and the use of fireworks within their own municipal jurisdictions. Residents should check with their local municipality for any additional restrictions or ordinances that may be in effect.

Exemptions apply to certain Forest Service permit holders and emergency response personnel performing official duties.

This burn ban will remain in effect **until the Lawrence County Commission determines that the wildfire threat has subsided.**

Current dry conditions have created an elevated wildfire risk, and everyone's cooperation is essential to protecting our communities, firefighters, and natural resources. Please help prevent wildfires by following these restrictions and reporting any signs of fire immediately.

Thank you for doing your part to keep Lawrence County safe.

**📄 The full resolution is attached for your reference.**

08/02/2026

07/24/2026

🔥 Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Effect — Stay Safe & Compliant

Residents and visitors: Stage 2 fire restrictions will go into effect across the Black Hills National Forest on Monday, July 27th due to persistent severe fire weather and extended drought.

What’s Prohibited:
Open fires: No campfires, charcoal barbecues, grills, or stoves unless using a device fueled by liquid or gas in a cleared area within 3 feet of the device.

Smoking: Only allowed in enclosed vehicles/buildings; no outdoor smoking.

Welding/torches: No open-flame torches or acetylene use.

Explosives: No use or possession.

Off-road travel: No motorized vehicles off established roads/trails.

What’s Allowed:
Stoves, grills, and lanterns fueled by propane or other LPG meeting manufacturer safety specs.

Motor vehicle travel on Forest Service Roads and Trails.

Hiking, biking, and walking remain permitted.

Why This Matters:
These restrictions are in place to protect public safety and natural resources. Violations can result in fines up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, plus possible jail time.

Safety Reminders:
Secure chains, check tire pressure, and maintain brakes before travel.

Report any fire immediately at 9-1-1

Follow official updates on Black Hills National Forest’s website https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/alerts or call (605) 673‑9200.

Stay alert, follow the rules, and help prevent wildfires.