South Dakota landowners have until the end of next week (Oct. 14, 2022) to apply for the riparian buffer strip property tax incentive through the state Department of Revenue.
Only land within 120 feet of a listed lake, river or stream may be classified as a riparian buffer strip. Grazing is prohibited in these areas from May 1 through Sept. 30 each year. Land impacted by center pivot irrigation can now be harvested or mowed starting June 25.
Landowners approved for the riparian buffer strip program may receive an increased reduction in property value. In addition, there is no longer an annual application. Once approved, the new assessed value of the eligible property will be approved for 10 years or until the property changes use.
Applications must be submitted to the director of equalization in the county where the property is located. To learn more about the property tax incentive or access the application, visit https://dor.sd.gov/individuals/taxes/property-tax/#buffer.
Applicants may view a web map to help determine which waters qualify under the program. The interactive map can be accessed at https://danr.sd.gov/Press/DataAndMapping.aspx.
South Dakota Department of Revenue website screenshot Oct. 6, 2022.
Comments