What is a special assessment?

A special assessment is an extra fee that is levied by a municipality on a property owner to finance certain public improvements or services. This fee is in addition to the regular property taxes paid. In South Dakota, special assessments are used to help cover the costs of improvements to public infrastructure, such as roads, water systems, sewer systems, and parks. Property owners may also be subject to special assessments if they are found to be in violation of local zoning ordinances or land use regulations. In South Dakota, special assessments are defined as “additional fees or taxes charged upon a specific parcel of real estate or property” and are limited by statute. The general rules governing special assessments include: they can only be for certain approved types of improvements; they must be equitably apportioned amongst property owners based on the benefits received; and the assessment cannot exceed the actual cost of the improvement. Additionally, special assessments are usually related to the direct installation of public improvements, such as roads or sidewalks, which must be paid in full before the improvement is made. In summary, a special assessment is a fee that is charged on a property owner in South Dakota to finance certain public improvements or services, such as roads, water systems, sewer systems, and parks. It is an additional fee that is in addition to regular property taxes and must be levied in accordance with state law.

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What is a special assessment?

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