Airbnb & VRBO Performance in Spearfish South Dakota.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Spearfish, South Dakota for 2024

As of 2024, Spearfish, South Dakota does not have specific regulations for short-term rentals. Here are the key points regarding the current state and future developments:

Current Status

• The City of Spearfish does not currently regulate short-term rentals.

Zoning Practices

• City zoning allows for up to five unrelated people to live in a single-family house, although enforcement of this zoning requirement is considered challenging.

Regulatory Development

• In response to rising concerns, the City formed a taskforce to explore the issue of short-term rentals. This taskforce includes community members, short-term rental owners, and hotel owners.
• The taskforce has held several meetings to discuss policy goals and formulate preliminary recommendations.
• An open house was held in August 2024 to gather public input, and an online survey was conducted to collect feedback on potential regulations.

Future Regulatory Process

• City staff will present the survey results and taskforce recommendations at a City Council Study Session, followed by a first and second reading during subsequent city council meetings, including public hearings, before formal adoption.

Since there are no specific regulations in place yet, property owners in Spearfish must adhere to general landlord-tenant laws and health and safety standards on their own initiative.

Top Airbnb Revenue-Generating Neighborhoods in Spearfish, South Dakota

While specific neighborhood data is not provided in the sources, we can infer the appeal and revenue potential of various areas in Spearfish based on general trends and attractions.

Neighborhoods and Their Appeal

1. Downtown Spearfish

• Appeal: Proximity to local shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Guests can easily walk to many amenities, making it a convenient and vibrant area to stay.
• Revenue Potential: High demand due to central location and accessibility to town services.

2. Areas Near Black Hills State University

• Appeal: Ideal for families and students visiting the university. The area is likely to have a mix of short-term and long-term rentals, catering to different types of guests.
• Revenue Potential: Consistent demand throughout the year, especially during academic seasons and university events.

3. Neighborhoods Close to Outdoor Recreation Areas

• Appeal: Spearfish is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. Neighborhoods near these areas attract guests looking for easy access to nature.
• Revenue Potential: High seasonality with peak demand during summer and winter months when outdoor activities are most popular.

4. Suburban Areas with Scenic Views

• Appeal: Offers a quieter, more residential experience with scenic views of the surrounding hills and mountains. These areas are appealing for families and those seeking a more relaxed stay.
• Revenue Potential: Steady demand as these areas provide a balance between tranquility and accessibility to town amenities.

Why They Are Appealing

• Proximity to Tourist Destinations: Spearfish's proximity to Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills makes it an attractive location for tourists, driving up demand for short-term rentals.
• Outdoor Recreation: The area's reputation as a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing attracts a wide range of guests looking for active vacations.
• Local Amenities: The availability of amenities like internet, parking, air conditioning, and fully equipped kitchens in many listings enhances the appeal of these neighborhoods.

These factors contribute to Spearfish being an up-and-coming market for short-term rental investors, with significant revenue potential across various neighborhoods.

Tips for Furnishing and Designing an Inviting Airbnb in Spearfish, South Dakota

Tip #1: Define Your Property's Aesthetic

• Align your furniture and decor with the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities of Spearfish. Consider a rustic, cozy, or mountain-inspired theme to reflect the local environment.

Tip #2: Choose Functional and Comfortable Furniture

• Opt for furniture that is both durable and comfortable. Sofas with washable covers, sturdy yet lightweight chairs, and dining tables resistant to wear and tear are essential for a guest-friendly space.

Tip #3: Utilize Space-Saving Furniture

• Incorporate space-saving furniture such as sofa beds, folding tables, and ottomans with hidden storage compartments to maximize the functionality of your space.

Tip #4: Ensure Easy Maintenance

• Select furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. White or neutral-colored items that can be bleached, and materials that hide stains well, are practical choices.

Tip #5: Provide Ample Storage

• Include shelves, cabinets, and other storage solutions to keep guests' personal items organized and easily accessible. This helps maintain a tidy and welcoming environment.

Tip #6: Enhance with Mirrors and Lighting

• Use mirrors to make your space feel larger and brighter. Add stylish lighting and consider full-length mirrors with cool frames to enhance the ambiance.

Tip #7: Equip with Essential Amenities

• Furnish your kitchen with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, and kettle. Also, provide a hairdryer, basic toiletries, and a first-aid kit to ensure guest comfort.

Tip #8: Consider Accessibility

• Make your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by incorporating features such as ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms.

Tip #9: Optimize for Seasonal Use

• Plan furniture updates during the off-season or short gaps between bookings to minimize disruption. This ensures your space is always in top shape for guests.

Tip #10: Reflect Local Charm

• Incorporate elements that reflect the unique charm of Spearfish, such as scenic views, comfortable furnishings, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities. This can include decor that highlights the beauty of the Black Hills and Spearfish Canyon.

Discover Spearfish, South Dakota: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Local Attractions

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

• A 19-mile scenic drive through a canyon older than the Grand Canyon, featuring limestone cliffs, lush hillsides, and flowing mountain streams. Don't miss the stunning waterfalls and keep an eye out for wildlife like mountain goats and deer.

Bridal Veil Falls

• A 60-foot waterfall approximately 5.8 miles south of the north entrance to Spearfish Canyon. Best viewed in the spring, with a wooden observation platform for optimal viewing.

Roughlock Falls

• A multi-tiered waterfall perfect for sightseeing, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. A must-visit for its picturesque views.

Spearfish Falls

• Accessible via a short 5-minute hike from the Latchstring Restaurant & Inn. Beautiful during spring, summer, and especially autumn.

D.C. Booth National Historic Fish Hatchery

• Explore 10 acres of ponds, water systems, and historic buildings. Unique exhibits include the Rail Car, the Yellowstone Boat, and underwater viewing windows.

Crow Peak

• A rigorous 3.5-mile hike to the summit offering amazing vistas. Reward yourself with a visit to the nearby Crow Peak Brewing Co..

Devil’s Bathtub

• An adventurous hike involving multiple river crossings. Prepare with hiking sandals and enjoy the beautiful convergence of blue water at the end.

Insider Tips

Fly Fishing on Spearfish Creek

• Known for its excellent fly fishing, Spearfish Creek offers packages including lodging, fly fishing pole rentals, and out-of-state fishing licenses. Local guiding services are also available.

Hiking and Biking Trails

• numerous trails for all skill levels, including the 76 Trail, Big Hill Trails, and the BHSU Disc Golf Course. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Local Cuisine and Breweries

• Enjoy the local craft beer scene and visit restaurants that offer a range of cuisines. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the local coffee houses to fuel your day.

Cultural Attractions

• Visit the Heritage Center Museum for Western art and artifacts, and the historic Matthews Opera House for summer theater performances.

Unique Natural Phenomenon

• Observe the unique freezing pattern of Spearfish Creek, which freezes from the bottom up due to its fast flow rate.

Seasonal Activities

• In the fall, enjoy the scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon to see the changing colors of the trees. During summer, catch the Black Hills Passion Play or visit the area for the Sturgis Bike Rally in August.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to Spearfish, South Dakota, and ensure they have an unforgettable experience.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Spearfish, South Dakota

To ensure a successful and hassle-free short-term rental business in Spearfish, South Dakota, several practical tips can be implemented:

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to maintain a peaceful environment for both the guests and the neighbors. Include this information in your digital and physical house manual to avoid any misunderstandings.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact details, ensuring guests have a smooth and comfortable stay.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide clear instructions on how to use the smart locks, along with parking instructions accompanied by photos. This will help guests navigate the property easily and reduce the likelihood of issues during their stay.

Compliance with Local Regulations

Ensure compliance with local regulations, such as obtaining a Conditional Use Permit and collecting the required state sales tax, tourism tax, and municipal gross receipts tax. This will help avoid fines and ensure your business operates smoothly within the legal framework.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance the guest experience, maintain good relations with the community, and optimize the operational efficiency of your short-term rental business in Spearfish.

Here is a brief list of house cleaning services and related providers in Spearfish, South Dakota:

House Cleaning Services

• Care.com: Offers house cleaning services starting at $21.00/hr, with options to compare and hire highly rated local cleaners.
• Angi: Lists top-rated house cleaners with average costs between $30 and $50 per hour, depending on house size and other factors.
• HomeAdvisor: Provides a list of top-rated cleaning services experts in Spearfish, SD, along with real reviews and ratings.

Specialized Cleaning Services

• Turno: Specializes in Airbnb cleaning services, offering features like auto-scheduling, digital checklists, and photo documentation.

Note

For repair or maintenance services, the provided sources do not include specific providers. However, platforms like Angi and HomeAdvisor often list a wide range of home service professionals, including those for repairs and maintenance, so it may be worth checking their full listings.

Spearfish, South Dakota: Understanding Short-Term Rental Management Fees

In Spearfish, South Dakota, managing short-term rentals involves a range of fees that can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Typically, management fees for short-term rentals range from 10% to 30% of the rental revenue. Full-service management companies, which handle comprehensive tasks such as guest communication, marketing, pricing optimization, and maintenance, tend to charge on the higher end of this spectrum, often starting at 15% to 25% of the revenue.

In contrast, basic or half-service management options, where the owner handles some of the responsibilities like cleaning and guest communication, can be more cost-effective, starting as low as 10%. Additional fees may also apply for services such as cleaning, repairs, or property design. These fees are crucial for ensuring compliance with local regulations, maintaining high standards of guest experience, and optimizing rental income, especially in a tourist-driven market like Spearfish.