Bulletproof Handyman

What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Aberdeen, South Dakota (Brown County)?

By , Founder of Bulletproof Handyman · Last reviewed July 2026

South Dakota does not require a state-issued general contractor license for handymen, but all contractors performing construction work must obtain a Contractor's Excise Tax License from the SD Department of Revenue (no upfront fee, but 2% tax on gross receipts). In Aberdeen, residential contractors must be licensed through the City of Aberdeen. Electricians and plumbers require separate state trade licenses. No formal handyman exemption threshold exists in South Dakota statute, though minor repair work may fall outside excise tax requirements—verify directly with the SD Department of Revenue at 605-773-3311.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Aberdeen

Based on the SD threshold, handymen in Aberdeen commonly take on:

⚠️ What Requires a License

Business License — Aberdeen

Required. Aberdeen Residential Building Contractor License (for residential work); Commercial Contractors not required to be licensed by City

Setting Up Your Business in SD

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in SD: $150 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Aberdeen

  1. Step 1: Call the SD Department of Revenue at (605) 773-3311 to confirm whether any informal de minimis threshold applies to your planned work and to understand Contractor's Excise Tax License requirements.
  2. Step 2: Form an LLC with the South Dakota Secretary of State (Articles of Organization, $150 online). Maintain a registered agent with a South Dakota address.
  3. Step 3: Apply for a Contractor's Excise Tax License with the SD Department of Revenue at https://dor.sd.gov/businesses/taxes/contractors-excise-tax/ (no upfront fee, but you must remit 2% of gross receipts monthly).
  4. Step 4: If performing residential work in Aberdeen, apply for an Aberdeen Residential Building Contractor License in person at the City Auditors Division, 123 South Lincoln Street, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Obtain the exact fee from the 2026 Fee Schedule at https://www.aberdeen.sd.us/DocumentCenter/View/17208/2026-Fee-Schedule-As-Adopted-2025-.
  5. Step 5: If operating from a residence, obtain a Home Occupation Permit from the City of Aberdeen Planning & Zoning Department.
  6. Step 6: If using a trade name, register a fictitious name with the Brown County Register of Deeds ($10, valid 5 years).
  7. Step 7: Obtain general liability insurance ($1–$3 million coverage recommended).
  8. Step 8: For any project involving electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or structural work, verify permit requirements with the Aberdeen Building Inspection Department before starting work.
  9. Step 9: If you plan to perform electrical or plumbing work, apply for the appropriate state trade license (Electrical Commission or Plumbing Commission) well in advance, as these require experience and exam passage.

Licensing rules and fees change over time, so this information may be out of date. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.