Getting Vendor Licenses - Black Hills & Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

How Do I Set Up My Business at the Sturgis Rally?

We get this question a lot—so here’s the answer:

First: There is no central gate or single location for the Sturgis Rally.

Think of it like Mardi Gras: events and vendors are spread across the entire Black Hills region, not just in the city of Sturgis. The Rally is a regional celebration, not a single fenced-in event.

Second: The Rally is a Public Event.

As the courts have stated, “The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a pluralistic endeavor promoted by multiple organizations.”
There is no single owner or central control—the Rally belongs to the people. Communities, businesses, and private property owners across the Hills host vendors and events.

So How Do You Set Up a Booth?

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Find a Location
   There are spaces for rent all over—from downtown Sturgis to campgrounds, private lots, and venues throughout the Black Hills. Downtown Sturgis Main Street will be busy. Sometimes people are too busy to buy.  You might be better off on a side street, or at one the big Campgrounds.  It’s VERY helpful to come to the Rally at least once, before you try to become a vendor.  

2. Get the Correct Licenses
   Once you’ve chosen a vending location, you’ll need the proper business license(s) based on the jurisdiction:

   • Inside Sturgis city limits? You’ll need a special vending permit from the city.

   • Outside Sturgis city limits? You’ll follow licensing rules for the county or town you’re in (e.g., Meade County, Lawrence County, Rapid City, etc.).

3. Bring Your Own Setup
   Vendors are responsible for their own:

   • Tents/awnings, Tables and displays, Electrical hookups (if not included with your rental), Staff and signage

4. No ‘Rally-Wide’ Permit Required
   There is no such thing as a “Sturgis Rally Permit.” There are permits required for for the particular location where you operate.

  Our Advice:

If you’ve never been to the Sturgis Rally, attend at least once first to get a feel for the layout. It’s open and unstructured, with energy flowing across hundreds of miles. There’s no entrance fee or gate—just the freedom to set up and do business in one of the most unique events in the country.

Bottom Line:
✔ Rent a spot
✔ Get licensed where you’re set up
✔ Bring your gear
✔ Be ready for an unforgettable experience

   Getting Licensed – for the 2025, 85th Sturgis Rally & Black Hills Rally Starts Here
 Last updated 6-20-2025

1. You must have a SD State Vendor License (unless you setup in Wy. See below for WY contacts)
   >>>    https://dor.sd.gov/businesses/sturgis-motorcycle-rally/
     a)  SD Dept of Health (if you are vending food/edibles)
         >>>   https://doh.sd.gov/food/restaurants-lodging/

     b)  Application for Temporary Manufacturer, Customizer, or Dealer Permit 
         >>>  https://doh.sd.gov/businesses/sturgis-motorcycle-rally

2. SD State Sales Tax Application
         >>>   https://dorresources.sd.gov/f/SturgisRallyApp
3. If you vend inside the City of Sturgis you will need a Sturgis City License
         >>>   https://sturgismotorcyclerally.com/get-license/
         >>>    https://www.sturgis-sd.gov/city-ordinances
         >>>    Map showing Sturgis City Limits

4. If you are not vending within the City of Sturgis, follow the links below to your location
         >>>   Contact the links below for specific vendor laws and regulations by region or town.