FAA Clears Airport Land for Industrial Use in South Dakota
Published Date: 11/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The FAA plans to change nearly 5 acres of land at Watertown Regional Airport from airport use to industrial use and sell it. This land, already used for industrial purposes, won’t affect airport operations. People have until December 7, 2026, to share their thoughts on this plan.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
4.99 Acres Reclassified and Authorized for Sale
The FAA is proposing to change approximately 4.99 acres of Watertown Regional Airport land from aeronautical use to non-aeronautical use and authorize its sale. The two parcels are Lot 4 (2.00 acres) and Dakota Tube (2.99 acres), located north of the airport on the east side of Airport Drive; both are currently used for industrial purposes and will continue to be used for industrial purposes after the sale.
Airport Sponsor to Receive Fair Market Value
The Airport Sponsor (City of Watertown) will receive fair market value from the sale of the subject properties. The disposition of proceeds will be handled in accordance with 49 U.S.C. sections 47125 and 47151 and 14 CFR part 155.
Sale Subject to Flight Reservation and Property Restrictions
The FAA may release the subject airport property from federal land covenants but the release would be subject to a reservation for a continuing right of flight and to restrictions required by FAA Order 5190.6C, section 22.13. The FAA also states that approval does not commit the agency to financially assist with the disposal or determine eligibility for FAA grant-in-aid funding.
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