diff --git a/setup.py b/setup.py
index ec4fafe4bdd..97b4f7cabd5 100755
--- a/setup.py
+++ b/setup.py
@@ -12,6 +12,9 @@ from distutils.cmd import Command
 from distutils.command.clean import clean
 from distutils.sysconfig import get_python_lib, PREFIX
 
+# Change to salt source's directory prior to running any command
+os.chdir(os.path.dirname(__file__))
+
 # Use setuptools only if the user opts-in by setting the USE_SETUPTOOLS env var
 # This ensures consistent behavior but allows for advanced usage with
 # virtualenv, buildout, and others.