South Dakota statutes & regulations
Think a law is missing or out of date?
Please help us keep this database up to date by adding or editing a law. See our contribution guidelines for more information about contributing.
Browse by County
No person may operate a drone over the grounds of any prison, correctional, juvenile detention, or military facility without express authorization; violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-3Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Using a drone to deliver contraband or controlled substances to a prison or correctional facility is a Class 6 felony.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-4Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Prohibits operating a drone in a careless manner or for voyeuristic/harassment purposes; violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-5.1Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Any operation of a drone in the state must comply with all applicable FAA regulations; drones operated by the U.S. Armed Forces are exempt.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-2Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Exempts UAS weighing less than 55 pounds from state aircraft-registration requirements.
Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Defines drone trespass and provides affirmative defenses (e.g. forced landings); violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-6Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025
Prohibits using a drone for eavesdropping or other privacy invasions—such as observing, photographing, or recording someone in a private place without consent; violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Sources:
https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=50-15-5Contributed by: FPV Fish
Last edit: 6/18/2025