South Dakota is known for having very lenient laws when it comes to owning and carrying knives. For most residents and visitors, there are minimal restrictions on the types of knives they can own, as well as how they can carry them.
While state laws are largely permissive, there are some exceptions and local regulations you should be aware of. This article will break down what you can and cannot do when it comes to knives in South Dakota.
What Knives Are Legal to Own in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, all types of knives are legal to own. This includes everyday knives like pocket knives and hunting knives, as well as switchblades, butterfly knives, daggers, stilettos, and even swords. There are no statewide laws limiting the type of knife you can own, nor are there restrictions on the blade length or the mechanism used to open the knife.
Carrying Knives in South Dakota
Open Carry
When it comes to open carry, South Dakota is very lenient. You can openly carry any type of knife, regardless of its size or type.
There are no state laws that restrict the open carry of knives. However, you should be mindful of where you are carrying the knife. For example, some places, like schools and government buildings, have restrictions.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry of knives is also legal in South Dakota. There is no statewide law that sets a limit on the length of the blade for concealed carry.
However, if you are carrying a knife with criminal intent, it could lead to felony charges. Intent matters – carrying a knife for self-defense or other lawful purposes is allowed, but using it in an unlawful way could get you into legal trouble.
Knife Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
Although South Dakota’s state laws allow for the open and concealed carry of knives, there are some important exceptions where knives are prohibited. These include:
Schools: Knives are banned on school grounds because they are considered “dangerous weapons.”
Government Buildings: Carrying knives is not allowed in county courthouses and the state capitol.
Airports: Federal law prohibits knives in secure areas of airports, regardless of state law.
Municipal Ordinances: Certain cities, such as Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, and Sturgis, have local laws that place restrictions on knives, especially concerning concealed carry. For example, Rapid City bans knives with blades over 3 inches in length from being carried concealed.
Knife Laws for Minors
Minors, or individuals under the age of 18, face additional restrictions in South Dakota. In particular, minors may need parental consent or supervision to carry certain knives in public. Local laws regarding the possession and carrying of knives by minors may vary, so it’s important to check the specific rules of the area.
Self-Defense and Knife Use
In South Dakota, knives can be used for self-defense, but the force must be reasonable and proportional to the threat you are facing. If you use a knife in a way that is seen as excessive or unlawful, you could face criminal charges. It is essential to only use a knife when absolutely necessary and to avoid using it in a manner that could be considered illegal.
Local Ordinances: Know the Rules
While South Dakota has general state laws for knives, there is no statewide preemption. This means that local cities and towns can create their own rules regarding knives.
For example, cities like Rapid City and Sioux Falls have local ordinances that may restrict the concealed carry of knives or set specific limits on their size. It’s crucial to check the specific laws of the city you are in before carrying a knife.
How to Stay Within the Law
To ensure you stay within the law, here are some tips:
Always check local ordinances, especially if you are traveling to different cities.
Avoid carrying knives in restricted areas, such as schools, government buildings, and airports.
Never carry a knife with criminal intent.
If you’re a minor, make sure to get parental consent or supervision if necessary
Sources:
1. https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
2. https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/south-dakota/
3. https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/south-dakota-knife-laws/
4. https://knifeade.com/south-dakota-knife-law/
