Carrying
SDCL § 23-7-7 — a permit from the sheriff is issued, and the code says it does not prohibit carrying a pistol without one
No permit needed. The issuance of a permit to carry a concealed pistol does not impose a general prohibition on carrying a pistol without a permit.
A permit is still issued, by the sheriff of the county where the applicant lives, after a background investigation that includes the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. It is valid throughout the state.
- Is 18 years of age or older.
- Has never pled guilty to or been convicted of a felony or a crime of violence.
- Has no history of violence, and is not habitually intoxicated or drugged.
- Has lived in the county for at least 30 days before applying.
- Is a citizen or legal resident of the United States.
Those are among the conditions. A temporary permit is issued within five days of application to a person who meets them, and a person denied may appeal to the circuit court.
The barred places apply with or without a permit. A particular situation is a question for a licensed South Dakota attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- SDCL § 23-7-7 — Permit to carry concealed pistol; Background investigation; Carrying pistol without permit not prohibited
- SDCL § 23-7-7.1 — Requirements for issuance of temporary permit; Time requirement; Appeal of denial
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed South Dakota attorney.