South Dakota has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, allowing individuals to legally own, carry, and use virtually any type of knife. There are no state restrictions on blade length or specific knife types, meaning it is legal to carry everything from pocket knives and switchblades to larger blades like machetes or even swords.
Both open carry and concealed carry of knives are permitted without special licenses or permits, as long as the knife is not carried with intent to commit a felony or used unlawfully. For example, felons convicted of violent crimes may face restrictions in carrying knives, but otherwise, there is no statewide ban on knife ownership or carry.
Despite the leniency at the state level, South Dakota does impose restrictions on carrying knives in certain sensitive locations. These include public elementary and secondary schools, county courthouses, and the state capitol, where carrying knives is prohibited.
Additionally, several municipalities such as Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, and Sturgis have local ordinances that restrict the concealed carry of knives, including blade length limits or outright bans on concealed knives.
It is advisable for knife carriers in South Dakota to be aware of these local laws when traveling or residing within those cities. State law also differentiates law enforcement and military personnel, who may be exempt from some restrictions in the performance of their duties.
In summary, South Dakota’s knife laws strongly protect the right to own and carry knives, whether openly or concealed, making it one of the most knife-friendly states legally. However, caution is needed to comply with location-based restrictions and local city ordinances that may limit the concealed carry of knives.
Overall, South Dakota reflects a broad legal recognition of knives as tools and personal defense instruments without unnecessary state-level prohibitions. Residents and visitors should still exercise common sense and verify city-specific rules to remain fully compliant with the law.In South Dakota, knife laws are notably permissive, allowing individuals to legally own and carry nearly any type of knife without restrictions on blade length.
Both open and concealed carry of knives are allowed, provided there is no intent to commit a felony or harm someone. There are no specific statewide prohibitions on types of knives, including switchblades, butterfly knives, or large blades like machetes.
However, carrying knives is prohibited in certain locations such as public schools, county courthouses, and the state capitol. Additionally, some municipalities like Rapid City and Sioux Falls have local ordinances restricting concealed carry of knives, often based on blade length.
Law enforcement and military personnel may be exempt from certain restrictions when acting in official capacities. Overall, South Dakota strongly protects knife rights but advises awareness of local restrictions and prohibited areas to avoid legal complications.
Sources
(https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/south-dakota-knife-laws/)
(https://knifeade.com/south-dakota-knife-law/)
(https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/south-dakota/)
(https://kniferights.org)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/answers/comments/9abgry/can_you_carry_a_sword_in_south_dakota/)
