In South Dakota, “ding dong ditch” — the act of ringing someone’s doorbell and then quickly leaving without identifying oneself — is not specifically outlawed by a statute using that term, but it can be considered illegal under certain circumstances. This behavior can qualify as a form of noise disturbance or disorderly conduct, depending on the frequency, timing, and impact on the person being bothered. Many local ordinances, including noise disturbance laws, make it unlawful to create unnecessary or unreasonable noise that disturbs others, especially during night hours. Repeatedly ringing a doorbell and fleeing could be interpreted as a noise disturbance and thus lead to fines or other penalties.
Additionally, if the conduct causes fear or alarm, or if the person persists despite warnings, it could also be treated as trespassing or harassment, both of which carry more significant legal consequences under South Dakota law. Such actions interfere with the peace and quiet enjoyment of one’s property and may result in citations or more formal charges depending on the severity and local enforcement.
While South Dakota does not have a specific law named “ding dong ditch,” the act can be considered illegal if it results in noise disturbance, trespassing, or harassment. The legality largely depends on the circumstances and how local law enforcement views the behavior within the context of noise and public disturbance laws.
Sources
(https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/mitchellsd/latest/mitchell_sd/0-0-0-1320)
(https://consumer.sd.gov/docs/ConsumerHdbk.pdf)
(https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/22-21)
(https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/32-15)
(https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/south-dakota/ARSD-41-04-05-04.02)
