Dash cams are legal in South Dakota, but strict regulations dictate that they must be mounted on the dashboard—not the windshield or windows—and cannot obstruct the driver’s view.
Mounting and Placement Rules
- Dash cams and any nontransparent material are prohibited from being mounted on the front windshield, side wings, or side windows of vehicles.
- Mounting is permitted on the dashboard only, and the device must not block or limit the driver’s field of vision in any way.
- Violation of these mounting rules can result in fines or citations as a petty offense under state law.
Audio Recording Consent
- South Dakota requires single-party consent for audio recording. This means the vehicle owner or operator can record conversations if at least one person involved (including themselves) consents to the recording.
- Dash cam video footage is generally admissible in court as long as it is legally obtained.
Commercial Vehicles
- Commercial vehicles are subject to the same mounting restrictions—dash cams must be mounted on the dashboard and cannot obstruct the driver’s view.
Key Points
- Dashboard mounting only—never the windshield or windows.
- Must not block the driver’s view—obstruction is a violation.
- Single-party consent for audio recording—you can record if you are a participant in the conversation.
- Footage is admissible if obtained lawfully.
Adhering to these rules ensures both legal compliance and admissibility of dash cam footage in South Dakota.
Sources
(https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/)
(https://www.enjuris.com/blog/resources/dash-cam-laws-by-state/)
(https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/)
(https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state)
(https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state)
