Article VI, Section 24. of the South Dakota Constitution states that, “The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and the state shall not be denied.”   In South Dakota, permit is not required to purchase rifles, handguns, shotguns or long guns.

The state of South Dakota permits residents of contiguous states and residents of South Dakota, who are not precluded by any applicable laws, to purchase, sell, or transport rifles, shotguns, ammunition, reloading components or firearms accessories in South Dakota and in states contiguous to South Dakota[i].  Any person who knows that another person is prohibited by from possessing a firearm, and who knowingly gives, loans, or sells a firearm to that person is guilty of a Class 6 felony[ii].  The buyer must complete an application to purchase a handgun from a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL) if h/she does not possess a valid carrying permit.

The main government office that deals with issues relating to firearms is:

Secretary of State,

Capital Building,

500 E. Capital Street Suite 204,

Pierre, South Dakota 57501.

Phone:(605) 773-3537.

and

Attorney General,

500 East Capitol Ave,

Pierre, South Dakota 57501-5070.

Phone: (605)-773-3215.

[i] S.D. Codified Laws § 23-7-40

[ii]S.D. Codified Laws § 22-14-16