South Dakota law
Municipal Laws in South Dakota.
South Dakota local government operates under the 1889 Constitution and South Dakota Codified Laws. South Dakota has 66 counties and numerous municipalities. South Dakota cities operate under statutory forms (mayor-council, board of commissioners, aldermanic). Counties operate under a board of county commissioners. The Open Meetings Act (SDCL § 1-25-1 et seq.) and Open Records Act (SDCL Chapter 1-27) govern transparency. Sovereign immunity is partially waived under SDCL Chapter 21-32 (state) and Chapter 21-32A (political subdivisions).
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key South Dakota Statutes
Governs powers and organization of South Dakota municipalities. Three principal forms: mayor-council, board of commissioners, aldermanic.
Requires public meetings to be open with advance notice. Executive sessions permitted for specific purposes.
Public records are generally disclosable. Agency must respond within a reasonable time.
Limited waiver of sovereign immunity for state and local governments. Damages cap: $1,000,000 per person, $3,000,000 per occurrence (state); lower limits may apply to subdivisions.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.
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