South Dakota’s knife laws are basically non-existent, however, combing through the weapons laws in order to determine that can be difficult for those who have not have any legal training. This article tells you what the weapons laws say, and how that applies to the ownership and carrying of various types of knives.
What is Legal to Own
- It is legal to own a switchblade, or any type of automatic knife
- It is legal to own a ballistic knife
- It is legal to own a Balisong, or butterfly knife
- It is legal to own a Bowie knife
- It is legal to own a dirk, dagger, or other stabbing knife
- It is legal to own a stiletto
- It is legal to own a sword cane
- It is legal to own a disguised knife, such as in a belt buckle or lipstick
What is Illegal to Own
- It is not illegal to own any type of knife in South Dakota
In 2006, the legislature repealed the only law prohibiting ownership of any type of knife. The former statute, 22-14-19, made it illegal for a person to own, possess or sell a ballistic knife.
Restrictions on Carry
- Any knife may be carried openly or concealed
South Dakota’s statutes discuss dangerous weapons and carrying concealed weapons, however neither of the statutes apply to knives, as its definition of “concealed” is “any firearm that is totally hidden from view.”
Conclusion on South Dakota’s Knife Laws
It is legal to own and open or conceal carry any knife in South Dakota, as it has no laws controlling the ownership or carry of any type of knife.
Sources
- S.D. Codified Laws § 22-14-19 (2013)
- S.D. Codified Laws § 22-1-2 (2013)