An overview of South Dakota's bicycle laws, reviewed and cited to primary sources. Use the sections below to jump to a specific rule, or the Sources block at the end for the full citation list.
This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change — verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
South Dakota's bicycle code (SDCL Ch. 32-20A) does not address sidewalk riding statewide; regulation is left to municipalities under their general traffic-ordinance authority in SDCL Ch. 9-30. Sioux Falls allows sidewalk riding except in the downtown business district; Rapid City permits it citywide subject to yielding to pedestrians.
South Dakota's DUI statute (SDCL § 32-23-1) applies to anyone in actual physical control of a 'vehicle,' but the general vehicle definition in SDCL § 32-14-1 expressly excludes devices moved exclusively by human power. As a result, the DUI statute does not reach bicycle riders. An impaired cyclist who endangers others may instead be charged under reckless-operation or public-intoxication statutes.
Lamp on the front emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front.
Rear requirement
Rear reflector or light
Rear spec
Red reflector on the rear of a type approved by the Department of Public Safety, visible from 50 to 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of lawful upper-beam headlamps. A red rear lamp visible from 500 feet to the rear may be used in addition to the reflector.
SDCL § 32-20A-4 permits riding no more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Riders shall not impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.
South Dakota DOT permits bicycle use on the shoulders of most rural Interstate segments (notably I-90 and I-29 outside metropolitan areas) where no reasonable alternative parallel route exists. Urban Interstate segments through Sioux Falls and Rapid City are signed prohibited. Verify the specific corridor against SDDOT signage before riding.