Electric Scooter Laws in South Dakota – Complete Guide 2025

Quick facts

  • Classification: “Motorized Foot Scooters” under state motor vehicle code
  • Min age: No statewide minimum age requirement
  • Helmet required: No helmet requirement at state level
  • Max speed: 15 mph maximum on public roads
  • License/registration: Not required statewide
  • Sidewalk riding: Allowed unless locally prohibited
  • Bike lane access: Yes
  • Scooter sharing: No major scooter sharing programs available
  • Last checked: September 17, 2025

What South Dakota riders need to know

South Dakota treats electric scooters pretty much like enhanced bicycles, naming them “motorized foot scooters” in their motor vehicle code. The state keeps regulations light focusing on the basics like a 15 mph speed limit and bike-lane access, while leaving room for local regulators to tighten the rules if they see a need for it.

Completely opposite of what North Carolina has done, South Dakota has clearly defined what an electric scooter is in their laws rather than leaving everyone guessing. At the state-level you are allowed to ride on sidewalks unless local governance specifically says no.

Most enforcement happens at the local level, so Sioux Falls might have slightly different parking rules than Rapid City, but the basic framework stays consistent across the entire state.

South Dakota defines electric scooters as “motorized foot scooters” under Title 32 of the South Dakota Codified Laws. The state specifically allows motorized foot scooters to operate on sidewalks unless restricted by local municipalities in Section 32-26-21.1.

Electric scooters should have no more than two wheels, with a maximum wheel-size of 12 inches or smaller, and a motor that can go a maximum of 15 mph. This sets clear definitions of what qualify as motorized foot scooters versus mopeds or motorcycles.

The state legislature has provided municipalities the authority to impose additional restrictions on riders within their jurisdictions, particularly regarding sidewalk use and parking regulations. Things that are more necessary to regulate on a city to city basis.

Where you can ride

Road: Electric scooters can operate on public roads throughout South Dakota, but you’re limited to the 15 mph maximum speed. Stay as far right as practical and follow standard traffic laws when riding on roadways. Stick to lower speed roads.

Bike lanes: Where bike lanes exist, electric scooters can just like cyclists. Maintain appropriate speeds and yield to others when necessary.

Sidewalks: This is where South Dakota differs from many states, electric scooters are permitted on sidewalks in South Dakota. However, cities can restrict access. Always yield to pedestrians and ride at walking speed on sidewalks.

Trails and parks: State park trails generally follow the same rules as roadways, with the 15 mph speed limit applying. Some parks do not allow motorized vehicles, so check local ruleset prior to riding.

Equipment and vehicle requirements

Power and speed limits: Electric scooters should have no more than two wheels 12 inch tires or smaller and a motor capable of maximum 15 mph. This relatively conservative speed limit keeps scooters in the same category as bicycles. The truth is I don’t have anything but kids electric scooters that fall within the 15 mph speed, unless using restrictive driving modes like eco-mode.

Required equipment: South Dakota doesn’t specify detailed equipment requirements for electric scooters at the state level. However, following standard safety practices and bicycle law means your scooter should have the following:

  • Working brakes capable of stopping the scooter within a reasonable distance
  • Headlight and rear reflector/light for night riding visibility
  • Reflectors or reflective materials for low-light conditions
  • Horn or bell for alerting pedestrians and other riders

Rider requirements

Age restrictions: South Dakota doesn’t set a minimum age in their state statute. This makes it one of the more permissive states for young riders.

Licensing and permits: No need for insurance, license or registration.

Helmet laws: No statewide helmet requirement exists for electric scooter riders in South Dakota. This puts the state among the minority that don’t require helmets.

Alcohol and drug rules

Since electric scooters fall under motor vehicle regulations, operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs would likely result in the same penalties as other motor vehicle DUI charges.

Parking, storage, and riding etiquette

At the state level South Dakota doesn’t regulate parking for electric scooters, it leaves that in the open so that local regulations can be enacted.

Common sense practices include:

  • Park in designated areas where available
  • Don’t block sidewalk access or ADA-compliant pathways
  • Avoid parking near building entrances or transit stops
  • Secure your scooter properly to prevent theft

When riding on sidewalks, maintain walking speed and give pedestrians plenty of space and warning when passing.

Enforcement and penalties

A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor for driving violations covered under the sidewalk operation statute. Most enforcement happens at the local level through municipal ordinances.

Common violations and typical penalties include:

  • Exceeding 15 mph speed limit: $50-$100 fines
  • Improper sidewalk operation: $25-$75
  • Blocking pedestrian access when parking: $25-$50
  • Equipment violations (lighting, etc.): $25-$50

You can expect enforcement to vary depending on the area you’re riding in. Larger cities tend to be more strict while in rural areas they’ll only go after the serious infractions.

Insurance and liability

They are exempt from insurance and registration requirements at the state level. However, checking with your existing auto or homeowner’s insurance about coverage for electric scooter accidents is still wise and recommended.

In accident situations, standard negligence principles apply. The at-fault party typically bears responsibility for damages, though this can become complex when multiple parties or municipal infrastructure are involved.

Local exceptions to state law

Sioux Falls: Sioux Falls allows electric scooters but restricts sidewalk riding in the downtown core business areas. You can ride on sidewalks in residential areas, but must use bike lanes or roadways in the city center. The city requires lights for night riding and has designated parking areas downtown. Sioux Falls also enforces a local 10 mph speed limit in parks and on recreational trails, which overrules the states 15 mph in those areas.

Rapid City: Rapid City takes a more permissive approach, allowing sidewalk riding throughout most of the city except near schools during school hours. The city has implemented seasonal restrictions in some tourist areas during Sturgis Rally week in August. Rapid City requires working brakes and lights for night operation, and they’ve designated specific parking zones in the downtown historic district.

Aberdeen: Aberdeen follows state regulations closely but has added local parking restrictions downtown. Electric scooters must be parked in designated bike parking areas or against buildings in a way that doesn’t block pedestrian traffic. The city requires riders to dismount and walk their scooters through the downtown pedestrian mall area during business hours.

Brookings. Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings has campus-specific regulations that apply to the university area read more in that section below. The city allows sidewalk riding but requires riders to yield to pedestrians and use audible warnings when passing.

Special circumstances

School zones: Enhanced penalties may apply in school zones, and some cities require dismounting and leading your scooter during active school hours near elementary schools.

University campuses: Both South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota have their own policies that may be more restrictive than city or state law. Electric scooters are allowed on campus but must stay on designated paths and cannot exceed 10 mph near dormitories and academic buildings. Make sure you check with campus security before riding on university property.

Seasonal considerations: Winter riding brings additional challenges with snow and ice. Some cities suspend parking regulations during snow removal operations, so pay attention to local snow emergency declarations.

Tourist areas: During major events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, some cities implement temporary restrictions on electric scooter riding in high-traffic areas.

FAQs

Can kids ride electric scooters in South Dakota? Yes, there’s no minimum age requirement at the state level.

Do I need a license to ride an electric scooter? No license or registration is required. Treated similarly to bicycles.

Can I ride on sidewalks everywhere in South Dakota? The state allows sidewalk riding, but individual cities do have restrictions in certain areas. Namely downtown and busy districts/school areas.

What about riding at night? There’s no state law prohibiting night riding, but you’ll want proper lighting for safety. Most cities will require your scooter to be equipped with headlights and reflectors.

Can I get a DUI on an electric scooter? Potentially yes, since electric scooters fall under motor vehicle regulations. Operating any motor vehicle while impaired can result in DUI charges in South Dakota.

What’s the deal with wheel size restrictions? The state specifies wheels must be 12 inches diameter or smaller. This is to help distinguish between an electric scooter and a motorcycle/moped.

Resources and citations

Stay up to date

Make sure you keep track of changes to the individual cities in South Dakota by signing up to our newsletter or bookmark our legal page.

We’re riders, not lawyers. This information covers South Dakota electric scooter laws as we understand them and is intended for informational purposes only, not legal advice.

For specific legal questions, especially regarding DUI charges or accident liability, consult with a local attorney familiar with South Dakota traffic law. When in doubt about local regulations, contact your city clerk’s office or local police department for a detailed explanation.

South Dakota regulatory system revolving electric scooters is as clear as it can be. From the municipalities varied approach depending on population/traffic, to the 15 mph speed limit at the state level. It is clear and easy to follow.

A breath of fresh air among states that have taken an unpractical complex approach to electric scooter regulation. Make sure your scooter fits the specifics laid out, ride responsibly and adhere to what is basically the same ruleset as for bicycles and you shouldn’t have a single problem.

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