Fireworks Regulations

Counties and towns may impose more restrictions because of dry conditions. Please confirm this information with your local law enforcement, government office or Chamber of Commerce.

Statewide Laws:

• The legal period to discharge permissible fireworks is Monday, June 26 – Sunday, July 9, 2023. Permissible fireworks are “consumer fireworks” – the small fireworks usually sold at stands around the 4th of July.
• (Per South Dakota codified law, it is unlawful/illegal/prohibited for a person to discharge fireworks in this state except during the period beginning June 26 – the end of the first Sunday after July 4th and during the period beginning December 28 -January 1.)
• A violation of this law is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
• Additional regulations may apply based on certain City and/or County ordinances. See below or contact local Sheriff’s office or Police department for the laws in your area/additional questions.
• Fireworks are unlawful/illegal/prohibited on public lands: every forest, every campsite, and every day.
• Discharging fireworks is unlawful/illegal/prohibited on all lands owned or leased by Game Fish and Parks.
• The ban includes State Parks, Recreation Areas, Lakeside Use Areas, Game Production Areas and Nature Areas.
• Discharging fireworks is also unlawful/illegal/prohibited within the boundaries of the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District, as well at National Forests and National Parks in South Dakota.
• For further details on fireworks including safety and security information, refer to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Specifics for Black Hills

• Fireworks within the Black Hills Fire Protection District are unlawful/illegal/prohibited. A class 1 misdemeanor will be issued for any fireworks shot in this area. Please see the Black Hills National Forest webpage and a map of the Black Hills Fire Protection District.

The best and safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a public firework display and leave the lighting to the professionals. 

For more information, call 211 or search our online database:

• www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1/
  • Enter your Zip Code
  • In the Search for Specific Program box, enter:
    • Forest
    • Fireworks
    • Sheriff
    • Chambers of Commerce – for information on local 4^th of July events

Sources:

• South Dakota Legislature
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
• Wildland Fire Prevention– South Dakota

Disclaimer: This HelpSheet is developed by the Helpline Center. HelpSheets provide a brief overview of the designated topic. For more information, call 211 or text your zip code to 898211.

Last updated: May 2023