South Dakota Authorizes Local Juvenile Curfew Ordinances

South Dakota does not have a statewide juvenile curfew, but SDCL 9-29-6 expressly grants first and second class municipalities authority to regulate or prohibit the presence of minors on public streets, alleys, and places at night. Most South Dakota cities including Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Aberdeen have adopted curfews using this authority, typically prohibiting persons under 18 from public places between 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., with exceptions for accompanied minors, employment travel, and emergencies. Parents who knowingly allow violations may also face penalties.

Violations are typically charged as petty offenses or municipal infractions. Minors may be detained and released to parents; repeat violations and parental responsibility provisions may impose fines.