South Dakota § 12-21-10 - Complete recount on candidate's petition in close local election.

Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-21-10 — Complete recount on candidate's petition in close local election., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12-21-10. Complete recount on candidate's petition in close local election.

A candidate for any office, position, or nomination which is voted upon only by the voters of one county or part thereof may ask for a recount of the official returns if such candidate is defeated, according to the official returns, by a margin not exceeding two percent of the total vote cast for all candidates for such office, position, or nomination. Any candidate for nonlegislative office shall file a verified petition with the county auditor within three days after the election returns have been canvassed by the official county canvass. Any candidate for legislative office shall file a verified petition with the county auditor within three days after the election returns have been canvassed by the official state canvass. The petition shall state that the candidate believes a recount will change the result of the election and that all of the votes cast for the office, position, or nomination should be recounted. A recount shall then be conducted.

Source: SDC 1939, § 16.1803 (2); SL 1982, ch 134, § 4; SL 1988, ch 133; SL 1989, ch 30, § 35; SL 1999, ch 72, § 5.

Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 12-21-10

What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-21-10 cover?

Section 12-21-10 ("Complete recount on candidate's petition in close local election.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite South Dakota § 12-21-10?

A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-21-10" (South Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of South Dakota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.

How does South Dakota § 12-21-10 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Dakota.