South Dakota § 31-26-19 - Minimum height of utility lines--Liability for damage to lines below minimum height.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 31-26-19 — Minimum height of utility lines--Liability for damage to lines below minimum height., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31-26-19. Minimum height of utility lines--Liability for damage to lines below minimum height.
It shall be a Class 2 misdemeanor for any person, firm, association, or corporation owning or operating any telephone, telegraph, or electric line, or any part of such line in this state, to extend any telephone, telegraph, or electric wire, any part of which shall be less than eighteen feet from the ground, over or across any public highway. No such person, firm, association, or corporation shall be entitled to collect damages from any person who shall cut, break, remove, or otherwise destroy any such telephone, telegraph, or electric wire over or across a public highway if any part of the same is at any time less than eighteen feet from the ground.
Source: SL 1921, ch 251; SDC 1939, § 28.1004; SL 1965, ch 134.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 31-26-19
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 31-26-19 cover?
Section 31-26-19 ("Minimum height of utility lines--Liability for damage to lines below minimum height.") 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 § 31-26-19?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 31-26-19" (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 § 31-26-19 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.