South Dakota § 32-20-12 - Off-road vehicles--Operation on certain lands as misdemeanor--Registration--Title certificate.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-12 — Off-road vehicles--Operation on certain lands as misdemeanor--Registration--Title certificate., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 32-20-12. Off-road vehicles--Operation on certain lands as misdemeanor--Registration--Title certificate.
No person may operate on a public street or highway an off-road vehicle except for crossing from one side of the road to the other. A person twelve years of age or older may operate an off-road vehicle in a highway ditch if the vehicle is operated as close as possible to the outer edge of the highway right-of-way. However, no person may operate an off-road vehicle in a highway ditch along the interstate highway system, or operate an off-road vehicle on any lands owned, leased, or controlled by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks, or any highway ditch located within, except on a designated off-road vehicle area or designated trail, or operate an off-road vehicle in a highway ditch that is designated as part of the state snowmobile trails system pursuant to chapter 41-19 or a public bike trail. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Off-road vehicles need not be registered and licensed for use upon the highways except as provided in § 32-20-13. Off-road vehicles shall be titled. The Department of Revenue shall issue a certificate of title for off-road vehicles the same as for other motor vehicles subject to the provisions of chapter 32-3.
Source: SL 1985, ch 238, § 8; SL 1986, ch 259; SL 1987, ch 232; SL 1987, ch 233, § 1; SL 1989, ch 256, § 18.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 32-20-12
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-12 cover?
Section 32-20-12 ("Off-road vehicles--Operation on certain lands as misdemeanor--Registration--Title certificate.") 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 § 32-20-12?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 32-20-12" (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 § 32-20-12 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.