South Dakota § 40-1-17 - Exemptions from chapters 40-1 and 40-2.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 40-1-17 — Exemptions from chapters 40-1 and 40-2., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 40-1-17. Exemptions from chapters 40-1 and 40-2.
Nothing in this chapter or chapter 40-2 may be construed to interfere with an animal under the direct and proper care of a licensed veterinarian or with persons engaged in standard and accepted agricultural pursuits or animal husbandry practices.
In addition, the following are exempt from the provisions of this chapter and chapter 40-2:
(1) Any usual and customary practice;
(a) In the production of food, feed, or fiber, including all aspects of the livestock industry;
(b) In the boarding, breeding, competition, exhibition, feeding, raising, service work, showing, training, transportation, and use of animals; or
(c) In the harvesting of animals for food or byproducts;
(2) Any humane killing of an animal;
(3) Any lawful hunting, trapping, fishing, or other activity authorized by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks;
(4) Any lawful pest, vermin, predator, and animal damage control, including the disposition of wild animals;
(5) Any reasonable action taken by a person for the destruction or control of an animal known to be dangerous, a threat, or injurious to life, limb, or property; and
(6) Any actions taken by personnel or agents of the board, the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Department of Game, Fish and Parks, or the United States Department of Agriculture in the performance of duties as prescribed by law.
Source: SDC 1939, § 40.2211; SL 1991, ch 331, § 30; SL 2014, ch 194, § 15; SL 2021, ch 1 (Ex. Ord. 21-3), § 14, eff. Apr. 19, 2021.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 40-1-17
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 40-1-17 cover?
Section 40-1-17 ("Exemptions from chapters 40-1 and 40-2.") 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 § 40-1-17?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 40-1-17" (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 § 40-1-17 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.