South Dakota § 50-15-5 - Eavesdropping--Violation of privacy--Misdemeanor.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 50-15-5 — Eavesdropping--Violation of privacy--Misdemeanor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 50-15-5. Eavesdropping--Violation of privacy--Misdemeanor.
No person may, except as authorized by law, intentionally use a drone to photograph, record, or otherwise observe another person in a private place where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. A person who violates this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
This section does not apply to:
(1) Law enforcement officers, or to those acting under the direction of a law enforcement officer, while engaged in the performance of the officer's lawful duties;
(2) A drone operator operating a drone for bona fide business or bona fide government purposes who unintentionally or incidentally photographs, records, or otherwise observes another person in a private place; or
(3) A designated emergency management worker operating a drone within the scope of the worker's duties.
Source: SL 2021, ch 95, § 2.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 50-15-5
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 50-15-5 cover?
Section 50-15-5 ("Eavesdropping--Violation of privacy--Misdemeanor.") 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 § 50-15-5?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 50-15-5" (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 § 50-15-5 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.