Updated on: September 27th, 2024

Gambling Laws in South Dakota

Gambling laws in South Dakota have authorized a number of gambling games. The state has pretty much legalized all casino gaming. Players can enjoy poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, keno, and slots without worrying about getting on the wrong side of the law. Other legal gambling forms include the lottery, horse track racing and social gaming. The gambling age in the state is 21 for casino gaming and 18 for pari-mutuel betting.

The state may offer a number of gambling forms; however, it has openly expressed that there will be criminal fines for illegal gambling. The consequences for taking part in illegal gambling are more severe than what you would find in other jurisdictions. The consequences start with class 2 misdemeanor.

South Dakota is one of many US states that has not outlawed web-based gambling but has also not legalized it. Internet gamblers in SD will not be stepping on the toes of the state when gambling at regulated casino sites.

Gambling Legislation Timeline

Gambling in the 1800s

Gambling in State began in 1874 when the Black Hills gold rush began. Two years later, Wild Bill Hickok was shot while playing poker in the gambling capital, Deadwood.

Gambling in the 1900s

The lottery was created after being approved by voters. A voter’s referendum also approved lottery-related games in commercial casinos. The charity gambling bill was passed, the state gave regulated casinos a go-ahead, and racing simulcasts were introduced. The 20th century also saw and native American tribes sign an agreement that allowed them to have casinos on their land.

Gambling in the 2000s

South Dakota lawmakers decide against putting legalization of sports betting referendum before state voters.

Regulatory Bodies in South Dakota

The South Dakota Commission in Gambling is responsible for ensuring the gambling business in the state adheres to the rules and regulations governing betting in the State. The commission has two divisions, the Enforcement and Operation divisions. The Enforcement Division is responsible for handling the investigation related to limited gaming. However, the operation division handles all the compliance and revenue audits. The commission regulates all gambling in the state, which includes pari-mutuel wagering.

The South Dakota Lottery is regulated by the state lottery commission. The commission ensures fair gaming, establishes lottery policies, advises lottery operations, and approves major procurements in the lottery.

The state has ensured that its gambles are well taken care of. Players battling with a gambling addiction can turn to the gambling treatment centers and National Council on Problem Gambling. There is also a self-exclusion program problem gamblers can join.

South Dakota’ Best Land Based Casinos

Finding the perfect casino in South Dakota can get overwhelming and time-consuming. To narrow down the search for US players, here are the top five casinos in the Mount Rushmore State that offer the best casino games.

1. Royal River Casino & Hotel is one of the popular casinos in Deadwood. The casino offers slot machines, live card games, roulettes and craps tables. The Vegas-style machines offer hours of endless fun. The casino entertains its guests with a variety of events. Visitors staying over can check in the casino hotel. Address: 607 South Veterans Street, Flandreau, South Dakota.
2. Fort Randall Casino is the pinnacle of Indian casinos in South Dakota. The casino is minutes from the Missouri River. Visitors will find over 300 slot machines, tables, games, and poker tables. The casino runs promotions, a players’ club, Lucky’s lounge, and many more amenities. Address: 7011, 38538 South Dakota 46, Pickstown, South Dakota.
3. Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort has been deemed the best casino floor in Deadwood. Visitors will find slot machines and table games. To ensure gamblers in the State get the most out of their gambling journey, the casino also has an app with all the  necessities. Visitors can dine at the casino, enjoy great entertainment, and stay over the night in the fantastic lodging suites. Address: 360 Main St. Deadwood, Sd 57732
4. The Lodge at Deadwood as an electrifying casino floor with over 200 slot machines and table games. The Rounders poker room is a high-stake poker room that life-changing bad beat jackpots. The casino hotel has a number of suites and is perfect for family getaways. Amenities include two restaurants and the indoor water playland. Address: 100 Pine Crest Lane, Deadwood, South Dakota
5. Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort has all the gambling favorites with over 280 gaming machines and table games. The jam-packed casino floor is every gambler’s paradise. Visitors can dine at one of four restaurants and enjoy fun casino events. Staying over? The Hampton Inn is a walk away from the casino and offers convenient lodging and dining options. Address: 531 Main Street, Deadwood, South Dakota

State Casino Stats

Casino in South Dakota are a mixture of commercial casino and tribal casinos. The casinos are spread across more than ten cities. Deadwood has the greatest number of casinos.

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