Public Records In South Dakota

In South Dakota, public records are managed and provided by various government agencies at the state, county, and local levels. Some of the key government agencies that provide public records in South Dakota include:

1. South Dakota Department of Health: Provides access to vital records such as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce records.

2. South Dakota Unified Judicial System: Provides access to court records, including civil, criminal, probate, and family court documents. Each county has its Clerk of Courts where these records are typically maintained.

3. South Dakota Department of Corrections: Provides access to records related to incarcerated individuals, including inmate records and prison information.

4. South Dakota Department of Public Safety: Manages records related to driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and driving records.

5. South Dakota Secretary of State: Maintains records related to business entities, including corporate filings, trademarks, and trade names.

6. Local County Register of Deeds Offices: Each county in South Dakota typically has a Register of Deeds office that maintains various records, including property deeds, land records, and real estate documents.

7. City or Municipal Government Offices: Local government offices often provide access to records such as municipal ordinances, meeting minutes, property assessments, and permits.

8. South Dakota State Historical Society: Houses historical records, manuscripts, and other materials relevant to the history of South Dakota and its residents.

It's important to note that while many public records are available for free or at a minimal cost, some agencies may charge fees for accessing certain records or conducting searches. Additionally, the process for requesting and accessing public records may vary depending on the agency and the type of record requested.