South Dakota Department Of Game, Fish, And Parks
Crossbow Application And Permit

The Dept. Secretary or an authorized agent may issue a special crossbow permit to a person who is permanently incapable of using a bow and arrow due to the loss or use of one or both arms caused by birth defect, injury, or disease or who is confined to a wheelchair. (Section 41:09:12:01)

Crossbows used shall have a minimum of 125-lb. pull and be equipped with a functional safety device. Telescopic sights and lighted sight pins are prohibited. (Section 41:09:12:02)

The Dept. secretary or a designated agent may issue a special paraplegic/amputee permit to a person who is unable to step from a motor vehicle without the aid of a wheelchair or crutches due to the loss of or use of one or both legs. This permit authorizes the licensees to shoot from a stationary vehicle provided the vehicle is not on a state or federal highway and the licensee does not shoot across the roadway. Applications for the permit shall be made on special forms provided by the Dept. (Section 41:09:12:03)

A disabled person who is missing an upper limb, physically incapable of using an upper limb, or confined to a wheelchair and who has obtained a disabled hunter permit may use a crossbow to take game birds and animals. A legally blind person, who is legally licensed, possesses a disabled hunter permit, and is physically present and participates in the hunt, but cannot safely discharge a firearm or bow and arrow, may claim game birds and animals taken by a designated hunter in accordance with the license possessed by the legally blind hunter. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor. (41-8-31)