How to Play Online Poker in South Dakota
For the most part, poker is legal in South Dakota. Players can play online and live in one of several casinos. But strangely, home games are off limits. We’ve gone in more detail about this and the other laws pertaining to playing poker in The Mount Rushmore State below.
** Disclaimer: It is your responsibility to know the laws in your state. Use of this article is at your own risk.**
Home Poker in South Dakota
Gambling in South Dakota is not legal. South Dakota defines gambling as any person engaging in gambling with cards, dice or other implements or devices. Since poker falls under this category, home games aren’t allowed. If caught participating in a home game, you may be charged with a class 2 misdemeanor.
This law also applies to those hosting the games. More specifically, “keeping gambling establishment–letting building for gambling.” This is also a class 2 misdemeanor.
This law is strange when compared to other states. Most states allow home poker games as long as the host doesn’t benefit financially from it.
Playing Online Poker in South Dakota
Internet gambling is specifically mentioned. In fact, it’s an odd law.
Apparently, online poker is only illegal for those who run gambling businesses. A gambling business is defined as someone who conducts business of placing, receiving or making bets or wagers. This is law is odd because gambling businesses are illegal too. So, maybe this is just extra punishment for those breaking the law in the first place? Either way, the punishment is being charged with a class 6 felony for first time offenses and a class 5 felony for 2 offenses.
For the rest of you, online poker is legal. If you’re interested in playing online, we suggest trying out Lock. They have 5,000 to 10,000 players on their site at any given time spread across their holdem, omaha and stud cash games, tournaments and SNGs. All new players that sign up to Lock will be eligible for a 200% deposit bonus good up to a maximum of $1,200. You can read more about Lock’s bonus or visit their site at www.LockPoker.com.
Live Casino Poker in South Dakota
If you’re upset about not being able to play live in a home game, don’t be. South Dakota has over 10 casinos with most offering live poker. Here is a short list to get you started along with some info about each one.
Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort: Cadillac Jack’s offers holdem and omaha tournaments 7 days a week.
Dakota Sioux: Dakota Sioux spreads stud, omaha, holdem and dealer’s choice cash games. They also run tournaments. A few of their promotions includes hand of the day and a royal flush bonus. Something worth noting is that Dakota Sioux also adds money to the games after 5 hours of play.
Silverado Franklin: The Silverado Franklin offers both tournaments and cash games. The games played include holdem, omaha and dealer’s choice. Limits played are $3/$6 and $5/$10.
Related "How To" Posts:
- How to Play Online Poker in Oregon
- How to Play Online Poker in Nevada
- How to Play Online Poker in Missouri
Written by Matt Geer