Local Wiki · State overview
Local Government in South Dakota
How local government works in South Dakota, the kinds of local government it has, and where to look for more. For your own county or city, browse South Dakota’s Local Wiki pages below.
Each of South Dakota's counties is governed by an elected Board of Commissioners (3–5 members, depending on the county) that combines legislative and executive authority — budget, tax levies, property, roads and bridges, election administration. A resident would attend the commission's public meetings and route records requests to the relevant county office. A small number of counties have adopted an optional home-rule charter, but this remains the exception.
Local government in South Dakota
- County governments66
The main local government across most of the state.
Browse county pages - Cities, towns & villages310
Incorporated municipalities with their own elected council or board.
Browse city & town pages - Townships896
Township governments beneath the county, often handling local roads and assistance.
- School districts149
Independent school districts with their own elected boards. Listed on county pages where known.
- Special districts473
Single-purpose governments — fire, water, library, parks, housing, transit, and more.
Counts: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Census of Governments — Government Units listing. A consolidated city-county is counted once.
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