The Snowmobile Advisory Council is a citizen advisory group for the state's Snowmobile Trails Program. The seven-person council was established in 1980, and ensures that snowmobilers' best interests are considered in the expenditure of dedicated snowmobile funds. Game, Fish and Parks staff meet with the Snowmobile Advisory Council four times each year to receive endorsements for budgets, trail routes and to inform them of trail issues. The governor appoints members of the council, typically for three-year terms.

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In South Dakota, all snowmobiles must be properly licensed to operate on public or private lands, except those private lands owned by the snowmobile's operator. Resident snowmobile licenses must be permanently affixed to each side of a snowmobile, below the windshield and on the hood cowling.

According to state law, snowmobilers who operate in road rights-of-way and/or public snowmobile trails must show proof of financial responsibility (liability insurance).

License Fees 

Available for purchase at county treasurer's office:

• Resident $10/year
• Nonresidents $40 (temporary 5-day permit) - Non-resident snowmobiles validly licensed in another state can be legally operated in South Dakota.

Both resident and non-residents may purchase a special five-day temporary permit for unlicensed snowmobiles. The permit is available online and at many trailside vendors.

Registration 

Motorcycle Snowmobile Trail Pass

A motorcycle can be converted to meet the definition of a snowmobile. The permit is $20 and is valid December 1 - March 31. See Regualtions for more information.

To purchase a Motorcycle Snowmobile Trail Pass call:

• The Black Hills Trails Office, 605.584.3896 or
• Farm Island Recreation Area, 605.773.2888.

Safety, courtesy, and protection of the environment are important to all people who use the outdoors. Snowmobilers share the trail with other snowmobilers and non-motorized groups, such as cross country skiers. All users should respect another person's right to the trail.

South Dakota has a voluntary snowmobile safety program that is administered by snowmobile clubs affiliated with the South Dakota Snowmobile Association. The courses are designed for both youth and adults who wish to learn more about safely and ethically operating a snowmobile.

For more information about snowmobile safety courses contact:

South Dakota Snowmobile Association | 605.272.5900 | sdsa@itctel.com

Farm Island Recreation Area | 605.773.2888 | farm.island@state.sd.us