South Dakota Sportsbooks

12 min read

South Dakota Sports Betting: A Comprehensive Guide

South Dakota sports betting has rapidly evolved since its legalization, offering residents and visitors a unique way to engage with their favorite sports. 

Currently, betting is permitted at licensed casinos in Deadwood, where enthusiasts can place wagers on a wide range of events. 

As the state explores potential expansions, South Dakota's sports betting landscape is poised for future growth.

Legal South Dakota Sports Betting

South Dakota has a unique relationship with sports betting. Legal sports betting in South Dakota is still relatively new, having been officially approved by voters in November 2020. 

The state has since moved quickly to establish a legal framework, allowing residents and visitors to place wagers on a variety of sports. However, there are specific regulations and limitations that bettors need to be aware of.

What is Legal Sports Betting in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, legal sports betting is permitted in licensed casinos located in Deadwood. Following the 2020 referendum, the state passed laws that allow these establishments to offer in-person sports betting. 

This includes betting on professional and collegiate sports, but there are restrictions—especially when it comes to betting on certain local college teams. 

Currently, mobile and online sports betting is not fully operational statewide, limiting sports betting activities to physical locations.

South Dakota Sports Betting Legislation Timeline

The journey to legal sports betting in South Dakota has been shaped by several key milestones:

  • 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court overturns PASPA, allowing states to legalize sports betting.
  • 2019: South Dakota lawmakers introduce bills to put sports betting on the 2020 ballot.
  • November 2020: Voters approve Amendment B, allowing sports betting in Deadwood.
  • March 2021: The South Dakota legislature passes the necessary laws to regulate sports betting.
  • September 2021: The first legal sports bets are placed in Deadwood casinos.

Best South Dakota Sportsbooks

While South Dakota’s sports betting market is still in its infancy, several Deadwood casinos have emerged as top destinations for bettors. 

These casinos have quickly adapted to the new regulations, offering a range of sports betting options. Some of the best sportsbooks in South Dakota include:

  • Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort: Known for its expansive sports betting lounge, Cadillac Jack’s offers a great environment for placing bets and watching games.
  • Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort: Tin Lizzie provides a modern sportsbook experience with plenty of betting options and a comfortable setting.
  • The Lodge at Deadwood: Offering one of the largest selections of betting markets, The Lodge is a top choice for serious sports bettors.

Online Sports Betting in South Dakota

As of now, online sports betting in South Dakota is not fully operational across the state. The current legislation only allows for in-person betting at licensed casinos in Deadwood. 

While there have been discussions about expanding online sports betting, it remains a topic of debate among lawmakers. 

Bettors in South Dakota who wish to place wagers online will need to do so within the premises of these Deadwood establishments, where online platforms are connected to the physical sportsbooks.

How Can I Sign Up For An Online Sportsbook in South Dakota?

If you’re looking to sign up for an online sportsbook in South Dakota, here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Visit a licensed casino in Deadwood: Since online betting is only allowed on-site, you need to physically be at one of these locations.
  2. Choose a sportsbook: Select one of the online platforms partnered with the casino.
  3. Register your account: Provide your personal information, including identification to verify your age and location.
  4. Deposit funds: Choose a deposit method and fund your account to start placing bets.
  5. Start betting: Once your account is set up, you can start placing bets on a wide range of sports.

What Sports Can I Bet on in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers a broad spectrum of sports that you can bet on. While the focus tends to be on major American sports, bettors have access to a variety of other sports as well.

NFL

The NFL is undoubtedly the most popular sport to bet on in South Dakota. Bettors can place wagers on individual games, futures like Super Bowl winners, and a wide range of prop bets.

NBA

NBA betting is also prominent, with options to bet on regular-season games, playoffs, and futures such as the NBA Championship winner.

MLB

Baseball fans can enjoy betting on MLB games, with wagers available on moneylines, run lines, and totals. Futures bets on the World Series are also popular.

NHL

The NHL has a dedicated following in South Dakota, and betting on hockey games includes moneylines, puck lines, and totals.

College Sports

College sports are a major attraction for South Dakota bettors. While betting on South Dakota-based college teams has some restrictions, wagers can still be placed on most NCAA events.

NASCAR

NASCAR betting allows fans to place wagers on race winners, podium finishes, and even head-to-head driver matchups.

South Dakota’s Sports Teams to Bet On

South Dakota doesn’t have any professional sports teams, but it has a passionate fan base for nearby major league teams and local college sports.

South Dakota College Sports Teams

College sports betting is especially popular in South Dakota, with the University of South Dakota Coyotes and South Dakota State University Jackrabbits being the most prominent teams. 

Fans often place bets on football, basketball, and other NCAA events, although restrictions may apply when betting on in-state collegiate teams.

Types of Wagers Available

Understanding the different types of wagers available is crucial for any bettor. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of bets you can place in South Dakota.

Moneyline

A moneyline bet is the simplest form of betting, where you bet on which team will win the game outright. Odds are assigned based on each team’s likelihood of winning.

Parlays

Parlays involve combining multiple bets into one. To win, all selections must be correct. Parlays offer higher payouts but come with increased risk.

Totals

Also known as over/under bets, totals involve betting on whether the total points scored by both teams will be over or under a specified number.

Point Spreads

Point spread betting involves wagering on the margin of victory. The favorite must win by more than the spread for the bet to pay out, while the underdog must either win outright or lose by less than the spread.

Futures

Futures bets are long-term wagers on outcomes such as who will win the Super Bowl, NBA Championship, or World Series. These bets can be placed well in advance of the event.

Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, focus on specific events within a game, such as which player will score first or how many points a player will score. These bets add an extra layer of excitement to the game.

Live Bets

Live betting, also known as in-play betting, allows you to place bets on a game as it unfolds. This dynamic form of betting offers a variety of markets that change in real-time.

Prohibited Bets

In South Dakota, certain types of bets are prohibited. These typically include wagers on high school sports and certain types of prop bets on college sports, particularly those involving individual player performance.

It’s important to be aware of these restrictions to ensure that your bets are compliant with state regulations.

Choosing the Right South Dakota Betting Site

With several options available, choosing the right betting site in South Dakota can be a challenge. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a sportsbook:

What Should I Look For When Deciding Which South Dakota Online Sports Betting Site is Right for me?

When selecting an online sportsbook, consider the following:

  • User Experience: The platform should be easy to navigate with a user-friendly interface.
  • Betting Markets: Look for a site that offers a wide range of sports and betting options.
  • Bonuses and Promotions: Check for welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programs.
  • Customer Support: Reliable customer service is essential for resolving any issues quickly.
  • Security: Ensure the site is licensed and uses encryption to protect your personal and financial information.

Why Should I Have At Least 3 South Dakota Sportsbook Accounts?

Having accounts with multiple sportsbooks offers several advantages:

  • Shopping for Lines: Different sportsbooks may offer different odds on the same event. Having multiple accounts allows you to shop for the best line.
  • Taking Advantage of Promotions: Each sportsbook may have unique promotions or bonuses that you can take advantage of.
  • Diversifying Betting Options: Different sportsbooks may offer unique betting markets or features.

What Deposit And Withdraw Options Are Available?

South Dakota sportsbooks offer various deposit and withdrawal options, including:

  • Credit/Debit Cards: A common and convenient method for both deposits and withdrawals.
  • Bank Transfers: Direct transfers from your bank account to the sportsbook.
  • E-Wallets: Services like PayPal or Skrill allow for quick and secure transactions.
  • Prepaid Cards: Some sportsbooks offer branded prepaid cards for easy deposits and withdrawals.

Sports Betting in South Dakota: The Big Picture

Sports betting in South Dakota is currently limited to in-person wagering at licensed Deadwood casinos, with online betting only available within these premises. 

While this may seem restrictive, the state’s sports betting market is expected to evolve as lawmakers consider expanding online options statewide.

South Dakota Sports Betting Tax Rate

In South Dakota, sports betting revenue is taxed at a rate of 9%. This tax applies to the net proceeds of sports betting operations in Deadwood. 

Bettors should also be aware that any significant winnings may be subject to federal taxes, depending on the amount won.

Importance of Responsible Gaming in South Dakota

Responsible gaming is a crucial aspect of the sports betting landscape in South Dakota. 

The state has implemented measures to help prevent problem gambling, including self-exclusion programs and resources for those seeking help. 

Bettors are encouraged to set limits on their betting activities and to seek assistance if gambling starts to negatively impact their lives.

FAQs About South Dakota Sports Betting

Legality

Is sports betting legal in South Dakota?

Yes, sports betting is legal in South Dakota but is currently limited to in-person wagering at licensed casinos in Deadwood.

Online Betting

Can I bet online in South Dakota?

Online sports betting is allowed but only within the premises of licensed casinos in Deadwood. Statewide online betting is not yet legal.

Sports to Bet On

What sports can I bet on in South Dakota?

You can bet on a variety of sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and NASCAR.

Restrictions

Are there any restrictions on betting in South Dakota?

Yes, certain bets, especially on local college sports teams and high school sports, are prohibited.

Creating a Sportsbook Account

How do I sign up for a sportsbook in South Dakota?

You must visit a licensed Deadwood casino to sign up for an online sportsbook or place a bet in person.

Summary of South Dakota Sports Betting Options

South Dakota offers a limited but growing sports betting market. While currently confined to in-person betting at Deadwood casinos, the state provides a variety of sports and bet types for enthusiasts. 

As the industry develops, there may be future opportunities for expansion, potentially including statewide online betting. In the meantime, bettors can enjoy a range of options within the current legal framework, with an emphasis on responsible gaming.