Filming Resources
About Us

Film South Dakota is a component of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. It was formed in 1989 as the South Dakota Film Office to provide the following services:

  • locating sites and/or resources to match script requirements and packaging those locations in a visual presentation.
  • acting as a liaison between filmmakers and public/private domains to secure filming locations.
  • providing information on various production needs such as lodging, food services, labor, props, transportation and state laws and guidelines.

 

Film Permits

General film permits are not required by the State of South Dakota. See our list of state agencies for contact information and a listing of general state laws.

Film Permits – Sioux Indian Tribal Lands
Filming on Sioux Indian tribal lands in South Dakota requires permission from tribal authorities.

Film Permits – State Park Lands 
Film permits are generally required for filming in South Dakota's state parks. At least four days are required for processing the permit(s).

Film Permits – Federal Lands
Film permits are generally required for filming in national parks, monuments, memorials, forests and grasslands.
 

Cities in South Dakota 
When filming in South Dakota communities, please make proper contact with individual city offices, government leaders, chambers of commerce, and/or private businesses, as necessary.
 

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 
The annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest bike rallies in the United States. Media passes are required for filming and are issued after completing an application. Passes are not transferable. More information and the registration form can be found in the Rally's Media Information page.

 

Film crew in South Dakota
Film South Dakota
Film crew in South Dakota
Film South Dakota Contact