As of July 1, 2025, handguns can be carried on public college and university campuses by individuals who possess an enhanced concealed carry permit. See: Senate Bill 100. The law does provide certain exceptions where guns can be carried, as follows:
A higher education institution can restrict concealed carry in these situations:
(1) In a clearly designated portion of a building or structure, only if any of the following are present:
(a) More than fifty-five gallons of flammable liquid, as identified in 29 C.F.R. § 1910.106 (January 1, 2025);
(b) Significant quantities of hazardous materials classified as Category 3 or higher by the 704 Hazard Identification System of the National Fire Protection Association;
(c) K-size cylinders containing corrosive, reactive, flammable, toxic, or oxidizer gases classified as Category 2 or higher by the 704 Hazard Identification System of the National Fire Protection Association;
(d) L-size cylinders of acetylene gas; or
(e) Magnetic resonance imaging equipment or nuclear magnetic resonance equipment;
(2) In a room used for manufacturing or scientific research, if the concentration of airborne particles is controlled in order to maintain an environment with minimal pollutants;
(3) In a clearly designated portion of a building or structure to which a facility security clearance applies or for which a federal security clearance is required; or
(4) In a building or structure during a special event, provided metal detectors and armed security personnel are present at every public entrance to restrict the possession of any dangerous weapon.
Whenever an individual is not carrying or in possession of any item referenced in subdivision (1), (2), or (3) of section 1 of this Act, the individual shall store the item in a locked case or safe.
4 Year Schools
Black Hills State University – Rapid City
University of South Dakota – Sioux Falls
Western Dakota Technical College
2 Year Schools
Lake Area Technical College – Watertown, SD
Mitchell Technical College – Mitchell, SD
Southeast Technical College – Sioux Falls, SD
Western Dakota Technical College – Rapid City, SD
Updated: December 2, 2025
Disclaimer: Policies are subject to change at any time, both during and between school years. In addition, individual school policies commonly include more details than can be succinctly captured by ArmedCampuses.org. Each school should be consulted for its most accurate, up-to-date policy.
