General Information

An individual who wishes to carry a concealed pistol on or about his person or in a vehicle must obtain a Permit to Carry a Concealed Pistol (SDCL 22-14-9). The pistol permit program is administered through the South Dakota Secretary of State's Office, and many questions related to the program can be answered by visiting the Secretary of State's Office Website. Additional information on this program may also be found in the following brochures: Concealed Carry Pistol Information and South Dakota Firearm Laws.

Application Process

The Sheriff's Office issues new and renewed concealed pistol permits to residents of Lake County who have completed the necessary application paperwork, completed and passed a background check, and paid the required fees. Applications may be filled out during regular business hours on Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Once the background check has been completed, the applicant can return to the Sheriff's Office to receive a temporary permit. The actual permit card will be sent directly to the applicant from the Secretary of State's Office within approximately 30 days.

Types of Permits

For a comparison of the benefits, basic requirements, and renewal requirements for a Regular vs. Gold Card vs. Enhanced Permit, please view this brochure: Permit Specifications.

Upgrade Permit Style

To upgrade your old pistol permit to the new style:
Send a letter requesting a replacement to the Secretary of State's Office (500 E. Capitol Ave, Ste. 204, Pierre, SD 57501). Please include: Name, Permit Number, Date of Birth, Address, Signature, and a check for $2.00 made out to the Secretary of State's Office.

Announcements

May - License Plate Renewal H/I/O
Friday, May 1, 2026

Vehicle License plate renewal for vehicle owners with the FIRST letter in their LAST NAME that begins with H or I or O.

Absentee Voting
Monday, April 27, 2026

June 2026 Primary Election Ballots are now available! Absentee Voting is open from 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

CUP/Variance Deadline 4/27/2026
Sunday, March 15, 2026

CUP/Variance Applications due for consideration for the May 19th meeting

Drivers Exam closed
Monday, February 23, 2026

Due to staffing, the drivers exam, located at the 4-H grounds, is closed until further notice

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