South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-14 addresses the registration of aircraft. This statute mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota and operated within the state must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration process involves submitting an application, providing proof of ownership, and paying a registration fee. The purpose of this registration is to identify aircraft operating within the state for regulatory and safety purposes, and to ensure compliance with state aviation laws. Failure to register an aircraft that is based in South Dakota can result in penalties, including fines. The law distinguishes between aircraft based in the state and those merely passing through. Aircraft that are not based in South Dakota but are operated within the state for temporary purposes, such as transient flights, are generally not subject to South Dakota’s registration requirements, provided they are properly registered in their home state or country. The registration is typically valid for a specified period, after which it must be renewed. This requirement is fundamental to the state’s ability to oversee aviation activities within its borders and to maintain accurate records of aircraft operating within the state.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-11 addresses the licensing and registration of aircraft operating within the state. This statute mandates that all aircraft operating in South Dakota airspace must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration process involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing proof of current federal registration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The purpose of this state-level registration is to provide a mechanism for the state to track aircraft operating within its jurisdiction for various purposes, including safety oversight, emergency response coordination, and potential taxation or fee collection. While the FAA handles the primary airworthiness and operational certification of aircraft, state laws like South Dakota’s add an additional layer of regulatory oversight pertinent to intrastate operations. Failure to comply with this registration requirement can result in penalties, including fines and potential grounding of the aircraft until compliance is achieved. The law emphasizes that this state registration is in addition to, and not in lieu of, federal registration and certification. Therefore, an aircraft based and operated exclusively within South Dakota must hold both valid FAA registration and airworthiness certificates, as well as current South Dakota registration.

South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 governs aeronautics within the state. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-13 outlines the requirements for aircraft registration. This statute mandates that all aircraft based in South Dakota must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Commission. The registration is valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance. Upon expiration, the aircraft owner is responsible for renewing the registration. Failure to maintain current registration can result in penalties, including fines and potential grounding of the aircraft until compliance is achieved. The registration process ensures that the state has an accurate inventory of aircraft operating within its airspace, which is crucial for safety, security, and efficient air traffic management. The fees collected from registration contribute to the funding of aviation infrastructure and services within South Dakota, as stipulated by related statutes. The renewal process typically involves submitting an application form, proof of current federal registration, and the applicable registration fee. The Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining the official registry of all aircraft registered in the state.

The South Dakota Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Commission, and Division of Aeronautics are responsible for overseeing aviation safety and development within the state. South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11, specifically addresses the regulation of airports and airport operations. This chapter outlines requirements for airport construction, maintenance, and operation to ensure public safety and the efficient use of airspace. When an airport operator in South Dakota wishes to alter an existing airport in a manner that could affect navigable airspace, such as extending a runway or constructing new tall structures, they must obtain approval. This approval process is designed to prevent hazards to air navigation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also has a significant role in airport approvals, particularly for projects that impact navigable airspace. However, state-level regulations, as found in SDCL 50-11, provide specific requirements for airport operations within South Dakota’s borders. The core principle is that any change to an airport’s physical configuration that could potentially create an obstruction or hazard to aircraft operations requires a formal review and authorization process at the state level, in conjunction with federal oversight. This ensures that all aviation activities within South Dakota adhere to established safety standards and do not compromise the integrity of the national airspace system.

The South Dakota Aeronautics Commission, under SDCL Chapter 50-4, is vested with broad powers to regulate aviation within the state. This includes the authority to establish rules and regulations concerning the operation of aircraft, licensing of airports, and the general promotion and safety of aeronautics. Specifically, SDCL 50-4-11 grants the commission the power to make and enforce rules and regulations as it deems necessary for the protection and promotion of aeronautics in South Dakota. This encompasses the authority to prescribe regulations for the operation of aircraft, the licensing of airports, and the establishment of air traffic rules not inconsistent with federal regulations. Therefore, any action taken by the Aeronautics Commission must be within the scope of these statutory powers. The commission’s authority is not limited to merely advisory roles; it is empowered to enact binding regulations that govern aviation activities statewide. This regulatory framework is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and the orderly development of aviation infrastructure and operations throughout South Dakota. The commission’s responsibilities extend to overseeing the state’s aviation system, which includes public airports, private landing strips, and the aircraft operating within its airspace.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-13 addresses the registration of aircraft. This statute mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota for more than 90 consecutive days must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The purpose of this registration is to ensure accountability, facilitate the collection of aviation-related fees, and maintain a record of aircraft operating within the state. Failure to comply can result in penalties. The key element for determining registration requirement is the concept of “based in South Dakota for more than 90 consecutive days,” which implies a primary operational location or habitual presence. Simply landing or transiting through the state does not trigger this requirement. The law is designed to capture aircraft that have a significant operational connection to South Dakota, distinguishing them from transient aircraft.

The South Dakota Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics, is responsible for the administration and enforcement of aviation laws within the state. South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 outlines regulations concerning airport zoning and land use compatibility. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-14 addresses the obstruction marking and lighting of structures near airports. When a new communication tower is proposed for construction within a specified radius of a public-use airport in South Dakota, the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission, through the Department of Transportation, has the authority to review and potentially mandate specific marking and lighting requirements to ensure aviation safety. These requirements are designed to mitigate hazards to aircraft operating in the vicinity of the airport, particularly during periods of reduced visibility. The commission’s decision-making process is guided by federal standards, such as those from the FAA, and state-specific regulations to ensure comprehensive safety measures are implemented. Therefore, the commission’s approval is contingent upon adherence to these safety protocols, which may include specific painting schemes and strobe lighting patterns for the proposed tower.

South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-4 addresses aeronautics and airport zoning. Specifically, SDCL 50-4-12 outlines the powers and duties of the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission. This statute grants the commission the authority to adopt and enforce rules and regulations for the safe and efficient conduct of aeronautics within the state, including the establishment and maintenance of airports. It also empowers the commission to approve airport site locations and to issue permits for airport construction or alteration. The commission’s role is to promote aviation safety and development, which includes ensuring that airport operations and facilities comply with state and federal standards. This oversight is crucial for maintaining public safety and fostering a robust aviation infrastructure in South Dakota. The commission’s mandate extends to matters of airport licensing, accident investigation coordination, and the promotion of aviation education and training.

The South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 addresses airport zoning and land use. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-16 outlines the powers and duties of airport zoning boards. This section grants these boards the authority to administer and enforce airport zoning regulations, including the power to grant variances from the terms of the zoning ordinance. A variance may be granted when a literal application of the ordinance would result in unnecessary hardship, provided that the hardship is peculiar to the property and not of the applicant’s own making. The board must also ensure that granting the variance will not be contrary to the public interest and will not result in a hazard to air navigation or endanger the lives or property of the public. The process for granting a variance typically involves public notice and a hearing. Therefore, the primary responsibility of an airport zoning board concerning variances is to review applications based on these established legal criteria.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-11 addresses the liability of an owner or operator of an aircraft for damages caused by an aircraft. Specifically, it states that the owner or operator of an aircraft is liable for damages to persons or property on the land or water beneath the aircraft caused by the flight of the aircraft, or by a person operating the aircraft, or by any object falling from the aircraft. This liability extends regardless of whether the owner or operator was at fault or negligent. This principle is often referred to as strict liability or absolute liability in the context of aviation. The law aims to ensure that those who engage in aviation activities bear the responsibility for any harm caused to those on the ground, thereby promoting safety and providing a clear avenue for compensation for injured parties. The key element is the causation of damage by the aircraft’s operation or anything falling from it, not the degree of negligence.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-11 addresses the prohibition of dropping or throwing objects from aircraft. This statute specifically states that no person shall drop, throw, or spill any object or substance from an aircraft in flight that might endanger persons or property on the ground. The law is designed to prevent indiscriminate dropping of items that could cause harm or damage. Understanding the scope of “object or substance” and the intent to “endanger” is crucial. For instance, dropping a feather from a small aircraft would not typically fall under this prohibition as it does not pose a credible threat of endangerment. Conversely, dropping a tool or a container of liquid, even if not inherently hazardous, could cause damage or injury if it falls on someone or something. The law’s intent is to regulate activities that create a risk, not to prohibit all aerial disposals. Therefore, a pilot considering any aerial release must assess the potential for harm to individuals or property on the surface.

South Dakota Codified Law § 50-11-11 addresses the regulation of aircraft operations within the state. Specifically, it pertains to the prohibition of careless or reckless operation of aircraft. Careless operation is defined as operating an aircraft in a manner that endangers the life or property of another. Reckless operation involves a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. The statute does not explicitly require a pilot to maintain a specific altitude above ground level unless dictated by federal regulations (like FAR Part 91) or specific local ordinances for noise abatement or traffic pattern entry. The focus of SD CL § 50-11-11 is on the manner of operation and the pilot’s intent or disregard for safety, rather than a prescriptive altitude rule unless that altitude itself contributes to a reckless or careless act. For instance, flying at an extremely low altitude over a populated area without a justifiable purpose could be considered careless or reckless, but the law doesn’t set a minimum legal altitude in feet above ground for general operations within South Dakota airspace. The determination of whether an operation is careless or reckless is made on a case-by-case basis, considering the totality of the circumstances.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-12 addresses the registration of aircraft. It mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota and operated within the state for more than 30 consecutive days must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration process involves submitting an application, providing proof of ownership, and paying a fee. Failure to comply can result in penalties, including fines and the prohibition of further operation within the state. The purpose of this law is to ensure accountability, facilitate taxation, and maintain accurate records of aviation activity within South Dakota. The 30-day threshold is a key determinant for establishing the aircraft’s “base” in the state for registration purposes, distinguishing transient operations from those with a more permanent presence. This regulation is distinct from federal registration requirements managed by the FAA, focusing specifically on state-level oversight.

South Dakota Codified Law § 50-11-14 addresses the requirements for aircraft registration within the state. This statute mandates that all aircraft based in South Dakota, unless specifically exempted, must be registered annually with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration period typically aligns with the state’s fiscal year, commencing on July 1st and concluding on June 30th of the following year. Failure to register an aircraft by the deadline can result in penalties, including late fees. The law aims to ensure that all aircraft operating within the state are properly accounted for and that the state can maintain accurate records for aviation safety and management purposes. The registration process involves submitting an application form along with the required fee, which is determined by the aircraft’s weight. This is a fundamental requirement for any aircraft owner or operator intending to base their aircraft in South Dakota, ensuring compliance with state aviation regulations.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-11 outlines the requirements for airport zoning permits. Specifically, it states that no structure may be erected, altered, or established within the approach, transitional, horizontal, or conical zone of an airport unless the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission has issued a permit for it. The application for such a permit must be submitted to the commission. The commission then reviews the application to determine if the proposed construction or alteration conforms to the airport approach plan and any other applicable regulations. If the commission finds that the proposed construction would create an obstruction to air navigation, it will deny the permit. The law aims to ensure that airport operations are not jeopardized by incompatible structures in critical airspace. Therefore, the primary requirement before commencing any construction near an airport for which an approach plan has been established is obtaining a permit from the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission.

The scenario describes a situation involving the operation of an aircraft within South Dakota airspace, specifically concerning the potential for interference with a public use airport. South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-10 addresses the obstruction of navigable airspace. This statute generally prohibits the creation of obstructions that endanger the landing or taking off of aircraft. When considering the proximity to a public use airport, the establishment of a new structure, such as a wind turbine, requires careful evaluation against established obstruction standards. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAs) Advisory Circular AC 70/7460-1L, “Obstruction Marking and Lighting,” provides guidelines for determining what constitutes an obstruction. Specifically, it outlines criteria for structures that could pose a hazard to air navigation. While the specific height and location relative to the airport’s approach surfaces are not provided in the question, the principle is that any structure that interferes with the safe operation of aircraft at a public use airport, as defined by federal and state regulations, would be considered a hazard. South Dakota law defers to federal standards in many aviation matters, and the FAA’s role in determining obstructions is paramount. Therefore, the determination of whether the wind turbine constitutes an obstruction would be based on whether it violates established federal obstruction standards for public use airports, which are then incorporated into the state’s regulatory framework for airspace management and safety. The state aviation authority, in conjunction with the FAA, would make this determination.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-4 outlines the requirements for aircraft registration and licensing within the state. This statute mandates that all aircraft based in South Dakota and operated within the state must be registered annually with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration fee is determined by the aircraft’s weight class. For aircraft weighing between 1,000 and 2,000 pounds empty weight, the annual registration fee is established at \( \$25 \). This fee is crucial for funding aviation infrastructure and safety programs in the state. Failure to comply with this registration requirement can result in penalties, including fines and the prohibition of aircraft operation within South Dakota until proper registration is achieved. Understanding this specific fee structure for different weight classes is vital for aircraft owners and operators to ensure legal compliance and support the state’s aviation system. The statute aims to ensure that all aircraft utilizing South Dakota’s airspace contribute to the maintenance and improvement of aviation facilities and services.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-10 outlines the requirements for the registration of aircraft. This statute mandates that any aircraft operated within the state of South Dakota must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics, unless specifically exempted. The registration process involves submitting an application along with the required fee and proof of ownership. The purpose of this registration is to ensure proper identification of aircraft operating within the state’s airspace, thereby enhancing aviation safety and regulatory oversight. Failure to comply with this registration requirement can result in penalties, including fines and potential grounding of the aircraft. The law is designed to provide a clear framework for tracking aircraft and ensuring they meet operational standards, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of aviation activities within South Dakota. Understanding this foundational requirement is crucial for any individual or entity planning to operate an aircraft within the state.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-12 addresses the minimum altitude requirements for aircraft operations. Specifically, it states that no aircraft may be flown at a lower altitude than is necessary to land or take off safely, except when necessary for takeoff or landing. This statute is crucial for ensuring air traffic safety and preventing hazardous operations. It distinguishes between general flight and the specific phases of takeoff and landing, where lower altitudes are permissible under controlled conditions. Understanding this distinction is vital for pilots operating within South Dakota’s airspace. The law aims to maintain a safe separation from ground obstacles and other aircraft during critical flight maneuvers.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-11 addresses the registration of aircraft. This statute requires that any aircraft based in South Dakota and operated within the state must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The purpose of this registration is to ensure accountability, facilitate identification, and contribute to the state’s aviation infrastructure funding. Aircraft based in South Dakota are defined as aircraft that are kept or operated within the state for a period of 90 consecutive days or more. This registration requirement is distinct from federal registration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Failure to comply with state registration requirements can result in penalties, including fines. Therefore, an aircraft that has been continuously operated and maintained in South Dakota for over 90 days is considered based in the state for registration purposes.

South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 addresses aircraft registration and fees. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-6 outlines the annual registration fee for aircraft. This fee is determined by the manufacturer’s list price of the aircraft at the time of its original sale. The law specifies a graduated fee structure based on this price. For aircraft with a manufacturer’s list price of $5,000 or less, the annual registration fee is $25. For aircraft with a manufacturer’s list price between $5,001 and $10,000, the fee is $50. For aircraft with a manufacturer’s list price between $10,001 and $20,000, the fee is $75. For aircraft with a manufacturer’s list price exceeding $20,000, the fee is $100. The question asks for the registration fee for an aircraft with a manufacturer’s list price of $18,500. According to SDCL 50-11-6, this price falls within the $10,001 to $20,000 bracket, which mandates an annual registration fee of $75.

South Dakota Codified Law § 50-11-11 outlines the requirements for reporting aircraft accidents. Specifically, it mandates that the owner or operator of an aircraft involved in an accident must notify the South Dakota Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics, as soon as practicable. An accident is generally defined by federal aviation regulations as an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft which takes place between the time any person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight until such time as all persons have disembarked, and in which any person is fatally or seriously injured, or in which the aircraft receives substantial damage, or in which the aircraft is missing or unmarketable. The law emphasizes prompt reporting to facilitate investigation and ensure aviation safety. Failure to report can lead to penalties. Therefore, in the scenario described, the pilot’s immediate action should be to contact the designated state aviation authority.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-4 addresses the requirement for aircraft registration. This statute mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota for more than 30 consecutive days must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration period is typically for one year, and a renewal process is required. The purpose of this registration is to maintain an accurate inventory of aircraft operating within the state, aid in law enforcement and accident investigation, and ensure compliance with state aviation regulations. Failure to register can result in penalties, including fines and potential grounding of the aircraft until compliance is achieved. The law aims to provide a framework for orderly and safe aviation operations within South Dakota’s jurisdiction.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-4 addresses the operation of aircraft over public gatherings. This statute specifically prohibits the operation of aircraft over any public gathering, stadium, or open-air assembly of persons, or over any park or recreational area during such times as it is used for a public gathering or assembly, unless specific conditions are met. The exceptions generally involve aircraft operating under a waiver from the South Dakota Aeronautics Commission or the Federal Aviation Administration, or aircraft operating in a manner that does not endanger persons or property on the ground. The core principle is the protection of public safety and the prevention of disturbances at events attended by large numbers of people. The law aims to prevent accidents and the potential panic that could result from low-flying or disruptive aircraft activity over crowded areas within the state. Understanding the scope of “public gathering” and the conditions under which operations are permitted is crucial for compliance.

The scenario presented involves an aircraft owner in South Dakota operating a privately owned aircraft for recreational purposes. The core of the question relates to South Dakota’s specific regulations concerning the registration and taxation of aircraft. South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 governs aircraft registration and taxation. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-1 requires all aircraft based in South Dakota to be registered annually with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration fee is a flat rate, and it is collected in conjunction with the annual ad valorem tax assessment. SDCL 50-11-6 details that aircraft are subject to ad valorem taxation in South Dakota based on their assessed value, with the tax rate determined by local taxing districts. However, SDCL 50-11-6.1 provides an exemption for aircraft that are primarily used for agricultural purposes and are owned by a resident of South Dakota. Since the aircraft in the scenario is used for recreational purposes and not agricultural purposes, it does not qualify for this exemption. Therefore, the aircraft owner must comply with the general registration and taxation requirements outlined in SDCL Chapter 50-11. The question tests the understanding of the applicability of general registration and taxation laws versus specific exemptions. The owner must register the aircraft and pay the applicable ad valorem tax based on its assessed value, as no exemption applies to recreational use.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-15.1 addresses the registration of aircraft operated within the state. This statute mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota for more than 30 consecutive days in any calendar year must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The purpose of this registration is to facilitate aviation safety oversight, track aircraft operations within the state, and ensure compliance with various aviation regulations. Failure to register an aircraft that meets the residency criteria can result in penalties, including fines and potential operational restrictions. The 30-day threshold is a key factor in determining the requirement for registration, distinguishing transient operations from those considered based in the state. This law is crucial for maintaining an accurate registry of aircraft engaged in regular activity within South Dakota’s airspace.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-12 outlines the requirements for the registration of aircraft operating within the state. This statute mandates that any aircraft based in South Dakota and used for hire or commercial purposes must be registered with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. The registration process involves submitting an application along with a fee and proof of ownership and airworthiness. Aircraft owned by the United States government or used exclusively in the public service are exempt from this registration requirement. Furthermore, aircraft operated under a valid airworthiness certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that are not based in South Dakota and are merely transiting through the state or operating temporarily for purposes not considered “based” are not subject to South Dakota’s registration mandate. The core principle is to ensure that aircraft with a substantial connection to South Dakota, particularly those engaged in commercial activities, are properly accounted for by state authorities. This facilitates regulatory oversight, safety compliance, and the collection of relevant data for aviation planning and management within the state. The law aims to balance the need for state-level oversight with the federal government’s primary authority over aviation safety and regulation.

The South Dakota Aeronautics Commission is responsible for the promotion and development of aviation within the state. South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-11 addresses the establishment and operation of public airports. Specifically, SDCL 50-11-15 outlines the powers and duties of the Aeronautics Commission concerning airport zoning. This statute grants the commission the authority to adopt and enforce airport zoning regulations for any airport in the state, including those owned or operated by the state or any political subdivision. These regulations are crucial for ensuring the safety of air navigation by preventing obstructions in the navigable airspace around airports. The commission’s role extends to reviewing and approving zoning ordinances proposed by municipalities or counties that own or operate public airports. This ensures that local zoning ordinances are consistent with the broader safety objectives of aviation in South Dakota, as mandated by state law. The commission’s oversight is a critical component of maintaining a safe and efficient aviation system throughout the state, encompassing both the physical infrastructure of airports and the airspace surrounding them.

South Dakota Codified Law §50-11-15 addresses the liability of an owner or operator of an aircraft for damages caused by aircraft operations. Specifically, it states that the owner, lessee, or bailee of an aircraft is absolutely liable for injury to persons or property on the land below, caused by the ascent, descent, or flight of the aircraft, or by the dropping or falling of anything from the aircraft. This liability extends regardless of negligence or fault on the part of the owner, operator, or their agents. The purpose of this absolute liability is to ensure that victims of aviation accidents are compensated for their losses, recognizing the inherent risks associated with aviation, even when all reasonable care has been taken. The law aims to allocate the burden of these risks to those who benefit from and operate aircraft, rather than to innocent third parties on the ground. This principle is often referred to as strict liability in tort law.

The South Dakota Aeronautics Commission has the authority to promulgate rules and regulations governing aviation within the state. These rules are designed to ensure safety, efficiency, and order in aviation operations. Specifically, South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) Chapter 50-4 outlines the powers and duties of the Aeronautics Commission. Among these powers is the authority to adopt rules and regulations for the control and regulation of air traffic, the establishment of air navigation facilities, and the licensing of aircraft and pilots operating within the state, unless preempted by federal law. The commission’s rulemaking authority is administrative in nature, requiring adherence to the South Dakota Administrative Procedure Act for public notice, hearings, and filing of adopted rules. This process ensures that stakeholders have an opportunity to comment on proposed regulations and that rules are legally sound and accessible. Therefore, any operational or safety standard that falls within the commission’s purview and is not exclusively regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration would be subject to these administrative procedures for adoption and enforcement.