Does South Dakota Have an Official Highway Memorial Sign Program?
Yes — South Dakota has an automatic THINK Sign program that installs signs without requiring families to apply. The program is administered by the SDDOT THINK Sign Program and covers State highways and county roads (with county agency cooperation).
Who Is Eligible?
Automatic — SDDOT installs a THINK sign after every fatal crash reported on a South Dakota state highway. Families do not need to apply.
If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, contact the relevant DOT office before investing time in an application. Eligibility rules can vary by district within some states, so confirming with the specific regional office covering the crash location is always advisable.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Confirm the road is state-maintained. SDDOT THINK Sign Program only covers State highways and county roads (with county agency cooperation). If the crash happened on a county or city road, contact the local public works or county engineer's office instead. See our county vs. state roads guide for help.
- Gather your documents. You will typically need a copy of the official crash/police report, proof of your relationship to the victim, and the exact GPS coordinates or milepost of the crash location. Some states also require an obituary or death certificate.
- Contact SDDOT — (605) 773-3265. Request the current application form and confirm current fees. Fees listed here reflect the most recent publicly available information but can change — always verify before sending payment.
- Submit your application with payment. Fee: Free (automatic installation). Most states require a money order or check made payable to the DOT. Do not send cash. Include all required documentation.
- Wait for processing. Most states process applications within 4–8 weeks. Some districts are faster. Follow up by phone if you haven't heard back in 6 weeks.
- Sign installation. Once approved, the DOT schedules installation. You typically will not be notified of the exact installation date, but can request an estimated timeframe.
Application Fee and Renewal
The South Dakota program charges Free (automatic installation) for a new sign. Duration: Until worn; family may request renewal. Contact SDDOT — (605) 773-3265 for current renewal options and pricing. Some states allow families to keep the physical sign after it is removed.
What Does the Sign Look Like?
Most state memorial signs are standardized for highway safety. Signs typically feature the victim's name and a safety message such as "Drive Safely," "Don't Drink and Drive," or "Please Buckle Up." Signs are designed as breakaway installations to minimize hazard in the event of a secondary crash. See our full guide to sign designs by state.
Informal Memorials in South Dakota
Temporary informal memorials are generally tolerated in South Dakota, particularly on rural roads. SDDOT may remove memorials that pose a hazard or receive complaints, but enforcement is not strict on low-traffic routes.
Informal memorials — crosses, flowers, photos, candles, stuffed animals — are a long-standing tradition in the U.S. and are treated differently by each state. Read our full guide to informal roadside memorial rules for a state-by-state breakdown.
What If the Crash Happened on an Interstate?
Most state programs cannot place signs on federally designated interstates (I-numbered highways) due to federal highway standards. If the fatality occurred on an interstate, ask SDDOT — (605) 773-3265 about alternate placements — many states offer a sign on the nearest parallel state route. See our full guide on memorial signs on interstates.
What If My Memorial Is Removed?
If an informal memorial is removed by a DOT maintenance crew, most states store the items for 14–30 days. Contact SDDOT — (605) 773-3265 immediately to request retrieval. Read our complete guide: My Roadside Memorial Was Removed — Now What?