Frequently Asked Questions: Fines, Costs, Tickets

Fines, Costs, Tickets Questions

Maximum fine amounts are established by the South Dakota Legislature. For cases heard in court, judges can set fine amounts based on the seriousness of the offense. For more common offenses that don’t require court appearances like speeding or failing to stop at a stop sign, standard amounts are set by a fine and bond schedule and should be listed on your ticket at the time of the offense. Learn more

All fines and costs are due by the date on the ticket, or the date of sentencing if you were required to appear in court. If you are unable to pay your fine in full the day it is due, you can ask the court to allow for an extension. If an extension is granted, you will need to visit the Clerk of Courts office to set up and sign a payment plan. 

The South Dakota UJS’ ePayments website allows case parties to pay their criminal court fees, fines, costs and restitution conveniently and securely online using a debit or credit card. The system will show if you can make a payment online, if you need to contact the Clerk of Courts office, or if there is an active warrant on the case. The system will allow you to make a minimum payment of $25 (unless the balance owed is less than $25), the full amount due, or any amount between the $25 minimum and full balance. New court cases may not be available for online payments for up to 14 days. 

Fines, Costs, Tickets Related Topics

Fees and Costs

Find information on fees related to court-appointed attorneys, payment options and additional resources that may be available.

Debt Collection

Court-ordered debt encompasses various financial obligations imposed by the court system such as costs, fines, fees, and restitution.

Fee Waivers

A Motion to Waive Filing Fee and Service of Process Fee is a request to not be charged for filing a case or having legal papers delivered. Learn about the process and forms to submit.