“Massage,” (36-35-1. Definitions.) the systematic mobilization of the soft tissues of the body through the application of hands, feet, or devices for the purposes of therapy, relaxation, or education through means which include:
(a) Pressure, friction, stroking, rocking, kneading, percussion, compression, or stretching;
(b) External application of water, heat, cold, lubricants, or other topical agents; or
(c) The use of devices that mimic or enhance the actions of human hands or feet; and
(4) “Practice of massage therapy,” the performance of massage for a fee or other compensation or holding oneself out to the public as performing massage.
36-35-8. Display of license–Proof of licensure.
Any person engaged in the practice of massage in this state shall conspicuously display a valid license from the board in the licensee’s regular place of business. If the licensee is providing massage therapy outside of the licensee’s regular place of business, the licensee shall, upon request, produce photo identification and proof of licensure. Failure to comply with this section is a petty offense.
36-35-10. Practice of massage without license or employment of unlicensed person as misdemeanor.
Any person who engages in the practice of massage or holds himself or herself out to the public as engaged in the practice of massage without a license issued pursuant to this chapter, or owns, operates or manages a business which knowingly employs or contracts with any unlicensed person to offer or provide massage therapy, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. The board may bring a civil action to enjoin any violation of this chapter.
South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy
Melissa Miller
Executive Secretary
217 W. Missouri Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: 605-773-3440
Fax: 605-773-7175
massagetherapy@state.sd.us
