Raynor Naturopathic Massage

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in South Dakota

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in South Dakota

1. State Overview of Reflexology

  • 1. State Overview of Reflexology

    • South Dakota law defines “massage” broadly under SDCL § 36-35-1 as manipulation of soft tissues by hands or devices doh.sd.gov.

    • However, SDCL § 36-35-25(6) provides a reflexology exemption:

      “Manipulation of the soft tissues of the human body restricted to the hands, feet, or ears, and the person does not hold himself or herself out to be a massage therapist…” doh.sd.gov

    • Also, the statute explicitly states:

      “Reflexology, acupuncture, and aesthetics are not subject to regulation and licensure by the Board of Massage Therapy.” doh.sd.gov

    Takeaway: Certified reflexologists in South Dakota may practice pure reflexology on hands, feet, or ears without a massage license—provided they do not present their services as “massage therapy.”

Full state-by-state reflexology guide →
https://www.raynormassage.com/reflexology-regulations-and-laws-state-by-state-across-the-us

https://youtu.be/C8AOBPD-Huo

2. South Dakota Massage Therapist Licensing

To practice reflexology or any soft-tissue modality in South Dakota, you must hold a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) credential:

Requirement Details
Education Completion of an approved massage-therapy program (typically 500–625 hours) including anatomy, technique, ethics, and practicum abmp.com
Examination Passage of the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam) or another Board-approved exam
Background Check & Fingerprints FBI and South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation checks; fingerprints required
Renewal & Continuing Education Biennial renewal with 8 hours of Board-approved continuing education sdlegislature.gov
Application & Fees Submit application and fee via the South Dakota Department of Health portal

Apply & Learn More →
https://doh.sd.gov/boards/massage/ atg.sd.gov

https://youtu.be/0kITCWLS_HQ

3. Reflexology vs. Massage Therapy

  • Pure Reflexology (Hands/Feet/Ears Only)
    Exempt under SDCL § 36-35-25(6) when limited in scope and not represented as “massage.”

  • Massage Therapy & Foot Massage
    Any broader foot-massage or reflex-modalities beyond reflex points require an LMT license.

4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits

Even exempt reflexology practitioners often need:

  • A business license from your city or county clerk.

  • Health-department inspections for any public body-work establishment.

Tip: Check with your municipal clerk’s or health department for specific zoning, sanitation, and inspection requirements before opening your practice.

https://youtu.be/Z4SL__dzEVU

5. Raynor® Reflexology Guidance in South Dakota

  • Raynor-trained reflexologists can legally practice reflexology statewide without a massage license—leveraging the SDCL § 36-35-25(6) exemption.

  • To offer full foot-massage or broader soft-tissue work, secure your LMT credential.

  • On your site, clearly advertise:

    “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Hands, Feet & Ears Only (Not Massage Therapy).”

Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/

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6. Quick Reference Table

Service Type State License Required? Local Permit Often Required?
Pure Reflexology (hands/feet/ears) No (Exempt—SDCL § 36-35-25(6)) Yes (business/health-dept permit)
Foot Massage & Other Modalities Yes (LMT license) Yes
Raynor Reflexologists (Exempt) No Yes

 

7. FAQs

Q: Can I advertise “foot massage” under the exemption?
A: No—only pure reflexology on hands, feet, or ears is exempt. Any use of “massage” requires an LMT license.

Q: How do I maintain my LMT license?
A: Renew every two years with 8 hours of Board-approved continuing education.

Q: Where can I read SDCL § 36-35-25?
A: Official text is available here → https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/2040604

8. Resources & Links

Disclaimer: Laws and local ordinances change. Always verify current requirements with the South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.

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