Does Crohn's disease and IBD qualify in South Dakota?
Yes. The South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program lists Crohn's disease as a qualifying condition. A South Dakota-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About Crohn's disease and IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — long-term inflammation of the digestive tract.
Limited evidence. Small trials suggest cannabis can improve symptoms and quality of life for some patients, but it hasn't been shown to reduce the underlying inflammation.
Symptoms South Dakota patients most often hope to ease:
- Cramping belly pain
- Nausea and poor appetite
- Unwanted weight loss
- Trouble sleeping during flares
- Joint pain linked to IBD
Before you start. Cannabis may hide flare symptoms while inflammation continues, so keep up with blood tests, stool tests and scopes. Heavy long-term use can cause cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, with repeated vomiting and belly pain that can look like an IBD flare.
Read more: medical marijuana for Crohn's disease and IBD.
How to get certified in South Dakota
- Confirm you have a debilitating medical condition listed in SDCL 34-20G-1.
- Visit a physician, PA or APRN for an in-person exam and get a written certification.
- Apply online at the Department of Health medical cannabis portal within 90 days of the certification date.
- Upload a copy of your unexpired photo ID and a 2x2 passport-style photo, and name up to two dispensaries and any caregiver.
- Pay $75, or $20 if your household income is under 130% of the federal poverty level, plus $20 if you want to grow at home.
- Wait for review, usually 2 to 4 days, then about 4 to 10 days for the card to arrive by mail.
South Dakota requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $75 ($20 for households under 130% of the federal poverty level)
- Card lasts: Up to 1 year (expiration set by the practitioner)
- Processing: Applications typically reviewed within 2 to 4 days; mailed card arrives in about 4 to 10 days
- Patient limit: 3 oz of cannabis plus product amounts set by Department rules
- Home grow: 2 flowering and 2 non-flowering plants if the card allows cultivation ($20 add-on)
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full South Dakota cost breakdown and South Dakota program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in South Dakota
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy & seizures
- HIV/AIDS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Nausea & appetite loss
- PTSD
- Severe muscle spasms & spasticity
Crohn's & IBD in nearby states
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for Crohn's disease and IBD?
Helpful records include: a gastroenterologist's diagnosis letter or clinic notes confirming Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis; colonoscopy, biopsy or imaging reports; a list of IBD medicines you take or have tried, including biologics and steroids. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your South Dakota provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in South Dakota?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Applications typically reviewed within 2 to 4 days; mailed card arrives in about 4 to 10 days.
Can I renew online in South Dakota?
In most cases, yes. Cards must be renewed at least yearly with a new practitioner certification and the full renewal fee. If your practitioner sees you for a follow-up within 60 days of the first certification and issues a second one, the fee is waived once per calendar year.
Sources
- Medical Cannabis Program - South Dakota Department of Health
- Patients, Caregivers & Practitioners - South Dakota Department of Health
- SDCL 34-20G-1 Definitions
- SDCL 34-20G-29 Registry card application and fee waiver
- SDCL 34-20G-43 Expiration of registry identification card
- SDCL 34-20G-5.1 Certification not authorized
- National Academies — The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.