City’s Citizen Planning Academy Registration Now Open

Published on September 08, 2025

The City of Sioux Falls is hosting its annual Citizen Planning Academy in October, and registration is now open. Citizen Planning Academy is a program hosted by the City’s Planning and Development Services team that offers an opportunity for Sioux Falls residents to learn about city planning and development and how to engage effectively in neighborhood planning efforts.

The academy is held over the course of two 2-hour evening sessions and covers a range of city planning-related topics like comprehensive plans, public engagement, zoning, housing, transportation, urban design, and more.

“Citizen Planning Academy’s popularity has grown over the years, and it’s always great to see participants leave the sessions with a better understanding of how city planning shapes the community and an appreciation for their role in engaging in local planning efforts to share their vision for the community,” said Jeff Schmitt, the City’s Planning Projects Coordinator.

This October, Citizen Planning Academy coincides with the second round of public engagement for the Shape Sioux Falls 2050 comprehensive development plan. Academy attendees will have a real-time opportunity to participate in shaping the future of the community, while learning about the important role the plan plays in guiding the city’s future growth and development.

The academy will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 6, and Thursday, October 23, at City Center (231 North Dakota Avenue), and online through Webex. The academy is free and open to the public. Registration is required and participants can select topics they are interested in on the registration form. City staff will tailor the academy’s subject matter based on participants’ interests.

Registration is due by 5 p.m., Friday, September 26. For additional information and to register, visit www.siouxfalls.gov/planningacademy.