City Shares Spring Tips for Water, Lawn and Property Care
Published on May 06, 2026
As warmer weather returns and residents spend more time outdoors, the City of Sioux Falls is sharing seasonal reminders to help keep neighborhoods safe and attractive and promote water conservation.
Water Conservation and Lawn Care
Sioux Falls remains in Stage 1 of its watering schedule. All residential, commercial, industrial and city properties must follow these guidelines:
- Lawn watering is not allowed from noon to 5 p.m.
- Even-numbered addresses may water on even-numbered calendar dates.
- Odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered calendar dates.
- Hand-watering vegetation is allowed at any time if using a non-leaking hose with a handheld nozzle that automatically shuts off.
These requirements are enforceable by city ordinance. Details are available at siouxfalls.gov/lawnwateringprogram.
Residents are asked to prevent water waste by adjusting sprinklers so they water lawns, not streets, sidewalks or driveways and by turning off hoses promptly when finished.
Property Maintenance Expectations
City ordinance requires grass and noxious weeds in yards and lots to remain under 8 inches in height. Designated noxious weeds include Canada thistle, Russian knapweed, hoary cress, purple loosestrife, perennial sow thistle, leafy spurge and salt cedar. Dandelions are not considered noxious.
Permits for New Lawns and Tree Planting
A permit is required to install new lawns. To obtain one, contact Public Works at 605-367-8600. Residents should note that new sod requires significant watering, especially in hot weather and may increase monthly water bills.
Residents preparing to plant trees in the right-of-way, also known as the boulevard or parking strip, must obtain a street tree planting permit before installation. The city offers a $100 voucher for each tree approved to be planted. Vouchers are automatically issued to residents when the permit is approved. Vouchers can only be redeemed at participating greenhouses. To apply for a street tree planting permit and learn more about the voucher visit siouxfalls.gov/street-tree-planting.
Free Compost for Residents
Compost is available at no cost from the Sioux Falls Regional Landfill. Residents must bring their own containers and load the compost themselves. It is available year-round at the landfill and at seasonal branch and leaf drop-off sites. More information is available at siouxfalls.gov/landfill.
City crews conduct street sweeping operations in the spring, summer and fall to keep our waterways and roads clean and safe. Residents are encouraged to move vehicles off streets when sweeping is scheduled in their areas to allow crews to complete a thorough cleaning. The public can also assist by properly disposing of trash, clearing blocked drains and avoiding raking leaves into streets or gutters. To receive text alerts about sweeping schedules, visit siouxfalls.gov/street-sweeping.
Reporting Issues and Monitoring Water Use
To report neighborhood concerns, visit siouxfalls.gov/report or download the City of Sioux Falls mobile app.
Residents can also track water usage through the city’s OneMeter utility billing app, which includes leak detection features. More information is available at onemeter.siouxfalls.gov.
By following these reminders, residents can help keep Sioux Falls safe, attractive and sustainable throughout the season. For complete information on programs, permits and city services, visit siouxfalls.gov.