City Shares Independence Day Safety Reminders
Published on July 01, 2026
As Independence Day approaches, the City of Sioux Falls reminds residents to follow local fireworks regulations, avoid impaired driving, protect themselves from summer heat and stay informed about mosquito control efforts as holiday celebrations increase across the city.
Know the Rules Before Lighting Fireworks
City ordinance prohibits fireworks that launch into the air, explode or create significant noise within Sioux Falls city limits.
"The Fourth of July is one of our busiest times for fireworks complaints, and many of the calls we receive involve fireworks that are illegal within city limits," said Aaron Benson, sergeant with the Sioux Falls Police Department. "We will have additional officers dedicated to responding to fireworks complaints throughout the holiday, and they will respond to those calls as overall call volume allows. We encourage residents to know the rules before lighting fireworks and to be considerate of their neighbors."
Prohibited fireworks include:
- Firecrackers
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Parachute fireworks
Permitted fireworks include:
- Sparklers
- Smoke bombs
- Snaps
Permitted fireworks are allowed on private property with the property owner's permission. Fireworks are not allowed on sidewalks, streets, alleys, parks or other public property.
Residents should also consider neighbors who may be affected by fireworks, including veterans, young children and individuals sensitive to loud noises.
Fireworks Safety Tips
Legal fireworks can still cause serious injuries if they are used improperly.
“Many incidents happen in the moments people let their guard down, especially when lighting multiple devices at once or trying to relight something that didn’t work the first time,” said Luke Smidt, fire division chief with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue. “Those situations are where we tend to see the most preventable injuries.”
Residents should:
- Closely supervise children around fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
- Never relight a firework that fails to ignite.
- Soak used or malfunctioning fireworks in water overnight before disposal.
- Keep pets indoors during periods of fireworks activity.
Prevent Impaired Driving
Independence Day celebrations often include travel and gatherings where alcohol is served. The city encourages residents to plan ahead and avoid impaired driving.
Residents who plan to drink should:
- Designate a sober driver
- Use a rideshare service
- Arrange for a safe, sober ride home before consuming alcohol.
Protect Yourself from Summer Heat
Hot and humid weather can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially during outdoor work, sporting events or holiday celebrations.
“People often don’t recognize how quickly heat stress can build up, especially during long periods outdoors or when they’re not taking breaks,” said Jaimie Roggenbauer, public health program manager for the city. “Small actions like drinking water regularly and seeking shade can make a significant difference.”
Residents are encouraged to drink water regularly throughout the day and increase hydration during outdoor activities. When possible, take breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned space and check on older adults, young children and others who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.
Mosquito Control
The city’s Mosquito Control Program continues to work daily to reduce mosquito populations and help protect residents from mosquito-borne illnesses.
City staff monitors mosquito activity across Sioux Falls to determine when and where spraying is needed.
The city conducts mosquito spraying when weather conditions are favorable, including temperatures above 55 degrees, calm winds and no rain, to ensure treatments are effective.
Residents can receive notifications about mosquito spraying by signing up for text alerts through the city's mosquito notification system at siouxfalls.gov/alerts.
Residents can also help reduce mosquito populations by removing standing water from birdbaths, flowerpots, buckets, tires, clogged gutters and other containers where mosquitoes breed.
Independence Day Activities
Residents can take advantage of several Parks and Recreation programs and facilities throughout the Fourth of July holiday weekend. City outdoor pools are open daily from 1 to 8 p.m., with holiday hours of 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.
Roller skating rentals at Jacobson Plaza are available Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Holiday hours on Saturday, July 4, are 1 to 5 p.m. Rentals cost $3 per person.
The Stars and Stripes Family Stroll will be held on Thursday, July 2, from 4 to 5 p.m. at Arrowhead Park. Residents are invited to celebrate Independence Day with a family-friendly, guided hike through the park and are encouraged to wear patriotic colors. The program is free, but registration is required. Residents can register by visiting siouxfalls.gov/parks.
An Independence Day Party will be held on Thursday, July 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Westside Recreation Center. Residents of all ages can enjoy water games, relay races, arts and crafts, lawn games, music and other family-friendly activities led by Parks and Recreation staff.
First Friday: Red, White and Blue Bash will be held on Friday, July 3, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Lloyd Landing. The event will feature backyard games, friendly competition and family-friendly activities.
More information on fireworks regulations, mosquito control, and Parks and Recreation programming is available at siouxfalls.gov.