Keeping your lawn neat and sharp isn’t just a matter of pride, it’s required by Sioux Falls law. To follow the Sioux Falls lawn ordinance, keep your grass trimmed to under 8 inches, manage noxious weeds, report any violations, and respond quickly to any city notices.
The city’s ordinance (§302.4) sets specific rules for managing grass height and noxious weeds to keep neighborhoods clean and safe. By adhering to the guidelines below, you can ensure a well-kept lawn and avoid fines.
Keep grass under 8 inches
According to the ordinance, grass taller than 8 inches is considered a violation. Overgrown grass and invasive weeds, known as “nuisance vegetation,” can harm the environment, public health, and property values. The Sioux Falls lawn ordinance is designed to prevent these issues.
Regular mowing is essential to keeping your lawn within the legal limit. In Sioux Falls, where cool-season grasses are common, lawns typically need mowing once a week during the growing season. However, you may need to mow more often in cooler weather and less frequently during extreme heat.
For a lush, well-maintained lawn, also follow the Sioux Falls lawn watering schedule (guided by city ordinances).
Control noxious weeds
Matt Lavin | Flickr | CC BY 2.0
The ordinance also requires homeowners to manage certain invasive plants, known as noxious weeds. These weeds are harmful to the local environment and must be removed. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Canada thistle
- Hoary cress
- Leafy spurge
- Perennial sow thistle
- Purple loosestrife
- Russian knapweed
- Salt cedar
Keeping your yard free of these noxious weeds will help protect local plants and ensure compliance with the law. For tips on managing various types of weeds, check out the article: “How to Control Weeds by Type.”
Note: While dandelions can be a nuisance, they aren’t considered noxious in Sioux Falls. Noxious weeds are invasive plants that can harm the environment, agriculture, or public health. Dandelions, while bothersome due to their rapid growth, don’t cause these issues. So, no need to worry about getting a fine for them.
Pro Tip: Consider growing South Dakota native plants. They add natural beauty and can help control weeds by crowding out invasive species, making your yard easier to maintain.
Report violations in your neighborhood
If you spot a neighbor’s yard with grass over 8 inches tall or noxious weeds, you can report it to the city. When you do, be sure to provide:
- Exact address (or a clear description like “property at the corner of 41st St. and Louise Ave.”)
- Details: Is the issue mostly tall grass or noxious weeds, or both? Is it the entire yard or just a portion?
- Any additional concerns: If there are any issues like vicious dogs or other hazards on the property, be sure to include this information.
Once reported, a city inspector will check the property. If it’s in violation, the homeowner has seven days to address the problem. If they don’t, the city hires a contractor to mow the yard, and the homeowner will receive the bill (plus a citation).
Respond to notices
If you get a letter from the city, it means your property is not in compliance. Here’s what to do:
- Mow your lawn within seven days to ensure the grass is under 8 inches.
- Remove noxious weeds like Canada thistle or leafy spurge.
Reminder: The city only sends one notice per year. If your lawn does not stay in compliance, the city will send a contractor to mow, and you will receive the bill — without further warnings.
Stay proactive
Avoid future violations by taking a proactive approach to lawn care. Here’s how:
- Mow regularly: Keeping grass under 8 inches is the simplest way to avoid problems.
- Inspect for weeds: Regularly check your yard for noxious weeds and remove them early.
- Follow best practices: Aside from mowing regularly and proper watering, you can also check our article — “The Best Lawn Fertilization Schedule for Sioux Falls” — to learn details on the best times to fertilize.
- Report issues: If you notice a property with overgrown grass or noxious weeds, report it to the city to help keep your neighborhood clean and compliant.
Read more about South Dakota lawn care
Don’t just stick to the basics and rules — take your lawn care and landscaping to the next level. Explore these guides to enhance your yard in Sioux Falls and across South Dakota:
- The Best Grass Seed for South Dakota Lawns
- When to Plant Grass Seed in South Dakota
- South Dakota Native Grasses for Lawns and Landscapes
- Beautiful South Dakota Flowers for Landscaping
Let the pros handle it
Struggling to keep up with Sioux Falls lawn rules or dreaming of a yard that turns heads? We’ll connect you with local lawn care pros who can manage grass height, handle stubborn weeds, and provide top-notch advice so you can ensure your lawn looks great with minimal upkeep.
Let them handle the work so you can enjoy a pristine yard and maybe even a few extra weekends of relaxation.
Main Image Credit: Residence of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls in Sioux Falls, South Dakota | AlexiusHoratius | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 3.0
