siouxfalls.org: Leading Green

How the City Helps

Sioux Falls understands that people will do the "right thing" in helping the environment when they know what the right thing is. The City knows that the "right thing" for the City is to provide programs and services to educate and help its citizens understand how they can help and provide convenient methods for them to do so.

City Park System : Sioux Falls has over 70 parks located throughout the city to provide easy greenspace access to everyone.
Community Gardens : Each year the City provides space for public gardens for people who like to garden but do not have the land to do so.
The Transportation Bicycle Plan : Bicycling is a healthy and ecologically friendly mode of transportation. The City of Sioux Falls has an extensive bicycle plan to help everyone get where they want to bike safely.
The Transportation Pedestrian Plan : Like biking, walking is a great way to get around and stay in shape. Find out more about the City's pedestrian plan.
Sioux Falls Transit : The City provides an extensive transit system which, when used, reduces the number of vehicles on the road. In turn fuel consumption and pollution can be reduced!
The Household Hazardous Waste Facility : In 2005 the city opened the Household Hazardous Waste Facility that gives citizens a convenient facility to properly dispose of harmful materials.
Long Range Planning : The 2015 Growth Management Plan Goals and Policies marks a continuation of the progressive planning tradition in the Sioux Falls area.
Water Reclamation : Wastewater treatment can have an impact on the environment. the Water Reclamation department takes many steps to reduce its environmental footprint.
City Subdivision Ordinance - Appendix A : Chapter 15A.12 - Preservation of Natural Features and Amenities : Helps protect the natural environment features and sensitive environmental areas.
City Zoning Ordinance - Appendix B : Chapter 15.49 - Contains information on Wind Energy Systems and Landscaping requirements.

How You Can Help

Preserving the environment is not just a City responsibility. It is up to everyone to take steps and utilize environmentally friendly practices, services, products, and materials, which all add up to making a significant impact in reducing the city's environmental footprint.

Please check out the links below to find out more about simple everyday ways you can take part in the "Leading Green" initiative.

Go to the Library : Buying books takes a lot of natural resources. By using the local library books you save not only money, but trees as well.
Recycle! : Be sure you know and understand the city recycling requirements. It's the law; and please do YOUR part!
Water Conservation : Water conservation is something everyone needs to be mindful of. Read more on how you can contribute.
Sioux Falls Transit : Ride the bus! The Sioux Falls transit system covers all corners of the city; So ride the bus and help the environment.

Bike & Bus Program

Bike to Work : "Bike to Work Day" kicks off the start of bike riding season, but biking to work any day is a great way to help the environment and get in shape too.