The Sioux Falls Health Department provided an update on food inspection numbers in the city and discussed their expectations for the summer. Dominic Miller, the environmental health manager, emphasized that the department’s approach to inspections is not about finding violations but rather helping businesses succeed by ensuring safe food service.
In Sioux Falls, there are nearly 800 licensed food establishments, and in 2023, the health department conducted 1,799 inspections. Miller explained that restaurant inspections make up only 40% of inspectors’ responsibilities. They also handle code enforcement, regulate in-home daycares, assist with noise ordinance enforcement, and inspect tattoo and lodging establishments. Each food establishment is inspected at least twice a year.
Mobile food trucks in Sioux Falls are required to have a South Dakota Mobile Food Service license issued by the SD Department of Health to vend across the state. To operate within Sioux Falls, vendors must also obtain a mobile vending license from the police department. Last year, there were over 50 trucks on the approved list from the police department. Around 35 to 40 food truck events are expected to occur in the city this summer. Consumers can find food scores on the siouxfalls.gov website.
