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Building Services

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1. Do I need additional permits if I live in a historic district?

Any exterior project located in a historic district that requires a building permit may be subject to a process called “11.1 Review” by the Brookings Historic Preservation Commission, pursuant to SDCL 1-19A-11.1. For more information, please refer to Historic Preservation Commission's 11.1 Review Process

2. Do I need a permit to put a fence in my yard?

You do not need a permit, but there are regulations you must follow. Call the City engineer's office at (605) 692-6629.

3. Where do I go to get a variance?

You must go before the Board of Adjustment. Pick up an application at the  located at 520 3rd Street, Suite 140 Brookings, SD 57006

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City Council

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1. What is the Brookings City Council?

The City Council is a part-time legislative body responsible for the legislative function of the city: reviewing and adopting policies responsive to the community. All of the council members serve at large, which means that each member represents the entire city.

2. Who are the current members of the City Council and how do I contact them?

Reach out to Brookings City Council Members by contacting them via phone or email. If you are referencing a specific City Council Meeting agenda item, please note if you would like your comment to be made public record and include which item on the agenda the comment is in reference to.

• Ope Niemeyer, Mayor
• Nick Wendell, Deputy Mayor
• Holly Tilton Byrne
• Joey Collins
• Wayne Avery
• Brianna Doran
• Bonny Specker

3. Where are City Council meetings held?

Brookings City and County Government Center
520 3rd Street
Chambers, Room 310 (3rd floor)
Brookings, SD 57006

4. When are City Council regular meetings and can I attend them?

City Council regular meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. These are open public meetings and anyone is welcome to attend.

5. What are City Council study sessions and can I attend them?

City Council study sessions are held the third Tuesday of each month in the Council Chambers. The purpose of a study session is for educational information on previously-agreed upon issues. Either the City Management or the City Council can request that specific items be put on the Study Session calendar for a more in depth discussion. Items range from specific projects, to upcoming legislation, to entire City departments giving updates. This format allows Council Members and staff to hold in-depth discussions on issues. These are open public meetings and anyone is welcome to attend. However, no public hearings or public input will be received, except by specific invitation of the Council for purposes of education on the specific issue at hand. The topics will then be forwarded to a future, regular Council meeting for action.

6. What is the difference between a resolution and an ordinance?

An ordinance is a permanent legislative act – which necessitates changes in our current laws, policies or procedures as a city – within the limits of its power of the City Council. All ordinances shall be read twice by title with at least five days between each reading.

A resolution is any determination, decision, or direction of the City Council of a temporary or special character for the purpose of initiating, effecting, or carrying out its administrative duties and functions. A resolution may be passed after only one reading. If a resolution is on the current agenda, it is up for a vote at that meeting.

7. What is the difference between a “first reading” ordinance and a “second” or “final reading” ordinance?

All ordinances shall be read twice by title with at least five days between each reading. A “first reading” ordinance is only a reading. At the meeting, it is open for public comment but no votes are taken. A “second” or “final reading” ordinance is set for action. At the meeting, it is open for public comment and votes are taken.

8. How can I watch City Council meetings?

All City Council meetings are broadcast live on a variety of channel. Tune in live:

• Local cable channel 9 (Swiftel and Mediacom)
• City LiveTV
• YouTube

All City Council meetings are later available to watch via YouTube and on local cable channel 9 (Swiftel and Mediacom). Cable rebroadcast schedule: Wednesday, 1:00pm; Thursday, 7:00pm; Friday, 9:00pm; and Saturday, 1:00pm

9. How do I know what is on the City Council agenda?

Council agendas are available on the Calendar page. Hard copies are also available at the City Manager’s Office located on the second floor of City Hall. (520 3rd Street, Suite 230 Brookings, SD 57006) Agendas are available with “full packets.” This means that each agenda item’s supporting paperwork is contained within the file, so the full text of legislation can be viewed.

10. What is eComment and how can I make one?

The City of Brookings has eComment available for residents to digitally submit public comment for City Council meetings. Make an eComment here.

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COVID-19

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1. South Dakota Department of Health FAQ Guide

The South Dakota Department of Health Updates their FAQ on a regular basis as more information about the COVID-19 Virus becomes available.

Visit this URL

2. What is COVID-19?

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus strain spreading from person-to-person that has not been previously identified. It is currently in the United States and most other countries in the world. Health experts are concerned because this new virus spreads easily and has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia in some people — especially people over age 60 or who have weakened immune systems.

3. How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 most commonly spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet, or 2 arm lengths). It spreads through respiratory droplets or small particles, such as those in aerosols, produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes. These particles can be inhaled into the nose, mouth, airways, and lungs and cause infection. This is thought to be the main way the virus spreads. Health experts are still learning more about the spread and severity of illness COVID-19 causes. LEARN MORE >

4. What are the symptoms?

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea. This list is not all possible symptoms. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you. LEARN MORE >

5. When do I seek medical evaluation and advice?

If you have COVID-19-like symptoms or think you have been exposed, contact your health care provider.

• Avera Clinic: 605-697-9500
• Sanford Clinic: 605-697-1900

Do not go to the emergency room, unless it is a medical emergency. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs. If you have difficulty breathing, it doesn’t mean you have novel coronavirus, but you should call 911.

If you’re over 60 and you have underlying conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease, come up with a plan with your doctor to identify your health risks for COVID-19 and how to manage symptoms. Contact your doctor right away if you do have symptoms.

6. How can I protect myself from COVID-19?

It’s important that everyone take steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The following can protect you and others:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home as much as possible.
• Put distance between yourself and other people.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask / face covering.
• Cover your cough and sneezes.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Wash your hands often (for at least 20 seconds) and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Limit non-essential trips out of the house and minimize contact with others who don’t live with you.
• Stay away from others who are sick. Stay home if you are sick or showing symptoms.
• Avoid group gatherings and poorly ventilated spaces.

7. How is COVID-19 treated?

There are no medications specifically approved for COVID-19. Most people with mild COVID-19 illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. However, some cases may require medical care or hospitalization.

8. Why is the mask / face covering mandate in place?

The CDC recommends that in communities like Brookings, where there is significant community-based transmission, all individuals cover their noses and mouths with a mask / face covering to prevent spreading COVID-19. We know people with COVID-19 may not show symptoms and can still spread the virus to others. Research indicates wearing a mask / face covering can significantly reduce the spread. We have made progress slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our community, but most people do not have immunity to the disease and remain susceptible. As a community, a surge of new cases could make many more people ill and overwhelm our health care system’s ability to treat those with serious complications of the disease and non-COVID related emergencies.

9. Am I required to wear a mask / face covering?

All individuals are required to wear a mask in any indoor business and/or indoor public space if six (6) feet or more of social distancing isn’t possible. Exceptions are listed here.

10. Who should get tested for COVID-19?

Anyone who is experiencing even mild COVID-like symptoms should isolate themselves away from others and call their health care provider.

• Avera Clinic: 605-697-9500
• Sanford Clinic: 605-697-1900

Getting tested as soon as possible is important to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Anyone with these symptoms should call their provider to be evaluated for a test:

• Cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea

It is important to isolate yourself as soon as you develop symptoms, even before you are tested, because if you have COVID-19, you are already contagious.

11. How do I get a test for COVID-19?

Most testing is completed through your health care provider. You should call your healthcare provider if you feel sick, live in the same household as someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19. Each health care system has its own testing processes. Many providers require appointments to prevent overcrowding and to be sure that they have supplies.

12. Should I get tested for COVID-19?

Maybe; not everyone needs to be tested for COVID-19. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, call your health care provider first. Most people will have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care and may not need to be tested.

• Avera Clinic: 605-697-9500
• Sanford Clinic: 605-697-1900

13. What is a quarantine and why is it used?

Quarantine is put into place to prevent the possible spread of an infectious disease from someone who may have been exposed to the disease but is not yet sick. When people are quarantined, they are kept separate from others until they are out of the period when they could get sick. During that time, health officials track their health so that if they do develop symptoms, they can get them to a health care provider quickly for evaluation, testing if needed, and care.

14. Is quarantine different from isolation?

Yes. Quarantine is for people who are not currently showing symptoms but are at increased risk for having been exposed to an infectious disease. Quarantine is for people who could become sick and spread the infection to others. Isolation is used for people who are currently ill and able to spread the disease and who need to stay away from others in order to avoid infecting them.

15. How does self-quarantine work?

When people are in self-quarantine, they have no symptoms, but because there is a possibility that they might have been exposed, they stay away from others in public settings. For 14 days from their last possible exposure, people in self-quarantine cannot go to work, school, or any public places where they could have close contact with others. Public health departments direct them in how to monitor their health so that should they develop symptoms, they can be quickly and safely isolated from all others, including those in their household.

16. Can people in self-quarantine still have contact with their household members?

You should keep apart from others, even in your household, as much as possible. Stay away from others, even if you are not showing symptoms, because the virus can spread before symptoms appear.

17. What should I do if I get sick or someone in my household gets sick?

Most people who get COVID-19 will be able to recover at home. CDC has directions for people who are recovering at home and their caregivers, including:

Stay home except to get medical care.

• Stay home. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas. Do not take public transportation, taxis or ride-shares. Do not go to crowded places or participate in public activities.
• Take care of yourself. Get rest and stay hydrated. Take over-the-counter medicines to help you feel better.
• Monitor your symptoms.
• Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you leave your home to get medical care.
• Follow care instructions from your health care provider. Be sure to get care if you have trouble breathing, or have any other emergency warning signs, or if you think it is an emergency.

Separate yourself from other people.

• Avoid contact with others in your home. Household members should stay in another room or be separated from you as much as possible. Household members should use a separate bedroom and bathroom, if available. If you must be around another person, wear a mask or face covering.
• Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home. Wash these items thoroughly after you use them.
• Do not allow visitors.
• Avoid contact with pets and other animals. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets, and wear a mask or face covering.
• Tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive. By letting your close contacts know they may have been exposed to COVID-19, you are helping to protect everyone. 

Practice proper hygiene.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw away used tissues in a lined trash can.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.

Clean and disinfect often.

• Clean high-touch surfaces frequently with a household spray or wipes including phones, counters, remote controls, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, keyboards, and light switches.
• Clean and disinfect areas that may have blood, stool, or body fluids on them.
• Clean and disinfect your “sick room” and bathroom; wear disposable gloves. If a caregiver or other person needs to clean and disinfect a sick person’s bedroom or bathroom, they should do so on an as-needed basis. The caregiver/other person should wear a mask and disposable gloves prior to cleaning. They should wait as long as possible after the person who is sick has used the bathroom before coming in to clean and use the bathroom.

18. When should I seek emergency medical attention?

Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately. Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

19. What should I do if I have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?

• Stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
• Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
• If possible, stay away from others, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.

20. How can I prepare for an outbreak?

Create a household plan of action to help protect your health and the health of those you care about in the event of an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community. Use our checklist to make your Household Game Plan.

21. How can I prepare for COVID-19 at work?

Plan for potential changes at your workplace. Talk to your employer about their emergency operations plan, including sick-leave policies and telework options. Learn how businesses and employers can plan for and respond to COVID-19.

22. How can I support local businesses during this time?

• Follow the social media channels for small businesses in your community. 
• Comment and share posts from small businesses.
• Shop small. Shop local online or over the telephone.
• Leave 5-Star reviews for businesses that you LOVE. 
• Order take-out from local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, etc.  If possible, tip generously! 
• Promote your positive experiences on social media. 
• Buy gift cards NOW and use them later. 
• Maintain subscriptions to health clubs, yoga studios, coffee clubs, etc.
• If you know a small business owner, ask how you can help them!

23. What mental health resources are available to help cope with COVID-19?

Pandemics are stressful. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and our community stronger. LEARN MORE >

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COVID-19 Data

Show All Answers

1. Why is it called COVID-19?

On February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that is causing the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak, first identified in Wuhan China. The new name of this disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV”. The name of the virus that causes COVID-19 is the SARS-CoV-2 virus. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses and other more deadly coronaviruses including SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV.  SARS stands for ‘severe acute respiratory syndrome’. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

2. What is community spread?

Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in a certain geographical area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected. For larger South Dakota counties, the South Dakota Department of Health determines the level of community spread based on the number of new cases per week over the previous two weeks per 100,000 population.

3. What does fully recovered mean?

Fully recovered clinically means that there are no more lingering effects. In terms of the Department of Health COVID-19 dashboard, recovered means that the infected person no longer needs to be isolated. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

4. What is community mitigation?

Community mitigation is a set of actions that people and communities can take to slow the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19. The goal of community mitigation in areas with local COVID-19 transmission is to slow its spread and to protect all individuals, especially those at increased risk for severe illness, while minimizing the negative impacts of these strategies.

5. What is herd immunity?

Herd immunity occurs when a high enough percentage of the population becomes immune that a virus cannot be easily transmitted from person-to-person. Immunity is typically achieved through having the disease or through vaccinations. With regard to COVID-19, it has been estimated that to achieve herd immunity 60-80% of the population may need to be immune. Since there currently is no vaccine, the only way to achieve immunity now is to be infected; however, it is not known how long this natural immunity lasts. Additionally, long-lasting effects of COVID-19 have been reported, which would be a problem with achieving immunity via being infected. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

6. What does case count mean?

The case count is the number of confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 that have been reported in the county. A confirmed case is a person that has been diagnosed using a RT-PCR test (an accurate laboratory method). A probable case is a person that has been diagnosed using an antigen test for the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 (not as accurate as RT-PCR, but a more rapid test). The South Dakota Department of Health website gives information on both confirmed and probable cases.

7. What is a running average and why do we use them?

A running average smooths out short-term fluctuations in data and highlights longer-term trends. An example of fluctuations in the data that occur are on weekends when data are less likely to be reported and when there are smaller numbers. The intent of taking a running average is to give a more representative view of what is going on with new cases or identify trends over time. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

8. How do you calculate case fatality rates?

The case fatality rate is the percent of individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 that died from COVID-19. Since it is a percentage, you have to define a numerator and a denominator. The numerator is the number of people who died from COVID-19. Because new cases are being diagnosed daily, the denominator includes only people who have recovered per CDC definition (active cases could still die) as well as those who died. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

9. How is cause of death determined and coded?

Cause of death is determined by either the attending licensed physician, physician assistant, or certified nurse practitioner. If there was no attending health professional, the county coroner is responsible. If there is no coroner, the local registrar prepares the death certificate based on statements of relatives or other individuals who know the facts. All these individuals must have training in the registering of death certificates. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

10. What is misinformation?

Misinformation is false information that is spread, regardless of intent to mislead. Learn more in our epi mini-lesson.

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Engineering

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit to put a fence in my yard?

You do not need a permit, but there are regulations you must follow. Call the City engineer's office at (605) 692-6629.

2. Who is responsible for the sidewalk in front of my house?

Under state law, the property owner is responsible for the repair and maintenance of sidewalks. Any property owner who fails to maintain their sidewalk in a safe condition is considered negligent in their duties as a property owner and is liable for injuries, which may occur due to it's lack of maintenance.

It is further required that property owners or renters of property within the City of Brookings shovel the snow from their sidewalk to allow for pedestrian passage. If ice and snow build up, the property owner must make every effort to clear it. Salt, sand or other materials may be used to prevent the sidewalk from becoming slippery.

3. Where do I go to get a variance?

You must go before the Board of Adjustment. Pick up an application at the located at
311 3rd Avenue
Brookings, SD 57006

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Fire

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1. Is open burning allowable within the City of Brookings?

No. However, recreational fires are permitted under certain circumstances. For more information, please view the City Code.

2. Does the Fire Department recharge or maintain portable fire extinguishers?

No. However the Fire Department administrative office serves as a drop-off point for citizens requiring the services of a fire extinguisher maintenance company.

3. What can I do if I think the property that I rent is unsafe?

The Fire Department has limited authority regarding residential property. Rental property inspection falls under the jurisdiction of the City's Code Enforcement Department. The two departments will often work together to investigate complaints.

4. What happens if a fire truck is called, but it is a false alarm?

False Fire Alarm Calls when trucks roll:
First Call $0
Second Call $50.00
Third Call $100.00

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Forestry

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1. Does the City plant boulevard trees?

The City will plant trees in new subdivisions and where requested in other locations in the City at no charge to the property owner. Call the Parks, Recreation and Forestry office at (605) 692-2708 for details.

2. A boulevard tree in front of my house has a large broken branch. Will the City remove it?

The City Forestry Department maintains all boulevard trees on a 5-7 year rotation, but will respond to calls on specific problems. Call (605) 692-2708 to let the department know.

3. An American elm in my yard looks sick. How can I find out if it has Dutch elm disease?

The City Forestry Department personnel will inspect and diagnose all suspected Dutch elm disease cases, even on private property, as part of the City's Dutch elm disease control program. Call (605) 692-2708 to let the department know.

4. Are woodchips available for use in my yard?

The Forestry Department stockpiles woodchips near their shop for the public to use in their yards. The woodchips are not clean and contain other debris from chipping trees, including leaves and different types of woods. The public is responsible for loading / unloading and transporting the chips they wish to use.

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Human Resources

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1. How do I apply for employment with the City of Brookings?

To review open positions within the City, browse through current job openings on our website.

The City of Brookings is an equal opportunity employer.

2. Where is the City of Brookings Human Resources Office located?

The City of Brookings Human Resources Department is at the Brookings City & County Government Center located at:
520 3rd Street, Suite 230
Brookings, SD 57006

3. Do I need to complete a separate application for each position I apply for with the City?

Yes. To ensure equal opportunities for all applicants and to ensure accurate, up-to-date information on the application, we need to have candidates apply specifically for each position.

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Landfill

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1. What day is my garbage collected on?

If you live south of 8th Street South:
• Garbage and yard waste will be picked up on Mondays
• Recycling and yard waste will be picked up on Thursdays

If you live north of 8th Street South:
• Garbage and yard waste will be picked up on Tuesdays
• Recycling and yard waste will be picked up on Fridays

2. What are the landfill operating hours?

The landfill is open Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 4:15 pm and Saturday from 8:00 am to 11:45 pm.

3. What day do you pick up yard waste carts?

If you live south of 8th Street South: •Yard waste will be picked up on Mondays and Thursdays If you live north of 8th Street South: •Yard waste will be picked up on Tuesdays and Fridays

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Library

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1. How can I keep up with what is going on at the library?

Our monthly newsletter can keep you up to date. Pick up a print copy at the library or view it online at the Brookings Public Library website.

2. Does the library have e-books to check out?

The library is a member of South Dakota Titles to Go, which has EPUB and PDF books to download, along with downloadable audio for MP3 and WMA devices.

You do need to have a Brookings Public Library card to use this service.

3. Are there any meeting rooms at the library I can use?

The library has two small study rooms, one small conference room and one large meeting room that can be divided into two smaller rooms. They are available for meetings of civic, cultural or educational organizations. All meetings must be open to the general public and there may be no fundraising, promotion of fee-based products or services, sale of items on the premises or an admission fee charged.

View the full policy and contract.

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Mask Mandate

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1. How do I wear a mask/face covering?

Masks / face coverings should:

• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• be secured with ties or ear loops
• include multiple layers of fabric
• allow for breathing without restriction
• be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

When wearing a mask / face covering:

• make sure you can breathe through it
• wear it whenever social distancing measures are difficult to maintain
• wash after using

2. How should I care for a mask / face covering?

It’s a good idea to wash your mask / face covering frequently, ideally after each use, or at least daily. Have a bag or bin to keep masks / face coverings in until they can be laundered with detergent and hot water and dried on a hot cycle. If you must re-wear your mask / face covering before washing, wash your hands immediately after putting it back on and avoid touching your face.

Discard masks / face coverings that: 

• No longer cover the nose and mouth
• Have stretched out or damaged ties or straps 
• Cannot stay on the face 
• Have holes or tears in the fabric

3. Are masks required for outdoor events/activities?

No. For outdoor events (that do not require a permit by the city), masks are not required. However, you are highly encouraged to wear a mask, especially if social distancing of six feet is not possible.

4. What are some of the exceptions for wearing masks / face coverings?

A mask / face covering does not need to be worn by an individual who meets one of the following exceptions:

• Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a face covering-this includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance
• Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, or when communicating with a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication
• Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulations or workplace safety guidelines
• Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service
• Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, while they are eating or drinking, provided they maintain a 6-foot distance between individuals (not including individuals who reside together or are seated together) with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity
• Athletes and participants who are engaged in an organized sports activity that allows athletes to maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity
• Persons who are engaged in an activity that a professional or recreational association, public regulatory entity, medical association, or other public health oriented entity has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face covering and where other protections and precautions are established and utilized
• Persons attending educational institutions where the public and private schools through 12th grade, colleges, and universities have implemented protections
• Persons engaged in church and religious places of worship which may implement their own protections.

Children under two (2) years of age should not wear a mask / face covering.

5. Do I have to wear a mask if there is a plastic/acrylic barrier?

Yes, individuals standing behind plastic/acrylic barriers will still need to wear a mask unless 6’ of social distancing can be maintained.

6. Are business owners required to enforce the mask mandate?

No, business owners are not required to enforce the mask mandate. Individuals (i.e customers/clients) are responsible to follow the rules set forth in the mask mandate; however, business owners are encouraged to take the Brookings Stay Safe Pledge and reserve the right to refuse service to a non-compliant individual if they choose. Business owners are responsible for making sure that their employees as well as themselves are compliant. If there is an issue, the business may call the Brookings Police Department non-emergency line at 605-692-2113.

7. What if a customer refuses to wear a mask?

If there is an issue, businesses can call the Brookings Police Department non-emergency line to report non-compliance. Customers who have medical requirements that do not allow them to wear masks can simply state so and no verification should be required. If there appears to be unwarranted use of this exemption, the City will likely review, but we hope people will be honest in use of this exemption. Businesses can reserve the right to refuse service. If social distancing is available and observed by everyone, the business may choose to recognize this circumstance and masks are not required in this instance.

8. Do I have to provide masks to customers?

Businesses are not required to provide masks for customers, but it is encouraged. Individuals are responsible for acquiring and providing their own face covering. The City of Brookings has face coverings available for residents who do not have one.

9. Do I have to post signage stating that masks are required?

Businesses are not required to post signage stating that masks are required, however, it is encouraged.

10. How do I report people who are not following the ordinance?

To report a violation or concern, contact the Brookings Police Department Non-Emergency Line: 605-692-6323

11. What happens if I get “caught” not following the ordinance?

The goal of the ordinance is to provide safety and well-being for all community members through clear communication and education. Individuals who are not following the ordinance may face a fine for non-compliance.

12. If I maintain 6’ between my coworkers and myself, do we have to wear masks?

If social distancing of 6’ or more is being practiced in an indoor space (or waiting in line to enter an indoor space), masks are not required. The wearing of face coverings is, however, highly encouraged.

13. Is the mandate enforceable at private events within a business or after hours?

Buildings or businesses that are zoned commercial or considered a commercial space must adhere to the mandate at all times.

14. What is a City-sanctioned event?

A City-sanctioned event is any event that requires a permit from the City of Brookings to happen. An example of this would be an event that requires a street closure, like a parade.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Can I bring my dog to City parks?

Your dog is welcome in City parks; however, by city ordinance, the dog must be controlled on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after your dog. Dogs may not be left unattended in a park or recreation area, such as tied to a picnic table or tree.

2. Can I reserve a picnic shelter at Hillcrest Park?

Call the Parks and Recreation office at (605) 692-2708 for reservations beginning January of each year.

3. The weather is bad; is my recreation activity canceled for today?

Call the Park and Recreation office at 605-692-2708 or become a fan on Facebook for the latest updates on activities. Generally speaking, activities are not made-up after a weather cancellation.

If school is cancelled or not in session, all youth activities sponsored by the Recreation Department are also cancelled for that day.

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Street

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1. Who do I contact about a street light not working?

Please report the street light online at Brookings Municipal Utilities or call (605) 692-6325.

2. Who do I contact about boulevard trees?

Please contact the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department at (605) 692-2708.

3. How do I find out if there is a snow removal parking ban or if the city will be fog spraying for mosquitoes?

Call the hotline at (605) 696-7669.

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What to Do With Paint

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1. I have left-over/old paint. How should I dispose of it?

Paint should be dried out (do not throw away wet paint) and disposed of with your garbage. 

2. What is the best way to dry out paint before disposal?

- The paint can be put on cardboard to dry. Once dried dispose of the cardboard.

- Use kitty litter or floor dry

- Use paint hardener (available at local hardware supply stores)

3. I would prefer to donate the paint for re-use. Where can I do so?

- New/Full/Unused paint may be donated to The Brookings Habitat Restore

- Ask neighbors, friends, family members etc. if they have a use for the paint.