SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Warren Shoberg's yard in Sioux Falls might be illegal, but the city believes it's still worthy of an award.

Mayor Mike Huether this week presented Shoberg with a Beautiful Excellence Award for his front yard foliage. The mayor hands out the award every so often to recognize efforts by property owners to beautify the community.

The Argus Leader reports the problem is that Shoberg's landscaping violates a city rule that allows only sod on boulevards, or the area between sidewalks and roadways.

City spokeswoman Heather Hitterdal says a nonprofit citizens group — not the mayor — selects the award winners.

City Councilman Greg Jamison says the incident illustrates the need to update the city's boulevard rules. He plans to propose changes to the ordinance.

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