The Parks By-law survey will be open from June 17 to July 3
Niagara-on-the-Lake prides itself on its exquisite, well-kept parks and green spaces, and encourages the use and enjoyment of the beautiful tree canopies, variety of park amenities, and breathtaking waterfront views these spaces offer.
The use of the Town's park spaces is regulated by federal, provincial, and municipal laws. On March 22, 2021, Town Council approved a Parks By-law (By-law 5306-21) to assist in regulating the use of municipal parks and green spaces, to establish rules for the shared public use and enjoyment of such spaces, and to aid in the protection of the natural environment. In May 2021, Council approved Parks By-law 5306A-21, as amended, to allow for the use of propane barbeques in Centennial Park, St. David’s Lions Park, and Memorial Park.
After one year of Parks By-law 5306-21 being in place, the Town is now seeking public feedback through a survey to see how the Parks By-law has impacted park experiences and determine if By-law amendments are recommended.
The Parks By-law sets hours of operation for each park and prohibits activities such as barbecuing, lighting, building or stoking campfires or bonfires, setting off fireworks, consuming alcohol, erecting tents, amplifying sound, taking domesticated animals off-leash, using motorized vehicles and parking (except in designated parking areas), damaging property, using a metal detector, feeding wildlife, and more. Some of the previously listed activities are permissible by way of a permit. Click here for more information and to review answers to frequently asked questions related to the Parks By-law.
“The Town is reaching out this spring for public feedback regarding the Parks By-law as we are heading into another busy season where Town parks are used more frequently,” stated Lord Mayor Betty Disero. “Regulating various activities in these spaces is important, while also keeping them enjoyable for residents and visitors that love to spend time in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Council looks forward to reviewing the results of the survey.”
“Town Staff is encouraging feedback from residents about the Parks By-law that was implemented last summer,” stated CAO Marnie Cluckie. “The By-law intends to keep our parks and green spaces welcoming for everyone, and we hope that by gaining feedback through a survey, Town Staff will be able to analyze the results to please the majority of residents and maintain park safety.”
The Parks By-law survey is now open and will close on July 3. To take the survey and learn more about the Parks By-law, please visit http://www.jointheconversationnotl.org/parks-by-law.
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Media contact:
Marah Minor, Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com