There’s a busy long weekend ahead, and the City of Maple Ridge has some tips for residents visiting natural places to ensure it’s a memorable one.
Maple Ridge parks are some of the most loved spaces in the community. They are places to swim, hike, gather, play, picnic, connect with nature and spend time with family and friends. With more people using parks during the summer, the city is reminding everyone that small actions can make a big difference in keeping these shared spaces safe, clean and welcoming.
City Bylaw, Fire and Parks staff will continue to be out around the community and enforce regulations to help ensure that local parks and trails are safe, clean, and free of fire risks.
Many local parks and lakes are popular summer destinations. Parking is limited and spaces may fill up quickly during peak times. Consider carpooling, walking, cycling, or using transit where possible. Be prepared with an alternate destination in case your preferred location is full. Parking is only permitted in designated areas. Vehicles parked illegally or blocking access points, including emergency services lanes or driveways, may be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense.
Traffic complaints around popular parks have increased – follow all parking regulations, says the city.
Use designated bins for disposing of all litter to reduce attractants for wildlife. If bins are full, take your trash home and dispose of it there. Clean up after yourself.
Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.
Swim only in designated areas and follow all posted safety signs. Use caution around rivers and lakes, where changing water conditions can create serious risks. Keep children and pets close at all times. Wear properly fitted life jackets or personal floatation devices if boating or paddle boarding.
No smoking is permitted in city parks or on trails.
Category 1, 2 and 3 fire bans remain in effect. Campfires and briquette BBQs are not permitted in city parks. For outdoor cooking, use approved propane or gas appliances only in designated picnic areas, where permitted.
Whonnock Lake is one of the city’s most popular summer destinations and frequently reaches capacity on hot days. To help reduce congestion, visitors can now sign up to receive notifications when the parking lot is full at MapleRidge.ca/Alert.
Please report any park maintenance concerns to MapleRidge.ca/Report or compliance issues to Bylaws@MapleRidge.ca. For more information, visit MapleRidge.ca/Parks.