News Release - August 2, 2023: Alcohol in Parks Pilot Program.
To report a possible conduct violation in a City park, you can submit a service request online at www.toronto.ca/311, or call 311.
Bylaw enforcement officers do not respond to complaints regarding loud parties, underage drinking, disorderly behaviour, or criminal matters; these issues are handled by Toronto Police. Their primary role in the parks is to assist in deterring and mitigating such activities.
Examples of violations are:
- Climbing buildings, structures (except those designed for climbing).
- Causing damage to the park or its structures.
- Use of washroom/change room of opposite sex.
- Inappropriate behaviour:
- Using abusive language.
- Throwing objects that may damage property.
- Loitering, spying, accosting, frightening, annoying, or otherwise disturbing other persons.
- Creating a nuisance or interfering with the use and enjoyment of the park by others.
- Engaging in any form of sexual behavior or nudity.
- Possession of open container of any alcohol/ liquor, unless in a designated area, authorized by permit and with the approval of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
- Consume, serve or sell liquor unless in a designated area, authorized by permit and with the approval of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
- The use of a metal detector on any turf or grassy area, or to dig and remove any vegetation. Note, however that the use of a metal detector on a beach or any other area covered with sand for the purpose of digging for lost treasures is permitted.
- Archery (except Taylor Creek near Science Centre)
- Smoking (including cannabis) within the boundaries of certain amenities or in a smoking prohibited area:
- Smoke within the boundaries of and a nine-meter radius surrounding the following amenities or areas in a park: Sports field, playground safety surface or playground equipment, wading pool basin or splash pad safety zone, skateboard or BMX park, ski hill, outdoor swimming pool or deck, covered picnic shelter or gazebo, outdoor theatre space, public washroom
- While in a park no person shall smoke within any zoo or farm area, on a swimming beach, in a service line or waiting area.
Bylaw officers do not respond to the following matters, these are handled by Toronto Police Services.
- Be in possession of or use a firearm, air gun, cross bow, bow and arrow, axe, paint guns or offensive weapon of any kind unless authorized by permit. Note: bows and arrows may be used in designated areas in accordance with posted conditions.
- Riotous, boisterous, violent, threatening, or illegal conduct.
- Cast, throw or in any way propel any object in a manner that may or does endanger or cause injury or damage to a person or property.
