FAQ

jump to Information for Group Organizers

Q. What happens if it rains?

A. Our parks are outdoors. All events are “rain or shine”. Refunds will not be issued due to inclement weather. It is strongly recommended that you reserve a site with a picnic shelter or arrange a tent rental (please note insurance requirements). Swimming pools will be closed in inclement weather.

Q. How early should I book?

A. TRCA will accept reservations up to a year in advance.

Q: When do I need to confirm my attendance numbers?

A. If attendance numbers have changed from the date the permit was originally booked, Visitor Services must be notified at least two (2) weeks prior to the event.

Q: When do I pay for my function?

A. The picnic site rental fee is due at the time of booking the reservation. Admission to the park for your guests can be paid in advance or day-of the event. Contact Visitor Services to discuss admission options.

Q: What do we do with our garbage?

A. Garbage bags and/or garbage containers are provided on-site. Any additional garbage should be taken to the large dumpster located throughout the park.

Q: Are barbeques permitted in the parks?

A. Yes, you are welcome to bring your own propane and coal barbeque for personal enjoyment.

Q: What is the security deposit charge?

A: A security deposit of $250.00 is required for all picnic bookings. The condition of the event site is subject to inspection and release by TRCA. If the event site is returned in acceptable condition, the security deposit will be returned to the event organizer within 5-7 business days following the event.

Q: What are the park hours?

A. All parks open at 9AM. Closing times vary throughout the season. Please check with gate staff upon arrival for closing times.

Q: How many picnic tables will I get?

A. Approximately one (1) table for every ten (10) people for every reserved site. It is the Permit Holder’s responsibility to ensure adequate seating.

Q: Where will my picnic tables be placed?

A. Picnic tables will be placed in the main area of the picnic site. Feel free to arrange the tables.

Q: Can I cancel my picnic?

A. Payment is non-refundable. Reservations may be rescheduled based on availability up to two (2) weeks prior to your event. A change fee of $20.00 will apply.

Q: Why do I have to pay admission charges when I have already paid for a site reservation?

A. Picnic site rental fees do not include admission to the park. All Visitors must pay admission at the front gate upon arrival.

Q: Is there hydro at the picnic sites?

A. Several picnic sites with shelters have hydro. Most sites do not have hydro. Inquire at time of making reservation. Hydro that is available is not adequate for large inflatables nor other larger activities that will require a generator. It is the responsibility of the Permit Holder to acquire a generator.

Q: Where do I get water for my picnic?

A. Outdoor standing pipes are available throughout the parks. Please ask staff for the location closest to your site. Please note, bathroom sinks are NOT to be used for washing dishes, drinking, etc. If large amounts of water are required to operate an activity, it is the responsibility of the Permit Holder to arrange a water truck service.

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Information for Group Organizers

TRCA has parks with various amenities available. Some parks offer flat, open and shady picnic sites. As well, some parks offer a variety of activities including aquatic facilities, fishing, hiking trails, cycling trails and playgrounds. Please contact Visitor Services if you require assistance locating a picnic site that suits your needs.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Picnic tables to accommodate your group (approximately 1 table for every 10 guests).
• Post a sign exclusively reserving your site. A representative of your group must be on your site by 9AM to ensure that other park visitors do not remove tables and/or use your site. If you are not on your site by 9AM, we cannot guarantee removal of other park visitors that have taken over your site in the assumption that you are not coming.
• Washrooms, garbage bags/containers will be on your site or within walking distance.
• Some sites have permanent shelters with BBQs. Please bring utensils to clean the grills, lighter fluid and at least 30 pounds of charcoal.

PERMIT/PICNIC SITE RENTAL FEE

Picnic site rental fee is payable at the time of booking and is non-refundable.

ADMISSION FEES

Picnic site rental fee does NOT include park admission fees. Park admission fees are noted on each park’s picnic page.

RAIN

Our parks are outdoors. All events are “rain or shine”. Refunds will not be issued due to inclement weather. It is strongly recommended that you reserve a site with a picnic shelter or arrange a tent rental (please note insurance requirements). Swimming pools will be closed in inclement weather.

BE EARLY

A representative of your group must be on your site by 9AM to ensure that other park visitors do not remove tables and/or use your site. If you are not on your site by 9AM, we cannot guarantee removal of other park visitors that have taken over your site in the assumption that you are not coming.

OUTSIDE VENDORS IN YOUR PICNIC

Entertainment Suppliers: All entertainment suppliers entering the park must have prior authorization.

Inflatable boats/rafts: Must be marked with D.O.T approval.

Inflatables: Any tent larger than 10X10 sq ft is not permitted without appropriate insurance. All inflatable structures require appropriate insurance. Please contact Visitor Services for more information.

Caterers: All caterers must meet the requirements and regulations of the municipal public health department in the city that their business is registered.

Frozen treats/Ice-cream: TRCA has an exclusive Vendor for all frozen treats/ice-cream. No other frozen treats/ice-cream Vendor is permitted in the parks. Any component of a meal offering frozen treats/ice-cream must use the exclusive Vendor. Please contact Visitor Services for more information and contact details.

Please inform Visitor Services of any vendors one (1) month prior to your event. Vendors must provide proof of $5 million liability insurance, naming Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) as Additional Insured. Visitor Services must receive the copy of insurance certificate two (2) weeks prior to your event.

*Note: Requirements must be completed by the deadlines otherwise the vendor will be refused entry to the park due to liability and safety requirements.

When you make your booking please let us know if you are thinking of such activities. We will provide you with instructions related to providing proof of adequate insurance.

Please contact Visitor Services if you are considering an outside vendor. Visitor Services will provide instructions on obtaining proof of adequate insurance.

ALCOHOL

Alcohol is not permitted for picnic reservations. All picnic sites are alcohol-free.

CHANGES IN YOUR BOOKING

Two (2) weeks notice is required for any changes and/or rescheduling. Charges will apply. Rescheduled dates must be within the calendar year. If estimated attendance changes and/or outside vendors are booked, please contact Visitor Services to adjust booking details.

CANCELLATIONS

Our parks are outdoors. All events are “rain or shine”. Refunds will not be issued due to inclement weather. It is strongly recommended that you reserve a site with a picnic shelter or arrange a tent rental (please note insurance requirements). Swimming pools will be closed in inclement weather.

PARKING

Please park in designated areas only. Do not park on roadsides and picnic sites. Roadways must be accessible at all times to emergency vehicles. Improperly parked vehicles may be ticketed and/or towed at owner’s expense.

LITTER/DAMAGE

The Permit Holder is responsible for maintaining their picnic site in a clean and undamaged condition (reasonable wear and tear excepted). The condition of the picnic site will be determined solely by the TRCA. Should the site be left in an unsuitable condition, the Permit Holder will be invoiced for cleaning and/or restoration costs.

SOUND EQUIPMENT

The use of sound systems, including microphones, must be approved by the Park Superintendent. Visitors are asked to turn down music volume when excessive noise is disturbing other guests.

For more information, date availability or to book an appointment to visit the facility, please call (416) 667-6295 or vservices@trca.ca