1. Parks, Recreation & Attractions
  2. Parks
  3. Park Etiquette

Park Etiquette

cyclist in a park

River Safety Warning

The City of Saskatoon is advising residents to stay away from the South Saskatchewan River due to unusually high river flow rates creating hazardous conditions.

Residents are strongly warned against all recreational activities on the river, including boating, paddling, swimming, floating, fishing from the shoreline and other water-based activities. The public is also advised to avoid approaching the river's edge, as fast-moving water, unstable banks and submerged hazards can create dangerous situations.

Pet owners are urged to keep their animals away from the river and riverbanks. Even well-behaved pets can be swept away by strong currents or encounter unstable shoreline conditions. Residents should keep pets leashed and avoid allowing them access to the water's edge.

The City will continue to closely monitor river conditions and flow rates. Updates and additional information will be posted on the City of Saskatoon Service Alerts webpage: saskatoon.ca/servicealerts 

Park rules and regulations are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all users. Please follow them each time you visit.

  • All Saskatoon parks are open from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight, with the exception of riverbank parks, which are open 24 hours daily. 
  • Follow the rules posted on signs.
  • Use the waste and recycling bins provided. Clean up after yourself and leave the area as clean as you found it.
  • Dogs must be kept on leashes unless in a designated Dog Park. Always pick up after your dog.
  • If you use a BBQ, completely extinguish coals before leaving. Do not dump them as it is a fire and safety hazard.
  • Stay to the right on trails, pass on the left and remember that pedestrians always have the right-of-way.
  • Cyclists on trails follow the same rules: keep to the right, pass pedestrians on the left, use a warning bell and travel at a safe speed.
  • If parking lot(s) are full, be considerate when parking on nearby streets and obey streets signs and park in designated areas only. Do not park on the grass.
  • The Smoking Control Bylaw (Bylaw No. 8286) prohibits smoking or vaping in outdoor public places owned or operated by the City.  This includes parks and trails, playgrounds, sports fields, spray pads, outdoor paddling pools, skateboard sites, golf courses, tennis courts, dog parks, public squares and areas around civic buildings. For more information, visit Smoke-Free Outdoor Public Places.   
  • During periods of run off from spring melt or heavy rain, keep away from park areas and trails where temporary water accumulation has occurred. 
  • Refrain from using fields when they are wet and soft, as turf can take a lot of time and resources to rehabilitate once damaged.
  • Some of the City's storm water ponds may be used for recreational purposes; however, certain restrictions and conditions are in place to ensure the health and safety of the public. For more information, visit Recreational Use of Stormwater Ponds.  
  • Stay a safe distance away from Parks maintenance staff performing mowing or trimming services.
  • Camping is not permitted in Saskatoon parks.
  • DO NOT feed the wildlife and maintain a respectful distance. Visit Wildlife Management to learn more about coexisting with urban wildlife.
  • The use of metal detectors in parks is permitted for surface detection only. No digging is allowed on park property as the holes can cause severe injury to park users. 
  • In order to protect park space for the enjoyment of all users, a permit is required to access private property from a City park. For more information, visit Park Access Permits.
  • DO NOT change the landscape in any way that disturbs the parks (e.g., pruning, planting, mowing)
  • DO NOT create obstacles in the parks (e.g., bike jumps, tree forts)
  • If you come across a needle, please visit Needles &Sharps for information on how to dispose of needles safely.