Maple Ridge, B.C., July 31, 2026 – In time for the BC Day long weekend, the City of Maple Ridge is reminding residents to plan ahead before heading to local parks, lakes and trails to avoid traffic and parking issues.
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.
Plan ahead before heading out
- 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.
Park only in designated areas
- Parking is only permitted in designated areas at City lakes, parks and green spaces.
- Vehicles parked illegally or blocking access points, including emergency services lanes or driveways, may be ticketed and/or towed at the owner's expense.
- Traffic complaints around popular parks have increased - follow all parking regulations.
Pack out what you pack in
- 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.
Keep pets leashed
- Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.
Use facilities responsibly
- Clean up after yourself when using park facilities like picnic tables and barbecues.
Water safety
- 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.
Noise levels
- Keep noise to a minimum to respect other park visitors and the natural environment.
Be fire smart
- 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 CSA- or ULC-rated propane or gas appliances only in designated picnic areas, where permitted.
Respect private property boundaries
- Do not trespass on private property along riverbanks or elsewhere in and around parks.
- Stay within designated park boundaries and respect any posted signage.
Stay Informed: Whonnock Lake Parking Notifications Now Available
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. Visitors are reminded to consider alternate transportation, follow posted signage, and respect park rules.
Please report any park maintenance concerns to MapleRidge.ca/Report or compliance issues to Bylaws@MapleRidge.ca. For more information, visit MapleRidge.ca/Parks.
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For additional information, contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca