Park and Recreation Policies

The City of Vancouver maintains over 80 parks, 20+ miles of trails and two community centers. Our rules and policies are designed to make sure these important public spaces are safe and welcoming for everyone to enjoy.

Park Rules and Policies

City Parks are open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. It is unlawful to be in any park between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. of any day, unless otherwise permitted by the director (VMC 15.04.150). Contact the police non-emergency line at 311 to report unlawful park use.

• Picnic Shelter Reservation Information
• Apply for a Park Use Permit

City of Vancouver Municipal Code

The following activities are prohibited in City of Vancouver parks, trails and natural areas:

• Entering or being in a park during closed hours without prior approval (10 p.m. to 5 a.m.)
• Use of tobacco products (max fine $1,000)
• Making a fire or camping
• Conducting business (selling goods or services)
• Allowing dog off-leash to roam, stray or be away from the owner or custodian pursuant to VMC 8.24.120
• Playing amplified music
• Littering, vandalism and defacing park property (including plants)
• Possessing alcohol
• Discharging a firearm
• Operating a vehicle, including ATVs and ORVs
• Horseback riding
• Diving, jumping or horseplay in a park with water access

Additional information is available in the Vancouver Municipal Code.

Focus on Accessibility

All parks built after 1992 have been designed to meet the federal accessibility standards required by the Americans with Disabilities Act at the time of construction. Accessibility barriers at our older parks are included in the City of Vancouver’s Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan. Learn more about how Vancouver Parks and Recreation is meeting our commitment to the ADA and the community.

Please contact park maintenance at 360-487-8177 to report any problems with park facilities or accessibility.

Recreation Rules and Policies

Recreation Program Fees 

The City of Vancouver maintains a separate fee structure for residents (someone who lives within City limits) and non-residents. Non-resident fees are typically around 15% higher. Daily drop-in fees are not subject to resident vs. non-resident rates, but classes, camps, memberships, sports leagues and facility rentals are.

• Refund and Cancellation Policies
• Code of Conduct

Focus on Non-Discrimination

Vancouver Parks and Recreation complies with Washington’s Fair Play and Community Sports Act, which prohibits discrimination against any person in a community athletics program on the basis of sex. Contact us at 360-487-8311 or parksrecculture@cityofvancouver.us with any questions, comments or concerns.

We invite people of all ages with a disability to fully participate in any program we offer through Access to Recreation. Learn more about activities and events we have for people with disabilities or about requesting Inclusion Services.