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Council approved an updated Parks By-law that will ensure more safety and greater clarity for park users and the City’s enforcement staff. The by-law is effective immediately.

“As Mississauga continues to grow and evolve, updates to the Parks By-law are necessary for the City to effectively continue administering and enforcing all park related activities and programs,” said Jodi Robillos, Director, Parks, Forestry and Environment. “This also ensures that all park users are clearly made aware and understand what is and isn’t allowed in our parks. More importantly, it brings more safety measures for the public so that our parks can continue to be used and enjoyed by everyone.”

Some of the key highlights with the updated Parks By-law are as follows:

• Children under 12 years of age are not allowed to enter Leash-Free      Zones.
• Commercial dog walkers with an approved      permit can use Leash-Free Zones Monday to Friday between the hours of 9      a.m. to 4 p.m. only.
• Smoking regulations aligned      with the Region of Peel’s No Smoking or Vaping By-law which prohibits smoking      and vaping in public outdoor spaces.
• Park opening hours to change to      dawn from 7 a.m. (closure still remains at 11 p.m.) to better reflect user      needs.
• A Park Vendor section created for clarity around food/refreshment vehicles or carts, and portable display units that operate in parks – with reference to Mobile Licensing processes that are required.
• Designated busking areas to be identified through the City’s SaugaBusks program.
• A section that deals with kite flying to address requests and emerging trends.
• Commercial activities section for goods and services provided by third parties in parks, including commercial photography, fitness/instructional classes and park vendors.
• Clarity around fishing in parks.
• Allowing for different modes of transportation that can be used in park and trail systems.
• Providing clear prohibition of the use of profane/abusive language, including hate speech during gatherings and events within parks.
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In reviewing and updating the by-law, staff from various business units were involved, including: Parks, Forestry and Environment; Enforcement; Corporate Security; Legal Services; Recreation; Animal Services; and Mobile Licensing. The City also consulted with residents, Leash-Free Mississauga and commercial dog walkers for regulations that relate to Leash-Free Zones.

To learn more about these changes, view the updated Parks By-law.