Parks and Reserves Bylaw 2025- Closed

This consultation will be open from the 17 October to the 18th November.

Key areas that this draft bylaw addresses:

• Coming and going. Please use the proper entrances and exits. Don’t sneak into closed-off areas or events and if there’s an entry fee or permission needed, make sure that’s sorted first.

• Events and gatherings. Thinking of hosting an event or get-together? You’ll need to book space in a Park or Reserve through Council's online booking system on the CODC website.

• Facilities and vehicles. Planning to play organised sport? You’ll need the Council’s okay. Stick to the marked parking spots, follow the signs, and keep to the speed limits. Council and emergency vehicles are the exception.

• Behaviour. Be kind and considerate to others. Avoid causing a fuss, and don’t light fires, set off fireworks, or drink alcohol unless you’ve got the proper licence. You’ll also need permission to put up any temporary structures.

• Animals and litter. Keep your dog on a lead unless you’re in a designated off-lead area. Other animals should be under control, so they don’t cause any issues.

• Commercial activities and parking. If you’re planning to run a business activity or put up signs or notices, you’ll need written permission from the Council and there’ll be some rules to follow. Unauthorised parking on Reserves for vehicles/caravans/boats and trailers is prohibited.

• Looking after the environment. Please don’t remove, damage, or add any plants, soil, or water features without the Council’s go-ahead. Let’s all do our bit to protect nature.

• Drones and aircraft. Stick to the Civil Aviation Authority rules when flying drones, and follow any Council restrictions too. If you want to land an aircraft or parachute into a park, you'll need written permission unless it's an emergency.

• Camping. Camping (including freedom camping) is not permitted on any Park or Reserve unless it's designated for camping by Council.

• Permission and enforcement. The Council can approve, decline, or cancel permissions. If you break the rules, you might be asked to leave and could face additional legal consequences.

To provide feedback, please visit our website: Draft Parks and Reserves Bylaw 2025 | Let’s Talk Central Otago Hard copy of feedback form: Hard Copy - Survey