Parks open alcohol drinking through October under pilot program
The city is continuing summer alcohol-in-parks permission at nine locations. Signs mark boundaries; playgrounds and sports areas remain dry.
Ottawa residents can bring a beer or glass of wine to nine parks across the city this summer, as the city expands its alcohol-in-parks pilot program from June 1 to October 31.
The participating parks are: Minto Park (Lewis St.), McNabb Park (Percy St.), Queenswood Ridge Park (Kennedy Ln. E.), Brewer Park (Brewer Way), Heirloom Orchard at Lansdowne Park (Queen Elizabeth Dr.), Primrose Park (Primrose Ave.), Champlain Park (Carleton Ave.), Strathcona Park (Range Rd.), and Riverain Park (North River Rd.).
Drinking is permitted between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. Signs will be posted to identify alcohol-free zones within each park: playgrounds, wading pools, splash pads, beaches, sports fields and diamonds, courts, skateboard parks, and parking lots.
The city notes that empties can be returned for deposit refunds at any Beer Store retailer. The pilot, approved by council in 2025, aims to collect data on how the policy affects park use and public safety.
The change aligns with Ontario's recent move to relax alcohol rules. Earlier this year, the Doug Ford government amended regulations to allow drinking almost anywhere in provincial parks, except near playgrounds and sports areas. A spokesperson said the change was "intended to improve the overall park experience, support local tourism, while continuing to prioritize safety."