Photo:AP
This summer, Ottawa is launching a pilot project that allows adults (19+) to legally drink alcohol in selected city parks. The trial runs from July 1 to October 31, with the aim to assess how responsible alcohol use can work in public spaces .
Where: The 7 Designated Parks
The city has chosen seven parks for the pilot, each offering specific alcohol-friendly areas. These parks include:
Minto Park (102 Lewis Street)
McNabb Park (180 Percy Street)
Queenswood Ridge Park (346 Kennedy Lane East)
Lansdowne Park – Great Lawn (1525 Princess Patricia Way)
Riverain Park (400 North River Road)
Strathcona Park (25 Range Road)
Brewer Park (100 Brewer Way)
Look for signage marking permitted zones within these parks.
When: Daily Time Limits
Legal drinking is allowed from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day during the pilot phase. Outside these hours, alcohol is still forbidden in public parks.
Where You Cannot Drink
For safety, certain areas within these parks are off-limits for alcohol consumption. You must avoid drinking within at least 5 metres of:
Playgrounds
Wading pools and splash pads
Beaches
Rinks
Sports fields and courts
Parking lots and skate parks
Staying clear of these spaces helps ensure park users of all ages stay comfortable.
Responsible Drinking Rules
Keep the legal drinking age in mind: you must be 19 or older.
Public intoxication is still banned—stay respectful and considerate.
Empty containers should be taken home for recycling or deposit returns.
Follow municipal, provincial, and federal laws around alcohol consumption.
Purpose of the Pilot
The goal is to promote responsible, adult drinking in park settings—similar to enjoying a backyard patio, but outdoors. It recognizes that many people already enjoy moderate drinking in parks without problems.
City officials will gather community feedback and observe behaviors during the pilot. This data will guide future decisions, including possibly expanding legal drinking zones or extending the program beyond October.
Tips for Visitors
Stay within approved zones—don’t wander into prohibited areas.
Pack out your empties—leave no litter behind.
Stick to responsible amounts—one drink is fine; being loud or disruptive isn't.
Respect others—parks are shared with families and kids.
Know your limits—public intoxication can still result in fines.
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