Visitor guidelines

There are a number of outdoor activities that require a permit. Check with The Forks prior to engaging in non-traditional, unusual or commercial activities.

Consuming alcohol is not permitted at The Forks National Historic Site.

Boats may not moor at the wharf at The Forks National Historic Site without a permit.

Cannabis is legalized and strictly regulated in Canada. It is your responsibility to understand federal, provincial, and municipal regulations for cannabis use.

Commercial filming activities have special considerations. All commercial activity is subject to licencing or permits. Contact Parks Canada for details on whether your activity requires a permit.

All Parks Canada places are ‘no drone zones’ for recreational use. If you do not possess a permit or special permission to fly your drone in a Parks Canada place, please leave your drone at home. Learn more about our drone usage rules.

Use of, selling, or purchasing fireworks, or any other type of explosive, is not permitted within a national historic site.

Fishing is not permitted at The Forks National Historic Site.

Never litter.

Good times in the great outdoors are safer and more rewarding when you Leave No Trace of your visit. A good rule of thumb is to leave “no trace on the place” and “no trace on others’ space”.

It is illegal to collect plants, mushrooms, berries, animals, animal parts (including antlers), fossils, driftwood, rocks, signs, or any other historic or natural object. If you believe you have found something significant, leave the item in place and report your finding to the nearest Parks Canada office. Please leave these natural items for others to enjoy.

Please park only in designated areas and areas where you do not pose a risk to others. If a parking lot is full, find the next closest lot and walk to your destination.

• At all times, pets must be kept on a leash or in suitable confinement.
• Don’t leave your pet unattended in a vehicle or anywhere else during your visit to The Forks. Wildlife, weather, and an unfamiliar environment can be scary or dangerous for your pet.
• Don’t allow your pet to chase any wild animal - it’s illegal and dangerous.
• Remember to clean up after your pet.
• Service animals are welcome, in the company of their handlers. Please keep service animals on a leash or harness during your visit to The Forks.

Be aware of provincial smoking and vaping regulations regarding distances from buildings, playgrounds, and other facilities. Cannabis is legalized and strictly regulated in Canada. It is your responsibility to understand federal, provincial, and municipal regulations for cannabis use.

• You are not allowed to entice, pet or attempt to pet, harass, or feed wild animals at national historic sites.
• Be respectful when photographing wildlife. Animal behaviour is unpredictable.