FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 30, 2017

MEDIA CONTACT: KIRA CALM LEWIS 301-446-3327; Kira.CalmLewis@pgparks.com – or –

VERONICA MARSHALL 301-446-3313; Veronica.Marshall@pgparks.com

Riverdale, MD – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) issues updated Park Rules and Regulations effective, July 1, 2017.  Copies of the new rules and regulations are posted for public review at every M-NCPPC park and facility.  The new rules and regulations are available online for review or download in English and Spanish.

The Rules and Regulations, last revised in March 2001, were updated to reflect today’s use of the parks, facilities, and amenities. Additionally, Park Directives will enable the Director of Parks and Recreation to supplement the existing rules with more detailed guidance for parks users.

The updates to the Park Rules and Regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:

•    Permission to bicycle on paved trails for extended hours (5:00 a.m. – midnight)

•    Permission to bicycle on all official paved and natural surface trails, unless otherwise posted

•    Permission to fish in all park locations with a state fishing license, except where signs prohibiting such activity are posted

•    Requirement for a permit for sports gatherings and other assemblies of more than 35 people

•    Prohibition of smoking and vaping in parks

•    Prohibition on the use of drones and certain other aerial devices on park property, except as authorized by permit or in designated areas.

Updates to the Park Rules and Regulations were presented to the public at several community meetings and to the Planning Board on January 19, 2017, in advance of their approval.

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is celebrating 90 years of excellence, since 1927! The Department of Parks and Recreation delivers an award winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County.

For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube, and Instagram. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs and services.