Rules and Regulations in Algonquin Park

Rules and regulations in provincial parks are intended to ensure the safety of park visitors, protect the park and its resources, and ensure our park visitors have an enjoyable stay. When in doubt, ask a Park Warden.

The following are some (not a complete list) of the more common laws enforced in provincial parks:

  • Permits are required for all visits to a park.
  • Campsites must be vacated by 2:00 pm on the permit expiry date.
  • No more than six people are permitted on a campground site unless they make up a single-family group of parents and children.
  • A maximum of three pieces of shelter equipment are permitted on a site.
  • Campsites must be kept clean and free of attractants for wildlife (e.g., bears, wolves, raccoons, etc.) at all times.
  • Alcohol is restricted to a registered campsite only, and is prohibited in all public areas including beaches and roadways.
  • Fireworks are prohibited.
  • Firearms are prohibited. The definition of a "firearm" includes a rifle, shotgun, air gun, pellet gun, paint ball gun, slingshot, bow or crossbow. The fine for unlawfully possessing a firearm in a Provincial Park is $240.00 and your firearm will be seized.
  • In campgrounds, removal or collection of live or dead wood is prohibited.
  • Pets must be kept under control at all times, and on a leash not longer than two metres. No pets in swimming areas or on beaches. You must clean up after your pet. Dogs should not be left alone on campsites to bark and disturb other campers. Dog-free areas are designated at Achray, Canisbay Lake, Mew Lake, and Pog Lake campgrounds (see campground maps for details). Pets are not allowed in yurts or on campsites with yurts, in ranger cabins, on the Mizzy Lake Trail, and in public buildings.
  • Rowdy behaviour, excessive noise, and obscene language is not tolerated at any time of day or night and may result in charges being laid and eviction.
  • Rules of the road (speed limits, seatbelts, Stop signs, etc.) apply in Algonquin. All roadways, including those in campgrounds, fall under the Highway Traffic Act which is enforced by Park Wardens.

Additional Backcountry Regulations

As well as many of the rules and regulations listed above, special rules and regulations apply to campers in the Park's backcountry:

  • Cans and bottles are prohibited.
  • No more than nine persons may occupy a backcountry campsite until 2:00 pm on the permit expiry date.
  • Follow the route specified on your permit.
  • Camp only on designated backcountry campsites (marked by an orange sign).
  • Roads not shown on the Canoe Routes of Algonquin Provincial Park map-brochure are closed to unauthorized travel. A Park permit is not authorization to travel on a closed road.
  • Motor restrictions apply in Algonquin.

Attention Anglers

Some of rules and regulations which apply to fishing in Algonquin Park include: (Refer to the "Recreation Fishing Regulations Summary" for more details and information)

  • Most Canadian residents need a licence to fish in Ontario (if at least 18 years of age but not 65).
  • All non-residents (age 18 years and older) require a licence to fish in Ontario.
  • Licence holders must carry their licence at all times when angling and show it upon request to an officer.
  • Fish should be packaged individually in clear plastic. A large patch of skin should be left on all fish fillets for identification purposes.
  • Possession or use of live baitfish are prohibited in Algonquin Park. Crayfish are classified as baitfish.
  • Fishing is prohibited within 100 metres of any dam in Algonquin Park.

 

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Special regulations for Algonquin's special fishery.