NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF BARRIE
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As of Saturday, July 25, barbecues and tents will be temporarily banned at all City of Barrie waterfront parks, beaches and trails.
The Emergency Order will be amended to reflect this change for the duration of the current situation.
This includes, but is not limited to, the following areas:
- Centennial Park and Beach
- Dock Road Park
- Heritage Park
- Johnson's Beach
- Minet's Point Park and Beach
- North Shore Trail
- The Gables Park
- Tyndale Park & Beach
- Waterfront Heritage Trail
- Wilkins Park and Trail area
Barbecues and tents are not permitted anywhere on the beach, trails or in the park areas at the above locations.
The City has put this temporary measure into effect to help address concerns of overcrowding and support beach patron turnover by encouraging shorter visits.
Barbecues and tents are creating groups of more than 10 people congregating at times, which is not in line with the provincial guidelines for distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Picnic tables will also be anchored in place at these locations in an attempt to discourage large groups of people from congregating. In addition, tents are obstructing the views of the waterfront thereby making it difficult for the lifeguards and parents to ensure the safety of all swimmers.
A barbecue is defined as any propane (gas-fuelled), charcoal or electric cooking appliance. Campfires are prohibited at all Barrie parks, beaches and trails at all times.
A tent is defined as a shelter with a covered roof and/or walls. Umbrellas or shades supported by a single pole are still permitted for sun protection use.
There are future plans to install community-use barbecue pits at some City waterfront park areas, but these plans are on hold during the COVID pandemic.
For more information on Barrie beaches and parks, visit barrie.ca/beaches and barrie.ca/parks.
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