Using our parks
When using our parks, it is important that certain rules are followed to ensure they remain safe and clean for everyone to enjoy.
We try to make sure everyone can enjoy our parks and open spaces safely. To do this we have a number of bylaws, policies and guides in place. We encourage people to enjoy our parks as fully as possible, however there are circumstances where without the correct permissions, you may have to abandon your activity or be prevented from continuing if the activity is already underway.
Outdoor gyms at our parks
We have outdoor gyms in 36 of our parks and open spaces which are free to use and suitable for all fitness levels. We've invested in this equipment to help support everybody to increase their physical activity levels at a local environment. Find out what equipment is available at your local park and see our workout plans to help you get started, using the link below:
Scattering ashes
When someone dies you might want to scatter their ashes locally. Ashes can be scattered at any of our parks, as well as along a stretch of the River Soar near to the National Space Centre.
You must pay a fee and complete a service request form if you would like to scatter ashes in a park. Full details are available in the attachments at the bottom of the page.
Picnics, barbeques and events
We do not require any notification as long as the following applies:
- Fewer than 50 people are attending, and/or the event is not advertised to the general public (some flexibility on the max figure could be granted).
- No cooking on site
- No barbeques allowed on any Leicester City Council parks or green spaces, except for the designated BBQ area at Bede Park.
- No charity collections/advertising/distribution of printed material.
- No playing of music, amplified sound, or any form of regulated entertainment as defined in the Licensing Act 2003.
- No infrastructure including tents, marquees, or inflatables.
- No vehicles on the park.
Please ensure that all litter is cleared. Note that if any of the above apply, an application will be required.
Feeding ducks and swans
Feeding ducks, geese and swans is permitted on our waterside parks providing that people:
- As much as possible let them find their own food.
- Feed them small amounts.
- Feed them suitable bird food.
- Do not feed them bread or cooked food of any sort.
- Do not feed them in the car parks.
Advice on safely feeding birds is available in the leaflet at the bottom of the page.
Dog control orders in public spaces
We aim to promote responsible dog ownership and reduce complaints for dog issues such as dog fouling. This allows the public and especially children access to dog-free or dog-controlled areas, intended for recreational purposes to improve health and well-being, making Leicester a safe and enjoyable place to live. We intend to reduce and tackle issues relating to dogs running loose and causing a nuisance to others, and also to reduce the potential health implications associated with dog faeces.
A Public Spaces Protection Order for dog control was implemented city-wide on 1 December 2016. A fixed penalty notice of £100 is applicable and applies to irresponsible dog ownership. Full details of the dog control orders that apply can be found on our Dog control page.
Drone policy and application form
We have introduced a drone usage policy in response to an upsurge in public request and usage occurrences on council land including parks and public open spaces. See our drone policy and application form below.
Blimps, balloon and advertising aids
We have a zero tolerance/permissions policy for hosting marketing blimps, balloons or advertising aids of this type on our property or land. This policy includes non-rigid airships, tethered balloons, dirigibles and similar inflatable airborne craft. To find out more information, please see our policy document 'Blimps, balloons and advertising aids policy' attached below.
Contact us
Ring us on: 0116 454 1003
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