Yukon unveils new regulations for territory’s parks

New regulations have launched to improve experiences in Yukon parks.

The new rules, under the Parks and Land Certainty Act, took effect April 1 and are intended to address site-saving practices, out-of-control animals and noise at Yukon campgrounds.

The new regulation applies to all areas within park boundaries, including day-use areas, recreational sites and the back country in addition to campgrounds. A release issued March 28 by the Yukon government states the new regulations are “aimed at enhancing park management and improving the overall user experience.”

The new regulation strengthens the existing regulations that “address concerns about campsite occupancy” to ensure “fair access” to campgrounds.

An investigation report released in fall 2024 by the Yukon ombudsman’s office concluded that the Department of Environment’s lack of enforcement due to insufficient tracking of “site saving” is unfair. “Site saving” is described in the report as the practice of securing a “first-come, first-served” campsite a day or more before one intends to camp, which is contrary to Yukon campground regulations.

Pets and livestock must be physically controlled while using a campground, day-use area, any area within a recreation park or on or within 50 metres of a trail, according to the regulation.

“Requiring pets to be leashed not only in campgrounds and day-use areas, but also on park trails to ensure the safety of both pets and wildlife and to promote the overall enjoyment of all users,” reads the release.

As noted in the release, the new regulation addresses formalizing “quiet hours” at campgrounds from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. The regulations indicate the minister can designate an area of a campground as a “quiet camping area” by posting signs. Specific rules apply to generator use.

Polices around responsible firewood use and drone use were also formalized. Designated areas for off-road vehicles and snowmobiles were also clarified, in addition to other changes.

The Yukon government has a 2020-30 parks plan that sets long-term direction for the territorial park system. Feedback on the proposed regulations was previously solicited and is summarized in a “what we heard” report.

Prior to this update, parks regulations hadn’t been significantly updated since 1984, according to the government website.

The new parks regulations are posted online.

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