Flathead County Parks have operated under the same laws since 2012. However, following the second reading of updated ordinances on June 6, 2024, significant changes are set to take effect in early July. These updates are essential to enhance safety and ensure an amiable environment within our county parks.
One of the most notable changes is the adjustment to park hours. In response to a rise in overnight vandalism over the past several years, the new ordinance limits park access to daylight hours only. This change aims to reduce the costly and destructive incidents that have plagued the Parks Department during nighttime.
Additionally, the updated ordinances clarify the requirement for pets to be on a physical leash at all times. While remote and leashless collars have grown in popularity, Parks and Recreation emphasizes that these devices are not adequate substitutes for physical leashes. This measure ensures better control and safety for both pets and park-goers.
Another significant change is the prohibition of glass bottles on park property and the purposeful breaking of glass. Broken glass poses a serious injury risk and is notoriously difficult to clean up. This risk is particularly heightened in waterfront parks, where shattered glass can be concealed in shallow water, posing a hidden danger to visitors.
For a complete overview of the new ordinances, please visit our Parks and Recreation County website at https://flathead.mt.gov/department-directory/parks-and-recreation under Available Downloads at the bottom of the page. These changes are designed to improve the safety and enjoyment of Flathead County Parks for all visitors.
Abbreviated List of Park Ordinance No. 4 Updates
$85 fine - ALL county recreation facilities hours for use are from sunrise to sunset.
$50 fine - Unlawful to smoke, use or sell marijuana in all Parks and Rec facilities.
$125 fine - No person shall permit a pet animal to run at large in a designated public recreation area, but must restrain all pet animals and keep them under control and on a PHYSICAL leash.
$85 fine - Have in your possession any glass beverage container. Throw or break any glass object.
$200 fine, possibly be expelled from all parks and additional sheriff’s penalties - Disorderly conduct such as drunkenness, use of vile or profane language, fighting, indecent exposure or operation of a motor vehicle in a manner as to create a nuisance or annoyance to others. Loud or noisy behavior during the hours of darkness.
$85 fine - Discharging any firework, firearm, air or gas weapon (including paintball guns), or arrow from a bow on or over land or water.
$85 fine - Camp overnight in a County Rec area without prior approval from Parks Director or his agent.
$85 fine - Destroying, defacing, injure, remove or damage any natural or improved property. Willingly or negligently cut, destroy or mutilate any tree, shrub or plant.