Enjoying Edmonton Summer Fun Safely for You and Your Neighbours

News Release

Enjoying Edmonton Summer Fun Safely for You and Your Neighbours

It’s that time of year when Edmontonians and visitors head outdoors to enjoy lively festivals, concerts, community barbecues, patios, bike rides and water sports on the North Saskatchewan River. Edmonton has something for everyone!

Keeping residents and visitors safe as they enjoy our attractions, culinary experiences — and, of course, cheering on the Oilers — is important to our city.

With Edmonton named one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2025, the City is expecting an influx of visitors. To ensure we protect the safety and dignity of residents and visitors, and contribute to a more welcoming and accessible city for all, the City is reminding everyone to observe the following this summer:

River Safety Regulations
The North Saskatchewan River offers exciting recreational opportunities but requires users to observe a few regulations to protect their own safety and the safety of our dedicated first responders. Everyone on the river must wear an approved lifejacket or personal floatation device at all times (this does not apply to vessels exempted by and in compliance with Small Vessel Regulations – Canada). Motorized watercraft can only be launched or removed at approved locations and boaters must observe all boating regulations. Find out more about how to enjoy the river safely at edmonton.ca/riversafety.

Permitting for Large Events
Large events are a great opportunity to meet neighbours or those who have similar interests. If you are planning a special event or gathering with over 100 attendees, a permit is required to ensure your event is safe and enjoyable for everyone. This helps us coordinate logistics like traffic management and emergency services. Find out more about how to get your permit on the Festivals and Events webpage.
Planning a smaller event for your neighbourhood? The City’s Neighbourhood Resource Coordinators are available to support communities who wish to host Play Streets, Block Parties or Neighbourhood Events. They will walk you through the required permits and resources you need to build a strong, connected neighbourhood. Visit edmonton.ca/keepneighbouring for more information.

Alcohol in Entertainment Districts
Edmonton’s designated Entertainment Districts are for everyone to have fun and enjoy responsibly. To maintain a safe environment, alcoholic beverages must be purchased and consumed within the district boundaries. Please follow directions from City staff or Bylaw and Peace Officers.

Feeding Wildlife
Edmonton is filled with great outdoor spaces we enjoy and share with wildlife that know how to find their own food, so please remember not to feed them. Feeding wildlife can make them dependent on and less afraid of humans and disrupt their natural behaviours. Respect wildlife by observing them from a safe distance and not disturbing their dens, nests or eggs.

Edmonton Transit Service (ETS)
The City is committed to providing public transit service that is safe, reliable, convenient, accessible, and inclusive – for residents and visitors alike. If you’re using ETS to move around Edmonton, please have your proof of payment at all times; your paid fare helps us maintain the operation of our public transit network. The regional Arc fare payment system makes it easy to buy your fare. For fare payment options or to plan your trip, visit edmonton.ca/transit.

Scooters and E-Bikes
When more people use active travel — like bikes, e-scooters and e-bikes — Edmonton becomes a healthier and more vibrant place to live and play. To balance safety for both riders and pedestrians — especially seniors, children, and those with mobility challenges — please note that bikes, e-scooters or e-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks. Only children 16 years or under may ride bikes on the sidewalk. Find more information about the City’s Shared Micromobility Program.

Fireworks
Fireworks can be extremely dangerous and disruptive to individuals, property and the environment if not used or handled correctly. Any use of fireworks without proper permitting is illegal and subject to enforcement.
Find out more about our City’s fireworks regulations and permit requirements at edmonton.ca/Fireworks.

General Safety
Please be mindful of your surroundings and respect our shared spaces. Avoid blocking entrances, crowding walkways or riding bikes in indoor public spaces.
For everyone’s safety, if you see someone with an item or weapon that could cause harm, such as firearms, knives, pepper spray or bear spray, please call 911. Further information can be found in the Public Spaces Bylaw (Bylaw 20700).

“Our public spaces are hubs for community connection and celebration,” said Brooke Hilborn, Acting Branch Manager, Community Standards. “As the Public Spaces Bylaw comes into effect on May 12, please obey the regulations and comply if you are redirected by City staff, Peace Officers, or an Enforcement Officer. By working together, we ensure our spaces remain welcoming, safe and enjoyable for everyone, including residents and visitors.”

Let’s work together to make Edmonton a place where everyone feels welcome, respected and safe.
For more information:
edmonton.ca/publicspacesbylaw
edmonton.ca/riversafety
edmonton.ca/attractions
edmonton.ca/Fireworks
edmonton.ca/transit
edmonton.ca/entertainmentdistrict