Seasonal Reminders for Pickering’s Waterfront

The City of Pickering is reminding residents and visitors to keep the following in mind when enjoying Pickering’s waterfront spaces this summer.

Looking to avoid parking and traffic? Try our new, free waterfront shuttle service! View the shuttle schedule. 

Waterfront Parking Program

The City’s waterfront permit/paid parking program is in effect from May 1 to October 1, annually.

  • The program includes paid parking at all City waterfront parking lots, and restricted/paid parking on select waterfront-area streets.
  • Pickering residents can obtain a no-charge seasonal permit that will be valid for two years from the date of issue. This means that residents who obtained a permit in 2023 do not need to renew until 2025, and may park, at no charge, in waterfront parking lots and at waterfront area streets. 

Visit pickering.ca/WaterfrontParking for details. 
Summer By-law Enforcement 

Please be mindful of local By-laws when enjoying Pickering’s waterfront areas.

  • Summer enforcement officers are scheduled daily, including additional staffing over every weekend until October 1, 2024.
  • Regularly scheduled Parking Enforcement, By-law Enforcement, and Animal Services staff will be available each weekend. 
  • 24/7 security cameras are also available at Beachfront Park and Beachpoint Promenade.
  • Contact Customer Care with questions or concerns at 905.683.7575 or customercare@pickering.ca.
  • Access DRPS non-emergency line at 1.888.579.1520. 
Fireworks and Fireworks Safety

The current Fireworks By-law allows residents to set off fireworks on their own property throughout the Victoria Day and Canada Day weekends, including Friday through Monday.

  • Fireworks are not permitted on City property.
  • Reports of non-compliance can be made to the City’s Customer Care Centre at 905.683.7575 or DRPS non-emergency line at 1.888.579.1520. 

Open Air Burning

Pickering Fire reminds community members that open air burning is not permitted in the City of Pickering.

  • The use of chimineas, bonfires, and wood-burning appliances is prohibited.
  • Fire bowls, fire tables, and barbecues that burn propane are permitted.
  • If you witness an active open-air burn, you can report the incident to Pickering Fire’s non-emergency line at 905.433.1234 or fire@pickering.ca

Thank you for your cooperation!
Public Washrooms and Waste Collection
  • All City outdoor washroom buildings are open (8 am to 9 pm), and porta-pottys are in place with servicing Mondays and Fridays.
  • Linton House (on Montgomery Park Road) and Beachfront Park washrooms are open from 9 am to 10 pm, and all other park washrooms are open from 9 am to 10 pm.
  • Additional weekend staff are scheduled to assist with litter picking and garbage collection, with extra support for long-weekends. 
  • Contact Customer Care for questions or concerns at 905.683.7575 or customercare@pickering.ca.

Together we are keeping Pickering’s waterfront areas safe and clean for all to enjoy.  

Fishing Line Receptacles

Improperly disposed of fishing lines pose a major safety risk to wildlife, people, and property.

The City has fishing line receptacles installed along Pickering’s waterfront to help ensure that all fishing lines can be properly disposed of, and that the area is kept safe for all.  

Visit pickering.ca/fishing to learn more about the receptacles and proper fishing etiquette. 

The City of Pickering is committed to preserving the unique character of its waterfront, and most recently has announced its efforts to pursue opportunities to buy the bay and return the treasured asset back into public ownership. Read more about Protecting Frenchman's Bay.

Frenchman's Bay

Frenchman's Bay is one of a series of large coastal wetlands along the north shore of Lake Ontario, home to a diversity of vegetation communities and labelled an Environmentally Significant Area by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. Visit the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail website to view waterfront trail maps.

Water Safety

Please note the signage and safety equipment along the waterfront. There is no lifeguard supervision at any of Pickering’s beaches, bays, rivers, or creeks so always be alert and cautious when near the water. The water can be dangerous at times, so be aware of weather conditions, waves, uneven bottom conditions, and objects in the water. Children require direct adult supervision around the water at all times and should not enter the water alone.

View water safety information.

The Durham Region Weekly Beach Report provides information on water safety and beach conditions as monitored by the Region of Durham.

Visit the Pickering Auxiliary Rescue Association for water safety tips and other information.

Every person who operates a motorized boat in Canada must obtain proof of competency.  Visit the Transport Canada website for information about marine safety.

Red Cross Safety Tips: Lifejackets and PFDs

Muskoka Chair Project

To celebrate Durham Region's 50th anniversary, The City of Pickering had artist Jacob Headley paint a set of Muskoka Chairs to accompany the set donated by the region. You can check out this installation at Rotary Frenchman's Bay West Park. 

Muskoka Chairs

A Message from Jacob Headley

"For the Muskoka chair painting project celebrating Durham’s 50th anniversary, I aimed to create a vibrant, inclusive piece that reflects the rich diversity and iconic landmarks of Durham and Pickering. The design showcases various elements that highlight the community's spirit and natural beauty.

 

The chair's backrest features a cyclist against the backdrop one of our iconic lighthouses, symbolizing the active lifestyle and picturesque scenery that Durham offers. Other figures include people engaged in leisure activities attempting to capture the community's relaxed, welcoming nature.

 

The armrests and seat are adorned with local wildlife, including a colourful fish, goose and raccoon, representing the region's rich biodiversity. The inclusion of a diverse range of people throughout the design emphasizes the multicultural fabric of our community. The use of bold, vibrant colours and dynamic lines aims to convey the energy and vitality of Durham.

 

Central to the seat is the “Durham 50” emblem, paying homage to the milestone anniversary. The integration of landmarks and local fauna aims to foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents and visitors alike.

 

Painting this chair live at Art Fest was an incredible experience, allowing me to engage with the community and share the creative process. The interactive aspect of the event provided a platform to discuss the significance of each element in the design, making the artwork a collaborative celebration of Durham’s heritage.

 

I hope this chair serves as a lasting tribute to our vibrant community and inspires continued appreciation for the diverse beauty and cultural richness of Durham and Pickering.”

Waterfront Parks