Public Information Office

Sacramento, Calif., August 27, 2014 – The popularity of Regional Parks facilities dramatically increases during holiday weekends.  With this surge of popularity, costs to maintain and patrol the parks also increase.  In an effort to offset these costs and to provide maximum staffing and enforcement in the parks system, Regional Parks is implementing temporary vehicle entrance fee increases to $8 for single vehicles and $13 for oversized vehicles and vehicles towing watercraft at all County Parks.  This increase will not affect annual pass holders.  Park users who regularly enjoy County Parks are encouraged to purchase the Annual Pass to save money on park entry fees and show their support for keeping our park system safe and clean.

 

Also, during the Labor Day weekend, Sacramento County Park Rangers will enforce the ban on alcohol in the American River Parkway, August 30-September 1.  Consumption of alcohol and possession of open containers will be prohibited on the shore and the river within the Parkway between Watt and Hazel Avenues. Violations of the alcohol ban may result in citation or arrest and the ordinance will be strictly enforced.  The County Rangers will also continue to enforce the year round alcohol restrictions from Paradise Beach to Discovery Park.

 

Temporary Vehicle Fee Increase                                                                        Saturday, August 30 

Vehicle Fee $8                                                                                                         Sunday, August 31

Vehicle + trailer or oversized vehicle over 22 feet  $13 (includes boats)​      Monday, September 1​

 

Temporary Alcohol Ban​                                                                                      Saturday, August 30 
                                                                                                                                 Sunday, August 31
                                                                                                                                 Monday, September 1

 

Chief Ranger John Havicon reminds everyone that smoking is only allowed in developed picnic areas, asphalt surfaces, golf courses and levee tops in the American River Parkway.  The fire danger is very high because of the current drought conditions.  Open flame fires are not allowed and barbequing is only permitted in designated picnic areas. The intent of the law is to avoid injury and prevent fire or damage to forested areas and structures.

 

Park visitors are reminded that all children under 13 years of age must wear a life jacket when accessing any public water within the County (Sacramento County Ordinance 13.08.301).  All persons who plan to be near or in local rivers and streams need to be cautious because river and stream temperatures are cold and the water level is lower than usual which exposes more snags and underwater hazards such as logs and branches.  

 

For a complete list of rules and regulations that govern Regional Parks, visit www.sacparks.net. Call 916-875-7275 to report any law enforcement issues, non-emergency accidents, or maintenance issues. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.