Gulf Islands National Park Reserve of Canada

Rules and Regulations

The intent of the rules and regulations are to protect visitor safety, preserve ecological integrity and prevent disturbance and harm to wildlife.

The following are high priority compliance issues for the park:

Kayakers camping on Cabbage Island
© Parks Canada / JoshMcCulloch 2006

1. Fires are allowed in designated fire pits at either Prior Centennial or McDonald campgrounds. Fires are not allowed anywhere else in the park, including on beaches and below high tide line. Be prepared to bring a portable stove for cooking
2. Camp only in designated sites. Many of the islands have rich cultural history and sensitive ecology that can be damaged by camping related activity. Fees apply for camping, mooring buoys, and dock space in the park.
3. Please respect others enjoyment. Quiet hours are between 10 pm and 8 am.
4. There are no garbage facilities in the park – please pack out everything you brought with you.
5. Dogs must be on a leash at all times - shorebirds and other people appreciate it. The scent and presence of dogs is enough to disturb wildlife. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement.
6. Never approach or attempt to “help” wildlife that appears in distress. Call 1-877-852-3100 and report your location, the type of wildlife and its condition.
7. Do not enter closed areas or ways. Closures protect your safety, the safety of wildlife and the preservation of cultural and ecological integrity.
8. Do not disturb wildlife. Any action that causes wildlife to alter their behavior is considered harassment.
9. Do not remove, damage or alter a natural or cultural object in the park. These special areas are protected for future generations.
10. All small islets in the park are closed to protect rare and sensitive ecosystems.

These rules are enforceable by law and violations are punishable by fines, court appearances and/or jail time. Please contact the park if you would like more information or to report a violation.

Resource Conservation staff with visitor at East Point on Saturna Island
© Parks Canada / JoshMcCulloch 2006

Resource Conservation staff on patrol
© Parks Canada / Nick Irving 2004