Visitor Guidelines

Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site

Our national historic sites are unique places and require unique rules to protect them.

Breaking the law in a National Park or National Historic Site can result in consequences including evictions or tickets, or in more serious cases, court appearances and/or large fines. View the Canada National Parks Act and its regulations

If you have any questions please contact the Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site Information Centre.

Activity Restrictions and special events
There are a number of outdoor activities that require a permit. Check with Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site Information Centre prior to engaging in non-traditional, unusual or commercial activities.
Aircraft
You cannot take-off or land an aircraft in a national historic site/park without a Restricted Activity Permit from Parks Canada, with some exceptions as listed in the National Parks of Canada Aircraft Access Regulations. All aircraft must comply with the Canadian Aviation Regulations and National Parks of Canada Aircraft Access Regulations.
Pets and service animals
Pets are not allowed at Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site.

Service animals are welcome, in the company of their handlers. Please keep service animals on a leash or harness during your visit.
Cannabis
Cannabis is legalized and strictly regulated in Canada. It is your responsibility to understand federal, provincial, and municipal regulations for cannabis use.

Given the legislative provisions of the surrounding municipalities surrounding the national historic sites under the responsibility of the Quebec Field Unit, the use of cannabis is not permitted at Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site. For more information on the regulation of cannabis in Parks Canada sites, please visit: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/regles-rules/cannabis.
Garbage and Litter
Never litter.

Good times in the national historic sites are safer and more rewarding when you Leave No Trace of your visit. A good rule of thumb is to leave “no trace on the place” and “no trace on others’ space”
Drones
All Parks Canada places are ‘no drone zones’ for recreational use.

If you do not possess a permit or special permission to fly your drone in a Parks Canada place, please leave your drone at home. Learn more about our drone usage rules
Wildlife and Flora
  • You are not allowed to entice, pet or attempt to pet, harass, or feed wild animals.
  • Be respectful when photographing wildlife. Animal behaviour is unpredictable.
  • Stay on the trails to preserve the surrounding flora.
Boating
Only companies that have an agreement with Parks Canada can dock at the wharf at Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site. Please contact us for any information related to navigation near Grosse-Ile.
Natural and historic objects
It is illegal to collect plants, mushrooms, berries, animals, animal parts (including antlers), fossils, driftwood, rocks, signs, or any other historic or natural object.

If you believe you have found something significant, leave the item in place and report your finding to the nearest Parks Canada office. Please leave these natural items for others to enjoy.
Commercial film and photography permits
Commercial filming activities have special considerations. All commercial activity is subject to business licencing and permits. Contact us for details on whether your activity requires a permit.
Smoking and vaping
Be aware of provincial smoking and vaping regulations regarding distances from buildings, playgrounds, and other facilities.

Cannabis is legalized and strictly regulated in Canada. It is your responsibility to understand federal, provincial, and municipal regulations for cannabis use.
Area Closures and restrictions
Area closures and restrictions are sometimes needed to protect natural or cultural resources or for visitor safety reasons. Closures are enforceable by law. Closure notices will be posted at the trailheads, access points, park offices, and information centres.
Swimming
Swimming is prohibited on Grosse-Île. The site doesn't have any installations and is unsafe.

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