Permits
Metroparks Use Permits are required prior to short-term activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group or organization rather than the public at large, require some degree of management control in order to protect park resources and the public interest, and are not prohibited by law or regulation. Examples of activities that may require a permit from Metroparks include weddings, political events, bicycle or foot races, fishing tournaments, or group activities with 10 participants and must follow social distancing guidelines.
Locations used for events and activities by permit-holders may be designated by Metroparks so as to preserve natural areas and avoid interfering with the public enjoyment of the park. Permit holders are expected to comply with Metroparks Permit Guidelines and Metroparks Rules and Regulations. Below is an overview of permits offered by Metroparks. Please see below for a complete outline of regulations, requirements and permit applications. Events and activities organized and sponsored by Metroparks do not require a permit. Please call 419-407-9700 for additional information.
Group gatherings in a public location is only permitted to have no more than 10 people and must follow Social Distancing Guidelines. Permits will return to normal as the state of Ohio guidelines adapt to the coronavirus situation.
Event/Activity Permit
Activities such as 5K races, bicycle rides and other organized special events/fee-based or fundraisers. The maximum number of attendees varies based on park location. Most events require the reservation of a facility or facilities. Certificate of Liability Insurance is required. Please note, due to COVID-19 and Social Distancing guidelines permits for large scale activities have been suspended. For inquiries please call 419-407-9700.
Click Here to download the permit application
Special Use Permit
Permits to gather signatures and/or distribute information. Not available for product demonstrations or sales. Permits are limited to 3 per month, per group. The permit holder may have a table and display a sign up to 11" x 17" in size. Permit holders may not approach park visitors but may distribute information if approached by a park visitor.
Click Here to download the permit application
Group Permit
Permits to gather for groups of 10 or more people. The maximum number of attendees varies based on assigned park location. The permit does not reserve a location for private use by the group.
Click Here to download the permit application
After Hours Commuter Permit
Regional trails are used for commuting as well as recreation, fitness and enjoying nature. Because trail hours are the same as the Metroparks - 7 a.m. until dark every day of the year - it limits some commuters' options. For example, someone bicycling to work, school or church during open hours would be unable to return on the same trail after dark.
For this reason, Metroparks issues special permits for after-hours commuting on the University/Parks and Wabash Cannonball trails.
Click Here to download the permit application
Athletic Group Permit
Download an Athletic Group Permit application (pdf), which is required for groups planning to use Metroparks Trails and other park areas for practice or competition.
Click Here to download the permit application
Geocaches in the Metroparks
All existing and new geocaches within any Metropark requires a permit. Please download and return a completed permit application. Completed applications can be submitted by email.
For more information please call 419-407-9700
Click Here to download the permit application
Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) permits available for Westwinds Metropark
Unmanned aircraft, including drones and remote control models, may be flown only at Westwinds Metropark with a permit. For more information call (419) 407-9701.
Click Here to download the permit application
Click Here for safety guidelines
Research Permit
A permit to conduct formal scientific research projects in the Metroparks. This also includes all projects involving the collection of soils and/or rocks and minerals, and (living or dead) plants, animals, insects and their parts. To request an application please email Karen Menard at karen.menard@metroparkstoledo.com or call (419) 407-9705.
Click Here for more information
Access Permit
A specially issued short-term permit given to educators or independent researchers who need to access off-trail areas or other areas that are seasonally closed in order to get GPS points, utilize park areas for a class session, and/or to collect observational, short-term species/weather data. For a permit request, please email Karen Menard at karen.menard@metroparkstoledo.com or call (419) 407-9705.