Credit: Tom Sofield/NewtownPANow.com
The start of February brought an updated set of rules and regulations for the grounds and facilities operated by the Bucks County Department of Parks and Recreation.
The Bucks County Commissioners voted unanimously last month to approve the updated rules and regulations as part of an ordinance.
The use of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, is banned within 50 feet of playgrounds, sports fields, and other recreational areas at county parks, according to the new rules and regulations.
The ordinance also specifies guidelines for the usage of e-bikes, which are largely afforded the same treatment as conventional bicycles. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ most recent policy update for state parks and forests is mirrored by the new county e-bike regulations.
A restriction on “self-balancing electric mobility devices” now makes it a violation to use hoverboards or other similar personal transporters without handlebars inside county parks without a permit.
Credit: Tom Sofield/NewtownPANow.com
The rules and regulations also cover a number of other topics, including a ban of fireworks without permission.
Click here to see the full ordinance with rules and regulations.
The rules are able to be enforced by the Bucks County Rangers, a law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over county property.
Violating the new rules and a conviction can lead to up to a $600 fine, restitution, a maximum of 10 days in jail, and cost of any damage that happens. Those who violate the rules can also be banned from the park system from six months to two years.
In a statement, county officials said signage will be placed throughout the county’s parks to alert visitors of the changes.
The updates are the first major change in park rules and regulations since the late 1990s.
Bucks County Department of Parks and Recreation Director Angela Nagle said the updated rules and regulations “protects the wellbeing of all of our park users, our park property, our natural resources and our wildlife.”
Within a short distance of the Newtown area, the county owns Core Creek Park, Playwicki Park, Silver Lake Park, Peace Valley Park, Churchville Nature Center, and Lake Caroline/Oxford Valley Golf Course.
