COVID-19: Morris Parks Increased Use– Please Ensure Safety and Follow Rules

Posted Thursday, March 26th, 2020

The Morris County Park Police Department is reporting a substantially increased use of many general purpose parks and trails of the Morris County Park Commission.

In response to Governor Murphy Executive Orders to combat the COVID-19 global pandemic, park patrons are asked to visit the Morris County Park Commission’s website as many locations have temporarily closed and/or have amended operational hours in accordance with current state and county orders.

Residents who frequent a property of the Morris County Park Commission are asked to follow proper universal precautions as it pertains to hiking, running, biking, etc. This includes having a charged cellphone, water, and letting others know where you will be and when you should return.

People should realize their own physical abilities and know the difficulty level of the areas they are accessing. For all emergencies, call 9-1-1 or for non-emergent assistance call 973-326-7654.

Part of the increased use of Morris County Park Commission properties has resulted in many violations of the Park Commission regulations, especially as it pertains to the parking of vehicles, dogs off-leash, and entering and/or remaining in a county park during closing hours.

• Vehicles should only be parked in designated spots inside park property, not on surrounding streets;
• Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six-feet long;
• Residents must leave park property by closing time, which is generally sunset.

“We understand the public’s need to frequent our park locations during these unprecedented times, but I must ask everyone to pleaser obey Park Commission regulations,” said Park Police Chief Gabe DiPietro.

The regulations should be posted in directories at each property and can found online: https://www.morrisparks.net/