The City of Grande Prairie is now permitting stick & puck play on all low-board and neighbourhood rinks due to popular demand.
In response to community feedback on both the availability of outdoor hockey opportunities, and the safety of neighbouring properties near the rinks, the City is now easing rink regulations until May 30, 2021 with new conditions in place.
In order to protect properties nearby, hockey nets have been regulated to a maximum size of 12 inches in height, 24 inches in depth and 72 inches in width, which enables stick & puck while reducing the probability of gameplay likely to cause property damage.
Volunteers who have set up neighbourhood rinks who would like to obtain an approved hockey net from the City or who would like their rink to remain skating only may contact parks@cityofgp.com for assistance.
The City believes this decision ensures the wide availability of outdoor leisure, athletic and recreational activities during the winter, especially during COVID-19 closures when outdoor play is at record levels, while still protecting neighbouring properties from potential damage.
For a directory of City-operated outdoor rinks visit cityofgp.com/outdoorrinks.
The following provincial health regulations remain in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep everyone on the ice longer:
- Outdoor social gatherings are limited to 10 people maximum; it is strongly recommended that activity is limited to members of the same household
- More than 10 people may use an outdoor recreation amenity at one time as long as physical distance is maintained between households
- Members of different households must maintain a 2-meter distance at all times
- Outdoor activities where 2 meters distance cannot be maintained are prohibited including competitions, pick-up games and shinny
The City thanks everyone for their co-operation and good sportsmanship.
For a full list of recreational activities to enjoy outdoors this season, visit cityofgp.com/winterplay.