- What do I have to do to get married in the park?
A permit is required to conduct a wedding in a Minneapolis park. For detailed information on outdoor weddings, including popular sites, prices and an application form, go to our Outdoor Weddings section.
- Do I need a permit to have my wedding pictures taken in the park?
Yes, if you are paying to have wedding pictures taken, you are required to obtain a permit. For detailed information on prices and the process for obtaining a permit for still photography on MPRB property, see the Filming section.
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- How far in advance can I rent the Nicollet Island Pavilion?
Please Call Mintahoe for Reservation Policy at 612-253-0255
The pavilion is rented to residents of the City of Minneapolis one year from the date requested; 11 months from the date for non-residents. For detailed information on the Nicollet Island pavilion and other reception facilities, see the Reception Areas section.
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- Do I need a permit to take my boat on the City lakes?
You no longer need a permit from the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board to take your boat on the City lakes. However, your boat must be licensed with the Department of Natural Resources.
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- Are gas powered motors allowed on City lakes?
No, gas powered motors are not allowed to be operated on City lakes, however electric trolling motors are allowed. You do not need to remove your motor from your boat but it must be tilted out of the water.
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- Can I ice fish on City lakes without a permit?
Yes. Gas powered augers are legal to use (holes limited to 10 inches in diameter). No permits are required from the MN DNR or the MPRB to use a portable fish house on city lakes. Fish houses may not stay on city lakes overnight. No person is allowed on City Lakes between midnight and daylight of the following morning. The use of motorized vehicles (cars, trucks, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc.) is strictly prohibited on City Lakes. For more information call: 612-230-6400
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- Can I bring my dog to the park?
Yes, you can bring your dog to the park as long as you keep your pet on a leash at all times.
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- Is alcohol or 3.2 beer allowed on park property?
According to MPRB Ordinance PB2-17. “No person shall take, use, or have in or upon any park or parkway, any intoxicating liquor except as specifically authorized” in select Park Board locations. No kegs are allowed.
3.2 beer is not considered “intoxicating” liquor as it pertains to the ordinance. It is allowed for private consumption (cans only) in controlled designated areas in the regional park system, such as those reserved by the public for picnics. A permit is not required.
No 3.2 beer is allowed in recreation centers or on that park’s property.
No alcohol can be given away or sold to the general public without a permit, fenced-in area, City license, insurance and at a minimum two Park Police officers.
For more information on permits or the ordinance call 612-230-6400.
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- How late is the park open?
All picnic areas and park spaces are closed at 10 p.m.
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- Can I have a bonfire in the park?
No, ground fires are not allowed in the park.
