Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all animals must be leashed on a physical tether no longer than 9 feet while on park property (Civil Code 1-12-37(C)). Parks and Recreation offers two off-leash Dog Parks free to the public at Ballenger Creek Park and Urbana District Park.

Drone use is not permitted in Frederick County parks without prior approval. All powered remote-controlled model devices, including drones, require written permission from Frederick County Parks and Recreation. Please contact the FCPR main office to request approval before operating a drone on park property. All FAA rules and regulations apply to flying drones on Frederick County Park property.

Any sale of food or drinks in on park property is prohibited without approval from Parks and Recreation through a Special Request Form and Vending Permit (Civil Code 1-12-42).

No one is allowed to remove any natural resources from parkland, whether it be plants, animals, or any physical object (Civil Code 1-12-35(A)). Frederick County Parks are a resource available to all members of the public and removing or altering any part of the landscape can impact everyone.

Fishing is permitted only in designated areas and all park patrons are required to follow the applicable regulations from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (Civil Code 1-12-40(B)). Park Patrons may fish at Middletown Park or the Trout Pond at Fountain Rock Park. Fishing at the Fountain Rock Park quarry is prohibited. Fishing is also allowed off the Monocacy River per DNR regulations.

To make a Reservation or complete a Special Request Permit, please call Frederick County Parks and Recreation at 301-600-1646.

Field use is by permit only however, non-formal use is allowed on fields that are not reserved. Signs also designate field use closure due to weather or field conditions.

No one other than Frederick County Parks and Recreation staff is allowed to trim trees, or mow and maintain fields on parkland without permission (Civil Code 1-12-35(A)).

No vehicles will be left on parkland after official closing time of the park except by permit (Civil Code 1-12-41(I)). Any vehicle parked within the park after official closing time is subject to citation and being towed at the owner’s expense and risk.

Ground fires for cooking, recreation, or any use are not allowed on parkland (Civil Code 1-12-38(A)). Grills or fire rings located at designated areas may be used by permit only.

No member of the public or commercial company may introduce any plant or animal onto parkland, regardless of whether that plant or animal is commonly found in the region. Introducing a plant or animal could spread disease or negatively impact the local ecosystem. (Civil Code 1-12-35(C))