Park Rules

On any given day, Cranes Roost Park is alive with activity. From the early morning runners who arrive before dawn to the evening walkers who behold the majesty of the sunset, the park serves as a peaceful haven in the heart of an urban metropolis. Thousands of patrons visit each year for entertainment, exercise and brief reprieves from hectic schedules. The park welcomes them all.

Park Hours

Park hours are from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Park hours may vary during events. Restrooms close approximately 30 minutes prior to the park closing.

Attaching to Structures

Attaching any item to park structures or trees is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, fitness and sporting equipment, hammocks, ropes, banners, stickers, flyers, etc.

Bikes & Skating

Cranes Roost Park does not allow bicycles, scooters or skating of any type. Bicycle racks are available for use in multiple locations throughout the park. Please lock your bike.  

Fishing

Fishing is permitted from the shoreline only. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required per State of Florida regulations.

Swimming

Swimming and boating (including any activities on the lake) are prohibited.

Pets

Pets are permitted in designated areas only during regular operating hours. Pets are not permitted in the plaza or amphitheater or allowed in the park during events where Cranes Roost Blvd. is closed to vehicular traffic. Please check the website for specific event information. 

Where allowed, pets must be kept on a hand-held leash, no longer than eight feet and must remain well behaved at all times. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the parks. Pet walk areas are clearly marked and clean up bags are located at pet stations throughout the park. A pet watering fountain is available at the northeast corner of the park.

Feeding Wildlife

Feeding of wildlife is discouraged but is allowed as long as the feeding does not create a safety or nuisance issue for other guests. Feeding is only permitted from the lake shorelines. Wildlife is protected and may not be removed from the park except as permitted by the State of Florida and park management.

Drones

Drones are prohibited during events unless authorized by the Events Management Division. The drone operator must be properly licensed; drones may not be flown over guests not involved in their operation; the drone must stay within sight of the operator at all times; drone operations are limited to the hours from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset; speed is limited to no more than 100 mph and may fly no higher than 400 feet. See the Drones webpage for complete rules.

Music

The Cranes Roost Park audio system plays background music from 9 a.m. until closing each day, no other amplified audio is allowed, unless as part of an authorized event.

Events

Most events are free and open to the public but, during events, some organizations require an entrance fee into restricted areas of the park. Check the event webpages for event details.

Fire

Cooking, campfires or open flame of any kind is prohibited unless part of an authorized event. This includes flame propelled lanterns (sky lanterns, Chinese lanterns, etc.), fireworks and any other lighted device.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption is prohibited except during events where a permit has been granted by the State of Florida and Events Management.

Nature

Natural scenery, plants and animal life are the principal attractions in Cranes Roost Park. They are integral parts of the ecosystem and natural community. As such they are protected by Federal, State and Park laws. Disturbance or destruction of these resources is strictly forbidden.

Trash

Refuse, including garbage, cigarettes, paper boxes, and other rubbish, shall be placed only in designated receptacles. Your pleasure and pride in your park are enhanced when it is kept clean.