University of Oxford
University Parks
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Rules and advice

The University's Security Services team keeps order in University Parks and enforces the Parks' rules. 

The Parks' rules help to ensure the safety of all visitors and staff. The most critical of these are detailed below; however any inappropriate behaviour, including misuse or damage to University property, will be referred to the University's Security Services team. It is essential that all visitors understand and adhere to our guidelines and ensure that they leave University Parks by closing time.

Please consider your personal safety and the safety of others at all times

Opening times

Contact Security Services

In an emergency: Call +44 (0) 1865 2 89999

General: Call +44 (0) 1865 2 72944

Alternatively, there is an emergency telephone at the South Lodge in a grey box next to the front door. After picking up the handset, press 4 to speak directly with the Security team.

Please consider your personal safety and the safety of others at all times

Please note that all Oxford University Security Officers and University Parks staff have the authority to cycle through University Parks to enable them to carry out their duties.

Rules

 

No BBQs within the Parks
BBQs are not permitted in the Parks, except as part of an event where they are supplied and operated by professionals. This prohibition includes portable and disposable BBQs - we do not have the facilities for these to be disposed of properly, so please do not bring them.
no climbing
No tree climbing
no drones
Recreational drone flying is prohibited. Even drone users with a legitimate non-recreational purpose, such as surveying or scientific research, need explicit written permission from the Parks team. If you are interested in seeking approval to fly a drone in the Parks for non-recreational purposes, please contact university.parks@admin.ox.ac.uk.
no cycling
No cycle or cycling
no vehicles
No vehicles without permission
no swimming
No swimming, jumping or diving into the river or pond
 No laser tag, paintball, activities involving imitation or replica weaponry or other equipment that might be considered threatening to others.
dogs on lead
Keep dogs under control and deposit dog waste in the bins provided
deposit litter
Deposit litter in the bins provided

Guidance

Be aware of the following guidance notices in the Parks:

Risk of falling branches
Some pathways have uneven surfaces
The river and pond have water of variable depth
Some plants and seeds are irritants, and some are poisonous

 

Always protect University Parks and its natural environment

Any behaviour which causes, or threatens to cause, damage to University property or the Parks' environment is strictly prohibited. Please be aware of the following:

  • The public is not allowed to remove wild animals, plants, flowers or seeds
  • Fishing in the waters adjoining the Parks is by permit only (contact: university.parks@admin.ox.ac.uk)
  • Sale of goods within the Parks, or at the entrances to the Parks, is by permit only (email requests to university.parks@admin.ox.ac.uk or write to Administration Officer, University Parks, South Lodge, South Parks Road, OX1 3RF)
  • Sports pitches must not be used for unauthorised games. Areas for informal games are marked by white posts
  • Sound amplification systems are not permitted in the Parks