Park rules
A full list of park rules is detailed in
Dakota County Ordinance 107 – Park Use. It is the permit holder's responsibility to inform group members of park rules.
Food and alcohol
Food and alcohol beverages are not permitted.
Social gatherings and receptions before or after are not permitted without a reservation. To reserve a space for a reception or social gathering, go to Dakota County Rental Spaces.
Cleanup
Please return the ceremony site to pre-use condition.
Cleanup responsibilities:
- Return all picnic tables to their pre-use location.
- Remove temporary signs and decorations.
- Pick up any trash and bring to waste receptacle.
Decorations
All decorations must be freestanding and not attached to any park feature (tree, plant, posts, etc.). Fake or real flower petals allowed, but cleaned immediately after ceremony.
Balloons are allowed, but clean up before departing. Balloon releases are not allowed.
Hike-in ceremony sites encouraged to bring minimal decorations.
Tables and chairs
Hike-in sites encouraged to be standing room only. Chairs and tables are not included with the reservation site. Group must hike-in and out any equipment within the rental period. No motorized vehicles allowed on trails.
Signs & banners
Temporary signs or banners — directional, decorative or informational — must be free-standing and not affixed in any way to any park feature (bench, tree, post, etc.). Remove all signs before departing.
Portable structures
Because of underground utilities, the use of tarps, tents, canopies and inflatables are not permitted.
Fires
Use only designated fire rings. Portable fire rings or other portable devices are not permitted. Attended fire at all times and fully extinguish before leaving the area. See firewood restrictions. Firewood is not included in rental.
Tiki torches, floating lanterns, fireworks or sparklers are not permitted.
Parking
Parking is free. Overnight and bus parking is not allowed. All vehicles must leave by 10 p.m. Motorized vehicles are only allowed in designated parking areas.
Music
Amplified music is welcome at a volume that respects other park visitors. Please keep sound levels reasonable and content appropriate for all audiences. Adjust volume levels if instructed by Dakota County Parks staff.
Pets
Pets must always be on a leash. Do not tether to any tree, plant, sign or park structure. Remove all pet waste.
Smoking
For the health and enjoyment of all park users, smoking of any kind (including vaping) on county park property and recreational facilities is prohibited, except in parking lots, on roadways and on individually rented campsites.
Traditional tobacco use for spiritual or cultural ceremonies permitted in parks.
Emergencies and severe weather
For emergencies or to contact Park Patrol, dial 911. For non-emergencies, facility issues and all other inquiries, call the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center at 651-554-6530. If after hours, please call the Parks 24-Hour Facility Assistance Line at 651-438-4388.
Ceremony sites are not designated storm shelter areas. Please be informed about severe weather and take steps to maintain personal safety.