Question:Before and After School Program - Does Washoe County operate any Before and After School Programs?

Answer:The County no longer operates Before and After School Programs. The City of Reno, Sparks, YMCA and The Boys and Girls Club operate all Before and After School Programs in the area. Please check with your school to see which agency operates your designated site and contact that agency to register your child.

Question:Renting a Facility - How do I go about renting a Washoe County Regional Parks and Open Space facility?

Answer:Choose the facility you wish to rent, decide upon the date and time you need it, and call the Park Operations Office at (775) 823-6501 to check availability, price, and any additional requirements or information necessary.

Question:I want to go fishing in a Washoe County park. Do I need a fishing license?

Answer:Yes. All Nevada fishing regulations must be followed. Visit the Nevada Division of Wildlife website for all Nevada fishing rules and regulations.

Question:Most multi-purpose fields (for soccer, etc.) and baseball fields in Washoe County parks are useable "by permit only". How do I get a permit to use one of these fields?

Answer:Call Jeff Kangas at (775) 971-8566 for details.

Question:Does Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space have any open positions?

Answer:Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space is always looking for qualified applicants, particularly for seasonal work. Call (775) 823-6500 for information on current openings.

Question:Wildlife - Can I feed the wildlife in Washoe County parks?

Answer:Please DO NOT feed, handle, or approach wildlife in Washoe County parks. THIS IS FOR YOUR SAFETY AND THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF THE WILDLIFE.

Question:I'm planning a social event at a Washoe County park. Can I have music for my guests?

Answer:Amplified music is not permitted in Washoe County park picnic areas so as not to disturb other people using the park. An event held inside a Washoe County Parks building facility may have amplified music indoors.

Question:What concerts and presentations are being held at the Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater?

Answer:For a schedule of events at the R.Z. Hawkins Amphitheater, you may call our main office at (775) 823-6500. Also check this website during the summer season under "Events" or "Press Releases" for amphitheater events.

Question:Can I stay in a Washoe County park after the posted closing time?

Answer:Normally, park users must be out of the park by closing times posted at the facility. However, if you have reserved a building past normal closing hours, the time you must leave will be on your Facility Use Permit. You may also walk at Rancho San Rafael two hours before opening and two hours past closing time. Your vehicle must be parked outside the gate.

Question:I noticed a piece of park equipment was broken or in need of maintenance. Who should I call?

Answer:If you see something that needs to be fixed, please contact the Ranger at the facility or call our Maintenance Division at (775) 785-4198. Please inform them of the location and nature of the problem.

Question:I'd like some information on other public golf facilities in the area such as Wildcreek, Northgate, and Rosewood Lakes.. Where do I get it?

Answer:Rosewood Lakes is a City of Reno facility while Wildcreek and Northgate are operated by the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority. For more information from the City of Reno check www.rosewoodlakes.com or call (775) 857-2892. For information for RSCVA golf courses check www.visitrenotahoe.com or call Wildcreek Golf Course at (775) 673-3100 or Northgate Golf Course at (775) 747-7577

Question:I'd like information about the downtown ice skating rink, local pools, parks around town, and the Latch Key program for children. Where can I find it?

Answer:The City of Reno Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department provides all of these services. Please browse the City of Reno Parks, Recreation and Community Services website or call (775) 334-2413.

Question:Does Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space run a tree farm?

Answer:No. Try the Nevada Division of Forestry Nursery at (775) 849-0213. The May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens does have a plant sale every spring.

Question:Where is the Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space main office located?

Answer:Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space Administation office is located at 2601 Plumas Street in Reno, 89509. For information, please call (775) 823-6500.

Question:Do you have lifeguards at Washoe County swimming facilities?

Answer:Washoe County has lifeguards on duty at both County swimming pools. There are opportunities to swim in Washoe County parks that provide access to bodies of water (lakes, streams, rivers, etc.), but NO LIFEGUARDS are posted at these sites unless otherwise noted. All swimming at sites without lifeguards is performed ENTIRELY AT THE SWIMMER'S OWN RISK AND DISCRETION.

Question:Can I take my pet to a Washoe County park?

Answer:In most cases, yes. Call (775) 823-6500 for more information. Pets are required to be on a leash in most areas and are not permitted in some, such as Bowers' Mansion Park and the May Arboretum and turf areas at Rancho San Rafael. Remember to bring bags to help keep your parks clean!

Question:Wildlife - What kind of wildlife am I likely to find in Washoe County parks?

Answer:There are many species of animals that frequent our facilities. At Rancho San Rafael alone, more than 150 species of birds have been sited, from the tiny hummingbird to the mighty bald eagle. Mammals in the area include squirrels, voles, mice, marmots, raccoons, skunks, muskrats, beaver, rabbits, hares, coyotes, deer, bobcats, bear, mountain lions, and wild horses. Our reptile and amphibian friends include many lizard species, frogs, snakes (including rattlesnakes), and toads. Many of our facilities provide exceptional opportunities to view local wildlife species. Talk to the Ranger of the facility you are interested in to get more specific information. For additional information on wildlife in our area, visit the following websites: Lahonton Chapter, Audubon Society , Nevada Department of Wildlife , Animals of the Great Basin.

Question:When can I make a reservation for a Washoe County Regional Parks and Open Space facility?

Answer:Buildings, gardens and picnic areas may be reserved up to one year prior to the event. Reservation requests for events less than 30 days in advance require approval from the facility manager. Please call (775) 823-6501 for further information.

Question:Where can I find information on other parks and open space that Washoe County does not manage?

Answer:Try the following web sites for other local, state, and federal lands. City of Reno Parks, Recreation and Community Services, City of Sparks Parks and Recreation, Nevada State Parks, California State Parks, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service

Question:May I take photographs or film video at Washoe County facilities?

Answer:The Department encourages the use of its parks for recreational, publicity, and commercial photography. However, any professional photography including portrait sittings or photography/filming for commercials require a Photography Permit issued by the Department of Regional Parks & Open Space. Please contact the Parks Administration office at (775) 823-6500 for fees and permitting requirements.

Question:What ordinance does Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space operate under?

Answer:Washoe County Department of Regional Parks and Open Space operates under Washoe County Code