General Park Information
Register Early!
Register early to assure your place in our programs. In addition to registering
for your regular favorite classes/programs, why not experience something new this
year? Is your class full? Let us gauge your interest by being placed on the wait
list. If there is a cancellation, we can call you, or if there is enough interest,
we might form an additional class. Payment is not required until we place you in
the class.
Receipts
You will not receive a receipt for program registrations. Please keep this brochure
or a record of program dates and times for your reference. Most league players will
be contacted by coaches and captains. If you would like to confirm your enrollment
in a class, please call the Park Office during regular business hours Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at 462-5144 and a Customer Service Staff Member will be happy
to assist you.
Late Registration
If a program deadline has passed, please contact the Park Office regarding late
registration. In most cases we are able to accommodate those still wishing to participate.
A $5 per person and per program late registration fee may apply.
Refunds
All programs are subject to a minimum $10 cancellation fee—some restrictions apply.
No refunds will be granted within 7 days of a program starting or after the start
of a program. Facility rental fees are non-refundable, including, Butterfield Family
Pavilion, Ogden Gardens and Foundation Meadows Gazebos, park shelters, and pre-paid
Rogers-Lakewood entrance fees.
For details on refund policies contact the Park Office at 462-5144. Any
approved refunds will be issued by check only through the Valparaiso Department
of Parks and Recreation Administration Office, 3210 Campbell Street during regular
business hours. Refunds take approximately 3-6 weeks to process.
Cancellation
The Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation reserves the right to cancel or
alter a class or program due to limited registration or circumstances beyond our
control. In this instance, enrollment fees will be refunded.
Standard Fee
The Park Board has adopted a policy for the resident discount user fees at most
facilities and for most programs. This policy apportions an equalized higher fee
to our non-resident participants. The higher fee contributes to the overall operations
financing of the Park Department on an equitable basis with Valparaiso City residents
who contribute by paying property taxes.
Fee Assistance
Children may receive fee assistance to reduce the basic fee for most Park Youth
Programs. Fee assistance is based on family income and the number of members in
the family. To apply, simply inquire for details when registering for a youth activity.
A parent will be required to complete a short form. More information and guidelines
are available at the Park Office.
Participation Waiver
By participating in park programs, you assume the risk of injury and you agree to
hold harmless the Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation, The City of Valparaiso,
and its agents, and forfeit the right to make any claim for monetary damages against
the Valparaiso Park Department and the City of Valparaiso if you or your property
is damaged while participating in or attending a program or while in a park facility.
Photos
Park staff may photograph or videotape participants enrolled in programs and events
or enjoying park facilities. These photos are for department use only and may be
used in department publications or media promotions. If you prefer that you or your
child not be photographed, please notify the photographer or the program supervisor.
Park Security
For the protection of park visitors and their property, all Valparaiso Parks have
a 10 p.m. curfew unless otherwise posted or unless prior arrangements have been
made. Visitor cooperation is appreciated.
Dogs in Parks
Be considerate of others enjoying the parks. Dogs are allowed in the parks, but
they must be on a leash and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them. Please
leash and scoop.
Alcohol in the Parks
Alcohol in City parks is discouraged. For your safety and others, please refrain
from drinking and driving.
For additional general information about the parks, please feel free to contact our office
at (219) 462-5144 or email us at customerservice@valparaisoparks.org.