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1. Can I decorate the facility I have reserved?

Decorations may not be attached to the walls or wood work and should not make holes or cause damage to any surface. Smoke machines, fog machines, hazers, and candles are not allowed. Rice, birdseed, and confetti of any kid are prohibited. All decorations must be removed and cleaned up completely prior to leaving the site. 

2. Can I bring my dog?

Pet must be leashed (maximum 8 feet) at all times, including in campgrounds and reserved picnic areas. Whatcom County Parks has one designated and marked off-leash area at Hovander Homestead Park.

Pets are prohibited in the following parks and locations:

• Stimpson Family Nature Reserve
• Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve
• Canyon Lake Community Forest
• Ostrom Conservation Site
• Birch Bay Conservancy Area
• Tennant Lake Boardwalk
• Designated Shellfish Beds
• Designated Swim Beaches
• All Park Buildings

Click here for all regulations on pets. 

3. Can I bring my own BBQ grill?

If you have reserved a picnic area or shelter, you can bring your own grill but you are responsible for the safe operation of your grill. Grills are prohibited on decks, walkways, or within 25 feet of any structure.

4. Can we have a bounce house at our event?

Bounce Houses and inflatables are only allowed at Hovander Park, with reservation of a picnic area AND with prior approval, insurance, and fees. The following rules for inflatables apply:

• Bounce House shall be operated in accordance with all applicable rules and regulations, including RCW 67.42 and WAC 296-403A. 
• Bounce House must be provided by a Washington State Labor & Industries Certified Amusement Ride Operator Vendor
• Non-certified, store bought, and private bounce houses are prohibited
• Both the Vendor and Event Host are required to provide insurance that meets County standards

If you are considering having inflatables, email our office at [email protected] to receive the complete list of requirements.

5. Can I play music at my event?

Noise from sound systems, speakers, bands, microphones or any other amplified sound must be at a volume such that it cannot be heard outside the area you have reserved.

6. Can I have a food truck at my event?

Food Trucks
Food Trucks for private functions are only allowed in the following circumstances: 

• Reservation is at the Hovander Group Picnic Shelter 
• The Food Truck is for catering purposes only. Food Truck shall not sell to the public while in the park
• Prior approval is obtained by Operations Manager
• Food Truck UBI is provided along with proof of insurance that meets County approval at least 30 days prior to event
• Food truck is self-contained and does not connect to park utilities

Click here for the required insurance limits and documentation. Please email [email protected] with additional questions.

7. What is the cleaning policy for a rental facility?

Customers are required to leave the facility in the same condition as when they arrived. Cleaning supplies are provided for indoor facilities. Garbage and recycling must be removed from the premises (must be taken from the park) unless the customer has paid the optional waste disposal fee.

8. Do I still need a liquor license if we paid the $60 Alcohol Use Fee to Whatcom County Parks?

The Alcohol Use Fee charged by Whatcom County Parks is not a liquor license. To find out if you need a State of Washington Banquet Permit please check here. It is your responsibility to research and follow all laws pertaining to alcohol use at your event.

9. I need to cancel my reservation. Can I get a refund?

Facility Rental Cancellation Policy.
Cabin & Campground Cancellation Policy.

10. How do I get the Whatcom County Resident rate when booking a reservation?

The billing address of the reservation holder must be in Whatcom County in order to receive in-county rates. If the credit card address is outside Whatcom County, but the customer is a County resident, they can:

• Provide a utility bill that displays both name and address
• Provide property tax info that can be verified on the Assessors Property Information System

Click here for all reservation policies.

11. I want to reserve space to teach a class. What do I need to do?

You would need to apply for a Special Event Permit. Special Event Permits are required for any of the following situations:

• Organized activities or events open to the public
• Requires services or facilities not normally available for reservation
• May disrupt or interfere with the public's regular use of the park or facility
• Any activities where an admission fee is charged, products or services are sold, donations or funds are solicited
• Commercial activities, including individuals, groups, or businesses, who:
  • Charge a monetary admission or class fee
  • Sell tickets, food, or other items 
  • Solicit funds or donations
  • Offer other for-profit activities
  • Promote a commercial business.

For information on Special Event Permits and the application process please see our Special Events page.