Safe Recreation

Our shared commitment to safe, welcoming spaces.

The City of Vaughan’s Safe Recreation Policy ensures our facilities are safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces for every resident.

Policy background

The Safe Recreation Policy (18.C.05) (PDF) was approved by Vaughan Council on Sept. 22, 2025. It replaces the former Safe Community Centres Policy (2005) and applies to all City-operated recreation facilities and programs. The City of Vaughan is committed to providing recreation environments that are safe, welcoming, inclusive and respectful for all participants, staff, volunteers and visitors. The policy supports a positive community experience by setting clear expectations for behaviour, outlining how concerns are addressed, and ensuring everyone can participate free from harm, discrimination or harassment.

Policy at a glance

Establishes expectations for a respectful environment across all City-operated recreation facilities and programs
Aims to prevent and address inappropriate behaviour, harassment, discrimination, vandalism and violence, including sexual violence
Applies to all patrons, employees, volunteers, contractors and visitors
Supports education, awareness and accountability through training and enforcement

Recreation Services

Vaughan City Hall, Level 300
2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.
Vaughan, ON L6A 1T1
Phone: 905-832-2281
Email: rec@vaughan.ca

Code of Conduct: In support of a safe and respectful community

The City of Vaughan promotes safety, respect, and civility for all users of City-operated recreation facilities and programs. The City will take appropriate action to address behaviours that do not align with the Safe Recreation Policy (18.C.05) (PDF). Consequences may include a verbal warning, suspension from programs or trespass notice where necessary.

The following behaviours are unacceptable and will not be tolerated in any City-operated recreation facility:

Violence or threats that endanger others, including physical aggression, possession of weapons, sexual harassment, assault, or attempts to incite violence
Discrimination, harassment or abusive conduct based on any personal characteristic protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code, including race, ancestry, colour, creed, sex, gender identity, disability or place of origin
Verbal abuse or intimidation, including shouting, threats, foul or profane language or any behaviour that creates an unsafe or hostile environment
Vandalism or damage to property, including theft, graffiti, destruction or misuse of City property and equipment
Inappropriate or unsafe behaviour, such as rough play, misuse of emergency exits, refusal to follow staff instructions, trespassing or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on-site

All participants, parents/guardians, staff and visitors are expected to:

treat others with respect and courtesy.
follow program rules and staff direction.
refrain from behaviour that is unsafe, disruptive or harmful.
support an environment that is inclusive and free from discrimination or harassment.

Supporting inclusion

We recognize that some behaviours may be connected to a participant’s disability or support needs. The City is committed to:

Providing reasonable accommodations
Working collaboratively with families and caregivers
Adapting programs where possible to support participation

Our goal is to support participation while maintaining a safe environment for staff and other participants.

Reporting a concern

If you experience or witness behaviour that does not align with the Safe Recreation Policy, please:

Speak with a staff member or supervisor on-site, or
Contact Recreation Services at 905-832-2281 or rec@vaughan.ca

All concerns are taken seriously and handled according to City policies and procedures.

Accessibility statement

This information is available in accessible formats upon request.

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