Natural Areas & Streams

Oakville’s natural areas are made up of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, valleys, and streams. You can do your part to protect these natural areas by following these guidelines:

Natural areas are not for recreation

• Stay on designated trails and pathways to avoid soil compaction and trampling plants
• Don't cut trees or grass in naturalized areas
• Keep dogs on a leash. Pets disrupt natural areas by frightening wildlife and trampling plants
• Pick up after your pet to prevent harmful bacterial from contaminating soils

Be a respectful gardener

• Plant native trees, shrubs and ground cover on your property if bordering a natural area
• Use organic and biodegradable products on your lawn and garden instead of harmful chemicals. Chemicals can be carried to natural areas when it rains.

Watch your water

• Use commercial car washes to clean your vehicle. This will help keep soap and chemicals out of the natural areas.
• Don’t drain your pool into natural areas. Pool or spa water containing chlorine can be toxic to aquatic life, and it is prohibited by by-law!
• Allow pool water to sit for 72 hours before draining to allow the chemicals to evaporate. Drain the water over a grassy area before draining to the storm sewer.
• Don’t drain water directly into natural areas. This can cause soil erosion.
• Don't dump hazardous liquids like oil, paint thinners or other chemicals into storm drains. Take these liquids at your local hazardous waste station to get rid of them.