Dorval backtracks on charging fees for picnic table rentals at popular city parks

Dorval is changing course when it comes to charging park users fees for picnic table rentals at popular city parks this summer.

However, those hoping to use a table at Pine Beach and Walters parks on weekends will nonetheless have to make a reservation.

While there will be no rental fees, only Dorval residents will be allowed to book a table.

In April, Dorval city council tabled a draft bylaw that would have seen park users charged to rent structures, like tables and gazebos, on weekends.

1:59 Dorval considers fees for picnic tables

Under the proposed legislation, a four-hour table reservation would have cost Dorval residents $10 and non-residents $25.

According to city spokesperson Sebastien Gauthier, local parks were overwhelmed last summer with residents complaining they couldn’t enjoy the park and picnic tables.

The idea was to allow people to use the space equally, prioritizing local Dorval residents.

However, the city said on its website on Tuesday that it decided to adjust its policy after “listening to its citizens over the past few days.”

The new procedures are expected to be approved at a May 17 council meeting.

The reservation system will apply only to Pine Beach and Walters parks.

Booking should be in place for the weekend of June 5, with residents required to reserve ahead of time from Monday to Thursday at noon.

— With files from Global News’ Brayden Jagger Haines