Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program

Since the program’s inception in 1996, the Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program continues to see annual growth in program participation. The program attracts many civic-minded and environmentally conscious individuals, families, community groups and businesses that are committed to keeping public spaces clean, green, and litter-free.

The program currently has over 260 active Adopt agreements, including over 170 park adoptions and nearly 90 road adoptions. In 2024, Adopt program staff received over 50 new Adopt applications and processed over 40 renewal applications.

Adopt participants make a commitment to cleaning up a park, or a kilometre or more of roadway, for a period of two or five years, and generously volunteer their time to clean-up litter and debris a minimum of twice a year – typically, once in the spring and once in the fall. To recognize these valuable efforts, a sign displaying the name of the program, and the adopting individual or group is installed (upon request) at the park or along the roadway.

Interested community members may apply to adopt a park or road by completing the online application form at ottawa.ca/adopt. All Adopt-a-Park/Road applications are reviewed and approved by City staff and the Ward Councillor, and all agreements include an end-of-term renewal option.

Program improvements in 2025

• Formalizing an application period

  Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road applications will be accepted annually between March 15 and September 15, rather than year-round. This targeted application period aligns with the spring and fall Cleaning the Capital campaigns.

• Clarifying program eligibility criteria

  Adopt applicants must be at least 18 years of age or older and reside within the City of Ottawa. Children and youth are encouraged to participate in the program under the direct supervision of a person 18 years or older. The City will not enter into an Adopt Agreement with an applicant that produces, distributes, or promotes alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, vapour, or water-pipe products.

• Streamlining Adopt-a-Park/Road sign installation process

  Adopt recognition signs will be offered to new applicants who commit to a five-year adoption agreement. The Adopt signs will be installed following one year of at least two cleanup report submissions (once in the spring and once in the fall). This approach celebrates the commitment of dedicated program participants while balancing operational priorities with respect to sign production, installation and cost.