MONTEREY COUNTY — With Easter Sunday approaching on April 20, Monterey County officials are preparing for what is traditionally the busiest day of the year at several of its most popular day-use parks, including Toro, Royal Oaks and San Lorenzo. To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone, the County of Monterey is issuing a series of important reminders and regulations for park visitors.
Park Hours and Closures
All County-operated day-use parks will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Easter Sunday. Park staff and rangers will make multiple announcements as closing time approaches. Vehicles left inside park gates after hours are subject to citation, so guests are urged to plan their day accordingly.
Trash, Litter and Confetti Eggs
Parkgoers are encouraged to be good stewards of the environment by packing out all trash. One notable concern is the use of confetti eggs (cascarónes), which are strictly prohibited. While festive, these eggs often contain metallic or plastic confetti that pose serious hazards to local wildlife. Under Monterey County Code 14.12.050, the use of confetti eggs is considered littering and violators may be cited.
Parking Limitations and Safety
Parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once park lots reach capacity, entrance will be restricted to foot traffic only — no vehicle drop-offs of passengers or supplies will be permitted. Visitors parking along public streets must follow all local regulations and only cross roads when safe to do so. Enforcement will be supported by the California Highway Patrol and Monterey County Sheriff’s Department.
Picnic Setup and Seating
At San Lorenzo Park in King City, staff may relocate picnic tables from the DeAnza reservation area to accommodate guests, though this is not guaranteed. Guests are encouraged to bring their own tables and chairs. In addition, vehicles are not permitted to drive on grassy areas or park in red zones designated for emergency personnel.
Permits Required for Bounce Houses, Alcohol and Music
Bounce houses are only allowed with a valid permit and must be located within a reserved picnic site. Generators used must be “whisper quiet.” Alcohol is restricted to reserved picnic areas and requires a permit, insurance certificate, and — for groups of 30 or more — a security guard. Only beer and wine are allowed; hard liquor is strictly prohibited.
Other Rules and Restrictions
- Smoking and vaping of tobacco are banned in County parks, except at Laguna Seca and Lakes San Antonio and Nacimiento. Cannabis use is prohibited in all parks.
- Drones are not allowed without prior approval. Commercial photography requires a permit.
- Water balloons, like confetti eggs, are prohibited due to their littering impact on wildlife.
- Fireworks and firearms are not allowed.
- Amplified music must comply with local noise ordinances and not disturb other parkgoers. Live bands, whether amplified or acoustic, are not permitted.
- Tents and canopies must be under 400 square feet unless a building permit is obtained. Cooking or electrical use under tents is not allowed without proper permitting.
Monterey County invites residents and visitors to enjoy the parks responsibly this Easter. Following these guidelines helps preserve the natural beauty and safety of these public spaces for all.
For more information on park use and permits, visit the County of Monterey Parks Department website.
