Back Alley/Park Late Night Restrictions Bylaw To Be Discussed

A bylaw which will restrict access to back alleys, city parks and pathways will be up for discussion at Executive Committee on Monday.

The proposed bylaw - patterned after bylaws in North Battleford and Prince Albert - will restrict all but legitimate use and access during the early morning hours.

The bylaw will have a number of exemptions. Exemptions for instance will allow adjacent property owners to be in the alleyway, emergency vehicles are exempt, utility companies and the police.

The bylaw is being proposed to give the Moose Jaw Police Service another set of tools to help combat suspected criminal activity in the community.

Map of the back alleys and lanes in Moose Jaw - City of Moose Jaw

Moose Jaw has seen a major spike in the number of break ins to garages and sheds with a large majority of criminal activity initiated in back alleys and lanes.

Although the Moose Jaw Police Service has not officially announced it a reliable source told MJ Independent there is a strong suspicion some of the thefts are targeted with “shopping lists” found on alleged thieves.

Additionally back alleys are often being used as unofficial thoroughfares by layabouts and street people during the early morning hours.

Crescent Park’s amphitheater area has also been targeted - including recently - by unknown individuals committing vandalism.

The proposed bylaw to be discussed dates back to two motions passed by Council in May 2024 when the two separate issues - back alleys and parks - and drafting a proposed bylaw restricting legal access was passed.

As part of the discussion Executive Committee will be asked for alternatives to the proposed bylaw.

The proposed bylaw will see a summary ticket carrying a $250 fine for those who violate it.

In order to initiate the bylaw to apply to parks the City would be required to erect signage at all maintained entrances.