Garden Rules & Etiquette

Yellow coneflowers in front of fountain
Photo by Mark MacLennan

Please follow these rules to help us keep the Arboretum safe and enjoyable for all!

Be Respectful

  • Arboretum buildings and grounds are tobacco and vaping free.
  • Picking, cutting or collecting from plants and nature is not permitted; this includes plants, seeds, pods, fungi, butterflies or any other materials from the Arboretum. Leave everything for others to enjoy.
  • Stay on lawns, trails and walkways to protect living plants and soil.
  • Those with a membership may use the Dog Commons on-leash trails; service dogs only elsewhere on the grounds.
  • Teachers and chaperones must escort and be responsible for their groups throughout their visit.

Stay Safe

  • Climbing on trees, walls, rocks, sculptures or exhibits is not permitted.
  • No wading in ponds, fountains or streams.
  • Park only in designated areas.
  • Use bicycles on roadways only; for the safety of others, riding on trails or walkways is not allowed.
  • No children's scooters, skateboards, hammocks or inline skates. 
  • The only motorized vehicles permitted are bicycles and automobiles.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Two women in front of the Azaleas
Women photogrphing tulips
Man pushing woman in a wheelchair in the gardens

Photography & Video Etiquette

We encourage Arboretum visitors to take casual photographs and videos for their own personal use and/or for sharing on social media. That being said, the following guidelines apply to all visitors as well as professional photographers.

  • While shooting pictures, photographers cannot block off any area. All persons and equipment must stay on pathways. 
  • Photographers and participants should encourage visitors to walk by between poses. 
  • Please do not walk, stand or place tripods in planted areas or bare soil. Planted areas include fields, plant beds or grass that is not mowed, wood chipped or paved. 
  • No plants shall be tied up or modified in any manner with pins, tape, twine, etc. Do not move or change the position of potted plants or remove any signs or labels from planted areas. Anyone not in compliance will be asked to leave. 
  • Please note that pets are not allowed in the gardens. However, Arboretum members may have a photo shoot in the Dog Commons
  • The Arboretum does not allow drone photography during regular business hours. Exceptions include media stations and operations/research personnel.
  • Lighting equipment that requires cords and external power sources or outside props such as drop cloths, panels, etc. cannot be used without prior permission. 

If you are looking to take professional photos, a daily permit is required. Learn more about our permit options