Parks & Recreation Inclement Weather Policy and Procedures

➡️ West Waluga Dog Park – Grass Area Closure (Posted January 7, 2026)

Due to continued wet weather and deteriorating conditions, the grass area of the West Waluga Dog Park is closed to prevent further damage and support field recovery. This area will remain closed until spring. The gravel area of the dog park will remain open and available for use during this closure.

We appreciate the community’s cooperation as we work to maintain safe, healthy park spaces year-round.

➡️ Please note that the Synthetic Turf Fields at East Waluga and Hazelia are closed when temperatures rise to 95°F or higher, as well as when they drop to 32°F or below, or if the fields are covered in snow.

How Weather-Related Decisions Are Made in Parks & Recreation

When severe weather is in the forecast, the City begins monitoring conditions well before facilities open. Or, if weather develops during the day, prior to making any early closure or cancelation decisions. Safety for patrons and staff are always the top priority.

The Day Before a Weather Event

Around 8:00 p.m.

A preliminary decision is made about whether the Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center (LORAC), the Adult Community Center (ACC) and other Parks & Recreation programs or facilities may have a delayed opening or closure for the following day.


Notifications will go out on website, social media, and an email to LORAC members.

The Morning of the Weather Event

Around 4:00 a.m.

Parks & Recreation Director determines if it is safe to open the LORAC based on current conditions.


Updates are posted on website, social media, and an email to LORAC members.

Around 6:00 a.m.

City leadership decides operations for all other facilities and programs:

  • Open as scheduled
  • Delay opening on other facilities and programs other than LORAC
  • Close for the day

If there is a delay or closure, public notifications are updated as soon as possible.

Ongoing Weather Monitoring

Around 1:00 p.m.

Conditions are reevaluated to determine whether programs and facilities will remain closed for the evening or reopen.

Communications will be updated via the website, social media, and emails to LORAC members.

What This Means for the Community

  • Decisions are based on real-time conditions and forecasts
  • Safety for patrons, staff, and emergency responders comes first
  • Updates are shared as quickly as possible once decisions are made
  • Times on this are approximate

Air Quality Guidelines (Based on DEQ State Restrictions)

  • Green & Yellow: All outdoor activities proceed without restrictions.
  • Orange: Activities may proceed outdoors with air quality warnings issued to patrons.
  • Bright Red: Outdoor activities move indoors if possible or are canceled.
  • Purple & Dark Red: All activities are canceled or moved indoors if indoor air quality is acceptable.

Lightning Strikes Guidelines

Hot Weather Guidelines

Athletic Fields

Synthetic Turf Fields (East Waluga & Hazelia):

  • Closed when temperatures reach 95°F and above or 32°F and below.
  • Closed if there is snow or ice on the fields.

Park Regulations

BBQs and Open Flames:

  • No portable BBQs without permits.
  • No open flames allowed.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. Enjoy your visit to our parks!