Open Space Permits

The following groups are required to obtain an Open Space Access Permit and below documents prior to the date(s) of their program or activity within the Irvine Open Space Preserve. Application materials should be submitted to Facility Reservations. For guidance on this process, please call 949-724-6620 or email reservations@cityofirvine.org.

Groups of 50–100 people planning activities such as mountain bike rides or cardio runs on trails that are open daily for self-guided activity.

Groups of any size conducting commercial activities such as boot camps or professional photography on trails that are open daily for self-guided activity.

Groups of any size planning a special event such as a private interpretive hike or equestrian outing on trails restricted to docent-only activity.
(Note: Activities that take place within the sensitive habitat areas of the Irvine Open Space Preserve must be docent-led. Permits will be subject to availability of City of Irvine/Irvine Ranch Conservancy staff, and will not supplant planned free public activities such as Wilderness Access Days or classes.)

Groups of any size conducting science, research or monitoring activities in any area of the Irvine Open Space Preserve.
(Note: Approval of an access permit for research within the Irvine Open Space Preserve is contingent upon pre-approval of a research application. Research methods must be consistent with NCCP/HCP, USFWS and CDFG best practices guidelines as outlined in Appendix 1 of the research application. Please email Dr. Jutta Burger at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy for more information on research methods (including seed collection and animal handling) or for clarification regarding the application.)

If an applicant has received an approved Access Permit for any activity with a duration greater than a single day (e.g., ongoing/intermittent research project or regularly scheduled boot camps), the applicant must provide notification to the City of Irvine and the Irvine Ranch Conservancy at least 48 hours prior to intended access. This serves to ensure that there are no unforeseen conflicts between scheduled activities and that proposed sites/roads are accessible for vehicular or pedestrian travel.

Open Space Preserve Rules

  • The Irvine Open Space Preserve is open from 7 a.m. to Sunset. Please note that the hours of operation for nearby public parking may differ.
  • Certain trails within the Irvine Open Space Preserve are open daily for self-guided access (e.g., Quail Loop, Quail Trail, Bommer Canyon, etc.); other trails may only be accessed through docent-led activities due to sensitive habitat.
  • Visitors are advised that the Irvine Open Space Preserve is land in its natural condition and that certain risks, such as wildlife (e.g., rattlesnakes, bees, and coyotes) and slippery or rough trail conditions, may exist in the area.
  • Wildlife (both plants and animals) is to be protected. No wildlife should be fed, approached, harmed, or disturbed. Activities likely to degrade, impede, disrupt, or cause irreversible harm to the Irvine Open Space Preserve's protected habitat will not be allowed.
  • No pets are allowed in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. Exception: leashed dogs are allowed on the Quail Loop Trail.
  • No smoking is permitted in the Irvine Open Space Preserve, whether in vehicles or on foot.
  • Visitors are required to do everything possible to prevent fires from occurring. Vehicles equipped with catalytic converter exhaust systems must be kept on paved roads only, and may not be parked near or over tall grass.
  • Access to any area may be restricted by the City during fire hazard events such as those caused by Santa Ana wind conditions. Notification shall occur 48 hours in advance or at the earliest possible time of available communication.
  • Access to any area may be restricted by the City after heavy rains. Notification shall occur 48 hours in advance or at the earliest possible time of available communication.
  • Depending on the type of event planned, the potential impact to the surrounding habitat, and the ability of the visitor to meet City requirements, the maximum allowable group size may be increased or decreased at the discretion of the Director of Community & Library Services.
  • Access permits are required for certain groups or activities.