Are Cleveland Metroparks Rangers police officers?

Yes. Rangers are state-certified law enforcement officers who exercise full police powers in the commission of their duties. They have the same authority to arrest as municipal police officers. Cleveland Metroparks Rangers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How does the ranger department compare to other local police departments?

The department's jurisdiction covers the Park District's 21,000 acres of land, and stretches into six northeast Ohio counties. With approximately 80 sworn officers and a 15 member civilian support staff, Cleveland Metroparks Rangers is one of the largest police departments in Cuyahoga County.

How does someone become a ranger?

To be a ranger, a candidate must have an associate's degree or at least two years of college, and be a graduate of an accredited police academy.

What are the different ways a ranger can lend assistance?

Like any police department, rangers patrol park lands in vehicles and on foot. However, we also operate a mounted unit and bicycle unit. Patrolling on horses and bikes allows officers to access the rough terrain of Cleveland Metroparks which isn't always accessible via roads or all purpose trails. The ranger department also operates a traffic unit to enforce rules of the road, a detective unit to investigate crimes, and a dive unit to assist in water rescues and recoveries.

Where do I call if I have an emergency in Cleveland Metroparks?

If you ever face an emergency in the Park District, call the ranger department's emergency number at (440) 333-4911 or 9-1-1, which will not connect you to ranger headquarters but will help connect you to the closest municipal police department. When you call, know your location. Be able to tell the ranger dispatcher a nearby landmark or park picnic area. If you spot a Park District employee, notify them of your situation, as well. They will assist in contacting a ranger for help.

How do I arrange for an officer to speak to my organization?

Every year, Cleveland Metroparks Rangers come into contact with tens of thousands of Greater Clevelanders. From schools to senior organizations, rangers speak to groups about a number of safety issues. To arrange an appearance, telephone ranger headquarters at (440) 331- 5530 and ask for the public information manager. Or, you may fill-out a request form on-line.

Do I call the ranger office to reserve a picnic area in the Park District?

No. To reserve a park area or to request a park permit, contact the Visitor Services Department at (216) 635-3200.

May I call the ranger office with an animal question?

No. While some park systems use the term ranger to describe members of their educational staff, Cleveland Metroparks rangers are police officers. A Cleveland Metroparks Naturalist is best suited to answer your animal related inquiries. Contact a naturalist at any Cleveland Metroparks nature center.

How do I contact ranger headquarters?

You may telephone ranger headquarters at (440) 331-5530. For emergencies, phone (440) 333-4911. Ranger Headquarters is located at 4600 Valley Parkway, Fairview, OH 44126.