Skate Park Signage | Rules & Regulations

Introduction to Public Skate Park Rules

Skate park rules and regulations inform participants and visitors how to safely enjoy the facility. Skate park users vary in age and skill level. And much like any public park, skate park signage should be concise, easy to read and positioned at any entrance to the facility. Keep in mind this may mean you need more than one skatepark sign. Rules regarding hours of operation, emergency phone numbers, placing trash in receptacles and respecting fellow users are all very common topics to include in skate park signage. Rules particular to skate parks may include recommending helmet usage and identifying what sport(s) are allowed to use the facility, just to mention a few.

Considerations

In most ways skatepark rules are very similar to any other park found in a public parks system. A public skatepark is in fact a public park. 95% of public skateparks are un-fenced and non-supervised, much like a basketball court or walking trail. Keep the skatepark hours the same as your other public parks. If your skatepark has a skatepark lighting system AND your existing parks are open from dawn to dusk, then we see most skateparks open until 10pm.

State Law Regarding Skate Park Rules

Refer to your State’s law for the legal disclaimer limiting the liability of a government for damages related to skate park activity.  Each State’s legal disclaimer will vary and it is important to consult your legal department before inclusion to the skate park sign. For example, here’s a direct link to the Texas Chapter 75, Civil Practice and Remedies Code. To the best of our knowledge, every State in the Country has a similar code, limits a city’s liability from the ownership of a public skatepark. Check with your city attorney of course. The good news here is, you are not reinventing the wheel. There are a lot of public skateparks in the Country and a city’s liability is typically not an issue. 30+ years ago was a different story.

Example Skatepark Rules Language

Welcome to the {name of skatepark} Skate Park

Park Hours: 6:30am to 10:00pm unless otherwise posted

Use this facility at your own risk

  • Usage is intended for skateboards and BMX freestyle bikes
  • Be responsible – this park is not supervised
  • Safety First – helmets and other protective gear are highly recommended
  • Be respectful of others – no fighting or foul language
  • Clean up after yourself – do not leave trash on or around the skate park
  • Please no gum, food or drinks on the skate park surface
  • All other City of {city name} park rules apply

For emergencies call 911
To report damage call xxx-xxx-xxxx

TEXAS LAW (CHAPTER 75, CIVIL PRACTICE AND REMEDIES CODE) LIMITS THE LIABILITY OF A GOVERNMENTAL UNIT FOR DAMAGES ARISING DIRECTLY FROM HOCKEY, IN-LINE HOCKEY, SKATING, IN-LINE SKATING, ROLLER-SKATING, SKATEBOARDING, ROLLER-BLADING, OR SOAP BOX DERBY USE ON PREMISES THAT THE GOVERNMENTAL UNIT OWNS, OPERATES, OR MAINTAINS FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Another example of public skate park rules from the City of McKinney:

Be sure to post these rules on the City’s website. Skate park users may refer to these rules before going to the skate park. The City of Boerne, Texas have clearly stated their skate park’s rules online.  Have questions about skate park rules and regulations? Please Contact Us.

See more SPA Skateparks articles.

Disclaimer: SPA Skateparks is not offering legal advice. Consult your legal department for acceptable skate park rules.