NYPC Community Affairs Bureau Message

Community Awareness Message Did You Know...? The Community Affairs Bureau would like to draw your attention to a few NYC Parks Rules and Regulations applicable to playgrounds with which the general public may not be aware.   For example, as per section 1-05 "Regulated Uses," an adult is only permitted on a playground when accompanied by a child under the age of twelve (12). Therefore, any adult entering a playground unaccompanied by a child is subject to a summons.  This rule has been implemented in order to foster a safe environment for all visitors by deterring certain criminal elements, such as: child predators, drug dealers, prostitutes, etc.  To clarify the difference between a playground and a park, consider the following: A playground is a place for children to utilize available recreational equipment such as swings, seesaws, monkey bars, slides, etc.   A park is a general open area designated for recreational use by anyone.   It is also worth noting that many New York City parks and playgrounds close at dusk. Dusk is defined as the time when the sun no longer illuminates the sky.  People should be aware of posted signage at the entrance of each playground or park conveying this information.  If anyone is present within a playground or park past its designated closing time, they are also subject to a summons or arrest.   City of New York Parks and Recreation signage will look similar to this:    For further information, please refer to the New York City Parks and Recreation website atwww.nycgovparks.org/rules.