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The Park District offers many services and ways to play your way every day!  So, it's natural that there will be questions, and the good thing is... We have the answers! 

General

How do I report vandalism, graffiti, or other problems in a park?

To report maintenance problems in a park, please call the Parks Department at (217) 753-6212 ext. 1403.  In the case of emergency safety and/or repair issues found during non-business hours, please contact the Springfield Park Police Department by calling the non-emergency number (217) 971-2291 or 911.

How can I reach the Park District?

Springfield Park District
Mon-Fri 8:30am - 4:30pm
2500 S. 11th Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Office: (217) 544-1751
Email: parks@springfieldparks.org
Fax: (217) 544-1811

How can I make a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request?

Any person requesting records of the Springfield Park District under the Freedom of Information Act must make such a request in writing either by mail, by e-mail, or by hand delivery at the Administration Office, 2500 S. 11th Street, Springfield IL 62703 to the FOIA Officer, Stephen Flesch, who is the Director of Finance & Administration. Email: sflesch@springfieldparks.org  Use of the Springfield Park District’s SPD FOIA Request Form.pdf will assist the district in responding to requests, but it is not required. The use of the term “FOIA” in the written request will also assist the district in responding to requests.

Do I still need to wear face coverings?

According to the new mitigations from the State and from Sangamon County, masks are optional and proof of vaccination is no longer required.

When can we expect new event and activity guides to come out?

The Springfield Park District's event, facility, activity, and program guides come out based on the following schedule:

  • Winter/Spring - January - April
  • Summer & Day Camp Guide - April
  • Summer - May - August
  • Fall/Holiday - September - December

Are there discounts available for service members at the Springfield Park District?

Yes, the Springfield Park District offers a special discount for Active-duty military, veterans, firefighters, police officers, and nurses. Enjoy a 10% discount on passes and memberships, plus reduced daily admission!

  • 10% off all Springfield Park District passes and memberships, including those for your dependents and immediate family members. 
  • Proof of active-duty service or military veteran status is required at registration.
  • In-person registration only: This discount cannot be applied to online orders and cannot be combined with other discounts. Be sure to enter all family members into one account in the District's registration system. 

Service Member Discount Information

Picnic Shelter, Walks, & Park Permits

Do I need a park permit for a family picnic or event?

Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis for the summer season, May through October, weather permitting.

Permission is not "required," however there is no guarantee that the restrooms will be open, and that space and tables will be available if you are planning a scheduled event on a certain date and time with invited guests.

A minimum of 7 days advance notice is required for all park permit reservations.  All documents and payment of fees are due at the time the reservation is made.

Permits:
Picnic Shelter permits give the holder exclusive use of the picnic shelter for which the permit has been issued on the date and time specified.  All other facilities in and around the permitted shelter in our parks are open to the general public.

Do I need a park permit for a special event, walk, or run?

Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting. 

Permission is  required, however there is no guarantee that the restrooms will be open, and that space and tables will be available if you are planning a scheduled event on a certain date and time with invited guests.

A minimum of 7 days advance notice is required for all park permit reservations.  All documents and payment of fees are due at the time the reservation is made.

Permits:
Special event, walk, or run permits give the holder exclusive use of the area for which the permit has been issued on the date and time specified.  All other facilities in and around the permitted area in our parks are open to the general public.

What is included with my picnic shelter or pavilion permit?

Picnic shelter permits include the use of the shelter and the existing set of tables, trash cans, grill(s), and facilities of the shelter.  Additional tables and trash cans can be requested, if available, and are subject to additional fees.  

Groups are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the available facilities and rules of use prior to filling out a picnic shelter reservation request form either in person or online at bit.ly/SPDPicnicPermits

What is included with a walk permit?

United States Track and Field Certified race course (2 mile and 5K) *excluding Southwind Park

Marked courses with and accompanying race course map *excluding Southwind Park

Barricades for large walks to prevent vehicular traffic *excluding Southwind Park and Lincoln Park

Exclusive use of the picnic shelter during the event *excluding Southwind Park

*Extra Tables, Trash Cans, and a dumpster may be added for additional fees.

Groups are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the available facilities and rules of use prior to filling out a walk reservation request form either in person or online at bit.ly/SPDPicnicPermits

*Please note - Southwind Park - Call Erin's Pavilion 217-585-2941 directly for availability at Southwind Park, rates and schedules to reserve for Picnics, Walks/Runs, and Special Events located at Southwind Park.

Can I have a bounce house or water feature at my family picnic/party?

No personal picnic permit is allowed to have bounce houses or water play features brought onto park property as an added amenity to their park-permitted space.  Only large Corporate and Special Event permits allow for such items, including tents to be pre-approved, and additional fees would apply.  Permit holders found either misleading or disobeying the no bounce house or water play feature rules, could be subject to fines and your event being shut down by Park District Police.

When do I need a Special Event Permit for my event?

Any event on park property is subject to the approval of the Springfield Park District. Certain activities that require a Springfield Park District Special Event Permit include the following:

  • Events with 50 or more participants
  • Events that invite the general public as a whole to attend
  • Use of amplified sound
  • Any advertising or sponsorship activities
  • Selling and/or distributing food, goods, or merchandise (this includes exercise classes or boot camps)
  • Liquor - only with pre-request and approval
  • Tents
  • Inflatables
  • Stages
  • Specific location reservations

Please consider there are other activities or proposed event features that may require you to secure a Springfield Park District Special Event Permit. Contact the Springfield Park District Admin Office at (217) 544-1471 ext. 1004 to discuss availability and options.

Download the Event Walk/Run Application, save it, fill it out, and plan to email it back to parks@springfieldparks.org  Spfld_Park_District_WalkRunApp.pdf

What if I arrive at my permitted event and there are individuals or groups using the space?

Make sure you have your Springfield Park District Special Event Permit on hand. This permit shows that you have permission to use the space for the stated time and date. If you have any problems, please contact Springfield Park District Police at (217) 971-2291.

What are the Springfield Park District’s insurance requirements and how can I obtain the necessary insurance?

Applicants must submit a Certificate of Liability to satisfy insurance requirements. A Certificate of General Liability Insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 naming the Springfield Park District as “additional insured” and the certificate holder for the date(s) of your event including set up and tear down dates.  Your permit will not be issued if the Certificate of Liability Insurance has not been received and approved 48 hours prior to an event.

Is alcohol allowed at my event if I obtain a Springfield Park District Special Event Permit?

No alcoholic beverages shall be sold, brought within, given away, delivered, or consumed on park property, except pursuant to pre-approval for Athletic, Corporate, Festival/Performance Special Event Permits, or with the Special Event Venue Rentals (with a preferred caterer). Additionally, the City of Springfield requires a special event liquor license for any alcoholic beverage service in outdoor spaces unless using a pre-approved licensed vendor. For more information, please call the Bunn Admin Office at (217) 544-1751.

City of Springfield Temporary Liquor License Information: CLICK HERE

Are restroom facilities available for my event? Am I required to purchase portable toilets for my event?

Public restrooms in the parks are open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. All Athletic, Corporate, and Festival/Performance Springfield Park District Special Event Permits must provide portable toilets for their participants with events over 50 people. The location of portable toilets is subject to Springfield Park District approval.  You must contract for portables through the Park District's preferred vendor.  Email to receive the current vendor contact information.

Once I have obtained a Special Event Permit, how can I move equipment to my site?

Parking or driving vehicles on grass or athletic fields are strictly prohibited. If staff and supply vehicles need to be driven to the site to unload equipment or supplies, the Springfield Park District may consider granting a Springfield Park District Vehicle Pass so that the vehicles may legally access service roads, subject to Springfield Park District approval.

Can I reserve parking spaces for my event?

Parking provisions are not included in the issuance of any Springfield Park District Special Event Permit. However, public parking is available at parking lots and designated street parking throughout the parks. For more information on parking lots, please contact the General Maintenance Department at (217) 753-6212 ext. 1403.

Can I have music, a DJ, or a live music performer at my event?

Corporate-level permits and Festival/Performance permits allow amplified sound. All requests for amplified sound must be approved by the Springfield Park District. Amplified sound must be directed away from residences and must comply with City of Springfield sound code and cannot extend past 10 pm. The proposed location of the sound system, direction of sound, and location of all speakers must be identified on your pre-event site map.

Does the Springfield Park District provide tables, chairs, benches, tents, sound systems, or any other equipment with a Springfield Park District Special Event Permit?

The Springfield Park District does not supply such additional equipment, outside what is identified to already be at your permitted location. Springfield Park District Special Event Permit applicants are responsible for securing all event-related supplies or equipment and are responsible for the predetermined time for removal of said event supplies and equipment as stated on your park issued event permit.

May I grill in the parks?

Grilling must be confined to enclosed metal containers and may only take place within dedicated grilling areas. Hot coals must be doused with water, and ashes and coals must be properly disposed of.  Cooking is allowed on supplied barbecue grills only.  OPEN FIRES ARE NOT ALLOWED!

I want to have tents and/or canopies at my event. Is that allowed?

Only Corporate and Special Event/Festival Springfield Park District permits allow tents and canopies. Pre-approval for the size of the tent and location determination must be arranged before a permit will be issued.  The Springfield Park District reserves the right to request an on-site meeting when large events and tents are necessary.  Specific instructions will be given by the park district and it will be the responsibility of the permittee to contact JULIE at 1-800-892-0123 to mark the area for underground power and service lines.  A pre-approved tent vendor will be required for tents larger than 10' x 10'.  Placement of all tents and canopies is subject to Springfield Park District approval.

Do I need to clean up after my event, or will the Springfield Park District provide maintenance and clean up services?

The Springfield Park District can provide limited maintenance services for park picnic-permitted areas.  These services include providing extra garbage cans, garbage can liners, and the collection and removal of all refuse from the site.  Groups are responsible for placing all trash in the trash cans provided or properly removing it from the site.  The site will be inspected after each use.  Any excess debris or damage will be the responsibility of the permit holder.

For larger events, at the discretion of the Springfield Park District, an outside maintenance vendor and maintenance plan may be required. Outside maintenance vendors and plans must meet the approval of the Springfield Park District. All agreements for Springfield Park District Maintenance Services must be arranged at least 60 days prior to your event and payments must be submitted before the day of the event. For more information, please contact the Bunn Admin Office at (217) 544-1751 ext. 1004.

What if I need to cancel my event?

Outdoor park permit fees are non-refundable.  Events are rain or shine.  If you should have to cancel, or weather precludes you from moving forward with your event, please consider these funds as a donation to the Park District.

When will the bathroom doors be unlocked?

The bathroom doors will be unlocked at the scheduled start time and locked at your scheduled end time. There is no need to contact the Springfield Park District unless the doors fail to open/lock at the scheduled times.

Are there water hookups at the shelter?

No, only shelter electricity is provided, but water hydrants are typically available nearby.

What times can I set up and tear down my event?

Set-up and tear-down must be done within the hours of the reservation. When you are making your reservation, please be sure to allow for both set-up and tear-down.

Do I need to call and inform the Springfield Park District when I arrive at/leave my event?

No, the shelter will be ready before your scheduled start time.

Does the Springfield Park District provide trash can liners?

Yes, the Park District provides trash liners. If you believe you will need extra, please ask when reserving. 

Why does the vendor for my event have to be registered with the Springfield Park District?

By registering with the Springfield Park District, the vendor is granted the permit (per ordinance) for their event. They must file a certificate of insurance naming the Springfield Park District as additionally insured for their event.

Is a registered vendor required if food is prepared by the party host or being brought from home?

A registered vendor is not required if people bring and consume their own food (i.e., private picnic or family gathering). 

Do I need insurance?

Insurance is required for events open to the public, and for both the protection of the individual or organization renting the shelter as well as for the protection of the Springfield Park District in the event of third-party claims for bodily injury, associated medical costs, and damage to the property. The insurance required by the Springfield Park District is for coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and it must name the Springfield Park District as additionally insured. 

When is General Liability (Host) Liquor Insurance required?

General Liability Insurance includes Host Liquor coverage. This insurance is required when alcohol is being provided. 

When are both General Liability (Host) Liquor and Illinois Statutory Liquor Liability Insurance required?

Illinois Statutory Liquor Liability coverage must be added when alcoholic beverages are being sold, are included in the price of admission, or donations are requested.

Are refunds available if it rains?

No, all reservations are rain or shine.

When is payment for my reservation due?

Payment is due at the time of the rental.

Can a shelter be rented for a full day?

Yes, you will need to rent both time slots for the day.

Are bounce houses allowed?

No, bounce houses are not allowed within Springfield Park District parks unless a permit and insurance are obtained before the rental.

Program Registration, Cancellation & Other

Who is considered in my Household?

Only immediate family members can be listed on a registration form or Household account.

Who can register a minor?

Only a parent or guardian may register a minor and sign the Park District waiver.

Does the registration form need to be filled out completely?

Yes, the registration form must be filled out completely and accurately.

Do I have to pay once I register?

Yes, payment must accompany registration. 

What is your policy on delinquent balances?

Members or Households with a delinquent balance shall not be allowed to register for Park District programs, purchase season passes, or rent facilities until said balance is paid in full.

What are program minimums and maximums?

All Springfield Park District programs require a minimum number of participants seven business days before a class begins. A maximum number is also listed to ensure quality instruction. Classes may be combined, and times modified to facilitate better programs. Receipts are mailed or emailed to those enrolled.

What is the program insurance policy?

Springfield Park District is unable to assume responsibility for injuries or accidents occurring at programs, activities, parks, and facilities. Carrying medical insurance for participants would make the program user fees prohibited. 

What are park district waivers?

Forms are required and must be signed when registering yourself or your minor child for Springfield Park District programs and/or memberships.

What is the oops policy?

Complete details of program policies, procedures, and guidelines are sometimes omitted from the activity guide because of space limitations. Also, errors in days, times, registration requirements, and fees may occur as well. We apologize for any errors that may appear in the guide. We thank you for your patience and understanding when these situations arise.

What is a resident v. non-resident?

The Springfield Park District is committed to serving the residents of the Springfield Park District. Springfield Park District residents may be different from City of Springfield residents. 

A resident is defined as anyone living within the boundaries of the Springfield Park District. Residents support Springfield Park District facilities and programs through property taxes and therefore receive preferred rates for many of the services provided by the Springfield Park District. To determine if you are a Springfield Park District resident, feel free to contact our Bunn Administrative Office at 217-544-1751

How is a family defined?

A family is defined as no more than two adults and their unmarried children, up to the age of 26, residing within the same household, full-time. Children 27 years or older, other relatives, and/or individuals in the same household, are not included in this definition. 

What is the Code of Conduct?

All activity participants, park goers, facility patrons, and persons permitting park space for private events must adhere to the Springfield Park District's Code of Conduct. 

-Show respect to all participants & staff
-Refrain from using foul language
-Refrain from causing harm to other participants or staff
-Refrain from damaging equipment, supplies, and facilities

complete list of this code

What is the termination policy?

Springfield Park District reserves the right to terminate the participation of any individual in any Park District program, event, or facility for disruptive behavior, or if it is considered by the Park District that continued participation of the individual is not in the best interest of the participant or others.

What is the refund policy?

A full refund will be issued if the Park District reschedules or cancels a class. A refund will be issued automatically by the Park District (form is not required).

No refunds will be given once a program or session has ended.

Program refund requests are subject to the Assistant Director of Recreation and Marketing's approval. Refunds will not be approved for season passes without proof of medical need.

How often do I have to update my residency?

All household information must be updated annually with the Springfield Park District residency documented and a Photo ID (Driver's license or State ID) and current utility bill. Continued proof of residency is necessary to guarantee that only residents living within the Park District's taxing boundaries receive discounted rates. 

Day Camps

Is financial assistance offered?

Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.    

Can I cancel my registration?

Refund requests will be issued either as a credit to the patron's account for future use or a refund will be issued. No refunds will be given once camp has started for the day or after camp has ended. 

Room Rentals

Do I need insurance?

Insurance is required for events open to the public, and for both the protection of the individual or organization renting the shelter as well as for the protection of the Springfield Park District in the event of third-party claims for bodily injury, associated medial costs, and damage to the property. The insurance required by the Springfield Park District is for coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and it must name the Springfield Park District as additionally insured. 

When is General Liability (Host) Liquor Insurance required?

General Liability Insurance includes Host Liquor coverage. This insurance is required when alcohol is being provided. 

When are both General Liability (Host) Liquor and Illinois Statutory Liquor Liability Insurance required?

Illinois Statutory Liquor Liability coverage must be added when alcoholic beverages are being sold, are included in the price of admission, or donations are requested.

Can I request liquor for my rental?

Organizations or individuals who request to distribute and/or dispense alcohol during the rental of a Park District Facility will be required to contract with a licensed bar service that holds a current liquor license and carries the appropriate dram-shop insurance to serve alcohol. There are facilities within the Park District that are licensed to serve liquor for your rental. Please make sure to ask the facility you wish to have your rental at for further information. Proof of contract with a licensed bar service or caterer will be required before you can host the alcohol on the day of your event.

The Park District charges a $50-$75 service fee for the request to serve alcohol at your event.

Are vehicles only supposed to park in the designated areas?

Yes, all vehicles must be confined to the designated roadways, drives, and parking lot areas.

Can I sell concessions when I rent the room?

Yes, a separate permit will be required. Please inquire about this when renting.

Can I decorate for my rental?

Yes, all signs and decorations must be removed from the Park District property at the close of your event.

What can't I bring for my rental?

Weapons, firecrackers, or similar devices shall not be brought onto Park District property.

Is a deposit required for my rental?

Some rentals require a non-refundable deposit to be placed at the time of booking. Deposits ensure that the facility will be reserved. Deposits will be applied to the total balance owed.

What is the general term agreement for a rental?

During the term of this Agreement, Lessee shall have sole responsibility for the supervision of its players, participants, agents, and employees. Lessee assumes sole responsibility for the actions of the foregoing parties while using the facility and Lessee agrees to reimburse the total cost of repairing or replacing any portion of the Springfield Park District’s facility, equipment, or furnishings which are damaged, lost, or destroyed during the term of this Agreement. Lessee shall indemnify, defend (with counsel reasonably selected by the District) and save harmless the Springfield Park District and each of its respective advisors, agents, representatives, employees, officers, and Board of Trustees from any and all liabilities, demands, actions, causes of action, suits, claims, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees, litigation expenses, and court costs) arising directly or indirectly from or in connection with Lessee’s use of the facility pursuant to this Agreement. Lessee’s obligations to indemnify, defend, and save the other harmless hereunder shall survive and continue beyond the term of this Agreement.

What if my event is marketed or open to the public, serving alcohol, and/or charging admission?

If the event is marketed and or open to the public, serving alcohol, and/or the Lessee is charging admission for the event, then Lessee will be required to obtain a certificate of general liability insurance naming the District as a co-insured. Such certificate shall specify primary rather than contributory coverage with limits of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence and Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000) in the aggregate. This policy will be subject to the reasonable prior approval of the District and must be issued by a licensed. A copy of the Certificate of Liability must be provided to the District and Lessee shall give thirty (30) days written prior written notice of any alteration or termination of coverage.

Is a waiver required for my rental?

Yes, an executed Springfield Park District waiver and release form is required for all participants prior to participation in the activities. If the participant is a minor, the waiver and release must be executed by the participant’s parent or legal guardian.

Do I have to abide by all federal, state, and local laws for my rental?

Yes, Lessee shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Do I have to abide and ensure my guests are following the Code of Conduct?

All activity participants, park goers, facility patrons, and persons permitting park space for private events must adhere to the Springfield Park District's Code of Conduct. 

-Show respect to all participants & staff
-Refrain from using foul language
-Refrain from causing harm to other participants or staff
-Refrain from damaging equipment, supplies, and facilities

 Ordinances

Dog Friendly Areas & Rules

Where are dog friendly areas at the Springfield Park District?

Stuart Park - 1800 Winch Lane
One large dog run and one small dog run, completely fenced in where dogs may be unleashed. Each includes a water source, DOGIPOT, and picnic shelter.

Centennial Park - 5529 Bunker Hill Road
Centennial Dog Park is over an acre in size and was built to be fully ADA accessible. The dog park features separate play areas for large and small dogs, challenging obstacle course, dog water fountains, and is completely fenced in where dogs may be unleashed.

Riverside Park - 4700 Peoria Road
The lower section of Riverside Park contains approximately 200 acres and is primarily used as an unleashed dog-run area. This area includes a small pond and nearly one mile of riverfront land for you and your dog to enjoy.

What are the leash rules at the Springfield Park District?

Dog owners must stay with their dogs, and they must be leashed in open green spaces unless you are inside the designated dog-run fenced areas. Even while off the leash, you must have the leash with you and be in good voice command of your dog. Owners are responsible and liable for the actions and behaviors of their dogs at all times.

Do dogs need to be leashed in inside fenced areas?

No, dogs must be leashed until they are inside the fenced areas. If you wish to unleash your dog, visit the dog parks at Stuart or Riverside Parks.

What are your dog waste rules?

Please scoop your dog's poop & dispose of it in the designated receptacles. 

What kind of dogs are allowed?

Aggressive dogs are not allowed. If your dog becomes unruly or plays rough, please leave immediately. 

What will happen if I choose not to abide by the park rules?

Failure to abide by the park rules may result in loss of privileges and the owner may be ticketed up to $500. Please make sure to follow all Park District policies.

How do I report an issue?

To report an issue, please contact Park Police at 217-698-6030.

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