Park Rules

Our parks are open from sunrise to sunset so everyone can enjoy a safe and relaxing visit. Lighted facilities stay open a bit later: lights turn off at 10:00 p.m. and those areas close at 10:30 p.m. From time to time, the Park District may adjust hours or close specific areas for maintenance, weather, or special events.

Our parks are shared spaces for the whole community. Please follow posted signs, stay out of restricted or unfinished areas, and respect any spaces reserved for programs or rentals. Activities that put others at risk, damage property, or significantly disrupt other visitors’ enjoyment are not allowed and may result in removal from the park.

Leashed dogs and cats are welcome in most outdoor areas. To keep parks clean and comfortable for everyone, pets must stay on a leash and under control at all times. Pets are not allowed on ball infields, courts, playgrounds, washrooms, or other posted no-pet areas. Please bring bags, pick up after your pet, and dispose of waste in a trash can.

We ask all visitors to enjoy wildlife from a distance. Do not chase, feed, or harm animals or birds, and please leave plants and natural features undisturbed. Only domestic dogs and cats are allowed in designated areas and must be leashed and under control. Trained service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are welcome in buildings and facilities.

To support a healthy, family-friendly environment, all Hoffman Estates Park District parks and facilities are smoke-free, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on District property unless specifically approved through a Park District permit. Guests under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be asked to leave.

Planning a game, gathering, or special event? Many fields, shelters, and indoor spaces can be reserved. Larger groups and activities such as tournaments, amplified sound, or special equipment may require a permit, fees, proof of insurance, and a security deposit. Contact the Park District early to check availability and review requirements for your event.

Playgrounds, courts, fields, and other amenities are designed for specific types of play and activities. Follow posted age recommendations and rules for each area, and do not use equipment that is closed, fenced off, or under maintenance. Organized leagues, team practices, and large-group activities may need a reservation or permit.

Safety is our top priority. Weapons, fireworks, explosives, and other dangerous items are not allowed on District property. Controlled substances and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. Reckless behavior, bullying, and disorderly conduct are not permitted. Guests must follow directions from Park District staff and cooperating law enforcement officers.

Help us keep parks clean and beautiful. Please use trash and recycling containers where provided, and pack out your waste when bins are full or not available. Do not damage or remove trees, plants, or landscaping, and stay out of fenced or posted natural areas. Open flames and grills are allowed only in locations and at times designated by the Park District.

Some activities require advance approval so we can coordinate safety, staffing, and park use. You may need a permit for large gatherings, special events, amplified sound, commercial or charitable activities, drones, public performances, or certain athletic events. The Park District will review each request and may require fees, insurance, and a security deposit.

We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming experience for all visitors. Guests who do not follow park rules, local ordinances, or state laws may be asked to leave, may receive fines, or may face additional legal action. The Park District may also suspend park privileges and seek repayment for damage to facilities or property.We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming experience for all visitors. Guests who do not follow park rules, local ordinances, or state laws may be asked to leave, may receive fines, or may face additional legal action. The Park District may also suspend park privileges and seek repayment for damage to facilities or property.

The Hoffman Estates Park District (HEParks) recognizes that an agency that is physically and emotionally safe and secure for all participants promotes good citizenship, increases attendance and supports achievement. To protect the rights of all participants and groups for a safe and secure environment, HEParks prohibits acts of bullying, harassment, and other forms of aggression and violence.

Bullying or harassment, like other forms of aggressive and violent behaviors, interferes with a participant’s ability to learn and limits involvement. All administrators, staff, parents, volunteers, and participants are expected to refuse to tolerate bullying and harassment and to demonstrate behavior that is respectful and civil. It is especially important for adults to model these behaviors (even when disciplining) in order to provide positive examples for participant behavior.

As a participant in a Hoffman Estates Park District program or event when using one of its public parks or facilities, you may be photographed or videotaped by the Hoffman Estates Park District (HEParks) or its assigns and transferees. By registering in a program or attending a District event on District property, you are granting permission to HEParks to copyright, use and publish the same in print and/or electronically with or without your name and for any lawful purpose, including for example, publicity, illustration, advertising, program guide, brochures, newsletter, email, digital media boards, website, social media, news releases or other promotional materials.

In compliance with the Freedom of Information Act, the Hoffman Estates Park District’s Freedom of Information Act Officers and Open Meeting Act Officers are as follows:

Craig Talsma, Executive Director – 847-781-3633
Cindy Flynn, Executive Assistant – 847-781-3633
Amy Rivas, Director of Administrative Services – 847-781-3634

By accessing the public wireless network, you acknowledge that you’re of legal age, you have read and understood and agree to be bound by this agreement. The public wireless network is a service provided by HEParks and is completely at their discretion. Your access to the public wireless network may be blocked, suspended, or terminated at any time for any reason. Policy Manual last reviewed and approved by Park Board in its entirety 8/22/2023You agree not to use the public wireless network for any purpose that is unlawful and take full responsibility for your acts. You agree not to use the public wireless network to access inappropriate websites. The public wireless network is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied. By utilizing the public wireless network, you agree to comply with all provisions of the current Hoffman Estates Park District Public Wireless Network Policy which is incorporated by reference herein.