Tips for Maintaining Community Association (HOA) Playgrounds

A well-maintained playground is a valuable asset for any homeowners association (HOA), attracting families and fostering a sense of community. However, safety, compliance, and regular upkeep are essential to prevent injuries and liability risks. Here’s what HOA board members and property managers need to consider when maintaining their community playgrounds.

Understanding State and Federal Regulations

HOA playgrounds must comply with federal, state, and local regulations to ensure safety and accessibility.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

The CPSC sets safety standards for playgrounds, outlined in the Handbook for Public Playground Safety. This guide helps HOAs evaluate existing structures or plan new installations.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance

Playgrounds must be accessible to children of all abilities. This includes maintained wheelchair ramps, adaptive swings, and accessible pathways. Associations that restrict playground use to residents and their invited guests may qualify for certain exemptions, but if the playground is open to the general public, it likely falls under ADA compliance requirements.

State & Local Permits

Regulations vary by location. HOAs should check with their local building inspection office to determine if they need permits for new playgrounds or renovations.

Choosing Safe Playground SurfacesSafe Surfaces

Since falls are the leading cause of playground injuries, proper shock-absorbing surfaces are essential.

• Wood Chips (10-12" depth) – Affordable but high maintenance due to displacement.
• Loose Rubber (6" depth) – Softer landing but requires regular replenishing.
• Rubber Surface Covering – Low-maintenance, durable, and ADA-compliant, though more expensive upfront.

Regularly inspect and replenish loose-fill materials to maintain adequate cushioning.

Regular Playground Maintenance & InspectionsMaintenance

Playground equipment undergoes wear and tear from constant use and exposure to the elements. A proactive maintenance plan extends its lifespan and keeps it safe for children.

• Inspect Equipment Monthly
  • Check for rust, loose bolts, cracks, or worn-out swings and slides.
  • Look for splinters or sharp edges that could cause injury.
• Schedule Professional Inspections
  • Some local governments require certified playground safety inspections.
  • Hiring a trained inspector helps identify hidden structural risks.
• Encourage Community Involvement
  • Educate residents on playground safety and reporting maintenance concerns.
  • Hold seasonal clean-up days to keep the playground in top shape.

Legal & Liability Considerations

When planning a playground for the first time, it is a good idea for an association to meet with its attorney. Most likely, the association will be working with a vendor to provide and install the equipment. An attorney can review any contracts, permit applications, and insurance policies. Children often become injured while playing; whether it is due to their own playing or faulty playground equipment. If it is the latter, then having the association's legal bases covered is important. Even after a playground is established, reviewing policies with the association attorney ever so often helps in ensuring that everything is current and up-to-date.

Playgrounds play an important role in the development of children. Movement helps them stay active and healthy and they develop socialization skills playing with other children. Fresh air does wonders for children and parents to enjoy meeting other parents from the community. In today's world of smartphones and technology, it's now more important than ever to encourage children to spend time playing outside.  By properly maintaining a common area playground, HOAs can offer children a safe place to run, jump, climb, and play with others.

The Importance of Playgrounds in HOA Communities

Playgrounds provide children with a safe space to develop social skills, stay active, and enjoy outdoor play. In an age of screens and technology, encouraging outdoor play is more important than ever.

By following proper maintenance practices, complying with regulations, and addressing liability concerns, HOAs can ensure their community playground remains safe, fun, and welcoming for all families.

Need assistance managing your HOA’s common areas? Contact RealManage today for expert community association management services.