NEW PRIVATE PLAYGROUNDS ORDINANCE

The City Council adopted an ordinance in January 2008 that addresses the location and height of private residential playgrounds. This was done to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our residents. All open play systems (defined as “any private playground equipment or swing set intended to be primarily used as recreation for children”) can only be located in the side or rear yards of residential lots. They cannot be located any closer than ten feet from the side or rear lot line and cannot be located any closer than five feet from any structure or building. The open play systems cannot exceed 15 feet in height.

Playground equipment does NOT require a building permit for construction and placement. However, it must be located within the parameters identified above. Residents can be asked to move the equipment if it is located outside the setbacks. Please beware of these restrictions as spring rolls around and the weather gets warmer.