Community Centers Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the community centers located?

What are the community center hours?
Community center hours fluctuate based on seasons, programs and use schedules. Call for details or check out our brochure.

What are the hours for the community center parks and playgrounds?
The parks and playgrounds are open from dawn until dusk.

What kind of programs are offered in the community centers?
The Park District offers a wide variety of programs such as youth and adult sports, early childhood, dance & art classes, teen centered activities, martial arts, fitness, adult trips & special interests as well as many others. Please look at our current brochure for up to date information.

What age group do we cater to at the community centers?
The Park District programs cater to all ages ranging from 0 to 100 and beyond.

When are the restrooms available?
Community center restrooms are available to the public when a staff member is on duty, which fluctuates based on seasons, programs and use schedules. During the months of April through October there are comfort stations set up for outside sports events.

Is alcohol allowed at the community center?
Alcohol is not permitted in or on Park District property. If found violating this rule, the offender will be asked to leave the community center and park area.

Are there any community centers with an indoor gym?
No, we base our programs with gym related activities in the elementary school gyms.

Where can I play basketball?
There are basketball courts available at Barrie, Longfellow, and Stevenson parks. They are only available during hours that an attendant is on duty during the months of April through October. We offer indoor basketball programs at some schools in the winter.

Can I register for programs at the community centers?
No, you can register for programs in person at 218 Madison St , or at Ridgeland Common, 415 Lake St . You can also register by mail, or online.

What should I do in order to rent a community center?
Complete and submit the Community Center Rental Application with the $100 deposit. You will receive a response to your request within 10 business days.

How much is it to rent a community center?
The hourly rate is based upon residency, the amount of people you are looking to accommodate and the center in which you are interested in renting. There is a $100 deposit that is used to secure the date. A $40 flat fee is required if you wish to use the kitchen (only select facilities have kitchens).

Is there someone present at the community center to help the day of the rental?
A Facility Attendant will be available throughout the duration of the rental. They are scheduled for supervisory duties and to monitor the facility and make sure everything pre-arranged is provided. This includes setting up tables and chairs, opening & closing rental spaces, and answering general questions. If a more specific question arises, the Facility Attendant is able to contact the Parks and Facilities Coordinator.

Is decorating allowed?
Renters may decorate but may not use tape, confetti, silly string, helium balloons or open flames (Sterno may be used to heat food). Any permitted decorations must be removed by the renter without adversely affecting the facility.

What is the Park District policy on music for private rentals?
The Park District has established music and amplified music restrictions which we expect rental groups to abide by. These restrictions are: Amplified sound is limited to single unit devices (i.e., boom boxes, radios, IPOD players, etc.) and must be placed indoors and in designated areas only. Activity room doors must be kept closed while amplification is in process and must cease by 10:30 p.m. Decibel level of amplified music must be in conformance with Village of Oak Park noise standards for residential neighborhoods. Furthermore, the sound level must be limited to reach only the immediate audience within the facility. Loudness of music is at the discretion of our onsite staff; failure to comply with a request to lower volume may result in revocation of facility use, police intervention and withholding of your deposit. It is the responsibility of the renter listed on the rental contract to control the sound level at the rental event. DJs, bands, music or speaking that utilizes speakers or amplifiers is strictly prohibited.

How many tables and chairs are available?
The amount of tables and chairs that are setup is determined by the approximate headcount stated on the contract.

What size and shape are the tables?
The tables are typically 6 foot rectangular tables. There are also card tables and 8 foot rectangular tables; however these are not available at every center.

Is setup and cleanup time included in the rental time frame?
There is no additional time provided for setup (decorating) or cleanup. It is possible to prorate the hourly rate and purchase an extra half an hour before and after the party. The time reflected on the Facility Rental Agreement is the time that the renter is able to be present in the facility.

Are recycling containers available?
No, but we encourage our renters to take recyclables home.

How long does it take to receive a refund for the rental deposit?
It takes approximately four weeks after the date of the event. It takes less time if the deposit is received by a credit card.

Are the parks available for rental?
The parks are separate from the community center. They can be permitted by applying for a Park Permit during the months of April thru October. Information regarding Park Permits is available here.