FAQs
Events in the Parks | Trails | Maintenance | Park Police Law Enforcement
Mayor's It's our Park Video
Events in the parks
Are the picnic tables in the park first-come, first-serve, or do I have to reserve them?
All picnic tables are available on a first come first serve basis unless they are located under a covered pavilion available for rental.
How do I reserve a practice field for my child's sports team?
Through one of the five Community Link Centers you can reserve fields two days a week in two-week increments.
Do I have to reserve a pavilion for my family reunion?
Pavilions are available on a first come first serve basis but reservations are recommended. If a pavilion is reserved, then the renter will have priority during the reserved time frame on their permit.
Can I get married in a City park?
Yes, but if the event is larger than 75 people, will have live music or serve alcohol, it will be considered a special event. They will need to contact the reservations representative to make these arrangements and will be required to have security.
Who do I call to find out if a park is open or closed during inclement weather?
Park Police or 311 or City Web site
Can I serve alcohol at my family reunion?
How do I know which parks allow alcohol?
Consumption of alcohol in city parks is governed by an ordinance passed by City Council, which designated which parks would permit it. The list of parks on our website or may call any Community Link Center.
What are the hours at my neighborhood park? Are they the same at all parks? Why not?
Curfew is 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. set per City Ordinance. Times can be altered in association with Special Events, i.e. Easter, 4th of July.
Can I get a permit to stay at the park past the curfew for my family reunion?
This is only approved through the P&R Director's Office and must be sent in a request letter. It will be at the Director's discretion.
Can I put my canoe in Woodlawn Lake? Do I need a permit?
Yes you may. No permit is needed. For rules governing paddling in City of San Antonio parks, visit www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/watercrafts.aspx
Can I use my metal detector in a City park? How do I get a permit?
Metal detecting is allowed in selected parks. A permit is required. For more information and an application, go to our web site at www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/metaldetecting.aspx
Can I geocache in a City park?
Geocaching is not currently permitted. We ask that our park patrons not dig, bury or hide items in City parks.
Do I need a permit to take photos or shoot video in city parks?
If you are doing this for commercial purposes, yes. A permit is available by contacting the Convention and Visitors Bureau Film Commission at 210-207-6730 or visit filmsantonio.com.
Trails
Can I ride my bike on all park trail?
Bikes can be ridden on trails marked for multi-purpose per the City Code. This includes all of the greenway trails on Leon and Salado Creeks and Medina River.
Can I ride my scooter on park trails? Can I ride horses on park trails? Why not?
Current City Code prohibits riding scooters on the trails. Parks and Recreation does not have a park designated for riding horses. In addition, it is a health issue due to the droppings.
Can I camp in City parks?
The only camping available in a City park is group camping by permit at Medina River Natural Area. Call the Community Link Centers to make a group camping reservation.
Maintenance
How often are parks mowed? How can I find out when my park will be mowed?
Parks are mowed on a 21-day cycle.
Who do I call for removal of a hazardous tree on park land?
311 or the City Forester at 207-3108
Where/Who do I call to report a playground in need of repair?
311
Who do I call if I discover a dead animal on park property that needs to be removed?
311
How often is trash removed from a park?
Daily
I have discovered poison ivy in the park. Who do I call to have it removed?
311
Park Police/Law Enforcement
How do I stop people from four-wheeling on park property?
Call the SAPD non-emergency number at 210-207-7484 and request a Park Police Officer to assist at the location.
Who do I call if I see people spray painting graffiti or otherwise defacing/vandalizing park property?
Call the SAPD non-emergency number and request a Park Police Officer to assist at the location.
The bathroom in my park has been vandalized? Who do I call?
If the vandalism is in progress, call 210-207-7484.