San Francisco’s Playgrounds Reopen Today

It was announced on Wednesday that the California has revised the shelter-in-place restrictions in order to allow playgrounds to open. san Francisco says that the city’s guidelines will be updated and playgrounds will be open in San Francisco.

Rec and Park’s 179 public playgrounds have signs reminding families of capacity limits and other guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Hand washing stations have been placed at the 51 playgrounds without restrooms.

See the city’s reopening guidelines (as of 12/9/20 not yet updated to reflect the new change with playgrounds)

When do the playgrounds reopen? The Mayor says “tomorrow” (i.e. December 10th), while SF Rec & Park says December 9th.

Please note that some playgrounds will have revised hours. Check out the interactive map.

I’m glad to hear that the State has updated their Stay at Home order to allow outdoor playgrounds to open. Outdoor activity is important for all of our physical and mental health, especially children.

We’re now updating our guidelines and playgrounds in SF will open by tomorrow.

— London Breed (@LondonBreed) December 9, 2020

San Francisco does, however, remain under the regional stay at home order. This means you can visit a playground, but only with members of your own household. Everyone over 2 must wear a mask at all times, practice social distancing, and comply with capacity limits. This is not a time to schedule playdates or meet others at the playground.

This decision reflects that playgrounds are essential spaces for children with established benefits to their physical and mental health. Allowing for their use is comparable to the health order allowing park usage for adults to get exercise and fresh air.

They will remain open for use with capacity limits, hand sanitizing stations, and requirements for masks and social distancing.

San Francisco Playground Rules

Starting December 10, 2020
Per San Francisco Recreation and Park Department

• Do not visit a playground with anyone not in your household. Do not arrange playdates.
• Limit visits to 30 minutes when others are present.
• Visitors of all ages must stay 6 feet away from non-household members.
• Everyone 2 and older must wear masks.
• Do not eat or drink at the playground.
• If it’s crowded, come back later or choose a different playground.
• Clean your hands before and after playing.
• Adults must actively supervise children at all times. Children 2 and under must be within arm’s reach.
• To maximize the number of children who can play, only one adult may accompany each child.