Priority of Department Programming Parks and Recreation Department programs have priority use of facilities. Rentals may be scheduled when department activities are not planned. The Department reserves the right to cancel previously approved facility rentals if necessary.
Appropriate Rental Uses Rental activities must align with recreational purposes like those typically conducted by the Department. Examples include basketball practice, dances, parties, reunions, and meetings.
Rental Arrangements Rental arrangements must be made at least two weeks before the reservation date. Rentals scheduled within two weeks of the reservation date must be arranged in person.
Rental Fees The Department reserves the right to adjust hourly rental rates. Renters will receive at least 30 days’ notice of any fee increase. Department personnel will be on-site during regular rentals. Refer to Section 7 for details on Special Rental Arrangements.
Set-Up and Clean-Up Renters are responsible for set-up and clean-up. Time for these activities must be included in the rental period.
Compliance with Rules During Rentals Renters must adhere to all facility rules and regulations. If activities are deemed out of control or inconsistent with the rental’s purpose, the rental may be terminated immediately. A refund will be issued for unused rental time, subject to deductions for damages.
Special Rental Arrangements Supervision by department personnel may be waived for renters who have demonstrated reliability. These renters qualify for a $15-per-hour discount. A $100 deposit is required for each key checked out, and keys must be returned by the first working day after the rental
Renters qualifying for Special Rental Arrangements are responsible for:
- Facility cleanup after use.
- Securing the facility at the conclusion of activities.
- Costs for lock changes or key replacements if keys are lost, copied, or stolen.
Cancellations and Refunds Refund requests are subject to a $25 service charge and must be submitted at least 14 days before the reservation date.
Collection of Money on Site Events involving the collection of funds—such as admission fees, donations, or sales of food or merchandise—may require additional permits. A Permit to Conduct Business is required for sales activities within Parks and Recreation facilities.
Special Use Permits Large group activities, such as baseball tournaments, swim meets, charity walks, or similar events, require a Special Use Permit. Events impacting public spaces, such as those involving street closures or sidewalk use, also require a Special Use Permit to ensure compliance with City regulations.
Regular, Long-Term Use A License Agreement is required for regular, long-term facility use. Agreements must include insurance coverage for the City of Lincoln and are typically valid for one year. Standard rental fees apply. Contact Lincoln Parks and Recreation to arrange the agreement.
Alcoholic Beverages Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on City property.
Tobacco and Smoking The use of tobacco products—including those that are burned, inhaled, chewed, or ingested in other forms, as well as e-cigarettes—is prohibited.
State Fire Regulations Renters must comply with State Fire Regulations, including adherence to established capacity limits for recreation centers and specific facility areas. Rentals exceeding capacity limits will not be approved.
Additional Stipulations for Youth Groups Renters hosting youth activities must comply with the supervision requirements outlined in the “Guidelines for Youth and Chaperones at Youth-Oriented Social Events” and “Chaperones for Youth Group Use.”