Splash pad

Splash pads are the dominant modern format for free public water play in the United States, with installations in nearly every U.S. city of 50,000+. They are regulated as water-recreation features rather than swimming pools because they have zero standing water, which removes lifeguard and fencing requirements. Most splash pads operate from late spring through early fall in northern states and most of the year in the Sunbelt. They are activated either continuously, by motion sensor, or by a kid pressing a 'push-button' bollard.