parkingaccessibilityplanning
Do splash pads have loading zones?
Quick answer
Larger regional park and aquatic-center splash pads usually have a 5-15 minute loading zone for drop-off. Smaller neighborhood pads typically do not. ADA loading zones for accessible drop-off are required at most public venues built since 1992.
Loading zones at splash pads are most common at larger regional and aquatic-center venues with significant parking. They typically allow 5-15 minutes for drop-off and pickup, marked with white painted curbs and posted signs. Smaller neighborhood splash pads with adjacent parking usually skip dedicated loading zones since the regular lot is close enough. ADA-compliant accessible drop-off zones are federally required at most public venues built or renovated since 1992 — these are wider and longer to accommodate wheelchair vans with side ramps. Drivers should not park in loading zones for the duration of a splash pad visit; tickets run $50-$150 in most cities. Use the loading zone for kids and bag drop-off, then move to a regular space. Rideshare drop-offs typically use loading zones too.