Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you tell me what events are happening in Columbus?
A: Check out the Event Permit Calendar, which shows all events that received a permit from the Office of Special Events
Q: Where can I play pickleball in Columbus?
A: In 2019, Columbus Recreation and Parks added 23 more court overlays throughout the city and increased instructional and open court times at our community recreation centers. Download the Pickleball Resource Guide.
Q: I need to have a tree removed/a tree has fallen in my neighborhood. Who do I contact?
A: Contact the City 311 Service Center at 614-645-3111 or visit 311.columbus.gov.
Q: What are park hours? Can I park overnight?
Our park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. and we do not allow overnight parking.
Q: Are there any city campground sites available?
A: Unfortunately, we no longer operate any public campgrounds.
Q: What is the distance of my local walking path near my neighborhood?
A: Click the link below to check out the distance (in miles) of each of our paths...
Walking Path Information
Q: Can you give me information about a metro park?
A: The City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and The Franklin County Metro Parks are two seperate organizations. The Park you may have questions about may be a Metro Park. If you suspect this is the case, a great contact number is (614) 891-0700.
Q: Who can I contact to get my child signed up for a local sports league?
A: Call our Community Recreation Office at (614) 645-3334. They will be glad to refer you to one of our own recreation center leagues. We also offer a variety of youth leagues at crdpsports.org.
Q: How old do I need to be to participate at a senior center?
A: You must be 50 or older take part in our senior (50+) center programming.
Q: Do I have to be a resident of Columbus to participate in programs?
A: You do not, in fact, there is no residency requirement to participate. Everyone is welcome!
Q: How do I rent a shelterhouse, plan my wedding in a park?
A: Visit https://www.columbusparkrentals.com/ to learn more about our rental facilities.
Q: How do I plan a festival or event?
A: Visit the Office of Special Events website at columbus.gov/EventPlanningGuide/ or call 614-645-3800 to learn more about the permitting requirements for special events in Columbus.
Q: How do I plan a race?
A: Visit the Office of Special Events website at columbus.gov/EventPlanningGuide/ or call 614-645-3800 to learn more about the permitting requirements for races in Columbus.
Q: How do I plan a block party?
A: Visit the Office of Special Events website at columbus.gov/EventPlanningGuide/ or call 614-645-3800 to learn more about the permitting requirements for residential block parties in Columbus.
Q: Do I need a permit to film in a park of on public streets?
A: Visit the Office of Special Events website at columbus.gov/EventPlanningGuide/ or call 614-645-3800 to learn more about the permitting requirements for filming and photo shoots in Columbus.
Q: How do I get more information about programs offered within the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department?
A: If you would like additional information, please call (614) 645-3300 and our receptionist will help direct you in the proper direction, or visit one of the links below.
Community Centers
Online Registration
Q: Who can I call to find out if my softball game or other sporting activity has been rained out?
A: With over 50,000 people playing softball in our department's leagues, this is one of our most frequently asked questions! That is why we've given this one question its own phone number: (614) 645-RAIN (7246). If you call after 4:30 PM on your game day, the recording will tell you which games have been cancelled. Or you can check out the game day cancellations here. Visit www.crpdsports.org for more information.
Q: Who do I talk to about cleanup at one of yourwater reservoirs?
Email Columbus Public Utilities, Watershed Management Division. Many answers can be found on their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page.
Q: Can I fish in the ponds at Columbus Recreation and Parks’ parks? Do I need an Ohiofishing license?
Yes, you may fish in the ponds at Columbus Recreation and Parks Department parks. All individuals over the age of 16 must have an Ohio fishing license. Learn more about getting an Ohio fishing license and Ohio’s fishing regulations.