Policies & Rules
Class & Membership Policies
Photo & Video Policy
Photo & Video
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (M-NCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation may photograph or video participants in programs and special events, or people in parks or on park property, and use these images and footage in M-NCPPC materials to promote activities, events, and facilities.
Media Coverage
Images and video footage may also be used by media representatives to illustrate coverage of events, programs, and facilities of M-NCPPC’s public parks and recreation program. The photos and video footage are not made available for commercial/private sector marketing and advertising, endorsement, trade, or sales.
Weather Policy
Weather Announcements
The safety of patrons is important, and the Department makes every effort to keep patrons informed of facility closures and program cancellations due to weather. Sign up to receive PGParks Alerts by text or email, view announcements on Facebook and Twitter, or listen to local television stations for emergency weather notices.
Patrons that have rented a facility are not typically affected by general program cancellations due to inclement weather. However, severe weather may impact facility availability; please call ahead to the rental site.
County Government Closed
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission will not operate when Prince George’s County government is officially closed.
Schools Closed
When adverse weather conditions cause the closing of Prince George’s County public schools, Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) community centers remain open; however, Kids’ Care (School-Aged Child Care and Pre-School programs) will be closed.
Delayed School Opening
There will be no morning Pre-School or Morning Care when Prince George’s County public schools have a delayed opening. Call M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation community centers for the status of other programs and classes that are scheduled during delayed opening hours.
Early School Dismissal
When Prince George’s County public schools are dismissed early, Kids’ Care (School-Aged Child Care) parents will be notified and must arrange for pickup at the Kids’ Care site within one hour.
Ball Field Cancellations (Games & Practices)
- Games or practices may be canceled due to unsafe field conditions, hazardous weather conditions, or coaches’ unavailability.
- Coaches must call the Sports Weather Line at 301-927-0822 to obtain the status of programs. The recorded message is updated by 7 a.m. on weekends and 3 p.m. on weekdays, or in the event of changing weather conditions.
- Do not use the fields in wet conditions, even if you have a field permit.
- Fields are closed based on the recommendation of the Department of Parks and Recreation maintenance staff. Closures apply to both practices and games.
Gymnasium Cancellations (Games & Practices)
- In the event of inclement weather, basketball, and other sports leagues will operate under the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation closure policy. Games will be canceled only if community centers are closed. If Prince George’s County public schools are closed or dismissed early or after-school activities are suspended, Department of Parks and Recreation programs taking place in schools may be affected.
- It is the coach’s responsibility to call the Sports Weather Line at 301-927-0822 to learn the status of games. If the games are canceled, coaches are to notify their players/parents.
Course Withdrawals
Course Withdrawals
Withdrawals can be done online or at any staffed facility before the start of the program. Within 7 days of a program start date, withdrawals must be done by contacting the facility offering the program. This requirement ensures that facilities can properly manage program expenditures, staffing quotients, etc. when registration numbers change.
Transfers to courses at the same facility may usually be done without penalty prior to the start of the course by visiting the facility in person. Registrations done in error for all programs may be transferred or withdrawn online or in person without penalty on the same day.
After withdrawals have been processed, the refund policy applies to any funds that have been returned to your account.
Membership Withdrawal
Withdrawals from memberships are only permitted for emergency/medical reasons. Memberships are not subject to withdrawals for customer schedule conflict or personal reasons. Withdrawals must be conducted in person at the offering facility.
Summer Camps & Extended Care
Fee
Withdrawal and refund requests for fully paid or partially paid day camp registrations are subject to a $50 non-transferable, non-refundable withdrawal fee per child, per session. Withdrawal and refund requests from extended care (with continued enrollment in associated camp) will be assessed a 20% fee.
Timeline
This policy goes into effect two weeks after the Resident Registration date: all day camp registrations may be transferred or withdrawn without penalty via the Customer Service Help Desk for the first two weeks after Resident registration begins. There are no exceptions to these policies.
Withdrawal Processing
Withdrawals from programs must be processed by the facility offering the program. For withdrawals from programs at the following facilities, please call the Customer Service Help Desk at 301-699-CALL (2255):
- Birchwood City Community Recreation Center
- Bowie Center for the Performing Arts
- C. E Rieg Regional Center
- Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
- Fort Foote Neighborhood Park
- Friendly High School
- Greenbelt Elementary School
- James E Duckworth Special Center
- Jessie B. Mason Regional Center
- Montpelier Elementary School
- Oxon Hill Elementary School
- Riverdale Community Park
- Tanglewood Regional Center
- University Park Elementary School
- Woodmore Elementary School
Summer Playground & Summer Extreme Teen Centers
Withdrawal
The registration fee for Summer Playgrounds and Summer Xtreme Teen Centers is non-refundable and non-transferable. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Withdrawals must be processed through the Area Office corresponding to the program:
- Northern Recreation and Leisure Services at 301-445-4500,
- Southern Recreation and Leisure Services at 301-203-6000.
Course Cancellations
Courses may be canceled for a number of reasons, including a lack of participants, lack of instructor, or lack of available facilities. Registrants of the course will be contacted in the event of a cancellation. The credit will be returned to the customers’ PARKS DIRECT account and available for a refund per our refund policy.
Refund Policy
Course Cancellation
The registrant is entitled to a 100% refund, or a credit to his/her account, in the event that M-NCPPC cancels a course.
Withdrawals
The registrant may withdraw from a course at any time prior to course end, and in most circumstances will be entitled to receive a pro-rated credit to his/her account, based on the number of classes remaining at the time the withdrawal is requested. Withdrawals can be done online or at any staffed facility before the start of the program. Within 7 days of a program start date, withdrawals must be done by contacting the facility offering the program. A 20% withdrawal fee will be assessed upon being removed from a course.
Refund Fees & Process
- No requests for refunds will be accepted after a course is completed.
- No cash refunds will be allowed.
- Refunds for credit card purchases will be issued as a credit to the credit card account and may take 2-3 days to process.
- Check refunds may take 3-4 weeks to process.
- No refund or credit will be issued for classes missed by the participant.
Some activities have different refund/withdrawal policies that supersede this standard policy, as identified in the course description or details.
Some courses have specific withdrawal policies, which limit when withdrawal may take place and/or whether any credit or refund will be applied.
Events & Promotions
Photo & Video Policy
Photo & Video
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (M-NCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation may photograph or video participants in programs and special events, or people in parks or on park property, and use these images and footage in M-NCPPC materials to promote activities, events, and facilities.
Media Coverage
Images and video footage may also be used by media representatives to illustrate coverage of events, programs, and facilities of M-NCPPC’s public parks and recreation program. The photos and video footage are not made available for commercial/private sector marketing and advertising, endorsement, trade, or sales.
Promotional Policy
M-NCPPC, Department of Park and Recreation does not market or promote events or programs from other organizations or individuals by displaying their flyers, posters, or other materials in our facilities or classes, on our website (including the calendar of events), or at our events.
However, if the Department officially co-sponsors an event or activity put on by an organization that is a recognized partner through the Community Connect process, the recognized partner may request placement of the Department’s logo on their materials. The organization may also display those materials at Department facilities in the month leading up to the event or activity. In addition, organizations or companies may sponsor activities or programs offered by the Department, and display their materials at that event or program.
Park Rules & Regulations
Any park shelter not listed on the Park Rentals page operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Any individual or group of up to 25 people can use a park shelter if it is not already being used. Groups of over 25 people must contact the Park Permit Office to reserve a permitted park shelter for a gathering or event.
General Park Rules
Until June 30th, 2025
Park Rules – English (PDF)
Park Rules – Spanish (PDF)
After July 1st
Park Rules – Spanish(PDF) Coming soon
- Permit holders must be present at the event as they will be the responsible party. The original permit must be present on site.
- Group size cannot exceed the capacity of the building/shelter (set by the Fire Marshal).
- Not allowed under any circumstances:
- Amusement rides
- Ball crawls
- Canopies
- Carousels
- Dunk tanks
- Farm animals
- Fish fryers
- Moon bounces
- Pony rides
- Tents
- Water slides
- No bands of any kind are permitted. DJs and loud or amplified music is prohibited on all outside grounds or any area where the peace is disturbed (indoor bands allowed at Adelphi Mill only).
- No generators.
- No driving on grass.
- Clients cannot charge admission fees, sell, or offer for sale any merchandise, article, or thing.
- The use of park facilities for commercial enterprises or private profit is prohibited. Clients may not practice, carry on, conduct, or solicit for any trade, occupation, business, or profession whatsoever.
- Clients may not distribute any handbills or circulars, or post, place, or erect any bills, notices, paper, advertising devices, etc., pertaining to their event.
- Additional grills may be brought if they can be hand-carried to the facility (except at Watkins Number 10-14). Charcoal grills only. Propane is prohibited.
- Ballfields, courts, and play equipment are open to the public and are not the exclusive use of the permit holder.
- Groups must bag and take uneaten crabs and discarded parts from eaten crabs out of the park. It may not be left in trash containers.
Photo & Video Policy
Photo & Video
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (M-NCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation may photograph or video participants in programs and special events, or people in parks or on park property, and use these images and footage in M-NCPPC materials to promote activities, events, and facilities.
Media Coverage
Images and video footage may also be used by media representatives to illustrate coverage of events, programs, and facilities of M-NCPPC’s public parks and recreation program. The photos and video footage are not made available for commercial/private sector marketing and advertising, endorsement, trade, or sales.
Dog Park Rules
Exercise and socialize pets in a safe and clean environment! In the interest of human and dog safety and the maintenance of a positive environment, patrons are expected to read and follow the rules below. Patrons are expected to interact with fellow park users to create a positive atmosphere for all types of dogs.
Dog Park Rules and Regulations
Violators of these rules are subject to criminal prosecution, civil citation, arrest, removal, suspension, or permanent banning from all M-NCPCC dog parks.
- Users assume all risk of harm.
- Handlers are responsible for their dog at all times and must have immediate access to a leash.
- Handlers may not have more than three dogs at the park at one time.
- All dogs must be current on all vaccinations as required by state or local law; licensed with their respective local government; and have affixed to their collar an identification tag and current rabies tag.
- Aggressive dogs, dogs in heat, or dogs that bark persistently, are prohibited.
- Users must pick up and dispose of their dog’s waste.
- Users are responsible for repairing/replacing any damage caused by them or their dog.
- All dog or human food and glass containers are prohibited.
- All commercial use of any M-NCPPC dog park is prohibited unless given prior written approval by the park’s director.
- Smoking or vaping is prohibited.
- Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Unless otherwise posted, the dog park is open from dawn to dusk.
Other Things to Consider
- A big dog park is generally intended to be for the use of big dogs, and a small dog park is generally intended to be used for small dogs. That doesn’t mean puppies (future big dogs) can’t be in the small dog park, or that small dogs can’t be in the big dog park. Patrons should understand that allowing a small dog to play in the big dog park may be putting them at a higher risk of injury or death.
- There is a civilian complaint process for when people or their dogs are acting badly, the Department wants to know about it. If you want to fill out the form but want to report it anonymously, you can, but that may impair the Department’s ability to do anything about it.
- If a dog isn’t current on their shots, we really don’t want them in the park. If they’re a puppy under 4 months and haven’t had a chance to get all their shots yet, they’re safer at home until they get a little bit older.
- The dog park system is important to the Department. Did you know that it costs on average $500,000.00 or more to create and build a dog park? It also takes a lot of money per park, per year just to keep them maintained. The amount can be different depending on where the park is located and the type of ground the park is located on. The Department is constantly working to improve parks, share your ideas and input here: dogparkissueprincegeorge@mncppc.org
Notices will be posted here, from time to time. Check regularly for more information. - Attendees may be suspended or banned, depending on their and their dog’s behavior. Bad dog behavior may be reported if we believe it violates other State, local, or municipal laws. Below is the suspension/banning procedure.
- An image of a bad dog citizen can be posted here.
- A potentially aggressive dog’s image can be posted here saying, “This dog has been reported to M-NCPPC as having acted in a potentially aggressive manner. If you see this dog in the park during your visit, please act with care.”
- If patrons happen to have recorded an incident on video, the Department wants to make sure you understand that there are applicable laws that may make the taking of that video a criminal act. Read, Md. Code, Courts & Judicial Proceedings §§10-401, et seq. If you’re not certain about the law, you should consult with an attorney.
Resources
E-Bikes & Scooters
E-Bike & E-Scooter Policy for Park Trails
After a multi-month pilot program to determine the benefits and impacts of allowing low-powered motorized vehicles on paved bicycle and pedestrian trails, M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County, has issued a permanent Park Directive (PDF) that allows E-Bikes and E-Scooters on designated park property.
The map , included as Exhibit A of the Directive, shows the select paved, shared-use paths/trails where low-powered E-Bikes and E-Scooters are permitted. Those trails are:
- Anacostia River Trail
- Indian Creek Trail
- Paint Branch and Little Paint Branch Trails
- Northeast Branch Trail
- Northwest Branch Trail
- Sligo Creek Trail
- Rhode Island Avenue Trolley Trail
- Henson Creek Trail
- WB&A Rail-Trail
- Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail
- Walker Mill Regional Park’s Memorial Trail
- Black Branch Trail
- Folly Branch Trail (Section Parallel to Forbes Blvd. Only)
- Watkins Regional Park–Loop 2 Only (See Map)
- Select Paths at Lake Artemesia (See Inset Map)
- All M-NCPPC-owned spur paths directly related to the above-listed trails
Park Rangers
14955 Pennsylvania Avenue
Upper Marlboro, MD
Pool Rules & Regulations
The pool rules and regulations for the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation have been established for the benefit and protection of all aquatic facility users to ensure the safe operation of the swimming pools and to provide enjoyable recreation for all. Patrons are requested to cooperate in observing these rules and to obey the instructions of the Aquatics staff. Patrons violating swimming pool rules are subject to the revocation of their swimming privileges.
Photo & Video Policy
Photo & Video
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (M-NCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation may photograph or video participants in programs and special events, or people in parks or on park property, and use these images and footage in M-NCPPC materials to promote activities, events, and facilities.
Media Coverage
Images and video footage may also be used by media representatives to illustrate coverage of events, programs, and facilities of M-NCPPC’s public parks and recreation program. The photos and video footage are not made available for commercial/private sector marketing and advertising, endorsement, trade, or sales.
Consequences of Rule Violations
Failure to abide by these rules and regulations may result in injury to yourself or others. Management and pool personnel reserve the right to address any behavior which is considered a safety risk, unsanitary or a disturbance to others. The Aquatic Managers or their designated staff are responsible for the operation of the pools. Their instruction must be followed at all times. Individuals who violate the rules may be asked to leave without refund and Aquatic Managers may contact Park Police as needed.
Disability Services
Accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including water wheelchairs, pool lifts and personal flotation devices are available upon request. Please speak with a manager on duty. Pool lifts have a weight capacity of 350 pounds.
Personal Flotation Devices & Lifejackets
A properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved and labeled Personal Flotation Device (PFD) designed to provide vertical support and to keep the head above the surface of the water may be worn, provided each non-swimmer is accompanied by an adult in the pool within arm’s reach at M-NCPPC pools. The adult must remain in the water in which they can stand flat on the pool bottom. Patrons wearing PFD are not permitted in deep water or deep water play features. PFD are not provided at M-NCPPC facilities.
While PFDs are especially important for use with children, they are not to be substituted for adult supervision, which should always be present and act as the first line of defense in avoiding unwanted water contact.
What is NOT Permitted
Non-USCG approved PFDs inflatable toys, back floats/ bubbles, rafts, inner tubes, water wings, rings (including those built into bathing suits) and similar objects are not permitted in M-NCPPC pools.
Pick a PFD: Size and Style
When shopping for a PFD, choosing the correct size is crucial.
A correct fit is one which snugly conforms to the wearer’s body, yet allows for ease of movement and prevents chafing. Check the label on the PFD for weight limits.
- Infant PFDs: 8 to 30 lbs
- Child PFDs: 30 to 50 lbs
- Youth PFDs: 50 to 90 lbs
- Adult PFDs: 90 lbs and over
Try It On For Size
- Check the manufacturer’s label to ensure that the life jacket is a proper fit for size and/or weight.
- Make sure the jacket is properly fastened.
- Wearer should hold your arms straight up over your head.
- Grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up on the PFD.
- Make sure there is no excess room above the arm openings and that the jacket does not ride up over the wearer’s chin or face.
- While in the water, if you notice the wearer struggling to keep their chin above the surface or can’t tilt their body to easily float on their back, choose a PFD with higher buoyancy.
It is important to remember that children often dislike the restriction of PFDs, but with the proper approach and set-up, you can prepare your child in the event of an emergency. Because a child’s weight is distributed differently than an adult’s, wriggling, panicked children can put additional strain on their PFDs, making it harder to stay afloat. Remember to familiarize your little one with their personal flotation ahead of time, even encouraging them to wear it to the pool or around the house. Many parents make a game of it and offer rewards to promote correct wear. While PFDs are especially important for use with children, they are not to be substituted for adult supervision, which should always be present and act as the first line of defense in avoiding unwanted water contact.
