People skating on an ice rink

Recreation facility access

What you need to know

Ice rinks, swimming pools, and outdoor sport facilities are assigned to user groups in accordance with our Affiliation and Allocation Policies (2 MB).

  • The Affiliation Policy helps decide which user groups receive priority access to recreation facilities. Decisions are based on public benefit, safety, equity, and inclusion.
  • The Allocation Policy guides how permits are distributed among user groups in a equitable and consistent way

Booking recurring time at our facilities

If your group wants to book recurring time at a our ice rink, swimming pool, or outdoor sport facility, you must first submit the User Group Application Form. 

Complete the User Group Application Form

Submit your application for the first phase of the new Affiliation and Allocation Policies 

  • Submit your application by September 15, 2026, for:
    • Arenas and outdoor sport facilities (spring/summer 2027)
    • Swimming pools (fall 2027)

You can still apply after September 15, 2026, but your application will be considered in a future intake period.

Requesting a 1-time booking? Do not complete this application form if you are an individual or organization.

Safe sport

We are committed to making sports safe, respectful, and positive for everyone who uses our facilities.

User groups that take meaningful steps to protect participants, coaches, staff, and volunteers may receive priority access to facilities under the Affiliation Policy.

Learn more about Safe Sport:  ViaSport’s safety tools and resources .

Related strategies, policies, and resources

VanPlay: Vancouver’s Parks and Recreation Services Master Plan

VanPlay sets out priorities and provides a policy framework supporting pursuit of equity, connectivity, and access to parks and recreation.

Sport Field Strategy

We want to increase the supply of synthetic turf playing fields to meet the needs of field sport users in the city.

Safe access for everyone policy

The Vancouver Park Board has outlined a set of acceptable behaviours and expectations that help contribute to safe and positive environments.

Park Board Reconciliation

Why Reconciliation matters to the Vancouver Park Board and the actions we're taking.

Equity in parks and recreation

Starting great conversations to address historical inequities.

Current and future sport field status

Stay up to date about short and long-term sport field closures.

Contact information, partner agencies, and website policies

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