Are you looking to breathe new life into your commercial playground equipment? Whether you’re planning on updating your outdated play area with brand-new playground equipment or expanding your play space, you may need to acquire appropriate permissions to go ahead with your project. At Rhino Play, we have had over a decade of planning, designing, and installing commercial playground equipment in various locations across the South West, for school and nurseries, community groups and SEN schools.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss fundamental playground safety inspection standards and guidelines and how you can make informed decisions to adhere to these specifications. We’ll also explore sustainable options like recycled plastic playground equipment and space-optimising solutions for smaller areas.
Please note: While we have been in the playground design industry for over ten years and have extensive knowledge about playgrounds, we do recommend contacting your local planning office for firm and concrete advice. Not all playground projects will need planning permission – this is a rough guide as to the process if required.
When building, refurbishing, or installing commercial playground equipment, you must obtain the correct planning permission. But what is planning permission? To put it simply, planning permission is the developmental approval required for construction or expansion.
Under most circumstances, this permission is given in the form of a permit, subject to building codes. When expanding your play space, there are particular safety standards and guidelines that your apparatus must comply with.
Before submitting your formal application, it’s advisable to consult with your local planning authority. This informal discussion can identify potential issues early and save time later in the process.
Your planning application will require detailed site plans, including:
All playground equipment must demonstrate compliance with relevant British Standards, particularly:
Your application must include:
Most planning applications are decided within 8 weeks, though complex applications may take up to 13 weeks.
Depending on your county council, there may or may not be different guidelines to follow, however, there are general specifications that your desired apparatus must meet:
| Requirement | Specification | Compliance | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boundary Distance | Minimum 2m from playground to field’s edge | BS EN 1179 | Safety buffer zone and accessibility compliance |
| Equipment Height | Varies by age group (KS1 vs KS2) | BS EN 1176-1 | Fall risk management and age-appropriate design |
| Safety Requirements | Compliant safety surfacing mandatory | BS EN 1177 | Impact absorption and injury prevention |
| Access Routes | Clear pathways for emergency services | Building Regulations Part M | Health and Safety regulations |
| Fall Zones | Critical fall height calculations required | BS EN 1176-1 | Equipment spacing and safety clearances |
| Installation Standards | Professional installation certification | BS EN 1176-1 | Structural integrity and user safety |
Permitted Development Rights: Schools may benefit from permitted development rights under Class F of the Town and Country Planning Order, which can allow certain playground developments without full planning permission. However, this depends on:
Section 106 Agreements: For larger developments, Section 106 agreements may provide funding for playground improvements as part of developer contributions for community infrastructure.
SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Compliance: Modern playground planning must consider inclusive design principles, ensuring equipment is accessible to children with varying abilities and needs.
For guidance on maximising smaller playground areas, our article on outdoor play equipment for small spaces provides valuable insights into efficient space utilisation.
Playground safety surfacing should be at the forefront of your plans when conceptualising your new space and it’s a fundamental asset to a successful play area. Prioritising children’s safety allows them to express themselves with a low risk of getting hurt:
At Rhino Play, our continued aim is to ensure that your commercial playground’s play equipment is kept in optimal condition throughout its lifespan. Planning regular inspections and maintenance is an important necessity, protecting both the user and the owner.
| Inspection Type | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Daily | Identify obvious hazards and damage |
| Operational inspection | Weekly | Checking moving parts and stability |
| Annual inspection | Yearly | Comprehensive safety assessment |
| Major inspection | Every five years | Structural integrity evaluation |
Whilst legally you’re not breaking the law without regular inspections, under the circumstances that an injury occurs as a result of faulty play equipment, without regular inspections the owner’s legal position is vulnerable. Because of this, insurance companies reiterate the importance of yearly inspections.
When selecting a playground equipment supplier and installer, it’s crucial to work with a company that meets the highest industry standards. At Rhino Play, we maintain comprehensive accreditations that provide peace of mind for schools, local authorities, and commercial clients:
From initial consultation, design concepts, and both supplying and installing, the highly trained team at Rhino Play is here to help. Contact us for a free site visit at info@rhinoplay.co.uk, with initial concepts and business requirements and we’d be happy to assist you with any questions and queries.
Ready to transform your playground? Our experts are standing by to help you create a safe, engaging, and sustainable play environment that will delight children for years to come.
"Please note that we don't offer domestic / home garden play equipment generally."
