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Board asks parks department to explain ‘Field use by permit only’ signage after members raise fairness concerns
Summary
Board members questioned why some city fields carry “use by permit only” signage while others do not and asked parks staff to return with an explanation of where signage is posted and why; the board requested a parks representative at a future meeting.
Board members on May 20 raised concerns that some Lowell park fields bear “Field use by permit only” signage while other neighborhood fields do not, and they asked the parks department to explain the policy and its application.
Members said the signage appears at some facilities and not at others, and asked whether the signs are intended only to remind outside organizations that organized, permitted activities take precedence. One board member said inconsistent signage can create confusion for residents who may assume all parks are equally available for casual use. The board voted to ask the parks department to send a representative to the next meeting with information about which parks have signage, the rationale for placement, and any intended policy language such as “organized activities require permits.”
Parks staff noted the signs had been placed at certain fields to prevent unsanctioned use by outside groups and to protect turf and scheduling for school and youth teams; board members asked staff to present a standardized explanation and to recommend whether the language should be harmonized across city parks.
Board members said they want clearer public messaging rather than ad hoc signs, and asked parks staff to return with photographic examples, a list of affected fields and recommended wording for signage and any operational changes.
