In many communities, where safe places to play are few and far between, schools offer a variety of recreational facilities – from gymnasiums and running tracks to sports fields and playgrounds – to meet residents’ needs. But districts often close their property to the public after hours, concerned about security, maintenance, liability, and other costs.

The good news is that school districts, local governments, and community-based organizations can share the costs and responsibilities of opening school property to the public after hours through joint use agreements. PHLP’s toolkit helps communities and school districts work together to develop joint use agreements increasing access to recreational facilities on school grounds.

You can review or download the entire toolkit below or choose a specific chapter or appendix of interest.

Note: The four California model joint use agreements within this toolkit are also available in editable versions on our website.