FAQs

A spray park, also known as a splash pad, is a recreational area equipped with various water features that spray, mist, or pour water, providing interactive play experiences for people of all ages without the need for standing water.

Spray parks offer inclusive, safe, and engaging play environments that promote physical activity, social interaction, and community engagement. They are accessible to individuals of all abilities and do not require lifeguards due to the absence of standing water. They’re also a great way to cool down on hot summer days!

Begin by consulting with experienced professionals who can assist with site evaluation, service requirements, design, budgeting, and grant writing. Engaging experts early in the process ensures a well-planned and successful project.

A minimum of 1,000 sq.ft. (100 sq.m.) is recommended for a functional splash pad, though smaller designs are possible.

Yes, but water lines must be drained and blown out with compressed air. For added protection, lines can be filled with RV antifreeze as well to protect any low spots in the lines. Winter caps are required for ground sprays to prevent freezing damage.

Yes, they can be optimized. Options include low-flow features, low volume sequencing, or recirculating systems to reduce consumption.

Comprehensive services include initial consultation, custom design, equipment supply, installation, and post-installation support. We also provide grant writing assistance and educational presentations to facilitate project development.

Spary park companies like us provide repair, winterization, spring start-up, and long-term maintenance plans.

Yes, many companies specialize in integrating spray parks into existing facilities, enhancing their appeal and providing additional recreational opportunities for the community.

Starting up a spray park in the spring involves several key steps to ensure safe and efficient operation:

1. System Inspection – Check all water lines, pumps, and spray features for any damage or wear that may have occurred during winter.
2. Cleaning & Flushing – Flush out the water system to remove any debris or buildup and clean spray nozzles and drains.
3. Water Quality Testing – If using a recirculating system, test and balance the water chemistry, ensuring proper chlorine and pH levels.
4. Equipment Testing – Run a test cycle to confirm that all spray features, valves, and filtration systems are functioning correctly.
5. Surface & Safety Check – Inspect the surrounding play surfaces for damage, ensure all signage is in place, and verify compliance with safety regulations.

Properly shutting down and winterizing a spray park in the fall is essential to prevent damage and ensure a smooth reopening in the spring. The process typically includes the following steps:

1. Shut Off and Drain the Water System – Turn off the water supply and drain all pipes, pumps, and spray features to prevent freezing and cracking.
2. Blow Out Water Lines – Use compressed air to remove any remaining water from pipes and valves to avoid damage from ice expansion.
3. Clean and Inspect Equipment – Thoroughly clean all spray nozzles, filters, and drains, and check for any wear or damage that may need repair before the next season.
4. Protect Sensitive Components – Remove or cover electronic and mechanical parts, such as control panels and sensors, to protect them from harsh winter conditions.
5. Secure the Area – Cover or barricade splash pad features as needed to prevent unauthorized access and ensure public safety.

Many spray park service providers offer professional winterization services to ensure the system is properly shut down and protected from cold weather damage.

Winterizing spray parks includes shutting off and draining the water system, blowing out water lines, cleaning and inspecting equipment and, protecting sensitive components.Professional winterization services are available.

• Younger children: Low-level misters and soft-flow features.
• Older kids: High-energy jets, dumping buckets, and interactive elements.

Of course, most of our spray parks have a unique layout that’s customized to your specific park. We can also create unique spray features that set your park apart! Just ask!

UV-resistant composite plastics, corrosion-protected metals, and automotive-grade coatings ensure durability.

Yes, the spray park can be operated at any time, including late in the evening or at night, as long as it is equipped with the necessary controls and power supply. However, it’s important to consider local regulations, safety measures, and the availability of proper lighting to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for users during evening hours.

In most cases, yes, the water supply for a spray park or splash pad should be potable if the system uses water that comes into direct contact with users. However, some systems use recirculating water, which can be treated and filtered to maintain safe conditions for play. It’s important to follow local health and safety regulations, as they may have specific guidelines regarding water quality and safety for public water play areas.

Yes, well water can be used for splash pads or spray parks, but it’s essential to ensure the water is safe and clean for recreational use. You may need to install a filtration system to meet water quality standards, as well as confirm it has the necessary pressure to sustain a Spray park. It’s also important to check local regulations to ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.

We regulate water pressure to 35-40 PSI for optimal performance. Most cities and municipalities supply water at 50-70 PSI, but pressure can fluctuate depending on the access point. We recommend a minimum of 50 PSI to ensure consistent spray feature performance. Insufficient pressure can cause fluctuations, resulting in an underwhelming spray display.

Flow through spray parks run off less power than your microwave. A flow through uses a 1-15A breaker at 120V. A recirculating spray park can use either single-phase or three-phase power, with most systems requiring a single-phase 30-50A, 240V circuit. We design the system to match the available power supply at your location.

We offer an industry-leading warranty for our spray park, splash pad, and water play structures:

• 25-Year Warranty on stainless steel structures, anchoring systems, piping, and aluminum spheres.
• 5-Year Warranty on Acetyl, Urethane/HDPE parts, spray nozzles, high-density polyethylene components, and stainless steel water distribution systems.
• 2-Year Warranty on coatings, powder coating, stainless steel hardware, moving parts, fiberglass components, and electrical system parts.
• 1-Year Warranty on all other products and parts not listed above.

If a part fails within the warranty period, simply notify us in writing within 90 days of discovering the defect. Depending on the situation, we will repair or replace the defective part. Replacement parts will be covered for the remainder of the original warranty period.

Our equipment is built for maximum durability and longevity. Stainless steel structures, anchoring systems, and piping are designed to withstand years of use, harsh weather, and heavy foot traffic — all backed by up to 25 years of warranty protection. Materials like high-density polyethylene and fiberglass components are crafted for lasting performance in demanding outdoor environments.

Yes! Our products are made using UV-stabilized and chlorine-resistant materials to ensure long-term color retention and structural strength. Coatings, plastics, and metals are selected specifically to perform under intense sun exposure and chlorinated water conditions.

We are committed to supporting our customers for the life of their equipment. Replacement parts for your splash pad, spray park, or water play structure can be obtained directly through Parkcraft. Even 5, 10, or 15 years down the road, our team will help you source compatible parts or provide guidance for suitable alternatives if a part is discontinued.

Yes, splash pads are designed with safety in mind and are generally very toddler-friendly. Because there's no standing water, the risk of drowning is significantly reduced compared to traditional pools. Surfaces are typically slip-resistant, and many spray features are low-pressure and low-height—perfect for little ones just getting used to water play. At Parkcraft, we work closely with our manufacturers to ensure that spray zones are separated by age and intensity where possible, giving toddlers a gentler, more controlled environment to explore and enjoy. And of course, adult supervision is always encouraged for the safest experience.

Yes, installing a splash pad or water park typically requires permits, but not the same ones used for traditional swimming pools.

In Alberta, for example, splash pads are considered public water facilities and fall under Alberta Health Services regulations. You'll likely need permits related to water treatment, drainage, plumbing, and safety features. Building permits under Alberta’s Safety Codes Act may also apply, depending on your project. At Parkcraft, we work closely with local authorities to make sure everything is in place before we break ground—so you don’t have to stress about red tape.

What about other provinces? Across Western Canada, requirements vary slightly by province:

British Columbia: Splash pads are regulated by local health authorities and must meet guidelines under the BC Public Health Act. Permits usually cover water recirculation systems and sanitation standards.

Saskatchewan: Permits may be required from both the local municipality and regional health authority, especially if water is recirculated. Manitoba: Most splash pads require health inspections and municipal permits, particularly those with mechanical systems like pumps and filters. No matter where your project is located, we’ve got experience working with the proper authorities and can guide you through the approvals process with ease.

Yes, absolutely. All of the spray pads and water parks we design and install are built to meet or exceed the latest Canadian safety standards. This includes CSA standards (specifically CSA Z614 where applicable) and public health regulations for water play features.

Our systems are designed with safety in mind—non-slip surfaces, gentle spray features, age-appropriate zones, and proper drainage all contribute to reducing slips, trips, and other risks.

Where required, we also incorporate UV treatment or chlorination for recirculated water systems to maintain safe water quality. We take safety seriously, and our team stays up to date with evolving codes, certifications, and best practices—so families can focus on fun while we handle the rest.

Yes—and we believe they should be. Inclusivity is a big part of how we design and build our splash pads. Because there’s no standing water, they’re easier to access than traditional pools, and the level surface design makes it easy for people using mobility devices or strollers to move around.

We also incorporate accessible spray features—such as low-mounted nozzles, sensory-rich elements, and wide play zones that encourage cooperative play for all ages and abilities. In many cases, we can include quiet zones or lower-stimulation areas for kids who may be sensitive to sound or touch.

At Parkcraft, we believe that water play should be fun and welcoming for everyone. If you have specific needs in your community, we’re always happy to collaborate and customize the design.

It can be a factor, but it’s definitely not a dealbreaker. A high water table just means we need to be thoughtful about how we handle drainage and equipment placement.

At Parkcraft, we start every project with a site assessment to understand the conditions beneath the surface. If the water table is high, we’ll design around it—using strategies like above-ground vaults, raised equipment pads, or enhanced drainage systems to keep everything running smoothly.

We’ve successfully installed splash pads in all kinds of soil and groundwater conditions across Western Canada. With the right planning, your site can still be a great fit.

4–6 weeks for manufacturing + 30 days shipping (longer during peak season).

The spray park season typically runs from late spring to early fall, depending on the local climate. In warmer regions, spray parks may operate year-round, while in colder climates, they may close for the winter months due to freezing temperatures. Be sure to check with your local spray park for specific opening and closing dates based on seasonal weather conditions.

Not usually—and that’s actually a good thing! Most spray pads use an activation system, like a push-button or sensor, to start the water features. This helps conserve water and energy while still giving kids full control over their fun.

These systems are programmed to run for a set amount of time once activated, then automatically shut off until someone activates them again. During peak hours, it can feel almost continuous, but the system is doing its part behind the scenes to stay efficient and eco-friendly.

We can also customize the programming based on your needs—whether it’s extended hours in the summer or adjustments for special events.

Yes. Modular designs allow adding new elements like water slides or interactive towers.

Absolutely! One of the great things about modern spray parks is that they’re built with flexibility in mind. Many systems are modular, which means you can add or swap out features down the road as your community grows or your budget allows.

Whether it’s adding new spray elements, changing out age-specific features, or expanding the layout, we’ll help you plan for the future right from the start. We can even design your system with capped lines or reserved spaces, making future upgrades easier and more cost-effective.

So yes—start with what works for now, and build on it when the time is right.

The amount of work required to maintain a splash park depends on the type of water management system used. A flow-through system requires minimal maintenance, mainly routine cleaning and inspections. A recirculating system, however, requires more upkeep, including regular water testing, filtration maintenance, and chemical balancing to ensure water quality and safety. Additionally, seasonal winterization and startup procedures are necessary in colder climates. Many splash park providers offer maintenance services to help keep operations smooth and hassle-free.