S E C T I O N 2:

PARK DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

 Community Park, Recreation & Culture
Strategic Master Plan

PARKLAND DESIGN STANDARDS MANUAL

SECTION 2

2.0 PARK DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

2.1 General Requirements

The following section describes the general requirements of development interests in the condition,
pre-servicing and physical development of lands to be conveyed for public use as parkland. These
requirements are further to any conditions and requirements outlined in the subdivision agreement
and its schedules, site plan agreements, Zoning By-laws, along with those required as a component
part of the Development Charges By-law and its related supporting documentation. In the case
were requirements overlap or vary, the Town shall be the sole arbiter of what requirements will be
required for development on a case by case basis.

2.2 Pre-development Condition of Parkland

Municipal property preserved as open space or intended for parkland development will not be used
for the purposes of temporary stockpiling or storage of earth, construction supplies, debris or any
other materials without express permission of the Town. Lands set aside for parkland are presumed to
have been subject to the equivalent of a Stage 1 Environmental Audit by the developer for his own
purposes of acquisition and development; and as such possessing of suitable soil conditions for
development purposes and free from contamination and buried debris or garbage. Upon the
initiation of development activity, designated parks and open spaces will be routinely monitored by
Town inspectors for activities of dumping or burying of any sort of garbage or waste and should such
materials be discovered in the construction of the future park, the developer will be required to
remove such materials at no cost to the Town.

Designated parkland and open space will not be used for the erection of advertising signage or for
the storage construction trailers or construction equipment. The developer will maintain pre-serviced
parkland in a clean condition at all times until the park is accepted by the municipality for the
purposes of park construction. Once designated lands have been pre-graded and pre-serviced
they shall be defined and protected at their boundary with post and wire fencing to the satisfaction
of the Town.

The lands shall not be utilized for the stockpiling of topsoil stripped from the subdivision except in
such quantities as may be required for the finishing of the park. Upon completion of pre-grading, the
developer is to provide a survey plan, prepared by a registered Ontario Land Surveyor, describing
the as-built topographic condition of the park. The survey is intended to demonstrate that the park
pre-grades reflect as closely as possible the intent and designed geodetic elevations of the
subdivision engineer’s grading and drainage plans.

It is the intent of the Town, with the cooperation of the developer to reduce disturbances to the park
and those who reside in the vicinity and to take advantage of available economies of scale and
cost efficiency by limiting the need for temporary restoration by the developer. In this way it is
hoped that the park development process can be sequential and streamlined to allow construction
by the Town or the developer immediately upon completion of pre-grading. If the park construction
cannot be feasibly started within one year of completion of pre-grading, the developer will be
required to provide temporary restoration of the park in the form of seeding with a seed mix suitable
for the soil conditions and approved by the Town in accordance with the subdivision agreement.

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2.2.1 Topsoil Stripping and Grading

Prior to grading of the park by the developer, the full depth of existing topsoil will be stripped. Topsoil
stripping is to occur in logical sequence with the balance of the subdivision or phase. Topsoil, in
quantities necessary for the park development shall be conserved and made available for the final
grading of the park block with depths of not less than 150 mm and up to 300mm. Topsoil conserved
for the park is to be tested by the developer to ensure the fertility and composition is suitable for use
in park construction. Such test results are to be submitted to the Town for approval prior to the
development of the park block. The developer will be responsible to ensure that sufficient quantities
of approved topsoil are available for the construction of the park.

Utilizing the approved Park Concept Plan or subsequent Grading Plan, the developer is to provide
suitable structural fill below all hard-surface areas including pathways, paved recreation facilities
and parking areas within the park.
Areas of structural fill are to be tested by a Geotechnical Consultant and the results of such testing
submitted to the Town for information. The Developer will be required to establish sub-grade
elevations as described by the Grading Plans for the park. Where park blocks are stripped and pre-
graded in accordance with subdivision engineering plans at the early stages of the subdivision
development, the developer shall be responsible to execute additional grading to the park to bring
the lands into conformance with the specific plans developed for the park by his landscape
architectural consultant.

2.2.2 Co-ordination of Services

The developer shall at a minimum provide inlet drop structures at each frontage of the park block.
These structures shall be in conformance to Provincial standards (O.P.S.D.) for the construction of
manholes or manhole/catchbasins. Connections from these structures to the surrounding storm
sewer system shall be of an invert elevation set low enough to efficiently drain the entire block of
land below frost penetration levels. The park block shall be effectively drained in its interim pre-
grade condition with inlet structures as needed for each sub-drainage/catchment area within the
park block. Should the structures provided be shown to be insufficient to outlet the future internal
drainage system of the park as designed, additional drop structures and road crossing connections
shall be the responsibility and cost of the developer.

In addition to storm sewer servicing and as a part of the servicing requirements for sanitary, electrical
and water supply throughout the subdivision, the developer will be responsible to construct services
1.5 metres into the park property as follows:

• Community Park: a sanitary sewer manhole chamber and stub; a 150mm diameter
water supply line with curb-stop and 3-phase electrical power. Where the Community
Park has two or more street frontages, all or some of these services are to be provided at
each frontage to the park as confirmed with the Town.

• Neighbourhood Park: a 50mm diameter water supply line with curb stop and a single-
phase electrical supply line from a local transformer. These services will be stubbed and
clearly marked with a permanent monument at ground level.

The above requirements for drainage and servicing are considered as a component part of the
general development of the subdivision but in detail are to be separate from the developer’s
responsibility for any storm water management mechanisms that may be permitted within or be
associated with the park. Costs for such subdivision storm water engineering works are to be entirely

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attributable to the developer in the development of the lands. Drainage requirements for the
ultimate development of the park block will be determined in the detail design processes described
herein.

The Town encourages the exploration of potential cost efficiencies for the municipal services related
to final park construction. Once the storm sewer design for the entire park is determined through
detail design and construction drawings prepared for the park, the developer will be requested to
co-ordinate construction of the entire sewer system and construct the park-related drainage works
in conjunction with general subdivision servicing if deemed cost-effective for the town. The costs for
such Town works are to be submitted to the Town for agreement prior to the specific construction
activity. The Town will reimburse the developer for that portion of servicing costs that are the Town’s
responsibility pending the inspection and acceptance of those services by the Town. Re-
imbursement for such works may also be contingent upon the timing of approvals of the Town’s
capital budget as it relates to the park block.

2.2.3 Park Fencing

Notwithstanding the installation of temporary protective fencing of park and open space blocks, the
developer is to provide a 1.8 metre (6 ft) high black vinyl coated chain-link fence, to the towns
standard detail, around the perimeter of the park along shared property lines with adjoining
residential or commercial developments. The mesh fabric of the fence shall have 38mm diamond-
shaped openings made from 9 gauge wire before vinyl coating. Terminal posts shall be a minimum
of 88.9 mm (3 ½") OD pipe, line posts of 60 mm (2 3/8") OD pipe and rails of 43mm (1 7/8") OD pipe.
All piping shall be schedule 40, galvanized steel, treated with etching primer and factory painted
black. Concrete footings are to create a minimum of 150mm of cover to the edges of posts and
shall be generally poured against smooth native ground and formed at the top of foundation.
Where ground conditions prevent the creation of smooth sided augured post holes, footings shall
poured into sono-tube for the full depth of footing to 1.2 metres below grade with voids around the
outside of the form filled with compacted limestone screening.

2.2.4 Securities and Acceptance

Performance of the above-referenced requirements shall be guaranteed through the provisions of

the subdivision agreement and the value of the works described for the preparation of the
applicable schedule/section of that agreement. The Town shall secure from the developer a letter-
of-credit for the value of all work described above in this section and for any additional
requirements as may be stipulated in the subdivision agreement at the discretion of the Town. The
letter-of-credit will be based on a cost estimate prepared by the developer’s consultants and
reviewed and approved by the Town. The Town will assume responsibility for the park only at such
time as the property is ready to be constructed by the Town under the Development Charges Policy.
In the case when temporary restoration through grading and seeding has been required to convey
property prior to park development, acceptance will occur when turf cover is satisfactorily
established and the lands are considered by the Town to be stable, free from erosion and efficiently
drained.

2.2.5 Park Construction by Developer

Development and/or Subdivision Agreements may require the developer to construct parks in
response to timing or permissions with regard to construction of phases within a development. The
developer on its own initiative and interests may wish to enter into front-ending agreements with the

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Town for the early delivery of parkland. In cases where such requirements are not registered as a
condition on a plan, the developer has the option to develop the park on behalf of the Town in
advance of the Town’s capital budget schedule. Such option may be negotiated with the Town if it
is deemed advantageous for the subdivision developer, and does not impose undue additional
administrative or operating costs on the municipality.

In such instances, performance of park construction will be treated as any other municipally
approved subdivision construction. The developer should expect to develop a park to the approval
of the Town, completing the construction to a set of Town-approved technical drawings,
specifications and standards. The construction tender and contract process shall be open and the
Town reserves the right to review and approve the award of the park construction tender. An
agreement will be executed and a letter-of-credit will be secured from the developer to ensure
timely completion to a level of quality and workmanship acceptable to the Town. Joint
Town/Developer tenders may also be approved to take advantage of cost and time efficiency. The
Town will reimburse to the developer the portion of costs the Town is responsible for under the
Development Charges By-law within a time frame and re-payment structure agreeable to both
parties in the construction agreement.

2.2.6 Park Construction Timing

Notwithstanding the discussion of park construction in section 2.2.5, parks will generally be
constructed by the municipality upon 50% occupancy of a residential subdivision. Where the
developer’s phasing of a subdivision, as a result of servicing availability or other factor may delay the
achievement of 50% occupancy within the entire subdivision, the Town at its option may construct
the park on an accelerated schedule to ensure service to the local community area. The Town will
maintain capital construction forecasts for parks to the best of its ability based upon growth forecast
information provided by developers and the five year trend evidenced by building permit issuance
activity.

2.2.7 Park Construction Budgets

The Town will maintain capital budget forecasts for parks construction based upon conceptual
designs and projected costs for new parks to be created. Such forecasts will be updated and
modified from time to time in step with the Town’s budget approval process. Individual parks will be
assigned capital budgets for construction based upon the predicted program for the park and the
affordability of such a program in light of anticipated Development Charge revenues. Should a
developer, for purposes of marketing or community design theme wish to expand on an agreed
park program with additional features within a design, the costs associated with the additional
features shall be the sole responsibility of the developer and not candidate for re-imbursement
under the Development Charges By-law.

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2.3 Requirements for Park Design Plans

2.3.1 Park Design and Facility Development

Park facilities and amenities constructed by or on behalf of the Town may include, but will not
necessarily be limited to or include all of, the following features:

A. Town-Wide Parks

Any facilities described under the following sub-sections for Local and Community Parks may also
apply to a Town park depending upon the nature of the park and its purpose in the overall parks
and open space system. Town wide parks can be a variety of sizes and have a variety of purpose
depending upon context and municipal setting. Regardless of this the intent is that such facilities are
to be memorable places within the community whether it be for outstanding sporting and
recreation facilities or for architecture, art, historical reference or cultural significance. Facility
requirements and design standards will be determined on a site specific basis at the time of Park
Concept Plan preparation.

B. Community Parks

Community Parks may also contain some, or all of the following park features:

• Designs shall include sustainable features including recycled products, water and energy
conservation features and locally manufactured products wherever possible
• Sports fields for Senior and Junior Play - including soccer pitches, softball or slow-pitch
diamonds complete with park features and furnishings such as backstops and boundary
fences, goal posts, players benches and spectator bleachers.
• Any combination of 2 or more major athletic facilities including: baseball, softball/slow pitch,
soccer pitches, rugby grounds, field or box lacrosse, tennis courts, bowling greens or other
structured sport facility
• Public art or historical display features
• Park identification signs and signs for information and regulations
• Shaped landforms, berms and drainage swales
• Areas of tree preservation or rehabilitation planting
• Planting designs of trees and shrubs to provide shade, interest and emphasis within the park
• Playground apparatus including junior and senior play elements with a clear emphasis on
barrier-free design
• Water splash pad or other water play feature to serve a broader community area
• Basketball and hard surface multi-purpose courts
• Gazebos, picnic shelters or other seasonal structures
• Field houses/washroom buildings
• Indoor Recreation Facilities and supporting parking facilities.
• Parking on site and/or in combination with an adjoining school site
• Three-Phase Electrical Supply and walkway lighting systems with isolation circuit
• Walkway lighting and lighting for security at park structures
• Floodlighting of major athletic facilities
• 150mm water supply line, utility building for irrigation and water play infrastructure
• Sanitary sewer service to park buildings
• Landmark features of park architecture or public art
• Large areas of unstructured parkland or naturalistic landscapes linked to the surrounding
community and open space system
• Trail heads and trail connections to the interconnected trail network

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C. Neighbourhood Parks

• Designs shall include sustainable features including recycled products, water and energy
conservation features and locally manufactured products wherever possible
• Sports fields for Senior and Junior Play - including soccer pitches, softball or slow-pitch
diamonds complete with park features and furnishings such as backstops and boundary
fences, goal posts, players benches and spectator bleachers.
• Play Courts for junior play, full or half courts for basketball or other sports
• Playground apparatus including junior and senior play elements
• Pathways, sitting areas and park furnishings
• Passive open grassed areas for unstructured activities
• Shade structures and park architecture
• Public art or historical display features
• Park identification signs and signs for information and regulations
• Shaped landforms, berms and drainage swales
• Areas of tree preservation or rehabilitation planting
• Planting designs of trees and shrubs to provide shade, interest and emphasis within the park
• Sub-surface storm and sanitary sewer systems
• 50 mm diameter water service and utility building for irrigation and water play infrastructure
• Single-Phase Electrical Supply and walkway lighting systems with isolation circuit
• Parking on street or on adjacent school facilities

2.3.2 Park Concept Plan and Facility Fit

Working with the recommendations of the Master Plan, staff consultation and the relevant planning
documents, the developer shall engage the professional services of a qualified, O.A.L.A. registered
Landscape Architect to prepare a Park Concept/ Facility Fit Plan during the preliminary stages of
engineering design and master servicing for the subdivision and the preparation of the Draft Plan of
Subdivision.

The Concept Plan shall demonstrate, at a minimum, that:

• Park configuration and size is suitable to accommodate the park design program identified
by the Master Plan as modified by the Town from time to time,
• Sufficient setbacks as depicted and described in the Town’s Standard Details (Section 3.0 of
this manual) are possible to buffer residents from active recreational uses.
• Setbacks for active facilities shall generally be a minimum of 20 metres from residential
property to the edge of the recreational use and 15 metres from the street line of
neighbouring roads. Setbacks for specific facilities are described in section 2.4.4 herein and
may be listed on standard drawings.
• General setbacks shall not limit the flexibility of town in determining larger or smaller setbacks
as may be deemed reasonable for the design of individual park programs and
circumstances.
• Orientation of facilities and layout meets with Town standards
• Tree preservation requirements will be addressed in accordance with the approved Tree
Preservation Plans and related documents as submitted for the subdivision
• The general relationship of park grading and drainage to the surrounding subdivision
conforms to Town requirements and general approval.
• Display any encumbrance made necessary by the development engineering of the
subdivision

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• Required services for the future construction of the park are verified and generally located
on the Concept Plan
• Surface and sub-surface storm-water and sanitary drainage systems are available and can
accommodate the predicted needs of the park development.
• The Developer is responsible to secure any relevant approvals from all agencies (Hydro,
Pipelines etc.) that may be affected by the plan.

The developer/builder shall be required to display the approved Park Concept Plan in project sales
offices. Any misrepresentation of the park design, or misleading portrayal of park amenities
displayed in sales pavilions or advertising media shall be the sole responsibility of the
developer/builder. Prospective purchasers are to be encouraged to approach the Town directly for
information on the timing and program of the park development.

2.3.3 Construction Drawings

At the municipality’s option, the developer shall engage the professional services of an O.A.L.A.
registered Landscape Architect to prepare Detail Design/ Technical Drawings to fully describe the
construction of all park features. The costs of such professional services when requested are
attributable to the legitimate park development costs assigned to the park project through
Development Charges. The developer shall file a copy of a proposal for professional services with
the Town for reference in the accounting of the project. These fees shall be distinct from those fees
which may have been incurred as a developer cost in the processing of the subdivision and the
production of the Park Concept/ Facility Fit Plan and subdivision engineering and servicing designs
for park blocks. Proposals for professional park design fees shall anticipate up to three detail reviews
by municipal staff of complete drawing packages submitted for a park development. Proposals are
to receive Town agreement prior to detail design works being submitted for review.

The following drawings shall be included at a minimum for all parks to be constructed, whether by
the municipality or by the developer on behalf of the municipality:

a. Existing Conditions Plan: Plans and construction drawings are to be prepared utilizing
current engineering base information completed for the subdivision design along with
current OLS survey information for existing legal boundaries and survey monuments and
topographic features, spot elevations and contours. Such information shall include all
features unique to the block of land including existing vegetation and geodetic
elevations at the base of individual specimen trees.

b. Layout Plan: the plan shall present an accurate representation of all works to be
constructed for the park complete with dimensions and offsets tied to known legal lines
for the block. Park facilities are to be shown in conformance with the minimum standards
developed by the town for facility layout. All materials and finishes for the park
development are to be labelled and construction details cross referenced to Town of
East Gwillimbury standards or other technical details as may be suitable and required.

c. Grading Plan: the plan shall show current geodetic information of the existing grades and
conditions. Grading plans shall show the ultimate finished grades for all facilities and
components of the proposed park. Grades shall be shown for all sports-fields and shall
illustrate current standards for field grading and drainage in accordance with Town
Standards. Grading design shall be done in recognition of the pre-grade conditions and
structural fill preparation established for the park. The grading plan shall show all areas
requiring additional engineered fill for construction of the park facilities. Spot elevations

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shall be shown to adequately describe all pathway construction, curbs, walls and edges
and drainage swales through soft landscape areas. The grades to be achieved at
drainage inlets are to be clearly shown on the plans.

d. Servicing Plan: the plan shall show all necessary underground servicing to allow for the
function of park facilities in accordance with current codes and best industry practices.
The Servicing plan shall show all services, connections and crossings within the park block
in context to each other and the development of the park and its features. Sewer
systems shall be illustrated complete with descriptions of pipe materials and dimensions
as well as all pipe crossing and inlet invert elevations. Local sub-drains required for park
facilities are to be illustrated as to their location and connection to the main system of
drainage. Water supply systems shall be illustrated with all necessary pipe dimensions,
backflow prevention devices, chambers, meters, pipe reducers and appurtenances. All
cross references for details and OPSD are to be clearly understood from the plans.

e. Planting Plan: Plans will be prepared illustrating all tree, shrub and groundcover plantings
proposed for the park. Plantings shall be accurately represented as to the extent of
planting beds and the location of specimen trees relative to park features, servicing and
paving. The planting plan shall include the contour grades of the proposed park
development to ensure accuracy of context for planting.

Particular care is to be taken in the selection of plant species to conform to the details
and standards of the Town and the intent for landscape development in context to the
surrounding environment as expressed in Section 1 herein. Emphasis is to be placed upon
the inclusion of native and indigenous species in park designs and to limit the extent of
maintenance required to manage the park effectively. All areas of seeding and sodding
shall be illustrated clearly by the plan.

f. Irrigation Plans and Details: Irrigation Plans are to be produced by a Certified Irrigation
Designer in general conformance to the standards of the Town. The irrigation plan is to
be specifically reviewed with Town operations staff to ensure the proposed equipment
and controllers are complementary to existing systems currently maintained by the Town
and that systems represent current technology for water conservation. The Town
encourages the design of irrigation systems supported or entirely operated through the
conservation of rainwater or water generated by other park facilities.

g. Electrical Plan: Plans are to be prepared by an independent electrical consultant with

established municipal experience in the design of lighting systems for parks. The plan shall
be prepared detailing the location and type of all walkway, parking area and sport
lighting poles and fixtures. Plans and details shall be in conformance with the standards
of the Town and shall reflect current rules and regulations with respect to electrical
design. Electrical designs are to promote energy efficient and increased sustainability
systems such as solar powered systems or LED lighting systems.

h. Construction Details: Detail drawings are to be provided to fully explain the methods of
construction for all elements of the park. The details shall, at a minimum, comply with the
performance standards established in the Town’s construction detail standards as shown
in Section 3. Other details as may be necessary to explain the full extent and implications
of the park construction shall be included for the review of the municipality and its
departments. Any overhead structures and load-bearing foundations are to be reviewed
and certified by a Structural Engineer.

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Drawings shall be prepared at a maximum metric scale of 1:400 in Autocad format and shall be
submitted on disk to the Town in a format compatible to the town’s GIS mapping systems wherever
possible. Such drawings are to be submitted at the time of issuance for tender and at the
completion of construction as “As-Built” records, to be retained as a permanent record for the
project.

Where deemed necessary by the Town in the design of Community and Town-wide parks, the
developer will retain the services of a professional engineer to perform storm sewer design for the
park including sizing of pipe, catch basin elevations and inverts, to be co-ordinated with the grading
plans of the subdivision. Professional fees associated with the engineering component of the detail
design of the internal park services will be the responsibility of the Town.

2.4 Design & Construction Standards

The Town of East Gwillimbury has established minimum standards for park design and construction.
These form Section 3 of this manual and are subject to update from time to time. Applicants and
consultants are to assure themselves that they are working from the most current versions of these
documents in the preparation of park plans and construction documents for submission to the
municipality.

These details are not intended to be prescriptive in all cases but rather are intended to assure a
baseline of quality which may be improved upon at the suggestion of the applicant and with the
agreement of the Town on a case by case basis. The general intent of the standards is to assure the
appropriate configuration and construction of recreational facilities, the design of attractive and
environmentally responsible parks and open spaces and to promote cost effectiveness and the
reduction of long-term maintenance and life cycle costs. The following is a discussion of park
development guidelines for which these standards can apply.

2.4.1 Sustainable Design

The Town of East Gwillimbury encourages the inclusion of sustainable and “green” design strategies
wherever possible. Park designs are to have regard for contemporary approaches to sustainable
design wherever possible. Designs shall promote the use of native plant materials; the reduction of
maintenance loads and machine use; the conservation of storm water and its quality treatment in
on site devices such as bio-swales and infiltration galleries; the re-use of potable water through grey-
water and other water re-use systems; the use of durable recycled products for site furniture and
park features; and the use of locally produced products for energy conservation and support of the
local economy.

2.4.2 Public Safety by Design

Design of park features and recreational facilities shall conform to local, provincial and national
regulations and recommendations for the health and safety of park users and those who maintain
park systems. Contemporary standards for playground safety as well as current accepted standards
for setbacks and run-out areas for active sports facilities are to be applied to the design of parks.
Park design shall have regard for the inclusion of the recognized approaches and principles of
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

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2.4.3 Design for Accessibility

It is the policy of the Town to provide barrier free access to all municipal facilities wherever it is
practicable and wherever possible to design parks for the universal use and appreciation of all
constituents. Park design will address barrier free access by eliminating or providing alternatives to
stairs, curbs and other obstructions. Such alternatives shall be in conjunction with the primary
circulation route wherever possible rather than separated by significant distances. The experience of
the park is to be similar for all users regardless. Park design will also consider the inclusion of features,
activities and facilities to engage the full range of users. Considerations of sensory gardens and other
similar integrated design elements are encouraged to provide a complete and inclusive park
experience for all potential visitors.

• All park facilities including athletic fields will be accessible wherever possible.
• Playground structures for Neighbourhood Parks are not typically to be fully wheelchair
accessible but should present opportunities for universal play in their ground accessible
elements. Full accessibility is encouraged for these facilities if it can be accomplished within
the budgetary constraints of the individual project.
• True universality of play areas is intended for the higher classifications of Community and
Town Wide Parks. These parks may offer associations with a Community Centre or other
public building offering support for special needs requirements and may be sites for
organized, inclusive, programming.
• Pavements within parks are to be barrier free. Trails are to utilize barrier free pavement
surfaces to the extent possible for the type/class of trail being constructed.
• Maximum slope for ramps and walkways will conform to the Ontario Building Code and the
Town Accessibility Standards.

2.4.4 Site Grading and Drainage

Responsibility for site grading and subsurface drainage design is shared between the developer and
Town. Grading and drainage is to be undertaken in accordance with construction drawings and
specifications as prepared by a qualified Landscape Architect. Standards to which earthworks are
undertaken shall respond to the structural integrity requirements of facilities and the future
maintenance requirements of the Town.

• Subsurface drainage and sewer works will be installed complete with the required catch
basins, manholes and connection to subdivision storm sewer system.
• Grading design is to be developed to afford sheet drainage of water wherever feasible in
order to facilitate infiltration for surrounding soils. Sheet drainage shall be designed in a
reasonable and sensible fashion within sub-drainage areas of the park block. It is not the
intent to avoid a sewer system but to achieve balance between the use of overland flow
and piped systems. Grading shall ensure that drainage is contained within the park block
and is not shed onto neighbouring private properties.
• Drainage requirements of the park will be determined early in the engineering design
process of the subdivision to eliminate the use of culverts. Catch-basins/ inlet structures are to
be placed at sufficient intervals and in sufficient quantity to ensure that there are no areas of
trapped drainage within the site and to avoid deep swales with steep side slopes.
• Engineered fill, free of Topsoil organics is required underneath all paved surfaces,
playgrounds and ball diamond infields. Fill is to be placed and compacted to 95% S.P.M.D.D.
in 200mm lifts. Completed filling works are to be tested and the results submitted to the town.
• Turf-grass swales will be graded to a 2% slope along their length whenever possible. 1.5%
slopes may be accepted over short distances to avoid overly steep side slopes for swales.

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• Slopes and berms will be graded to a maximum 4:1 slope for ease of maintenance. Level
turf-grass areas (except purpose-designed athletic fields) will have a minimum slope of 2% for
drainage purposes.
• Natural turf sport fields will be graded to 1.5% slopes and crowns as described by technical
drawings.
• Minimum 150mm topsoil layer is required under all grassed areas. Topsoil may be thicker in
uniform compacted layers. A balanced grading program of topsoil stripping and sub-grade
cutting and filling is to be undertaken for a park development. Trapped pockets of organic
material are not to be created. Deeply excavated, isolated areas and areas of significant
grade change are not to be filled using topsoil.
• All park areas are to be finished with fine grade and sod with the exception of preserved
natural areas and areas of environmental rehabilitation.

2.4.5 Setbacks to Facilities

All recreation sport field facilities including run-out areas, playgrounds and play courts will be sited so
as to ensure a minimum setback from the facility perimeter to adjacent residential property lines of
30 metres for ball diamonds and 20 metres for other facilities. This space may contain grading,
drainage and buffer planting as required to ensure the performance of the facility and the
protection of adjoining facilities or properties. Athletic facilities shall be designed in consideration of
the impacts of the activity of the game-play and will generally not be sited directly adjacent to
roads where this setback must be increased to 40 metres or 2.4 metre high fencing provided to
prevent conflict with traffic.

2.4.6 Athletic Field Facilities

Sports fields will be sited in their most favourable orientation and with symmetrical grading design.
Design is to consider configurations that will minimize noise disturbance to adjacent residents. Field
dimensions may vary with classification and use, but must always include the required clearance
from neighbouring properties and adjacent park uses.

The relationship and foul ball risks associated with the placement of backstops will be carefully
considered to avoid risk impacts on other park facilities. Lighted sports fields may be provided only
in Community or Town-Wide parks and shielded, dark sky compliant lighting will be provided to
prevent spillage onto adjacent residential properties. Lights will be controlled by activation circuits
and timers for automatic shut-off at park closing hours.

Ball Diamonds

• Field measurements are to be in accordance with the appropriate Town standard detail for
the level of play provided.
• Run-out area shall be 6 metres around perimeter containing no grade changes or obstacles.
The perimeter of the outfield is to be assumed as extending from the line of the backstop
and line fence.
• Home run fence in outfield allows run-off distance to be reduced to perimeter line.
• Home run fence to be 1.5m minimum in height.
• Optimum orientation should place home plate facing to the north-east.
• Grading to be crowned at centre-line or sheet draining from infield to outfield.
• Infield should be centre crowned from the pitching location at 2%.
• Outfield is to be centre crowned at minimum1.5% consistently from infield to outfield fence to
avoid grade separation of outfield positions.

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• Engineered fill is required under entire infield to sub-grade level to accept infield mixture
depths, and for backstop and bleacher sitting areas.
• Topsoil depth in outfield may exceed 200mm in uniform consistent depth with no isolated
topsoil pockets.
• Backstop and line fence footings are to be founded in suitable soils. Size and dimension of
footings for structure bearing posts and supports are to be reviewed by a Structural Engineer
based upon soils testing for the site.

Soccer Fields

• Field measurements are to be in accordance with the appropriate Town standard detail for
the level of play provided with 5 metre run-out areas for field perimeters.
• Orientation of north-south direction between goals is considered optimal for sun orientation.
• Grading – centre-crowned and sloping to sides at maximum and minimum 1.5 % slope for
natural turf fields.
• Non-crowned fields are not acceptable for senior play.
• Senior competitive fields are to be irrigated and sub-drained. Fields may be constructed of
specialty sand/soil mixes where recommended and directed by the Town.
• Perimeter line markings are to be provided using powdered chalk or other environmentally
safe compound.

2.4.7 Playgrounds

Playgrounds are to be set back 20 metres at their perimeter from any residential property lines. Junior
play-spaces may be set back at 10 metres were approved by the Town. Play areas are to be set
back from street lines of local roads by a minimum of 15 metres and 20 metres from the street line of
a collector road where the boulevard will also act as a buffer. Grading around playground areas is
to be designed to allow visual surveillance into the play area from the road and surroundings. No
dense evergreens will be planted near playground areas where views may be obstructed and
safety of users be affected.

• Playground equipment design will suit the age group intended to be served.
• Playgrounds shall include safety signage indicating the appropriate age range for the use of
the equipment and contact information for the Town with regard to maintenance and
security.
• Equipment to be manufactured from steel treated with a durable powder paint finish.
• Equipment design and clearances are to conform to CSA standards, latest edition.
• Play equipment and resilient surfacing is to be enclosed within a concrete curbed area, set
to level to prevent the drifting of materials.
• Resilient surfacing is to conform to C.S.A. Standards for the drop-heights included in the
equipment provided.
• Resilient surfacing (Engineered Wood Fibre) shall be to a minimum depth of 300mm (with
areas of greater depth as may be required so as to assure CSA conformance in response to
designed fall heights) and to be at finished grade below equipment and 150mm below top-
of-curb.
• Sub-surface drainage of flexible perforated PVC pipe in clear 10mm diameter stone
drainage bed near perimeter of curb so as not to conflict with play structure posts. From
perimeter of enclosure the drainage pipe is to be solid PVC connected to a nearby catch
basin or storm sewer at minimum 1% slope.
• Sitting areas are to be provided within hard surface area to allow for ease of supervision for
the entire play area.

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• Shade is to be provided through a structure or shade-trees within easy reach of the play
areas.

2.4.8 Hard Surface Play Courts

Tennis courts, basketball courts and other multi-purpose hard surface play areas will be provided in
Community Parks where sufficient space separation is available to minimize noise impacts from
bouncing balls on adjacent residential neighbourhoods and where a reasonable space separation
is possible from children’s playground equipment. Lighted tennis courts may be provided in
Community Parks only with a timer for light shut off at park closing hours.

• Tennis, Basketball and Multi-purpose Courts - Asphalt surfaces to be of fine grade HL3A
draining at maximum 1.5% slope. Sub-base materials to be as required by details and soil
conditions. Where budget allows concrete underlay to court surfaces or flush concrete curbs
are recommended.
• Tennis court fencing to be 3 metre high, black chain link with terminal posts and gates
measuring 88.9 mm (3 ½”) OD, line posts and rails measuring 60 mm (2 3/8") OD.
• Posts to be set in concrete footings poured the full depth of 1.2 metres below finished grade
with tops of footings trowel finished.
• Tennis nets will be installed for seasonal use only. Net posts shall utilize a sleeve and cap
system for removal and storage of the nets seasonally or for multi-use court play on the
surface.
• Line painting provided by 50mm wide white or yellow durable traffic paint.
• Colour coatings are an optional feature where deemed appropriate for competitive
tournament play or where design suggests.

2.4.9 Water Spray Features

Spray pads or similar water play features may be provided in Community Parks or those
Neighbourhood Parks intended for intensified use. Water supply, plumbing and drainage will
conform to requirements of the Region of York and the Town of East Gwillimbury’s Plumbing Permit
requirements and will be housed in an above-grade utility building.

• Water supply to be potable water only. Custom designed water recycling plants may be
included with review and instruction from the Town for major Town-wide facilities.
• Water Meter, backflow prevention device and all appropriate valves as required are to be
housed in an above grade utility building whenever feasible. As an alternative the Town may
accept an above grade Valve Chamber inside the park property.
• Drainage to be connected to storm sewer system or grey-water recycling system where
applicable to the individual design.
• Standing water is not to be a feature of the water play facility. The facility shall drain freely to
an inlet structure.
• Activated by timer with manual activation and shut-off capabilities.
• Non slip pavement of concrete or rubberized surface.

2.4.10 Seating Areas

Benches, waste receptacles, bicycle racks and picnic tables will be provided in park shelters along
pathways and at activity locations in support of uses within the park. Park furniture will be selected
and approved on a site by site basis and in response to specific urban design and community
design policies for the area. Furnishings for general use are to be cost-effective, durable and vandal

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resistant using recycled materials wherever possible. Site furniture for high profile sites and historical
areas shall be selected in response to the specific design theme and historical reference of the area
they are installed. No site furnishings will be provided in secluded or remote locations where social
gathering is deemed undesirable.

• Seating areas will be provided in association with active and intensive park uses.
• Trees will be planted near seating areas to provide shade for comfort of users.
• Benches selected will be comfortable, durable, low maintenance and vandal resistant.
• Waste receptacles and recycling stations will be sufficiently large to minimize the need for
excessive pickup requirements.
• Site furniture will be permanently mounted onto a concrete slab or concrete footing.
• Picnic tables will provide for barrier free access.

2.4.11 Parking Areas

Typically parking lots will be paved in asphalt with a cast-in-place concrete barrier curb or defined
by precast/recycled concrete bumper curbs. The use of permeable pavings and designs promoting
storm water infiltration for parking area construction is encouraged by the Town. Granular parking
lots may be provided in less formal parklands and open spaces and where it is deemed that the
characteristic of free-draining granular is more desirable. Parking stalls shall generally be 3 metre x 6
metre with a 6.5 metre wide circulation lane.
• Parking lots within parks are not maintained in winter except if associated with a specific trail
head area or a school for year round use.
• Subsurface drainage and connection to storm sewer is typically required for all parking lots
enclosed by a poured concrete curb, with surface draining toward the inlet structures at 2%
minimum slope.
• Poured barrier curbs shall be a minimum of 150mm above finished surface of asphalt parking
lot.
• Dropped/depressed curbs are to be a minimum of 2.5 metres width and will be provided in
direct association with handicapped parking stalls, with appropriate connection to walkways.
• Handicapped parking spaces will measure 4m x 6m with appropriate pavement markings and
will be signed accordingly.
• Handicapped parking spaces will be provided at a rate of 2 spaces for each Community Park
and at Neighbourhood Parks as requested on a site by site basis or as required under site plan
for adjoining school sites.
• Line painting (100mm wide) will be provided on asphalt surfaces to identify each parking stall
using white O.P.S. standard traffic paint.
• Granular Parking Lots shall have pre-cast concrete or recycled plastic bumper curbs, each to
identify one parking space.
• Curb units are to be pinned in place 300mm inside of perimeter of the parking area to afford
ease of edge maintenance and grass cutting.
• Granular parking lots will be graded to sheet drain at minimum 2% slope to drainage swales or
directly to the surrounding landscape.
• Granular base shall be a minimum compacted depth of 250mm depth of approved coarse
aggregate compacted to 98% Standard Proctor Density.
• Paving surface will be two courses of asphalt ( 30mm HL3A and 50mm HL8).
• Compaction and materials testing is to be carried out and all base material and paving
certified by an accredited testing agency.
• Gravel parking lots will have a minimum 250mm depth of approved coarse aggregate
finished with a 50mm layer of 19mm crushed stone compacted to 98% Standard Proctor
Density.

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2.4.12 Pedestrian Walkways

Walkways will be provided within parks to connect recreation facilities or to provide amenity and
accessibility to passive areas in a convenient, safe and barrier-free manner. Parks should have a
defined entrance visible within the streetscape. The park entrance should be visible and convenient
with regard to access to the site and the likely desire lines expected from park users.

Park users should have a clear view of approaching pedestrian and vehicular traffic on adjacent
roadways. Proper connections will be made to municipal sidewalks, roadways, and open space
linkages where appropriate. Seating areas and other pedestrian pavement surfaces may be of
asphalt, concrete, unit paving or combination thereof, as dictated by site conditions and design
intent.
• Typically park walkways shall be paved and are to be 2.4 metres in width for pedestrian use
and 3.0 metres wide for a primary route areas where they also serve to provide access for
park maintenance service vehicles

• Walkways will be paved with two courses of asphalt ( 30mm HL3A and 50mm HL8), over a
250mm thick compacted base of 19mm diameter Crusher Run Limestone.

• Pedestrian walkways that also serve as primary maintenance routes shall be heavy-duty
pavement with a thickened sub-base of compacted granular (250mm of 50 mm dia. and
150mm of 19mm dia. crusher run limestone) and two lifts of asphalt paving – (60mm HL8 base
course and 40mm HL3A wearing course).

• Compaction and materials testing is to be carried out and all base material and paving
certified by an accredited testing agency.

• Walkways will be crowned or cross sloped at 1% minimum drainage. Maximum slopes of

pedestrian surfaces will conform to Ontario Building Code

• Asphalt edges will be tamped to a 45 degree angle, and adjacent sod will be installed
25mm below finished surface of walkway so as not to trap water on the pathway surface.

• Walkways will meet flush with sidewalks and other pavement surfaces with no tripping
hazards and to provide barrier-free access for strollers, bicycles and wheelchairs.

• P-gates will be installed to restrict vehicular access onto pedestrian pathways, yet permit
accessibility for strollers, bicycles and wheelchairs.
• Site drainage across pedestrian walkways will be permitted but designs are to ensure that no
areas of trapped drainage are created on the site, causing water to pond and icing of the
walkways.

• Site grading and sub-surface drainage systems will be utilized to minimize the use of culverts
underneath walkways.

• Park pathways will typically not be maintained in the winter, except within a defined school
route or neighbourhood destination. Municipal roads and sidewalks are to be the primary
winter season access for the surrounding neighbourhood area.

• Walkway lighting will be provided when required by the town and shall be installed in
accordance with an approved lighting design plan.

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2.4.13 Tree Planting

In addition to protecting the existing vegetation that is designated for preservation within parkland,
new tree planting will be provided to support existing natural landscapes, remediate and recover
existing landscapes, enhance community aesthetics and design objectives for the park, provide
shade and shelter for park users, define space and to generally support environmental quality. A
mixture of deciduous and coniferous trees will be provided, in consideration of the facilities being
accommodated and the intent of the park design.

• Emphasis is to be given to the planting of native trees and those indigenous to the area.

• Tree planting will be designed to allow visibility and surveillance into the park from the street
and surrounding neighbourhood. Public safety will be considered through the principles of
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).

• Shade trees will be provided adjacent to sitting areas, parking lots and in other locations
where comfort zones are desirable.

• Parkland will focus on accommodating a diversity of native trees, flowering species and
specialty specimens which may not be typically used for street tree planting.

• Trees shall generally be a minimum 60mm caliper for deciduous shade trees, 40-50mm
caliper for ornamental trees and multi-stem varieties, and 1.8 metres height for coniferous
trees.
• At the completion of construction warranty periods, the Town shall replace dead trees in
accordance with available budgets approved for such activity.

• Extensive shrub planting and floral displays requiring high levels of maintenance are to
generally be avoided: except where approved as appropriate as features in Community or
Town-wide Parks; or as gateway features approved in accordance with the municipality’s
ability to maintain them.

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