Community Event Guidebook & Application

A number of City departments are involved in the logistics necessary to produce a safe and successful community event. In addition, the City requires permits and approvals before an event may take place.

In an effort to simplify the application procedures for community event organizers, the City of Dublin has prepared this guidebook. The staff of Community Events is available to answer your questions to ensure a successful event.

Please note that the event organizer is responsible for fees and wages for all City services and staff as determined by the Permitted Events Committee. The event organizer may also be charged a rental fee for use of City facilities and an additional fee for lost or damaged City property. Upon approval by City Council, Dublin’s Hotel/Motel Tax Fund may be available to help offset these and other costs associated with your event, should you choose to apply.

Please feel free to call Community Events at 614.410.4510 once you’ve had the opportunity to review the following information.

Application & Process

Application

If you have any questions regarding the application, please contact Lori Gischel at lgischel@dublin.oh.us | 614.410.4516

Every individual or organization who intends to hold a Community Event must submit an Application to the Division of Community Events at least 90 days prior to the scheduled event, unless exempt by law. Events that are held on City property that intend to serve alcohol must submit their initial application 120 days in advance. Waivers to required time periods may be granted by the Director of Community Events or designee for extenuating circumstances.

After the receipt of the Application, an Event Committee meeting may be scheduled. Attendance at the Event Committee meeting is mandatory and must include a person who will be responsible on-site for setup and event operations.

A Community Event is defined as: Any festival, concert, parade, sporting event, public performance or announced public gathering held on a public street, right-of-way or public property. Events in which the public is invited on private property which may affect public safety, health or welfare by their impact on surrounding public or private property may be deemed a community event. A private, invitation only event such as weddings or private party would not constitute a community event and would not require a permit unless it would affect public safety, health or welfare.

Criteria of Issuance of an Event Permit

  • The Permit Application must contain no false or misleading information.
  • The event is produced by a not-for-profit organization or primarily for the benefit of a not-for-profit organization. Exceptions are those events covered by the Community Celebration definition or others as approved by the City.
  • The Permit Application must be completed and returned to Community Events division within the required time frame and no waiver from this requirement has been granted.

Criteria for denial of a Community Event Permit

  • The conduct of the event will substantially interrupt the safe and orderly movement of other traffic contiguous to its route.
  • The conduct of the event or the number of events scheduled during the time period will require the diversion of so great a number of other City employees, such as Police, Parks or Streets & Utilities staff, that adequate staff would not be available to complete City assignments.
  • The concentration of persons, equipment, vehicles or animals at the event or assembly sites will substantially interfere with adequate fire and police protection of, or emergency medical service to, areas near such sites.
  • The conduct of the event may result in violence to persons or property, causing serious harm to the public.
  • The event is to be held for the primary purpose of advertising a product, goods, or service.
  • The event site or route will cause too great a disturbance to surrounding residents and businesses, or has been used frequently.
  • The date or location of the event is in direct conflict with an existing event.
  • Any proposed use of public property, right-of-way, or facilities will unreasonably interfere with normal use of the property, right-of-way, or facility by the City or the general public.
  • Past events held by applicant cause concern about the likelihood the event would follow City of Dublin policy and regulations.

The event will not have a net positive benefit or impact on the Dublin community.

Permits

  • The Director of Community Events or designee may grant a permit, grant a permit with conditions, or deny a permit within 10 business days of the meeting or receipt of initial application if a meeting is not required.
  • Permits will be issued within one week (5 business days) of the Division of Community Events receipt of proof that all conditions have been met.
  • In some cases a conditional permit may be granted if all materials have not yet been received.

Revocation of permit

  • A Community Event Permit may be revoked before or during an event at the discretion of the City Manager or designee, the Director of Community Events or Senior Safety officer onsite when the health or safety of the public is threatened by an emergency, disorder or other unforeseen condition that has arisen.
  • If a Community Event Permit is revoked, the event must be cancelled and activities must be terminated immediately.
  • No refunds of fees paid prior to event will be refunded. Event organizer will be responsible for paying fees on any services incurred.

Appeal Process

All appeals must be presented in writing to the City Manager and he/she will respond within 5 working days.

Enforcement of other laws

  • Nothing contained in this document shall prohibit the authority of any officer to arrest a person engaged in any act or activity granted under this policy, if the conduct of such person violates the laws of the state, provision of this Code, or ordinances of the City, or unreasonably obstructs the public streets and sidewalks of the City, or if such person engaged in acts that cause or would tend to cause a breach of the peace.
  • The granting of any Community Event Permit required by this policy shall not eliminate the requirements for any business license or any other permits which may be prescribed by any other federal, state or local statutes, ordinances, rules or regulations; or compliance with any other applicable federal, state or local statutes ordinances, rules or regulations.

Resources & Fees

Resources

If the event organizer requests City services and/or equipment or if the Permitted Events Committee has determined that City services are necessary to hold a safe and successful event in the City of Dublin, the event organizer will be invoiced for those services at the conclusion of the event.

City Fees and Billing

City Council reviews all fees on a yearly basis. A nonbinding estimate of the cost of City services and equipment will be provided to the event organizer after the initial meeting with the Permitted Events Committee.

After the event, the City of Dublin and/or the Division of Police will send the event organizer an invoice(s) outlining the cost of the services provided by the City. The final amount due could be affected by weather, changes made by the event organizer, crowd size and other factors.

Payment is due upon receipt. In some cases, a deposit may be required. The following fees for applications/permits have been set.

Tiered Fee Structure for External Events

EventDefinition 2024 Fee
Tier 1Any event that does not require city services nor warrants a meeting with the Permitted Events Committee, but requires a permit to comply with city code or ordinances $125
Tier 2Any event that requires limited city services and warrants a meeting with the Permitted Events Committee $405
Tier 3Reoccurring/Annual EventAny reoccurring event that requires multiple City Services, multiple permits and warrants at least one if not more meetings with the Permitted Events Committee. $2,500
Tier 3New EventAny NEW event or reoccurring event that has significant changes that requires multiple City Services, multiple permits and warrants at least one if not more meetings with the Permitted Events Committee. $5,000
  • $50 + – Washington Township Fire Department Tent and Inflatable Permit, Application (PDF) | Process (PDF). Fees vary based on total number of tents/inflatables. (required if a tent is 400 sq. ft.- 700 sq. ft. without sides and most inflatables installed on public property)
  • $149.35 + $50+ – City of Dublin & Washington Township Joint Tent Permit (required if a tent is between 400 sq. ft.- 700 sq. ft. with sides or  larger than 700 sq. ft.), Application and Process. Fees vary based on total number of tents.
  • Fees vary – Hydrant usage (PDF) Dublin and City of Columbus permit/fees required.

Parks/Facilities Rentals

Event organizers may secure park shelter houses, pavilions, or amphitheaters by calling Community Events at 614.410.4510. For details on facilities, visit: https://dublinohiousa.gov/recreation-services/facility-rentals/.

Please reserve space for your event as early as possible. Permit holders not returning the park(s) in the same condition as it was secured before their event shall be billed for clean up or repair services as recommended by Parks staff, at a rate of $125/hr. plus any additional costs for repairs.

Following are the fees to rent Scioto, Coffman, Kaltenbach and Amberleigh Park facilities:

Shelter Houses
$10/hr Residents
$30/hr Non-residents

Coffman Park Pavilion and Amberleigh Park Pavilion
$15/hr or $120/day Residents
$50/hr or $400/day Non-residents

Amphitheaters
$10/hr Residents
$30/hr Non-residents

If your organization is looking to host a Community Event at Riverside Crossing Park or the Coffman Park South Fields, please read our park use and policies for additional information.

City Equipment

A Community Event may require equipment that may or may not be available from the City. Sandwich boards (24” x 36”), barricades, and No Parking signs may be provided by the Streets and Utilities department for a fee. The fee will be determined by the time required for delivery, setup and pickup. A minimum of 3 hours may be charged for each staff member required for services, at a rate of $125/hr.

Dublin Police Department Services

Police may provide security services, road closures, traffic direction, etc. Event organizers will normally be charged the following special duty rates for Police services:

  • $84 per hour for all officers, with a minimum of 3 hours billed per officer
    For events that require four or more officers, an event supervisor is required. For these events charges will be:
  • $84 per hour for all officers, with a minimum of 3 hours billed per officer
  • $91 per hour for event supervisor, with a minimum of 3 hours billed per supervisor
    In the event that not enough officers sign up to voluntarily work an event, the event requires that officers be ordered to work, the City of Dublin is contractually required to pay all officers the City’s overtime rate for any hours worked. That rate is currently:
  • $160 per hour for all officers, including supervisors, with a minimum of 3 hours billed per officer

If a business or individual that has contracted for a special duty officer wishes to cancel the job, notification must be made to the Division of Police or to the officer directly at least one hour prior to the scheduled start of the job. If neither the Division, nor the officer is called to cancel the job or cancellation has been made less than one hour prior to the scheduled start of the job, the business or individual contracting for the special duty officer will be billed for 3 hours “show-up” time for all officers scheduled to work.

Parks, Facilities and Streets Services

The need for City staff to work events will be determined at the event meeting. Some of the services that may be required:

  • Streets may provide temporary directional signage for event parking, reserved parking and handicapped parking
  • Streets may assist Police in road closures and detours and may provide barricades or other traffic devices to control closures
  • Parks and/or facilities may remove excess litter not removed by event
  • Facilities may staff the park restrooms if deemed necessary

Fee for staff:

  • $125 per hour, with a minimum of 3 hours

Hotel/Motel Tax Fund & Fee Waivers

A Hotel/Motel Tax or “Bed Tax” fund has been created to offset the costs of qualifying community events. It is distributed on a first-come, first-served qualified basis on the recommendation of the Finance Committee with the approval of City Council. Applications for monies must be received by the granting deadline, which is generally once a year in late fall. For more information, contact Deputy Director of Finance, Jaime Hoffman, jhoffman@dublin.oh.us 614.410.4401.

For waivers or adjustments in excess of $750 the City Manager may recommend waivers or fee adjustments to City Council pursuant to the provisions of Ordinance 33-95, Section 4.

Regulations

Insurance, Indemnity & Permission

Event organizers will be responsible for any and all damages caused by or related to the event. If the event is held on any property not owned by the City of Dublin or the sponsoring organization, the organization must submit proof of permission for use of property.

The sponsoring organization, permit holder or host establishment may be required to obtain a comprehensive general liability insurance policy (PDF) for bodily injury and property damage arising from the event. This will be at the discretion of the City of Dublin Risk Manager. The City, in its sole discretion, may waive the insurance requirement. It may also be waived when it is necessary to comply with any federal, state or local law, stature, regulation or constitutional provision.

City of Dublin must be named as additionally insured on the Certificate of Liability Insurance.

The Hold Harmless-Indemnification Agreement in the Initial Application must be signed by an authorized representative of the sponsoring organization.

First Aid and Emergency Services

The Washington Township Fire Department will identify general first aid and emergency services issues to consider at the community event and, at their sole discretion, will determine the amount of service required for safe operation of the event. Washington Township Fire Department may provide on-site first aid services for a fee determined by the Township. The event organizer is responsible for making arrangements for first aid and emergency services to be provided on-site.

Security and Safety Services

The Dublin Police will identify general security issues to consider at any community event and will, at their sole discretion, determine the amount of police required for safe operation of the event. A private security company may be hired for events on private or public property, but the plan and suppliers of services must be approved by the Division of Police. Sworn law enforcement officers or other approved City staff will be required if they will be posted in streets or roadways.

Events should have a plan in case of extreme weather or other threats. Events are encouraged to share these plans with both Police and Fire departments.

Traffic Control and Road Closures

Approval for use of City streets, alleys, sidewalks and parking lots for events will be included in the permit process. The committee will review: resident/business impact, detour routes, signage and notification, set up of barricades and directional signage, traffic control and safety.

All road closures and lane restrictions must be set up and removed by City of Dublin staff, unless otherwise approved by the Event Permit Committee. Any event personnel working on or near public roadways are required to wear safety vests or brightly colored apparel.

  • The event organizer is responsible for maintaining a minimum 12-foot wide fire and emergency lane through all areas.
  • If roads are to be closed or access to certain residents or businesses is restricted, the event organizer is responsible for preparing, printing and distributing a notification letter to all affected residents and businesses 15 to 30 days prior to event. Letter and distribution list must be approved by Community Events Division prior to being delivered.

The Dublin Division of Police will determine the following:

  • A list of the roads to be closed and corresponding intersections and detours;
  • Required placement of volunteers and personnel; and
  • Dates and times of the closure and reopening

Resident Notification Templates: Letter (Word) | Postcard (Word)

Parking

Event planners are required to provide a detailed parking plan that will accommodate number of guests expected. Events using private lots must obtain and provide the City with written permission from the owner of the lot. If a shuttle will be used, application must indicate the route, and pick-up/drop-off points.

  • Approval for vehicles to park or drive on sidewalks, bike paths or City-owned property will be included in the permit process.
  • If parking in an area not lined for parking, event must ensure there is adequate access for safety and fire vehicular access.
  • City Staff can revoke permission to use any City-owned grass lots if it is determined that the field will be caused excessive damage due to weather conditions.
  • Dublin may require any outside shuttle contractor to provide proof of insurance.

Signage

The use of signage for events is regulated by the sign ordinance, specifically in section §153.156. Event applications must include location and description of all off-site signage.

  • Events shall be entitled to a maximum of two off-site promotional signs and six directional signs.
  • On-site event signage is to be used ONLY for the duration of the event and during permitted setup and tear-down times.
  • Off-site signage shall not contain any commercial advertising. If an organization is sponsoring the event, the name only (no logos) of the organization may be used on promotional signage.
  • Off-site promotional and directional signs may not exceed six square feet in area and three feet in height.
  • Off-site promotional signs shall not be displayed more than seven days immediately preceding the event and shall be removed no later than 24 hours following conclusion of the event.
  • Directional signs shall be installed no more than 24 hours immediately preceding the event and shall be removed within 24 hours following conclusion of the event.
  • No more than three colors shall be included on off-site signs(s), including black and white.
  • Off-site signs shall not be illuminated.
  • Prohibited sign locations include: any public right of way; any location where the view of approaching and intersecting traffic would be obstructed; any private property sites without prior written authorization granted by the property owner; any site along the State Route 161 median strip.

Restrooms

The event organizer is responsible for providing adequate restroom capacity including restrooms for people with disabilities. These may include portable restrooms when permanent facilities are not available or deemed not adequate by the Permitted Events Committee. The City must approve locations of any temporary restrooms.

Restrooms in City parks and facilities will be cleaned, repaired and maintained by City staff. Fees will be incurred for this service if it is determined that use will cause need for cleaning and repair that is not in the normal routine. The fee is $125/hr. for staff with a 3 hour minimum.

The following formula will be used as a guide only in determining the facilities need for an event; the committee will make final decisions based on each specific event. Events with alcohol will require at least 15% more restrooms:

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Trash and Recycling

Events are responsible for maintaining the venue in a clean and orderly condition both during and after the event. Events are required to remove all trash from City property and may be required to rent a dumpster. The City must approve locations of any rental dumpsters. The cost of any litter clean up beyond normal daily routine will be charged to the event.
The following formula will be used as a guide only; the committee will make final decisions based on each specific event needs.

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Events are required to have a plan to handle recyclable materials, grey water and grease removal. No grease or grey water will be dumped on City property or into City waterways. Hazardous materials are prohibited from entering the trash for disposal at a sanitary landfill. It is the responsibility of the event organizer to identify proper disposal options and utilize them.

Some sources for free events trash and recycling boxes are SWACO (PDF), and Kroger stores.

Park Usage

All event materials must be removed from park within 24 hours of event conclusion, unless otherwise agreed upon, to include tents, dumpsters, portable restroom, etc.

Events must follow all parks regulations detailed in City Ordinance, Chapter §96. The Permitted Events Committee can grant permission to use the parks in ways otherwise prohibited by ordinance. These must be indicated on application. Possible permissible activities include:

  • Changing hours of operation from dawn to dusk
  • Allowing hunting or fishing in parks
  • Using aerosol paint cans
  • Promoting games played for money
  • Selling and/or consuming alcohol
  • Selling services or goods
  • Camping or any temporary lodging or sleeping place
  • Erecting or attaching signs
  • Erecting and/or building structures or digging holes
  • Allowing pets of any kind not caged or leashed
  • Driving in or parking in a park not designated for these activities
  • Parking vehicles in a closed park
  • Playing music of any kind

Events must return the park(s) to the same condition as it was before the event operation. Any excessive clean-up costs or repair costs will be billed to the responsible event. A post-evaluation will review the following items:

  • All event-related items have been removed including resulting trash and animal waste
  • Tent stake holes have been patched or repaired
  • Surfaces have been cleared of stains
  • Damage to park including but not limited to: trees, shrubs, flowers, turf, light poles, park furniture, sculptures, water feature/fountains, irrigation system, electrical panels

Noise Violations

According to the City Ordinance, § 132.03, sound emanating from permitted community events will receive an exception to the ordinance. The Permitted Events Committee can place certain requirements on sound emanating from events, including specific times of operation and overall sound level. Events must indicate on their permit the types of noises that will result from their event. Permission for event may not be granted if the noise will be deemed to cause too much inconvenience for surrounding neighbors and/or businesses.

The Dublin Division of Police and/or the City Manager or designee has the ability to cancel activities at any time if, at their sole discretion, the sound caused by an event is causing an unreasonable burden on surrounding residents or wildlife.

If sound is expected to disrupt local residents or businesses, the event organizer is responsible for preparing, printing and distributing a notification letter to all affected residents and businesses at least 15 to 30 days prior to event. Letter and distribution list must be approved by Community Events Division prior to being delivered.

Resident Notification Templates: Letter (Word) | Postcard (Word)

Tent Requirements

Tents 400 square feet or larger will not be erected, maintained or used without a permit from the City of Dublin and Washington Township Fire Department, depending on size and purpose of the tent. Fees will be set by the responsible authority. Inspection times must be arranged prior to the event.

Submittals requested 10 days in advance of event. Drawing submittals are required for the City of Dublin Permit.

Tents may be staked on City property, but it is the responsibility of the event organizer to contact Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS). OUPS must be contacted at 800-362-2764 at least 48 hours before tents are erected to mark area utilities.

For full details about tent requirements.

Temporary Structure Requirements

A permit for temporary structures (stages, etc.) must be secured through Dublin Building Standards. Event organizer must submit layout drawings of the event site attached to the Community Event Permit Application, or at a minimum of 30 days in advance of the event to Dublin Building Standards. Information required includes location of structure or modification of any building or structure.

Drawing submittals are required for the City of Dublin Permit.

Events must contact Dublin Building Standards at 614.410.4670 to schedule field inspections at least 48 hours in advance of event setup. Setup must be ready for inspection by 1 p.m. on the day before the event. If the event takes place on Sunday or Monday, the structure must be set up by 1 p.m. Friday; or, after hours and weekend inspections will be billed at an after-hours hourly rate for inspections needing to take place outside of normal business hours.

Amusements & Attractions

Dublin Building Standards and Washington Township Fire Department must inspect all amusements and attractions, such as rides, inflatables and haunted houses. All rides must be inspected, licensed by and follow all rules and regulations of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Horseback or pony rides are not permitted.

Temporary Electrical Requirements

A permit for temporary electrical service must be secured through Dublin Building Standards for towable generators. All outdoor extension cords must be 3-prong UL listed extension cords.

Hard-wired electricity may be available in parks. Those with standard outlets may be used without prior authorization. In order to hook into other hard-wired electricity that may be available, prior permission must be received and will be coordinated with Parks personnel.

Temporary Water Requirements

Permission must be granted as part of the facility reservation process to use any faucets in any parks prior to usage. Most will need to be opened by a Parks staff member.

A permit for use of hydrants in Dublin must be secured through the City of Columbus after first receiving a permit from the City of Dublin Division of Streets and Utilities. Please call Dublin at 614-410-4750 for the preliminary documents needed to file an application with the City of Columbus. Columbus sets requirements and fees for usage. Hydrant usage (PDF)

Fireworks Requirements

Permit for fireworks displays must be submitted with payment to the Washington Township Fire Department. Washington Township will determine associated fees. The fire department and Dublin Police both must approve fireworks sites and security measures including storage.

Food & Beverage

Events must ensure that all food and beverage services adhere to the regulations set by the County Health Department, including obtaining a permit if required. Generally food that is not being sold does not require a permit.

A list of all vendors and/or caterers who will be selling or providing food and/or beverages may be required to be provided to the Division of Community Events. The City of Dublin has the right to deny permission for any vendor to sell or serve food on public property.

Ohio and Dublin Fire Codes do not permit cooking inside place of assembly tents.

Alcohol

Events must ensure that the sale of alcohol adheres to the regulations set by the State of Ohio. If the event location is on City property, a written request for the use of alcohol must be submitted to City Council for review at least 120 days prior to the event. The written request should be sent to the Director of Community Events along with the permit application if not already filed.

A Special Events Liquor Permit must be obtained from the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control. When received, a copy of liquor permit must be sent to the City of Dublin.

If the event is sponsored or co-sponsored by the City of Dublin, or it is held on City property, they may be required to provide the committee the names of the alcohol servers. Those named may be required to attend an education session conducted by Dublin Police prior to serving. Additional cost may apply for Dublin Police to conduct training.

Proof of Liquor Liability Insurance in the minimum amount of one million dollars on an “occurrence” basis, naming the City of Dublin as an additional insured may be required at the discretion of the Risk Manager.

Any event that includes the sale of alcoholic beverages that is held on public property will require having Dublin Police Officers on-hand; number required and times will be determined by the Division of Police.

Contacts & Resources

City of Dublin Contacts

Community Events

Event Administrator Lori Gischel
For general questions or guidance regarding an event, please call Lori Gischel at 614.410.4516
email: lgischel@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4516

Mobile Stage Rental Form

Resident Notification: Letter Template | Postcard Template

Division of Police

Police Office Assistant Megan Kniola
email: mkniola@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4835

Sergeant Jake Stoll
email: jstoll@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4806

Building Standards

Senior Building Inspector Lee Montgomery
email: lmontgomery@dublin.oh.us
614-796-3066

Streets & Utilities

For street signs, barricades, cones and race routing

Streets Operations Administrator John Babyak
email: jbabyak@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4718

Park Operations

Crew Supervisor Keith Ryan
email: kryan@dublin.oh.us 
614.410.4737

Communications & Public Information

Public Information Officer Madi Kregel
email: mkregel@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4509

Recreation Services

Operations Supervisor Tyler Brooks
email: tbrooks@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4563

Finance

614.410.4431
For information about Bed Tax Grants

Deputy Director of Finance Jaime Hoffman
email: jhoffman@dublin.oh.us 614.410.4401

Risk Management

Safety Administrator, Risk Manager, Ron Whittington
email: rwhittington@dublin.oh.us
614.410.4411

Other Important Contacts

Washington Township Administration & Fire Department

EMS Manager Kevin McDowell
email: kmcdowell@wtwp.com
614-652-3920

Fire Marshal Sam Parsons
email: sparsons@wtwp.com
614.652.3930

Inflatable Tent Permit Application

Franklin County Health Department

614.525.3160

For temporary food license

Temporary Food License

 
City of Columbus Department of Public Utilities Division of Power & Water

614.645.7330

Department of Public Utilities
910 Dublin Road, 3rd Floor
Columbus, OH, 43215

email: utilityleadrep@columbus.gov

For hydrant permit after first receiving City of Dublin permit. Hydrant usage (PDF)

Glacier Ridge Metro Park

Park Manager Ryan Mader
email: mader@metroparks.net
614.216.8859

Union County Sheriff

Chief Deputy Tom Morgan
email: tmorgan@co.union.oh.us
937.645.4128

Jerome Township Fire Department

Chief Doug Stewart
email: dstewart@jerometownship.us
614.873.8990

Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control

614.644.2360

Ohio Department of Commerce
Division of Liquor Control
6606 Tussing Road
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068

For permits to sell alcoholic beverages

email: web.liqr@com.state.oh.us

www.com.ohio.gov/liqr/permitClasses.aspx

Ohio Utilities Protection Services

1.800.362.2764

Utility marking services – call 10 days to 48 hours before you dig
www.oups.org

Bocce Ball Courts
Two regulation bocce ball courts are available for public use, subject to senior adult programming and league play. Bocce ball sets may be checked out at the Welcome Desk by players 18 and older.

Classrooms
The classrooms house a variety of programs, including pottery and arts & crafts—meeting the needs of preschoolers, children, teens, adults and senior adults.

Community Hall
The Community Hall provides space for parties, receptions, meetings and community events. The facility seats up to 300 or can be divided into smaller rooms.

Abbey theater of Dublin
A 200-seat theater can be used for musical, theatrical and dance performances; film/video; lectures; and seminars.

Computer Lab
Equipped with workstations and a variety of software programs, the computer lab provides high-speed Internet access and opportunities for beginning and intermediate instruction. Open to ages 18 & up.

Family Locker Rooms
Each family locker room has its own shower, restroom and lockers. One locker room, designed for people with special needs, features a dressing table.

Fitness Area
Looking for free weights and cardiovascular equipment? Check out the fully equipped fitness area on the first floor. You will find treadmills, elliptical machines, bicycles and stair steppers along with free weights, Nautilus and a complete set of Cybex strength equipment.

Group Fitness Studios
If you enjoy group fitness, check out the myriad of classes offered. Two state-of-the-art studios feature suspended floors to help reduce impact and injury. Several pass options are available, allowing participants to choose from a weekly schedule of classes that include Spinning®, Pilates and TRX.

Jogging/Walking Track
Joggers and walkers on the second floor track can cover a mile in 13 laps. An expanse of windows provides views of the pools and the outdoors.

Multi-Purpose Pool
The competitive/lap pool measures 25 yards by 25 meters and has two one-meter diving boards. This pool often is divided for activities such as aqua aerobics, open swim, swim team practice and instruction. Bleachers provide ample seating and a separate entrance makes it perfect for area swim meets. The natatorium walls in both the lap and leisure pools are lined with sound-absorbing material.

Leisure Pool
A unique feature of the DCRC is the leisure pool, which includes a lazy river, clam slide for children, double helix slide for those a little more daring and a zero-foot entry point for cautious tots. The warmer water and 3.5-foot maximum depth make this pool perfect for children, adults and senior adults.

Senior Adult Lounge
An elegant, cozy lounge welcomes senior adults to our center. Enjoy playing cards with friends, reading by a fireplace or simply relaxing in this peaceful environment.

Teen Lounge
A teen lounge offers space and a variety of programming opportunities for Dublin teens.

Wee folk/Youth Lounge
While moms and dads are working out, attending a class or relaxing in the hot tub, they can rest assured that their children—from ages 6 weeks to 12 years—are nearby and safe. Children can play in the indoor or outdoor area or engage in age-appropriate games and activities.

Courtesy & Rules

Hours of Operation
Our parks are open for your enjoyment from dawn to dusk, unless otherwise noted at the park or during certain special events.

Shelters/Pavilions
A number of our shelters and pavilions are available to reserve on a first-come, first serve basis. Please be courteous of your neighbors and abide by your reservation times.

Keep it Clean
We’re sure you’ll find Dublin’s parks and bikeways to be clean, beautiful places to enjoy with your family. The City strives to keep its parks, playgrounds and bikeways clean and free of litter. Please leave the parks as clean as you find them so that others will enjoy them as much as you do. Disposal of litter in public places is prohibited unless placed in public trash containers or using City-authorized containers as part of the City’s refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

Pets
We know your furry friends enjoy nature as much as you do. We ask you to be safe and courteous with your pets.

Animals may not run at-large in our parks. All animals must be under the owner’s control at all times. All pets must be securely leashed, kept in a vehicle or suitably caged.

Animal owners also must pick up and properly dispose of any fecal matter left by their pets. It’s not just courteous — it’s the law!

Horses
Horses are allowed in designated areas of Glacier Ridge Metro Park.

Hunting and Fishing
For the safety of our residents, hunting is forbidden in the City. Fishing is permitted in designated areas, including certain City park ponds and in the Scioto River (with a license). Please fish only in ponds where signs prohibiting fishing are not posted.

Respect our Parks
Plants and animals also are part of the Dublin community. Please respect the plant and animal life and ecosystems of our natural areas. Enjoy the flowers, trees and other flora without picking or damaging plants. Touching or disturbing wildlife, including animal and bird nesting areas and eggs can be dangerous to humans — not to mention our flora and fauna! And please do not damage or remove any property or natural feature, including stones and minerals, earth, wood, and nuts. Take only pictures and leave only footprints in our parks.

Rules & Regulations

Dublin Recreation Services is committed to providing quality recreation programs and facilities for the Dublin community. Use of the facilities by families and citizens is strongly encouraged. The following policies have been established to operate the DCRC and to ensure our patrons quality and safe recreation experiences:

  • Proper and valid identification is required to gain access to the DCRC. Users of the DCRC need to check in at the front desk and provide annual pass, resident card, temporary pass or pay the daily pass rate for admittance.
  • Annual pass holders who do not present their annual pass will only be admitted if an alternate form of photo identification is produced.
  • Resident card holders must present their Dublin Resident ID card each visit to receive the daily pass discount rate.
  • Annual passes are not transferable and will be deemed void when in the hands of those other than the proper registrant.
  • The DCRC and its grounds are smoke- and alcohol-free environments by City ordinance.
  • Eating and drinking is permitted in designated areas only.
  • Children ages 9 and under must have adult/guardian at least 16 years of age supervising at all times.  Supervising adults must keep children ages 4 and under within arm’s reach; there must be at least one adult for each two children in this age group. Children ages 5 through 7 must be within sight of their attending adult at all times. Children ages 8 and 9 must have an adult in the facility at all times. For children ages 5 through 9, there must be one adult for every five children. Children ages 10 years and over may enter the facility without an adult supervisor.
  • Youth must be 16 years of age or older to be on the fitness floor.  Youth ages 12 – 15 years are permitted on the fitness floor if directly supervised by an adult or if they have passed the Junior Fitness Card Program (see Fitness Program Section). Youth under the age of 12 years are not permitted on the fitness floor area at anytime.
  • Youth must be 13 years of age or older to be on the track or in the track stretching areas.  Youth ages 8 – 12 years are permitted on the track if directly supervised by an adult or if they have passed the Junior Track Program (see Fitness Program Section). Youth may enroll in the Junior Track Program if they are ages 10-12.  Youth under the age of 8 years are not permitted on the track at anytime unless utilizing the pool observation area with an adult.
  • Changes in recreation schedules may occur without notice. Staff will post changes in the schedule with as much advance notice as possible. Current pool, aerobics and open gym schedules are available at the Front Desk.
  • Dublin Recreation Services is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. It is strongly recommended that you lock your possessions in a locker during your visit to the DCRC.
  • Lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Locks may not be left on lockers overnight. Locks which are left overnight will be removed by staff.
  • All participants must observe the rules and regulations relating to the safety and operation of the facilities. Any passholder who fails to comply with the rules and regulations of the DCRC will be subject to the following penalties:
  • One week’s suspension from use of the facilities upon the first incident;
  • Thirty days suspension from use of the facilities upon the second incident;
  • One year suspension from use of the facilities upon a third violation; and
  • Permanent suspension from use of the facilities upon any subsequent incident.

The following activities, although not an exhaustive list, are examples of behaviors that will result in disciplinary action and police reports when applicable:

  • Fighting
  • Stealing
  • Property Damage
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Criminal damage
  • Verbal abuse of staff and/or patrons
  • Not following posted policies and rules

DCRC Regular Building Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Sunday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

2024 Modified Hours

  • New Year’s Day: Monday, Jan. 1 open from 8 a.m. to noon
  • Easter: Sunday, March 31 – CLOSED
  • Memorial Day: Monday, May 27 open from 8 a.m. to noon
  • Independence Day: Thursday, July 4 open from 8 a.m. to noon
  • Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 2 – CLOSED
  • Thanksgiving: Thursday, Nov. 28 open from 8 a.m. to noon
  • Christmas Eve: Tuesday, Dec. 24 open from 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Christmas: Wednesday, Dec. 25 – CLOSED
  • New Year’s Eve: Tuesday, Dec. 31 open from 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • New Year’s Day: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025 open from 8 a.m. to noon

2024 Dublin Irish Festival Special Hours

  • Friday, Aug. 2 open from 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, Aug. 3 open from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
  • Sunday, Aug. 4 – CLOSED

2024 Annual Cleaning, Maintenance & Repairs

The Dublin Community Recreation Center (DCRC) will be closed from Saturday, Aug. 24 through Monday, Sept. 2, 2024 for annual cleaning, maintenance and repairs. The DCRC will reopen at 5:30am Tuesday, Sept. 3. Offices will be staffed for phone calls from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Parks & Recreation

Recreation Services
614.410.4550

Parks, Shelter Houses & Kaltenbach Rentals
614.410.4510

24-Hour Information Hotline:
614.410.4946

Dublin Community Recreation Center Rentals
614.410.4550

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