Park maintenance operations are an integral part of making the city of Cleveland a safe and healthy place to live. This large operation runs 12 months out of the year and includes the upkeep and maintenance of 172 parks, five (5) police districts, and the entire downtown footprint. The Downtown coverage area stretches from the Cuyahoga River to East 18th Street and from Lake Erie to Progressive Field.
For non-emergency issues regarding City of Cleveland Park Maintenance, you may contact the City of Cleveland Citizen Support Specialists at 3-1-1 or 216-664-2000. If you are experiencing an emergency, please contact 9-1-1.
Maintenance Activities
In spring and summer months (April-November), the focus is on grass cutting, trash removal, ball field preparation, executing the City’s Enhanced Park Improvement Program, and special events.
From December to March, the focus turns to leaf removal on hard surfaces such as basketball and tennis courts, pool decks, and parking lots. Snow and ice removal also are our top priority during these months. Park operations clears snow and ice from City of Cleveland Recreation Centers, select Park locations, City- owned Parking Lots, City Hall, the Public Auditorium and Willard Park.
Per the 2021 City of Cleveland Mayor’s Estimate, Park Operations maintains:
- 1,895 acres
- 172 parks
- 129 ball fields
- 86 tennis courts
- 102 basketball courts
- 109 playgrounds
- 41 park shelters
- 24 spray basins
Enhanced Park Improvement Program
The Enhanced Park Improvement Program target parks throughout the city that are in need of bench repairs, playground repainting, and minor nut/bolt repairs. All projects are done by Park staff, which saves time and money by not needing to contract out these enhancements and repairs to a third party.
Permits for Use
Individuals or Groups interested in using a City of Cleveland Park for sporting or special events must contact the City of Cleveland’s Division of Special Events.
The parks may have capacity, time, and/or food and beverage restrictions, and the hiring of security may be required as a condition of permit eligibility.
In order to have an event considered for a permit, a completed application can be faxed or dropped off. Completed applications must be received ten 10 days prior to the event. Organizations hosting large- scale events that require a variety of City services should contact the Division of Special Events at 216.664.2484.