How to Position Your Backyard Wooden Swing Set or Play Set

Step 1

The play center is designed to be installed on a level surface by an Adult with an Adult helper. Place in a flat area of your yard to minimize ground preparation.

Step 2

Choose a level location for the equipment. This can reduce the likelihood of the play set tipping over and loose-fill surfacing material washing away during heavy rains.

Step 3

Place the equipment not less than 6 ft from any structure or obstruction such as a fence, garage, house, overhanging branches, laundry lines, or electrical wires.

Step 4

Provide enough room so that the children can use the equipment safely. For example, for structures with multiple play activities, a slide should not exit in front of a swing.

Step 5

It is a good idea to place your play center in an area that is convenient for adults to watch children at play.

Step 6

Create a site free of obstacles that could cause injuries – such as low overhanging tree branches, overhead wires, tree stumps and/or roots, large rocks, bricks and concrete.

Step 7

Do not build your playset on top of surfacing material.

Step 8

Locate bare metal platforms and slides out of direct sunlight to reduce the likelihood of serious burns. A slide that faces north will receive the least direct sunlight.

Step 9

Separate active and quiet activities from each other. For example, locate sandboxes away from swings or use a guardrail or barrier to separate the sandbox from the movement of the swings.

Backyard Ideas

Positioning Your Play Center