PARK DISTRICT INFORMATION
Policies, Procedures, Ordinances & Disclaimers
Policies and Procedures
Definition of Residency/The Fair-Share Concept Policy
Anyone living within the geographic boundaries of the Wilmette Park District is considered a resident. Outside of the Wilmette geographic boundaries, this privilege is also extended to Kindergarten through Grade 8 students living in the geographic boundaries of Wilmette Public Schools District 39 or Avoca School District 37. Parents of these children are not eligible for resident fees. Wilmette residents, via property taxes, make financial contributions to the operation of the park system. A “Fair-Share” policy has been adopted to apportion an equalizing user fee to our non-resident participants so they contribute to the overall financing of the park system on an equitable basis.
Cancellations and Refund Procedures
Cancellations:
The Wilmette Park District reserves the right to cancel, postpone or combine classes, or change instructors. If insufficient enrollment causes a class to be cancelled, notification will be given and full tuition refunded.
Patrons must call 847-256-6100 or email connect@wilpark.org to receive a refund. Self-cancellations are not eligible for refunds.
Cancellation Outline:
Session-Based Programming (more than one meeting date) & Summer Camps
- Full refund earlier than 1 week prior to the start of a program (2 weeks for camps)
- 20% administrative fee if after 1 week prior to the start of a program (2 weeks for camps)
- Prorated refund after the start of a program (minus 20% of original fee)
One-Day Programs, Events & SDOs
- Full refund earlier than 2 weeks prior to the start of a program
- No refunds after 2 weeks prior to the start of a program
- WCT Tickets ONLY: If seats remain available, tickets may be exchanged for a different performance of the same production up to 1 day prior to the original ticket date. New tickets will reflect the best available seats at the time of exchange.
Programs with Installment Billing (preschool, care, campus clubs, etc. – not summer camps)
- No refund of previous payments, and all future payments will be cancelled
- Example: If a patron cancels on November 3, after the November 1st payment for that month of care, they will not receive any refund for the rest of November, and they will not make their December (or any future) payment
Financial Assistance
The Wilmette Park District recognizes there are Wilmette families who may suffer, at any time, from economic setbacks that might preclude their participation in Wilmette Park District programs. Through the generosity of our community, Ouilmette Foundation, and Memorial Tree Program, our Family Scholarship Fund allows us to offer assistance for children’s programs to Wilmette resident families experiencing temporary financial difficulties. To apply for assistance, please complete our Scholarship Application (button below) and email it to Michelle Parson at mparson@wilpark.org.
Active Military Discount Policy
Wilmette Park District recognizes and appreciates those residents who currently serve within the branches of the United State military, including those reservists on active duty. The District also recognizes the sacrifice that military personnel and their families make to serve and protect our country. The Board of Park Commissioners established an overall policy to provide discounted rates to military personnel and their families. Proof of active status (military orders) must be provided at the time of registration in order for the discounts to be applied. Eligible individuals must be residents of the Wilmette Park District. Proof of residency must be provided at the time of registration.
Discounts are available for Park District provided programs and services:
- 20% total discount on all programs offered by the Wilmette Park District. Please note the list of excluded programs and services.
- 20% total discount of any contractual programs subject to the review and approval on a case by case basis.
- 20%. off Daily Fees at Centennial Family Aquatic Center, Wilmette Beaches, Center Fitness Club, Centennial Ice Rinks, Wilmette Tennis Club, Wilmette Golf Club and Wilmette Platform Tennis Club.
- 20% off Beach, Pool, Fitness, Ice, Tennis, Dog Beach and Golf Memberships.
- Two for one discount for any ticketed performance by the Park District Adult and Children Theater.
The following programs and services are excluded from the above listed discount benefits for eligible military residents and family members.
- Private or group golf, tennis, platform tennis, sailing and ice skating lessons.
- Fitness personal trainers.
- Facility rentals, including Birthday Parties.
- Food and beverage at any of the Park District facilities.
CLICK HERE
for the complete Military Discount Policy.
Individuals with Disabilities
The Wilmette Park District is committed to providing recreation in the most integrated setting possible. If you, a family member or friend has a disability and are interested in participating in or attending Wilmette Park District programs or activities, we will make reasonable accommodations to facilitate that opportunity. We urge you to contact us in advance of program participation to arrange accommodations. For information call (847) 256 6100. For the hearing impaired needing assistance, call (847) 256 6100.
Wilmette Park District is a partner with Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association (NSSRA). NSSRA offers recreation, sport, cultural and social programs and events available throughout the year, creating new experiences, opportunities for skill development, leisure time and perhaps most importantly, friendship.
CLICK HERE for more information about our Disability Services and NSSRA.
Written Communications and Correspondence from the Public
The Wilmette Park District welcomes communications from its residents in all formats. When the communication is via email, and the intent of the resident is to have the communication included in the materials for the next public meeting, please email publiccomment@wilpark.org. To download the full Policy for Written Communications and Correspondence from the Public, click here.
Lakefront and Pool Season Pass Guidelines
- You may renew your season pass online or in person at any Park District facility during regular business hours.
- The season pass is your Wilmette Park District photo ID card, which can be used only by the person to whom it has been issued. It is not transferable.
- A family consists of up to two adults and dependent children through the age of 23 who reside at the same address.
- All family members age two and older by May 1 must have their own photo ID pass or pay a daily fee to enter the beach and/or pool.
- Wilmette resident seniors age 65 and older by May 1 with proper identification (i.e., driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport), receive a discount on the price of a season pass for individual pool, beach, or both when purchased together.
- Season pass refunds are not given for any reason after Opening Day.
Behavior Policy
Also refer to the Conduct Ordinance, below
Statement of Purpose
The Wilmette Park District views responsible behavior as a goal which can be successfully attained by setting consistent limits through positive reinforcement.
Policy
A patron is defined as anyone using Park District facilities, programs, or parks. Patrons are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times. The Park District views disruptive and inappropriate behavior as a serious matter. Additional rules may be developed when deemed necessary by staff.
All patrons are expected to abide by the following guidelines:
- Show respect, follow program rules and take direction from staff.
- Refrain from using abusive or foul language.
- Refrain from threatening or causing bodily harm to self, other patrons, or staff.
- Show respect for equipment, supplies, and facilities.
- Not possess any weapons or controlled substances.
- The consumption of alcohol is permitted only in approved facilities under specific guidelines existing at those facilities.
Discipline
A positive approach will be used regarding discipline. Staff will periodically review rules with patrons during the program session. If inappropriate behavior occurs, a prompt resolution that is specific to each individual’s situation will be sought. The agency reserves the right to dismiss a patron whose behavior endangers his or her own safety or the safety of others.
Reviewed by Committee : July 23, 2018
Approved : August 13, 2018
Ordinance
Conduct Ordinance
CLICK HERE
to download a copy of the Wilmette Park District’s Ordinance Regulating the Use of the Parks and Property Owned or Controlled by the Wilmette Park District.
Ordinance No. 25-O-10: An Ordinance Amending Chapter IV of the Conduct Ordinance
On December 8, 2025, the Wilmette Park District Board of Park Commissioners amended Chapter IV of the Conduct Ordinance and adopted Ordinance No. 2025-O-10, which clarifies the Park District’s policies with respect to the use of Park District property by federal agents in connection with civil immigration enforcement operations. The ordinance prohibits the use of Park District property (parks, facilities, parking lots, etc.) to conduct any federal civil immigration enforcement operations or activities (see Section 4.08.a-e for more details). Please note, this Ordinance does not restrict any person, including a Federal Agent, from using Park District Property for its intended purpose. Nor does it restrict the execution of lawful judicial warrants or the enforcement of criminal law (*see Section 4.08.f for more details).
CLICK HERE
to download a copy of the Wilmette Park District’s 2025-O-10 Amendment of Chapter V of an Ordinance Regulating the Use of the Parks and Property Owned or Controlled by the Wilmette Park District.
Ordinance 2022-0-29
CLICK HERE to download a copy of:
ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL USE, THE EXPANSION OF AN EXISTING SPECIAL USE, AND VARIATIONS PURSUANT TO THE WILMETTE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR 3555 LAKE AVENUE
Photo/Video Disclaimer
Photos and videos are periodically taken of participants/visitors at the Wilmette Park District’s parks and facilities. By registering, attending and/or participating in a program, activity or service offered by the Wilmette Park District you are authorizing the Wilmette Park District to take photos and videos of yourself and/or your child/ward during the activity. The photos and videos are for Wilmette Park District use only and may be used in marketing materials, the Wilmette Park District website, promotional videos, social media, and additional uses as the Park District deems necessary.
Social Media Disclaimer
Any views and comments expressed by Users on our official social media pages are those of the Users and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Wilmette Park District. Any User’s reference to a specific commercial product or service does not imply endorsement or recommendation of that product or service by the Park District. All site Users are personally responsible for the content of their posts, and the Park District are not responsible for the content of external online platforms. Users are expected to communicate in a respectful, courteous, and professional manner. This is not an appropriate portal for FOIA requests.
Social Media Posting Guidelines
Wilmette Park District welcomes you to our official social media pages. These sites are intended to provide information for those interested in Wilmette Park District and its related services. While comments and interaction with the page are encouraged, these are moderated online discussion sites and not a public forum. Visitors shall comply with the Wilmette Park District’s Social Media Posting Guidelines, as set forth below. Comments left on these pages will be monitored and removed if not in compliance with the Guidelines. Social media accounts are not to be used for promoting or opposing any person campaigning for election to public office
The following are prohibited:
- Obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit postings
- Profane, violent, hateful, or racist language, including masked words (***), acronyms, and abbreviations
- Personal attacks of any kind, insults, threats, or defamatory statements
- Spam, advertising, solicitations, and fraudulent messages
- Comments advocating illegal activity or posting material that violates copyrights or trademarks of third-parties
- Links to outside websites/external URLs
- Posts that otherwise violate any Wilmette Park District policies or any local, state, or federal law or the social media platform’s terms of use
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