Orillia Pickleball Court Access Rules: A resident of Orillia is asking the city to set clear rules for who can use the public pickleball courts and when. The request comes after some club members used public playing hours, which led to confusion and arguments between public and club players.
Club Time vs. Public Time
Earlier this year, the City of Orillia gave the Orillia Pickleball Club special time slots to use certain courts. These hours were during the popular morning times in the summer. During those hours, the general public was not allowed to play.
After public players, including the resident who wrote the letter, complained to both the city and the local news outlet OrilliaMatters, the schedule was changed. The city added new times for public play, which was seen as a good step forward.
New Problem With Public Court Use
Now, a new concern has come up. Some members of the Orillia Pickleball Club are showing up during the public hours and claiming to be “public players.” They are asking to play during those times, which is causing tension.
“In some municipalities, club members are asked to defer to non-members during public hours, only joining play if courts are not fully occupied or if they receive express permission from those already playing. This approach maintains the spirit of fair access for true public use and prevents club play from dominating the courts outside their allocated time,” the letter says.
Request for Clear Signs and Rules
The resident said that simple steps could fix the issue. Suggestions include posting signs and creating easy-to-follow rules to show who can use the courts and when. This would help stop fights over court use and make sure everyone has a fair chance to play.
“We appreciate the city’s effort in making pickleball accessible to the broader community, and we believe that with some simple guidelines and signage, Orillia can set a fair and inclusive standard that works for everyone — whether club-affiliated or not,” the letter adds.
What This Means for Orillia
Pickleball is growing fast in Orillia, and it is important that everyone—club members and public players—can enjoy the courts. Clear rules could help prevent future problems and create a fairer system for all.
The city has not yet responded with new updates, but players hope changes will come soon.
News in Brief: Orillia Pickleball Court Access Rules
An Orillia resident is asking the city to post clear rules for public pickleball court use after club members used public hours. The issue has caused disputes between public and club players. The resident hopes signs and rules will create fair access for everyone.
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