In today’s post-COVID world, where children are spending more time on screens than ever, it’s crucial to create opportunities for them to engage in healthy, outdoor activities.

However, East Gwillimbury’s current by-law restricts basketball nets and temporary road hockey equipment from being placed at the end of driveways if they extend over the street.  This has been enforced solely on a complaints-based system and I have personally been involved in these discussions.

While the Town’s regulations are designed to prioritize safety, they may unintentionally limit kids’ opportunities to play outdoors in safe residential settings.

Basketball and road hockey aren’t just physical activities — they help children develop important social skills, build friendships, and create lasting memories. For many families, the driveway or the quiet street in front of their home is the only space available for such games.

Encouraging outdoor play is vital for children’s physical and mental well-being, while also fostering a stronger sense of community.

In other municipalities across Ontario, more flexible policies have been put in place to allow for both basketball and road hockey activities in residential areas. These communities have implemented guidelines to ensure safety while still recognizing the importance of outdoor recreation.

Striking a balance between encouraging play and maintaining safety on our streets is something I believe we should consider here in East Gwillimbury.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that other types of street encroachments, such as overhanging trees, are already managed within our town. If we can accommodate these natural encroachments, there might be room to allow for basketball nets and temporary road hockey equipment under similar safety guidelines.

As I personally consider options for potential changes, I’d like to hear from you. I’m interested in gathering your thoughts through a survey on how the current by-law affects you and your children’s ability to enjoy these activities.

Your feedback will help guide my future discussions with the town as I explore how we can create more opportunities for safe outdoor play.

Let’s work together to build a more active, healthy, and family-friendly environment in East Gwillimbury.

Let the kids play. It’s time to revisit this conversation.

Take the Survey: https://www.brianjohns.ca/let_the_kids_play_community_survey