Renting a Bounce House at a Columbus, Ohio Park: What You Need to Know

Common questions we get, Can I have a bounce house at a park in Columbus for my party? Can I have a Water Slide at a park in Columbus? Planning a party at a Columbus, Ohio park is a popular choice for birthdays, family reunions, school events, and community gatherings. Renting a bounce house or inflatable attraction can make your park event unforgettable—but before you book, it’s important to understand the rules.

Park policies vary by location, and many of the same guidelines apply throughout Central Ohio, not just Columbus. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will help you avoid last-minute issues and ensure your event runs smoothly.

Park Rules for Bounce Houses in Columbus & Central Ohio Counties

Most park rules in the Columbus area are similar across city, county, and metro park systems, including parks in:

• Franklin County

• Delaware County

• Fairfield County

• Licking County

• Union County

• Pickaway County

• Madison County

• Knox County

• Champaign County

• Marion County

Each park system sets its own policies, so always confirm requirements directly with the park where your event will be held.

Not All Parks Allow Bounce Houses or Tents

One of the most important things to know when renting a bounce house for a park party is that not all parks allow inflatables, bounces, slides or tents.

Common restrictions include:

• No bounce houses allowed at all

• Bounce houses allowed with a permit only

• Restrictions on tent sizes

• No ground staking

• Limited setup locations

Large events such as festivals, corporate events, school field days, or ticketed events—especially those involving a park buyout—are often reviewed differently than small private parties and may allow additional flexibility.

Same-Day Delivery & Pickup Is Usually Required

Unless your event lasts multiple days and you have written approval from the park, most parks in Columbus and surrounding counties require:

• Same-day delivery

• Same-day teardown and pickup

This means timing matters. Setup windows are often tight, so planning your event schedule carefully is essential. Working with an experienced company like Awesome Entertainment helps ensure delivery and pickup stay within park guidelines.

Electrical Access Is Limited at Most Parks

Many people assume parks provide easy access to electricity, but in reality:

• Electrical outlets are often limited or locked

• Some parks charge a fee to use electric

• Power sources may be far from your setup area

  
  

👉 We highly recommend renting a generator for bounce houses, concessions, and other equipment. A generator provides reliable power and avoids last-minute electrical issues.

Water Access Is Limited (Especially for Dunk Tanks)

Water access is even more restricted than electrical access at most parks.

• Many parks charge a water usage fee

• Some parks do not allow water hookups at all

• Dunk tanks typically require:

  • Park approval

  • Advance planning

  • Coordination with the local fire department to fill the tank

If you’re considering a dunk tank for a park event, start the approval process early.

Park-Friendly Entertainment Options

Many entertainment options work extremely well in parks and require little to no power. Popular choices include:

• 🎈 Balloon Twisters

• 🎨 Face Painters

• ✏️ Caricature Artists

• 🦸 Costumed & Cartoon Characters

• 🎨 Spin Art Stations

These attractions are perfect for birthday parties, school events, and community gatherings at parks throughout Central Ohio.

Concessions & Carnival Games for Park Events

Adding concessions and games can turn a simple park party into a full carnival-style event. With proper approval, many parks allow:

• 🍿 Popcorn Machines

• 🍭 Cotton Candy Machines

• ❄️ Snow Cone Machines

• 🎯 Carnival Games (ring toss, duck pond, inflatable games, and more)

Power restrictions often apply, which is another reason generators are commonly recommended for park events.

Insurance & Permits for Bounce Houses at Parks

Most parks that allow bounce houses, tents, or equipment rentals require:

• A Certificate of Insurance (COI)

• The park listed as Additionally Insured

• Equipment-specific documentation

Most Parks, Inflatable amusements such as bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, etc. are not permitted unless... the permit holder

obtains liability insurance naming the City of Columbus as the additional insured in the amount of $1,000,000. Insurance certificate will need to be provided before a permit can be issued.

✅ Awesome Entertainment provides all required insurance documentation, making it easier to gain park approval for your event in Columbus and surrounding counties.

Tips for Renting a Bounce House at a Park in Ohio

✔ Contact the park before booking rentals ✔ Ask about permits, power, water, and delivery rules ✔ Plan for same-day setup and teardown ✔ Rent a generator for reliable power ✔ Work with an insured, experienced rental company

Columbus Recreation and Parks Contact Info

Office of Special Events: Special Events, Block Parties, Filming and Park Permits.

1111 E. Broad St., Suite 103, Columbus Ohio 43205

614-645-3800

specialevents@columbus.gov

Rental Services Section: Facility rentals in city parks, health & wellness licenses, wedding sites.

1111 E. Broad St., Suite 103, Columbus Ohio 43205

614-645-3337

parkrentals@columbus.gov

Sports Section: Athletic fields and sports facility rentals.

1111 E. Broad St., Suite 103, Columbus Ohio 43205

614-645-3366

CRPDSports@columbus.gov Planning a Park Party in Columbus or Central Ohio?

Awesome Entertainment has decades of experience working with city parks, county parks, and Metro Parks throughout Columbus, Franklin County, and surrounding Central Ohio counties. From bounce houses and tents to entertainers, concessions, carnival games, and generators, we know how to navigate park rules and deliver an awesome event experience for you and your guests.

👉 Contact Awesome Entertainment today to start planning your Columbus park party with confidence. 614.224.9568 www.ColumbusParrties.com