Introduction
A play street is a resident led activity that lets children play safely outside on their own street.
Residents close the road for a short time so children can play without traffic.
Play streets are not run by the council.
Where and when play streets can take place
Play streets must:
- take place on quiet residential roads or cul de sacs
- finish by sunset
- allow access for residents and emergency services at all times
You cannot hold a play street on:
- A roads
- busy B roads
- roads with bus routes or bus stops
You can close a road:
- up to once a week
- for a maximum of 3 hours per session
How to organise a play street
Step 1: talk to your neighbours
- Speak to neighbours before you apply.
- Explain the idea and listen to concerns.
- Send a letter at least 6 weeks before the first session.
- Make sure everyone feels included from the start.
Step 2: apply for a temporary road closure
- You must apply to Somerset Council for a temporary traffic regulation order.
- There is no charge for play street applications.
- Name your event “Playing Out” or “Play Streets” on the form.
- Apply for a temporary traffic regulation order to facilitate an event
This form has 4 pages and will take approximately 8 minutes to complete.
Apply nowOnce your application has been reviewed by a member of the team, it will be acknowledged by email.
What you must submit with your application
Risk assessment
You must submit a risk assessment. List possible risks and how you will reduce them.
Risks may include:
- traffic
- weather
- injuries
- emergency access
Event management plan
You must submit a short event management plan which explains how you will run the session safely.
Traffic management plan
You must provide a simple traffic management plan.
This should show:
- the section of road you will close
- where you will place signs and cones
Signs and barriers must meet legal requirements.
Public liability insurance
- We strongly recommend public liability insurance.
- The organiser is responsible for health and safety.
Getting ready for the session
- Ask neighbours to sign up as stewards in advance.
- Stewards must be confident and reliable.
- Publicise the session within your street and nearby roads only.
- Make it clear that parents are responsible for their own children.
On the day
Brief stewards before the session starts.
Stewards must:
- keep children within the closed area
- escort resident vehicles at walking speed
- divert through traffic politely
Stewards must not control traffic on live roads. They have no legal powers to do so.
Reopening the road
- Tell residents when the road will reopen.
- Clear away toys and equipment before removing signs.
- Only reopen the road once it is completely clear.
Further information and support
For advice or support, email: eventstm@somerset.gov.uk
You can also visit Playing Out for practical advice on running sessions.