Skate parks have rules, both written and unwritten, which determine whether or not you will enjoy your time there. Despite the popularity of skateboarding, rollerblading, and BMX riding, skate parks are still scarce. Those who are fortunate enough to live nearby to one should show some appreciation and respect for the park. To ignore these simple rules of etiquette shows disrespect for the park and all the other people who come to it. Most are matters of common sense, while others are more unique to skate parks in particular.
The most straightforward regulations are the ones that are posted all over. Skate parks generally do not allow food, drinks, or smoking while inside. This makes some skaters upset, who think that they should be able to do whatever they want. However, a skate park should be treated just as any other sports field or court. No one would dare eat a hot dog out on a basketball court during a game. No players smoke between shifts on a hockey bench. Skaters are athletes too, and anybody who would eat, drink, or smoke in a park is clearly not serious about their own practicing. Bottles, food wrappers, and cigarettes would also be blowing all around, getting caught in wheels and causing people to stumble and fall. Cigarette smoke would bother many people and discourage them from coming back to the park.
Without these basic rules parks would be much more dangerous as well. The ban on drinks is also an unspoken ban on alcohol. People would sneak alcohol into all manner of containers. The tricks that people perform are difficult, and adding drunkenness to the equation is a sure way to get seriously injured. This does not even take into account the higher likelihood of drunken fights and the fact that most people at skate parks are underage anyway.
Another common skate park rule is that everyone must wear some basic protective gear. This is not the case at all parks, but it does help cover them from liability lawsuits. The amount of necessary gear varies from park to park, so be sure to check the posted rules. Some only require helmets, while at others you will need elbow and knee pads as well. Regardless of what the regulations are, some protective gear is just plain smart.
The unwritten rules of skate parks are not found on any sign, but they are the ones that will keep you safe and having fun. Dealing with people is the same no matter where you are. If you are new to a park, take the time to talk with the regulars. They will most likely be in a group and will be the most outgoing people there. They are also the peacekeepers of the park, because they know everyone there. In addition to knowing the people who go to the park, they also know all the best lines to follow. Talking with them will save you a lot of frustration and wasted time.
The other major rule that needs to be followed is learning to take turns riding each part of the park. Skate parks are public places, so whether you are an expert or a beginner, everyone has an equal right to use the equipment. It is easy to get zoned into a particular trick that gives you trouble, trying it over and over again. Others are riding around you though, so keep your head on a swivel and make sure you the area is clear for you. When you ignore this rule, you will either upset other riders or cause a collision.
Each skate park has its own quirky rules which you will only learn by becoming a regular yourself. The good news is that riders are generally a friendly group of people who stick together. If you show dedication to your sport and respect for those around you, the skate park can become a second home of sorts. You will find tons of friends that share your love of riding and who will cheer you on to become better every day.