Toronto crews have removed a sign barring adults without children from the playground at Rita Cox Park after an online debate and questions about whether the restriction had any basis in city bylaws, CityNews reports.

The sign at the park near King Street West and Dufferin Street read: “No adults without children allowed in playground area.” A photograph posted on Reddit drew responses from more than 1,000 people, according to reporting by CityNews’ Lucas Casaletto and Pat Taney.

Although the sign cited a city bylaw, CityNews’ Speakers Corner found that the bylaw did not specifically prohibit adults from entering playgrounds without children.

Donna Kovachis, Toronto’s director of parks, told the outlet that playgrounds are intended for children and their caregivers, but acknowledged that the restriction stated on the sign was not enforceable.

“The City is reviewing signage as part of ongoing work to ensure park signs are accurate, up to date and reflective of current bylaws and policies,” Kovachis said.

The sign was removed sometime after that statement was provided. City staff could not say when it had been installed or explain why it had been put up.

Residents interviewed by Speakers Corner offered differing views on how the playground should be shared.

Parkdale resident Callum Torrance said he could understand why the sign might reassure parents with safety concerns. But he also saw room for adults to use playground equipment when children were not in the way, giving the example of someone doing pull-ups on the swings.

Nearby resident Avishya Uchil emphasized the number of children and families using the playground, particularly after school. She noted that the sign’s restriction applied to the playground, not the rest of the park.

“There are so many other spaces here in this park,” Uchil said. “I think there are ways for everyone to enjoy the space without making other people uncomfortable.”

Sources