Why I’m Not a Fan of Sand Surfacing on Playgrounds

California Sand Playground with non compliant surfacing

I’ll admit it—sand and I don’t get along. Years ago, I was injured on unmaintained sand surfacing, and ever since, I’ve been skeptical about its practicality in playgrounds. While sand has long been used as a playground surfacing option, it comes with challenges that make it harder to manage compared to other choices.

Playground Sand Surfacing Is More Work Than You'd Think

Sand shifts constantly. Kids dig, wind blows, and before long the protective depth needed under equipment just isn’t there anymore. That means regular raking, leveling, and refilling are required to keep it in compliance. If the sand is too shallow or packed down, it loses the ability to cushion falls the way it’s supposed to.

Accessibility Concerns

Sand also isn’t very friendly for accessibility. Wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers can struggle to get through loose material, and keeping a sand surface “firm and stable” enough for everyday use is nearly impossible without constant upkeep. For parks and schools trying to meet accessibility standards, this creates a major challenge.

Nature’s Litter Box

And then there’s the problem nobody likes to talk about—sand has a tendency to become a litter box for neighborhood animals. Cats, dogs, and wildlife can all leave behind things you don’t want kids coming into contact with. Keeping it clean is a never-ending task.

Why This Matters in California

At Play Safe Inspections, we see this often. Across California—especially here in Southern California—the dry climate makes sand even more difficult to maintain. It blows out of place, compacts quickly, and often fails to meet safety expectations faster than other surfacing materials.

The Bottom Line

Playgrounds are meant for kids to take healthy risks, not face unnecessary hazards.

While sand might feel nostalgic, keeping it clean, level, and compliant often takes more work than options like engineered wood fiber, poured-in-place rubber, or tile systems.

That’s why, when it comes to surfacing choices, I’ll gladly pass on sand. My own scars are a reminder that sometimes the “classic” option just isn’t the best one.