Shared Use / Joint Use

In neighborhoods across the country, schools, public agencies, community organizations, and local residents are working to increase opportunities for children and adults to be active and healthy.

El Monte Unified School District, Los Angeles County

El Monte Unified School District, Los Angeles County

What Is Shared Use?

A formal agreement between two or more partners that outlines details about implementation, maintenance, operations, and liability
Two or more private or public entities agree to open indoor or outdoor spaces for community use
Offers communities with limited access to parks an easy, cost-effective eay to access physical activity spaces

Types of Shared Use Agreements

Open facilities such as the track, gym, library, or playground for public use outside regular hours of operation
Organizations like YMCA operating programs like Zumba at schools or public facilities outside of regular hours
Local government and schools sharing facilities, at public parks or pools next to a school

What You Need to Know

Why Shared Use?

Increases access to places to be active, maximizing existing infrastructure

Improve both student and broader community health and well-being

Fosters collaboration and maximizes resources to keep costs down and achieve shared goals

Shared Use Success Factors

Set clear goals, roles, and responsibilities among all partners involved

Include detailed planning about operations and sustainability

Have a long-term commitment and engagement form partners, community residents, and policymakers

What is the Role of the Governing Board?

Under the California Civic Center Act, the governing board can allow for community use of school facilities (see CSBA sample policy BP 1330 - Use of School Facilities).


The governing board can set the district/COE direction for increasing physical activity opportunities by adopting policy (see the California School Boards Association's (CSBA) sample policy BP 1330.1)

The governing board can play an important role in promoting joint use policies and practices by:

  • Ensuring that joint use efforts support district/COE goals
  • Establishing positive relationships with local stakeholders
  • Sharing information about joint use with the community
  • Holding district and school staff accountable for the terms outlined in the joint use agreement
  • Assisting with monitoring and evaluation
Shared Use Terminology
(Can differ by profession and setting)
  • Joint Use Agreement
  • Shared Use Agreement
  • Open Use Agreement
Shared Use Resources