If you’ve heard of disc golf and think a course could help your community, you could offer them a new outdoor recreation or more sports activities.
As disc golf increases in popularity, so does the desire for more courses. Building a disc golf course takes time and effort, but it’s possible in the right direction. This guide can provide simple measures if you want to help your park install a course like this. Continue reading to get more information and to gain the authority you need to launch a course.
1. Find A Location That Can Fit A Disc Golf Course
Disc golf courses are most commonly installed in parks and open spaces. They can also be used in other settings, such as private or public lands. The world’s 67% of all disc golf courses are in the United States, 7% are in Finland, and 3% are in Canada, per Disc Golf Fanatic.
Generally speaking, the ideal site for installing a disc golf course is one with trees and bushes. These features make for interesting obstacles for players to dodge around. However, clearing out some areas is also necessary so that players have clear access from hole to hole.
Smaller areas are great for golfers who want to play a quick nine holes. If you have plenty of room, design a more elaborate 18-hole layout. When it comes down to it, though, smaller courses are easier to maintain than larger ones because they’re less work overall. Below are a few considerations:
- Locate near a school
- Have decent parking
- Choose impressive views
- Be underutilized by locals
- Mind elevation differences
- Have a well-kept, mowed lawn
- Be in or around a community
- Choose 3-20 hectares of space
- Find mature trees, wooded and open places
- Consider the availability of public restrooms and water
2. Apply To The Local Parks & Rec Department
Your local parks and recreation department may be thrilled to hear you plan to build a disc golf course, but they may need some information. The application process can take up to one year or longer, depending on how long it takes them to review your paperwork.
Know your local laws and regulations. It would help if you determined who owns the land where you want to build. State or city-owned property may be easier to gain permission for your course. However, many courses are on private land, which may be a problem.
Other factors include zoning regulations and other local building rules related to safety codes. You may want advice from an attorney or someone with experience dealing with these issues. Think of many scenarios based on location and how many people are involved in playing at each site.
3. Draft A Proposal Upon Approval
Once you’ve received approval, it’s time to draft a proposal. This document should outline the benefits of installing a disc golf course. Include a map of where you’d like the course to be installed. You may include an itemized list of materials needed, such as baskets and tee signs for your proposed course.
Finally, provide a budget for this project. Everyone must know the costs before agreeing to help with construction or other forms of support. Once you have all these things together, head to wherever you plan on building your new disc golf course.
Have a goal-oriented mindset and devise a plan when requesting approval. Know your audience and be prepared to answer questions to prevent costly legal battles when issues arise later. Connect with local disc golf clubs to receive support when presenting documents required during this process.
4. Hire A Disc Golf Course Designer
If you’re serious about disc golf and want your course, it’s time to hire a designer. This can be done through local golf clubs or even through disc golf course designers in other areas. If you go this route, ensure that the designer has previous experience building courses before hiring them.
Fortunately, there are many professional disc golf course designers out there. They have years of experience designing disc golf courses. These designers can help you design your course or ensure that the one you’re playing on is well-designed and fun.
With their expertise, they can ensure that your project stays on track and within budget at every stage of construction. They can ensure that your course meets all local requirements for safety and accessibility. Additionally, they can provide an enjoyable experience for all players.
5. Create A Timetable For The Course Construction
Disc golf course design takes a lot of time and effort. It is important to establish a timetable before you begin the project. The process from start to finish can take several months. Knowing when you want things completed and how long each step can take is important.
If possible, try to start on weekdays when fewer people are around. That way, you won’t be distracted by other activities or people who might disrupt your work. If you’re constructing your hole layouts, don’t go beyond one hole per day unless it’s a simple 9-hole par 3 course.
Meanwhile, if you have more than one person helping with construction, it should only take half a day per hole. Another important thing is ensuring everything stays within budget and is completed on time. Here are some things that you should be doing:
- Figure out how much time you have available
- Know what type of soil is under or around each hole
- Make sure each hole has enough room for players’ safety
6. Establish Contact With Other Sports Organizations
If you plan to build your disc golf course, you may need some help. It is not just showing up with your discs and throwing them wherever. If you want to make this process easier, you should consider contacting sports organizations to help you construct disc golf courses.
These organizations have years of experience constructing disc golf courses and can provide valuable advice for those new at building them. They also have connections with local government officials that can help streamline the process of building a disc golf course.
If you can find a group dedicated to the sport in your area, they may be willing to help fund the course. They may also be able to provide volunteers who can help maintain the course once it’s built. Some businesses may contribute money or equipment if they see an opportunity for their business to benefit.
Conclusion
This article has provided you with ideas on installing a disc golf course in your area. A disc golf course can bring your community together. It’s also an opportunity for you to help make the world a better place. It is an excellent form of cardio exercise and stress relief. Remember, find a plan that suits your situation and collaborate with people who support it. Good luck!