DIY Skatepark

Skateparks feature ramps, ledges, rails and other platforms for skateboarders and other extreme athletes to perform tricks. Half-pipes give skaters the ability to ride in a controlled space, but full skateparks open the options for tricks. Building your own skatepark may not be a difficult task, but it will take plenty of time and dedication. Find a large, flat surface area that you are able to use for the skatepark.

Things You'll Need

  • Skate ramp plans
  • Building materials
  • Staff
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sketch out a rough draft of how your skatepark will look, including all ramps and featured sections. These ramps should create a flow, allowing riders to easily enter new sections from other portions of the skatepark. Nothing has to be exactly proportioned in this drawing, but it will give you a basic idea on how to build this skatepark.

    • 2

      List the materials you will use to build each of the skatepark sections. Most skateparks feature at least some concrete or asphalt, whereas ramps may be constructed out of wood or steel. However, there are many skateparks that use all concrete to connect each of the sections, creating a smooth transition between each piece. Your budget and experience will ultimately determine the kind of ramps you will build.

    • 3

      Construct each of the sections, using ramp plans for precise measurements and building instructions. You may also hire a team of professional skate ramp builders, as they can quickly craft these specific features to your design needs. Building each of the pieces yourself will surely save you money, but depending on your woodworking abilities, it may not save you time. Contact local skaters to help you build the ramps yourself to more quickly complete this activity and to establish a connection with riders. Skaters around the area will surely want to use the skatepark once it has been built, so they may be enthusiastic about helping out.

    • 4

      Establish a set of rules for your skatepark to ensure safety. Mandate a policy on helmets and pads, as these protective accessories make the difference between a standard fall and critical injury. Unless you dedicate a team of professional skaters to constantly watch over the area, post signs declaring, "skate at own risk." Skateboarding, aggressive skating and BMX are all rough sports, so you want to assume zero liability if someone seriously injures himself or herself. Have skaters sign waivers that eradicate any possibility of such a liability.

    • 5

      Charge riders a small entry fee to use the skatepark to help cover costs. Hire one or two people to look over the property each day to ensure that vandalism is kept down, improving the quality of your skatepark. If necessary, build a fence around the perimeter of the skatepark to lock out visitors at night.