HF 4853
Introduction - 94th Legislature (2025 - 2026)
Posted on 04/07/2026 11:49 a.m.
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A bill for an act
relating to state government; requiring state-funded playgrounds to use inclusive
design standards; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter
256.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
Section 1.
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[256.4823] INCLUSIVE AND UNIVERSALLY DESIGNED
PLAYGROUNDS.
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new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end
new text begin Requirement. new text end
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(a) Playgrounds constructed or substantially renovated
using state funding must incorporate principles of universal design to ensure accessible and
inclusive play opportunities for individuals with and without disabilities.
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(b) Inclusive design features must be incorporated to the maximum extent feasible within
the scope of the project and available project funding.
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(c) For purposes of this section:
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(1) "State funding" means money appropriated by the legislature or distributed through
a state-administered grant program, including state fund appropriations and bond proceeds.
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(2) "Substantially renovated" means replacing 50 percent or more of play equipment or
modifying the play area footprint, surfacing system, or primary accessible routes.
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new text begin Subd. 2. new text end
new text begin Inclusive playground design considerations. new text end
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Playground planning and design
under this section must consider accessibility and usability across the entire play environment,
including but not limited to:
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(1) accessible routes and travel surfaces;
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(2) play equipment and play activities designed to support participation by individuals
with a wide range of physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities;
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(3) sensory play opportunities;
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(4) signage and wayfinding features within or directly serving the playground area;
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(5) seating, gathering areas, and spaces for supervision by caregivers;
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(6) shade, shelter, and environmental comfort features; and
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(7) accessible amenities, including restrooms, benches, and picnic areas.
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new text begin Subd. 3. new text end
new text begin Universal design principles. new text end
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Entities receiving state funding for playground
development must incorporate the Seven Principles of Universal Design, as established by
the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University, or equivalent inclusive
design standards.
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new text begin Subd. 4. new text end
new text begin Design expertise. new text end
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Playground design must be reviewed by an individual with
demonstrated expertise in playground safety, accessibility, or inclusive design, which may
include a certified playground safety inspector or Minnesota certified accessibility specialist.
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new text begin Subd. 5. new text end
new text begin Implementation guidance. new text end
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(a) The Department of Natural Resources, in
consultation with the Minnesota Council on Disability, may develop guidance and best
practices to support implementation of inclusive and universally designed playgrounds
receiving state funding.
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(b) Implementation guidance developed under this section may include recommendations
related to accessible surfacing, ground-level play components, transfer systems, and
proportional accessibility based on playground size and complexity.
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