S.F. tennis and pickleball reservations may soon cost you money

The San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department aims to introduce a $5 reservation fee for over half of its public tennis and pickleball courts, igniting opposition from local players and community advocates. Approximately 1,200 signatures have been gathered on a petition against the fee, as critics argue it may limit access to those who can afford to pay. The department asserts that the fee is a necessary measure to generate $1 million, helping to alleviate a $15 million structural deficit while ensuring free walk-up access remains available. However, concerns persist that this revenue focus could lead to an increase in reservation-only courts, undermining the community aspect of the sports. The proposal builds upon a similar attempt in May 2024, which was ultimately rejected by a Board of Supervisors committee.

Local players stress that public spaces should foster community connections, with some fearing that the fee could shift the dynamic of mixed-age play. The department's spokesperson emphasizes that the charge is "modest, fair, and cost-effective," contrasting it with higher fees in other cities. This fee proposal reflects ongoing tensions between funding needs and public access to recreational facilities.