Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events are allowed at our facilities?
General park gatherings such as birthday parties, baby showers, family reunions, church picnics, company picnics, and family and friends gatherings. Any event type not listed is subject to further review. Please submit your formal request to commpct1reservations@cp1.hctx.net, and a reservations coordinator will follow up with you.
How many reservations can I make?
One reservation at a time. Once a reservation is paid and confirmed, another reservation can be made.
When is the latest date to make a reservation?
Reservations must be made at least 15 business days in advance.
How many days in advance can I make a reservation?
Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance.
When is my payment due?
Payment is due 7 days from the date the reservation is input into our system.
What type of payment do you accept?
Money order and credit card payments are accepted for rental fees. Cash is required security fees (if applicable).
What are the available reservation hours?
Reservations can be made 1 hour after the park opening time until 1.5 hours before the park closing time.
Summer (March through October) – 7am – 7:30pm
Winter (November through February) – 7am – 5:30pm
When will I receive my damage/clean-up deposit?
Deposits will be returned 6 to 8 weeks from the date of reservation.
Am I able to cook at the meeting rooms and community centers?
No, only warming food is allowed in community center meeting rooms.
What is included in my park pavilion reservation?
- Covered pavilion
- Running water (to aid in cooking only)
- Picnic tables or tables and chairs (where available)
- Electrical outlets (for small appliances)
- BBQ pit
What type of barbeque pits are available?
All barbeque pits have a smoke box that allows charcoal or wood. Charcoal and wood are not allowed in the belly of the pits; grills are welded to the pit for the reason.
Are food trucks allowed at my reserved pavilion?
Yes, with prior approval and prepaid documentation submitted to the reservations office. A permit will be notated by Reservations if approved.
Is alcohol allowed with my reservation?
Yes, provided you have notified the Reservations team and have peace officers assigned to your reservation by our department.
Are water activities allowed at my reserved pavilion?
No, water is only allowed for cooking purposes.
Need help reserving online?
You can find a step-by-step guide to creating an account here.
If I already have a reservation, will I be required to pay the new rate?
No. If you currently hold a Tentative or Approved reservation permit from the Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis, only the fees on this document are required. Security rates are currently the same or general reservations.
Usage Fees and Damage Deposits for community enters, park pavilions, amphitheaters, fields and courses.
When does/did the new rate go into effect?
Why have the rates increased?
Rates were adjusted to reflect the rising costs of maintaining and operating park facilities since the last update. This ensures we can continue providing safe, well-maintained spaces and high-quality services for the community, while protecting the long-term sustainability of these public spaces.
How were the new rates decided?
The new rates were established through a careful review of comparable fees across other Harris County precincts to ensure fairness and consistency. In addition, current operational and maintenance costs were analyzed to set rates that both sustain high-quality facilities and keep them accessible to the community.
How are the fees calculated?
Facility fees are standardized at a daily rate for all pavilions, amphitheaters, and community centers. The only exceptions are the Community Room at the Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis Administrative Building and Community Center, and the Hester House Auditorium and Kitchen, which are offered at an hourly rate to provide greater flexibility for smaller-scale events.
Additional questions?
Please send your questions to commpct1reservations@cp1.hctx.net or call 346-286-1805.
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