All of the items sold in our store meet all applicable ASTM* and CPSC* safety standards. 

Where items are not covered by these standards (such as boulders), we assess the potential risks and, in our installation guidelines, suggest ways to avoid possible problems. 

However, please keep in mind that Natural Playgrounds are just that: Natural. They are designed to engage children in the beauty, wonder, and challenges found in the out-of-doors where there is always some low level of risk, because, after all, your children need the same challenges you had when you were young and learned to manage those very same risks.

To avoid issues with your licensing and/or insurance providers, we STRONGLY recommend you involve them in your plans from the very beginning. We have found that licensing people throughout the country want what's best for children. They know that equipment is neither completely safe nor very intellectually challenging, and most of them would prefer to see the children playing in more natural settings. However, the only safety training they get is based on equipment and the ASTM/CPSC standards. They therefore DO NOT KNOW how to evaluate a natural play element that does not appear in these standards.

It is therefore incumbent upon you (and the rest of us in the Natural Playgrounds industry) to help them understand why natural playgrounds are better. It is up to you to teach them. Point them to our informative website, and bring them articles and pictures. We have found that once they understand what you're trying to do, they are EXTREMELY receptive and look forward to working with you to make your Natural Playground a wonderful place for children.

Once they are on board, evaluating risks for things that are not covered by the ASTM/CPSC guidelines (such as a fallen log) becomes a negotiation between you and them. They point out the possible risks based on what they've been taught, and you point out the common sense play value, and then together, we all decide what is best for the growth, development, and emotional and physical intelligence of our children.

* ASTM = Formerly American Society for Testing and Materials, now called ASTM International

* CPSC = Consumer Products Safety Commission (which bases most of its guidelines on the ASTM standards)

A NOTE ABOUT SHIPPING: We have not been able to integrate DISCOUNT shipping codes into the checkout process, so if the shipping charge looks off to you, it probably is! We have arranged significant discounts with several shippers, so for heaven's sake, if you want the product, call us toll free 888-290-8405, or email ethan@naturalplaygrounds.com and ask for the exact shipping cost, and we'll calculate it for you on the spot!! In the meantime, we are migrating to new shopping cart software that will accurately calculate shipping for you.