News: From the Sidelines: Tips & Tricks for Facility Reservations

Date Published	Author
11/19/2025 12:00:00 AM	Portland Athletic Facilities Team

15-minute Buffer Rule

Did you know that a 15-minute buffer is added to the end of all reservations? 

What is the purpose of a 15-minute buffer? 
We know the timing of sporting events can be unpredictable. To help account for these moments, we provide a 15-minute buffer at the nd end of all rentals. This is not extra playing time, but a chance to finish out the reservation time- pick up the field, safely leave the playing surface, etc. 

Why 15 minutes? 
When I took over rentals in the Fall of 2024, a 15 minute buffer was already being used, with most groups automatically factoring that in to their start time. 

Why doesn't MyRec tell me to adjust my rental start time? 
While miles above our last software, MyRec still has limitations and is typically used by smaller agencies than Portland. We are working closely with their support team to suggest updates that make the website more user-friendly. 

Does that mean I get an extra 15 minutes added to the end of my requested time? 
It depends. In most cases- yes. For example, if you are requesting 7-8 pm and another user books until 7 pm, I will adjust the rental to 7:15 to 8:15 pm. 
However, if your request's end time matches the Park's closing time, it will be set to the Park's closure time. (Turf fields 11 pm, lighted courts/grass fields 10 pm, all other spaces sunset). We will still schedule a 15-minute lighting buffer to allow your group to exit the field safely. 
 
Please email ballfields@portlandmaine.gov with any questions or if you are still getting that pesky "unavailable" error. (Hint: It's super helpful to include a screenshot. If I can't recreate it, it's hard to pinpoint the issue.