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NYC Tennis Permit Guide 2026

Challenge. Compete. Climb.

Playing on NYC's 550+ public tennis courts requires a permit from the NYC Parks Department. The 2026 season runs from the first Saturday of April through the Sunday before Thanksgiving. An adult season permit costs $100; a single-play permit is $15. Senior (62+) and youth permits are discounted. Once you have your permit, the next challenge is finding consistent opponents at your level — that's where a tennis ladder comes in.

Permit Costs & How to BuyAdult season: $100. Senior (62+): $20. Youth (17 and under): $10. Single-play: $15 (adults only). Buy online at nyc.gov/parks or in person at any tennis permit office, Arsenal in Central Park, or at the Paragon Sports flagship. Permits are valid at all 550+ NYC public courts.
Best Courts by BoroughManhattan: Central Park Tennis Center (30 courts), Riverside Park. Brooklyn: Prospect Park Tennis Center (11 courts, hard + clay, winter bubble). Queens: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Bronx: Crotona Park, Pelham Bay. Staten Island: Silver Lake Park.
Finding Opponents After You Get Your PermitA permit gets you on the court — a ladder gets you opponents. Join a free tennis ladder on UpLaddr, get matched with players at your level through ELO ratings, and have a confirmed opponent before you book your court time.
Winter Tennis in NYCProspect Park Tennis Center has a seasonal bubble for winter hard court play. Central Park Tennis Center offers year-round programming. Several indoor clubs (Midtown Athletic Club, Roosevelt Island Racquet Club) operate year-round.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a NYC tennis permit in 2026?

$100 for the full season (April–November), $15 for single-play, $20 for seniors (62+), $10 for youth (17 and under).

Where can I buy a NYC tennis permit?

Online at nyc.gov/parks, at the Arsenal in Central Park, at any tennis permit office, or at Paragon Sports (867 Broadway). Season permits can also be renewed online.

Do I need a permit for all NYC public courts?

Yes — a valid permit is required for all 550+ NYC Parks tennis courts during the outdoor season. Some courts require advance booking in addition to the permit (like Central Park Tennis Center).

How do I find tennis partners in NYC?

Join a tennis ladder on UpLaddr (free). The ELO ranking system matches you with players at your level across all five boroughs. Challenge someone, agree on a court, and play.

What about pickleball? Do I need a permit?

No — NYC pickleball courts do not require a permit. Many are free and first-come/first-served (like Pier 76 on the Hudson).