Updated November 2026. Tennis City Boston › Boston Tennis Guides
We could not find one current city rule for who gets a Boston public court. So check the sign at the court, or ask Boston Parks and Recreation at 617-635-4505 or [email protected].
City courts
- The city park rules close parks from 11:30pm to 6am. They do not mention tennis courts or a reservation process.
- The city’s permit system lets you search by facility type. We could not confirm which tennis courts it covers.
- A 311 ticket says there is no permit system at the English High courts.
- An older Boston Magazine piece describes app reservations from 7am to 10pm at some courts with signs. It is dated, and that system may be gone.
State courts
The DCR community guide says its courts are free and first come, first served, except those hosting summer programs. The DCR permitting office is at 617-626-1250.
Busy courts
Boston Magazine reported a usual 30 to 60 minute wait at Carter Playground in 2023, with a one-hour limit expected. If you know the local custom at your court, tell the group in Slack so others can plan.
Related guides
- Boston Public Tennis Courts
- Boston Tennis Court Locations
- Find a Tennis Partner in Boston
- Winter and Indoor Tennis in Boston
Looking for someone to play with? Join the Tennis City Boston Slack group and post a day, time and court at your NTRP level. It is free now; new members pay $5 a year after the 200th member.