Community Amenities: Facts About Access and Usage

Recent discussions within our community have raised questions about the use and protection of the amenity system in The Villages. To ensure everyone has accurate information, we’d like to remind residents about our established access policies.

The nationally accredited Villages Recreation and Parks Department manages recreation facilities daily while following the Board-approved Guest & Resident ID policy to ensure proper stewardship of District resources.  They have implemented best practices for tracking policy non-compliance while exhibiting our core value of hospitality. You can review the complete policy here. Our established system includes:

• Resident ID Cards: All residents must present their Villages ID at facility entrances
• Guest ID Policies: Guests must be accompanied by residents and present valid Guest ID passes
• Regular Staff Verification: Our staff members are trained to check IDs at all activity locations sporadically throughout the day

Residents must present a Villages ID at all recreational facilities. Guests are required to carry their original Guest ID card when using a District amenity facility even if accompanied by a resident. If the guest is under 19 years of age, they must be accompanied by a Villages resident, or a guest 19 years of age or older who must have a valid Guest ID card and photo ID.  In-Area Guest ID holders, regardless of age, must always have the sponsoring resident with them. Staff check IDs throughout the day according to department guidelines, using manual checks or scanners as appropriate. If someone lacks an ID, their information is recorded on a non-compliance sheet. Three violations result in a written notice. Those unable to provide ID and unwilling to share their information must leave or face possible law enforcement involvement, trespass warnings, or facility suspension.

From October 2024 through February 2025, 1,026,767 IDs were checked, and 159,374 guest passes were issued. Only 168 instances (less than 1%) of guest ID non-compliance were recorded, with 514 instances (less than 1%) of residents without IDs. 363 reminder letters were sent for multiple non-compliance instances.

With the significant growth in our resident population over recent years, we have naturally seen a corresponding increase in the number of Resident and Guest ID passes issued over the past few years. This is an expected outcome as our community expands and more residents invite family and friends to stay and visit!

Please continue to:

• Always carry your Villages ID/Guest ID
• Follow all posted rules and regulations
• Report any concerns to facility staff immediately

Remember: Please always carry your Villages ID/Guest ID and follow all posted rules and regulations in your activity location – including all posted age requirements at all centers.

We value making The Villages a welcoming community for residents and their guests while maintaining the exclusive nature of our amenities that you’ve come to expect. For any questions regarding facility access policies, please contact the Recreation Department at 352-674-1800 or RecreationDepartment@DistrictGov.org