Burlington residents can soon grab a basketball or soccer ball for free at 20 parks across the city, thanks to a new pilot project announced this month. The City of Burlington has teamed up with Equip Sport and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities to install self-serve sports equipment lockers, with the first units going in over the coming weeks after the August 4, 2026 announcement.
The lockers will be placed at 19 parks and one parkette, including well-known spots like Central Park, Millcroft Park at 4250 Millcroft Park Dr., and Tansley Woods Park at 4100 Kilmer Dr. They will hold basketballs, soccer balls, frisbees, and other sports equipment that anyone 16 or older can borrow at no cost.
Using the lockers is simple. Download the free Equip Sport app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, create an account, and unlock a locker to grab what you need. When you are done, just return the gear so the next person can use it. There are no fees to use the app or borrow equipment.
The entire project is paid for by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, meaning no cost to the city or taxpayers. Mayor Marianne Meed Ward said the initiative supports Burlington’s goal of creating healthy, active, and connected neighbourhoods by removing barriers to recreation.
The 12-month Community Sports Locker Pilot puts Burlington alongside other Canadian cities such as Ottawa, Vancouver, and Surrey that have already rolled out similar programs. The lockers are designed for spontaneous play, making it easier for residents of all ages and abilities to get outside and stay active.
