FAQS
Frequently asked Questions
Please see below for some frequently asked questions about Sutton Parks. For any topics not covered below, feel free to shoot us an email at info@suttonplaceparks.org.
What does the Conservancy, a 501c3 non profit organization, do?
The Conservancy acts as stewards of and advocates for the Sutton Parks. This includes paying for year-round landscaping services, applying for capital and discretionary grants from city and state for park projects, and acting as a liaison between the Sutton community and our partners at the NYC Parks Department. This is all in addition to our volunteer program and our community events!
Who is in charge of the Conservancy?
The Conservancy is run by a volunteer board of directors, including five executive officers. The board works with the Conservancy’s one part-time employee and multiple part-time garden and event volunteers to get work done for Sutton Parks.
What is your relationship to the New York City Parks Department?
The Conservancy works hand in hand with our partners at the New York City Parks Department to build upon the wonderful work they already do. The Parks Department maintains public parks throughout NYC, and the Conservancy layers on top of that work with focus on the Sutton area. The Conservancy often leverages the Parks Department for questions, support, and other resources.
How can I make a contribution to the Sutton Place Parks Conservancy?
● E-payment: Sutton Place Parks Conservancy accepts donations via PayPal credit card payment, Zelle (Sutton Place Parks Conservancy), Venmo (@sppc57), and Google Pay.
● Checks: We accept mailed checks to our address at 1040 First Ave., Box 322, New York, NY 10022.
● Cash: We also have donation jars set up during in-person events if you prefer to give in cash.
Do you charge for your events?
The only event that we charge for is our annual Gala fundraiser, usually held each May. All other events, including Spooktacular, August Storytelling Month, and the Seasonal Sing-Along are free to attend. However, some events, like Broadway on the River and Spring/Fall planting events, do require previous sign-up due to space constraints.
How can I volunteer?
● Events: We can always use more volunteers for the community events (click here for a calendar) that we host throughout the year! Please email events@suttonplaceparks.org to inquire about upcoming opportunities.
● Gardening: While our Sutton Weeders and Planters volunteer group is currently at capacity, we welcome our wider community to volunteer during our Spring and Fall planting events. Please check our calendar for additional information on these dates.
Do Sutton Parks have offleash hours for dogs?
The Sutton Parks do not have offleash hours for dogs. Dogs must be on a leash, no more than 6 feet long, at all times.
Can I dedicate a bench in the parks?
We are not able to make those arrangements, but you can dedicate a bench through the NYC Parks and Recreation Department. Click here for the details and make sure to select ‘Sutton Parks’ or ‘Sutton Place Park’ when filling out the form.
Can I host a birthday party for my child in Sutton Parks?
From the smallest birthday party to the largest concert, special events take place every day in New York City parks. If you want to have any activity in a City park with more than 20 people, or where you would like to reserve a specific area within a park, you need to apply for a special event permit.
Special events permits cost $25 to process, and the fee cannot be waived (except when requesting an NYC Parks group volunteer project). This money is not refundable. Also, NYC Parks needs at least 21 days notice ahead of the event. NYC Parks is not able to issue permits for major holidays. Apply online at New York City Parks Department Special Events.