Swing Set Spacing Guide

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When the kiddos are full of energy and need a space to play, a backyard swing set is a fun and easy solution! Whether your yard is small or large, our swing set spacing guide is here to help you perfectly place this new addition. Read on to discover your ideal backyard swing set plan.

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Placing Your Swing Set

Swing Set Spacing Guide

To place your swing set properly, review the following tips and recommendations:

  • The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends a minimum of six feet of clearance in every direction of a swing set. This area is called the “safety zone.”
  • Soft spaces and flat ground are the ideal locations for a swing set. Soft ground allows for the balance and stability needed for safe swinging. You may even add wood chips or rubber mulch to the surrounding area to help prevent injuries by creating softer landing areas. Remember, never install playground equipment over concrete, asphalt, or any other hard surface.
  • Regardless of age, allow for approximately 24” from the bottom of the swing seat to the ground.
  • American Swing provides minimum clearance requirements in all our swing set plans, including detailed instructions on bracket spacing, seating spacing, and more. Remember to always read instructions in full before attempting assembly.

Selecting Your Swing

American Swing offers a variety of fun, high-quality swings for your backyard. Explore some spacing tips for each of our top options:

Traditional Swings

Swing Set Spacing Guide

When it comes to traditional swings, the actual length of your swing set is dependent on the number of swings and attachments you add. Our swing sets typically range from two to five yards in length. For example, our Outdoor Standard 6 – 1 Swing – 1 Bay Swing measures less than two yards in length, making it great for small outdoor spaces. If you are looking for a double swing set, our Standard 8’ High – 2 Swing – 1 Bay Swing measures approximately six yards lengthwise at ground level. 

Tire Swings

Swing Set Spacing Guide

Another option for making the most of your space is the tire swing. With 360 degrees of movement available, tire swings add a new dimension to the backyard experience! Tire swing spacing is similar to that of your traditional swing—you’ll still need to allow for plenty of clearance. However, because our Tire Swing Frames measure approximately 5 yards in length and are designed to hold up to two children (12 years old and under), they are ideal for smaller spaces if you have two kiddos at home.

Infant & Toddler Swings

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Swing sets for infants and toddlers are much smaller than your regular swing set, so there’s no need to worry if your space is limited. For a single toddler swing, our Light Use Frame measures only seven feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces. In addition, our Tot Full Bucket seats are perfect for babies and can be easily switched out for Tot Half Bucket seats when your little one grows into toddlerhood!

Shop American Swing Today

We hope our swing set spacing guide has inspired you to make the most of your backyard! If you’re ready to purchase a new swing set for your home, shop American Swing today. When you order with us, we’ll do the heavy lifting and deliver your playground selection directly to your home. Enhancing your backyard couldn’t be easier!

Shop Swing Sets

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