Shade structures for heat resilience
Guidance, costing and examples for municipalities
CLIMATE ADAPTATION
Providing shaded spaces reduces heat exposure and protects community health. Shade structures are built or installed in public spaces (e.g., parks, playgrounds, schoolyards and community gathering areas) to reduce sun exposure and prevent heat-related illness.
These spaces increase resilience by lowering ambient temperatures, creating comfortable outdoor areas and supporting community health during extreme heat events. For small and rural communities, shade structures are low-cost, flexible solutions that protect residents and provide long-term public benefits.
This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver shade structure projects.
Key steps for successful implementation
- Identify priority locations: Consider where residents gather, play or spend extended periods outdoors, focusing on high-volume areas with few shade options
- Conduct broad engagement: Engage residents, landowners and local organizations for input and approvals
- Perform a shade audit: Evaluate sun exposure and determine wind direction for airflow by conducting a shade audit, as these factors may influence the structure’s orientation.
- Design the structure: Select a shade structure type, materials and size appropriate for the site (e.g., canopy, pergola, pavilion, tensile fabric)
- Develop a maintenance plan: Ensure durability and long-term effectiveness by planning for consistent maintenance from the start
Best practices for design and delivery
- Design for the sun’s movement: Orient structures to maximize shade during peak sunlight hours
- Build for the local climate: Use durable, weather-resistant materials suited to local climate conditions
- Design collaboratively with the community: Consider community input on design and aesthetics to encourage public use, foster a sense of ownership and offer a welcoming atmosphere; thoughtfully designed shade structures can also be used to showcase local art and providing a gathering space for Indigenous programming
Equity and community considerations
- Select locations with an equity lens: Prioritize shade structure placement in public spaces that are free to use and frequented by lower-income residents
- Protect the health of children and youth: Place shade structures in or near playgrounds, sports fields, skateparks and other recreational sites
- Ensure placement is accessible: Ensure the shaded site is easily accessible by strollers, wheelchairs, and people with mobility challenges
Costing and budgeting information
Installing a shade structure can cost $5,000–$20,000 depending on materials, size, and installation complexity.
Key cost drivers include materials, labour, design and maintenance.
To help reduce overall costs:
- Leverage additional funding from community art programs (e.g., shade structures that double as art installations) and social wellness programs (e.g., shade structures that encourage community gatherings and socialization)
- Use prefabricated or modular systems that are easier to install, reducing the need for labour and design
- Consider opportunities for community volunteers to help assemble and maintain the structure
Case studies and lessons learned
- Improving outdoor accessibility with shade (Hamilton, ON, 2022)
The City of Hamilton installed a shade structure at the local Track & Field Centre to protect users from sun, rain and lightning, funded through the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative. The structure was designed for inclusivity, supporting individuals with mobility limitations, older adults and people with disabilities.
Lesson learned: Thoughtful design can provide shade and weather protection while enhancing accessibility and encouraging broader participation in outdoor recreation.
- Engaging students and the community in shade construction (Powerview, MB, 2021)
Grade 11 and 12 students built an open-air wooden shade structure measuring about 8.5 by 12 metres for the schoolyard, funded by the Canadian Dermatology Association Shade Structure Grant Program. Teachers, local carpenters and other community members contributed expertise, tools and equipment. The project focused on creating a safe outdoor environment while teaching practical construction and teamwork skills.
Lesson learned: Partnering students with local experts fosters practical skills and ownership while strengthening community support for public infrastructure projects.
- Art-inspired shade enhances public spaces (Edmonton, AB, 2023)
The CANOPY installation at Sir Winston Churchill Square combines art, design and climate adaptation to provide public shade. Designed by urbanist Jonathan Monfries, the installation used a sustainable interlocking waffle structure with seating. The project was part of The Works International Visual Arts Festival and was funded by the Edmonton Arts Council.
Lesson learned: Integrating art and design in shade infrastructure can provide cooling, aesthetic value and climate resilience, demonstrating innovative approaches for public space adaptation.
*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.
Additional resources
Shade lookbook: A guide to designing sun safety (BC Cancer) – This resource provides guidance on designing, installing and maintaining built shade structures. It includes permanent (pergolas, gazebos), demountable (tents, shade sails), adjustable (awnings, umbrellas) and DIY options (textile shade, window coverings). It also contains funding information and details on structural integrity, safety, site compatibility, wind resistance and sustainability.
Shade audit information guide + tool (Region of Waterloo) – This guide and practical tool helps with assessing and increasing shade coverage in publicly accessible spaces during peak heat times. It was developed by the Waterloo Region Shade Working Group and tested in local schools, parks and municipal sites. Communities can use this resource to identify gaps in shade coverage, prioritize improvements and plan safe outdoor environments for vulnerable populations.
Heat-safe playground design resources (National Program for Play Area Safety) – This resource provides guidance and infographics to create playgrounds that remain safe and cool for children. It covers surface temperatures, shade coverage, equipment layout, airflow, material selection, maintenance and microclimate improvements.
Explore more heat resilience activities
Learn about other heat resilience project types and how they can support your community:
Return to the Heat Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities
Related toolkits
GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks.
Glossary
Adjustable shade: Shade structures that can be modified or moved to change the amount or direction of shade, such as awnings, umbrellas or louvres
Built shade: Engineered or constructed structures designed to provide protection from sun, rain and other weather conditions; may include permanent, demountable, adjustable or DIY types
Demountable shade: Temporary or removable shade structures such as tents, marquees or shade sails that can be relocated or taken down as needed
Extreme heat event: Period of unusually high temperatures that poses health risks to humans
Microclimate: The localized climate conditions within a specific area, influenced by structures, vegetation and land features affecting temperature, wind and sun exposure
Permanent shade: Fixed or long-term shade structures, such as pergolas, gazebos or patio coverings that are designed to provide continuous protection from sun and rain
Shade audit: An assessment of outdoor spaces to measure existing shade coverage, identify areas lacking protection from the sun, and inform planning or improvements to increase shade for public safety and comfort
Tensile fabric: A strong, flexible material used in shade structures that relies on tension (rather than rigid supports) to maintain its shape and provide sun protection, often seen in sails, canopies or tensile membrane roof
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