Roger Carter Community Center

General Center Rules

1. All patrons must report to front desk for check-in. Everyone that enters the building must pay the Drop-in-Rate or be a FIT4U member, program participant and/or center member.
2. No interference with employee or volunteer duties is permitted.
3. No harassment, inappropriate/indecent conduct or foul language is permitted.
4. No food or beverages in unauthorized areas; glass containers are prohibited.
5. No smoking or vaping in buildings or on county property.
6. No unauthorized use of alcohol, illegal drugs, intoxicants or weapons.
7. No unauthorized alteration or installation of equipment.
8. No defacing of property.
9. No conduct that may jeopardize the safety of others.
10. Shoes and shirts must be worn always outside of the locker room and pool area.
11. Customers are encouraged to secure their belongings. Center is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Locks are not provided, they must be removed when leaving.
12. No unauthorized amplified music.
13. The actions and conduct of an organized group are the responsibility of the group leader.
14. All members and guests must wear their wristband given to them by the front desk staff.
15. Pets are not permitted in the center.  

Fitness Room Rules

• Patrons are responsible for wiping down equipment after each use and returning weights to the racks provided.
• Cardiovascular equipment use is limited to 20 minutes when people are waiting.
• Don’t drop or bang weights. Use of a spotter when lifting weights is highly recommended.
• Food is not permitted in the fitness room.
• Cell phone use is not permitted while using the equipment.
• No unauthorized instructional activity.

Attire

• Proper fitness attire is required. Bathing suits are not permitted in the fitness room.
• Only non-marking athletic shoes are permitted.

Age Limits

• 12 years and under are not permitted in the fitness room at any time.
• 13-15 years require a mandatory orientation.

Safety First

• Read instructions and check for loose, frayed or worn parts before using equipment.
• Keep head and limbs clear of moving machine parts.
• Lift within your limits. 

Aerobics Room Rules

• No unauthorized use of equipment or stereo.
• Proper fitness attire is required.
• Only non-marking athletic shoes are permitted.
• No unauthorized instructional activity.

Gymnasium Rules

• Only non-marking athletic shoes are permitted.
• Dunking and hanging on the basketball rims or volleyball net is prohibited. 
• The gym shall not be used for any activity other than its intended purpose, unless approved by Center staff.
• No unauthorized instructional activity.
• Games may be shortened at Center’s discretion.

Drop-In Basketball

• All patrons must abide by the center rules.
• During Family/16+ activities will be restricted to half court.
• During 16+ activities will be played using the full court unless directed by the staff to transition to half court.
• Games will be played 5-on-5 format to 13 points.
• Made baskets will count as 1 point, behind the arc makes will count as 2 points.
• Winners stay on the court.
• Players are responsible for keeping their own score.
• No profanity is allowed.
• Players refusing to follow the center rules, drop-in rules or comply with staff will be asked to leave.

Drop-In Volleyball

• All patrons must abide by the center rules.
• A minimum number of volleyball players must be met for staff to set up a volleyball net (minimum = 2 players).
• If the minimum of players has not been met within the first 30 minutes of the scheduled volleyball drop-in time, volleyball drop-in will be canceled.
• If volleyball participation ends before the scheduled end time, the net will be removed.
• During Family/16+ activities will be restricted to separate courts.
• Winners stay on the court.
• Players are responsible for keeping their own score.
• No profanity is allowed.
• Players refusing to follow the center rules, drop-in rules or comply with staff will be asked to leave.

Locker Room Rules

• Patrons must use the locker room of their gender.
• Use of mobile phones, electronic devices and cameras are strictly prohibited in the locker rooms.

It is recommended that patrons call the Center Updates/Drop-in Line prior to arriving. There are no refunds for cancellations due to inclement weather.

Center Updates/Drop-in Line: 410-313-2764 (when prompted dial option 3)

Winter Weather: If a winter weather warning is announced, the opening time will be adjusted to 7 AM. If Howard County schools open one hour late, the center will strive to open at 9:30 AM; if two hours late, at 10:30 AM.
If schools are closed due to inclement weather, every attempt will be made to open the center by 10:30 AM. If Snow Emergency is in effect the Center will be closed. Once it has been lifted the center will strive to open as soon as possible. Please call the inclement weather number to confirm the center's status when schools are closed.

Thunder/Lightning: At the first sign of thunder and/or lightning, the pool will close for at least 30 minutes from the last sound/sight. If there is lightning the pool and pool deck must be cleared. If there is just thunder, guests may remain on the pool deck but must clear the water.

Center Memberships (for all ages)
The Center Membership gives you access to three community centers including Roger Carter, Gary J. Arthur, and North Laurel Community Center. These memberships provide patrons access to the gymnasium (basketball/volleyball courts) and walking track only. For access to the fitness equipment and/or pool see Fit4U or Go50+ Memberships. 

*Ages 15 years and under must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years old at all times; exceptions made during Teen Zone.

Fit4U Memberships (3-49 yrs)
The Fit4U Membership gives you access to three community centers including Roger Carter, Gary J. Arthur, and North Laurel Community Center. These memberships provide patrons access to the fitness and aerobics/dance rooms at open (non-class) times, use of the gymnasiums during open and drop-in programs, access to the game rooms, and access to the pool at Roger Carter. There are also discounts on center activities and events. Receive 5% off of two or more Fit4U memberships of the same length purchased or renewed at the same time.

*Permitted use of pool, gymnasium and walking track. Must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years old at all times; exceptions made during Teen Zone.
**Members ages 13-15 years old must first complete a mandatory orientation with the fitness coordinator and must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years old at all times; exceptions made during Teen Zone.

Go50+ Memberships (50 yrs+)
The Go50+ membership packages are designed to enhance the quality of life for the 50+ adult population that lives, works and plays in Howard County. Howard County Recreation & Parks and Office on Aging partnered together to provide packages that are designed to give individuals access to meet their health and wellness needs.  

*Access to game rooms, gymnasiums, walking tracks, and wellness programs at Gary J. Arthur and N. Laurel Community Centers and all Howard County 50+ Centers.
**Access to all 50+ Center package benefits and fitness and dance/aerobics rooms at all three community centers and 50+ centers.
***Access to all 50+ Center and Fitness package benefits and access to the pool during open swim hours.

Drop-In

All patrons entering the facility must pay the daily admission or have a valid membership, unless they are a participant in a Howard County Recreation & Parks program taking place at the center. This includes parents/guardians who are supervising their children at the swimming pool. Groups of 10 or more require seven days notice and must make a reservation with the Director.

Daily Admission:
3 yrs+: $7
2 yrs and under: FREE
Group rate: $5 (20 or more guests)

Note: All prices subject to change.

Gymnasium, Walking Track Schedule (May 13-19)   

**** School's Out camps on May 14 (this will affect gym & pool availability)            
**** Gym & Walking Track will be closed on May 13-14 for Primary Elections            

For daily updates to the drop-in schedule, call 410-313-2764.     

Walking Track

Gymnasium

Age Restrictions

• To enter the pool alone, children must be at least 16 years old and pass the swimming test.
• A person who is at least 18 years old must accompany a child who has not met the above requirements.
• Children who do not pass the swimming test must remain in the roped shallow area of the pool.
• Children under 10 must always have a parent on the interior pool deck.
• Children under 5 who have not completed the swim test must always have a parent within arm’s reach.

Swim Attire

• Proper swim attire must be worn.
• Non-traditional, modest swimwear must be made out of bathing suit material (lycra, nylon, spandex or polyester).
• No natural fiber materials may be worn in the pool.

Diapers

• No cloth or regular diapers.
• Children who are not toilet trained must wear swim diapers or rubber pants with elastic around the waist and legs along with proper swim wear.

Flotation Devices & Lifejackets Use

• Coast Guard approved flotation devices are permitted.
• Children wearing Coast Guard approved flotation devices must always be within arm’s reach of a parent/guardian while in pool.
• For training purposes, other flotation devices (ex: kickboard, pull buoy) are allowed at the discretion of the manager on duty.

Lap Lane

• At least one lap lane is made available during public swim.
• The lap lane is only for continuous lap swimming and testing.
• No diving, crossing through or standing in lap lanes.

Diving & Diving Board Use

• Children who have passed the swim test may use the diving board.
• Diving is permitted off the diving board and in designated areas.
• No backward jumping, twisting or flipping off the diving board or pool side.

Toys

• Small toys are permitted at the discretion of the manager on duty.
• All toys over 12”, water squirting toys and hard balls are prohibited.

For Your Safety

• Doors may only be opened or closed by staff.
• A safety break may be called every hour on the hour for a period of 10 minutes at the discretion of the manager on duty.
• All patrons under the age of 18 must exit the pool during the safety break.
• All chairs must be kept at least 5 feet away from the edge of the pool. Chaise lounges must remain on the outside sun deck.
• Beverages and food must be kept at least 5 feet away from the pool edge. Chewing gum is not allowed on the pool deck or in the pool.
• No glass on the pool deck at any time.
• No alcohol, smoking or vaping.
• No running on pool deck, locker rooms, diving board, or beach entry.
• No horseplay (ex: dunking, throwing, pushing, grabbing, splashing, or carrying people on shoulders).
• No foul language. Verbal or physical confrontations may result in termination of day pass or membership.
• No climbing on or swimming under the railings.
• No climbing or walking on the divider walls in the pool.

Locker Room Rules

• Patrons must use the locker room of their gender.
• Use of mobile phones, electronic devices and cameras are strictly prohibited in the locker rooms.

For daily updates to the drop-in schedule, call 410-313-2764.

All times and availability are subject to change. All members of your party must be present at time of purchase. 

Please note: The pool is closed between 12-12:30pm, 3:30-4pm and 7-7:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Please note: Weekdays from 5pm-close are for lap swim only. 

Weekend open swim sessions are charged separately. First come, first served.

Wristbands for open swim sessions can be purchased no more than 30 minutes prior to start of session.  

Please call ahead about closures due to inclement weather. 

**** School's Out camps on May 14 (this will affect gym & pool availability)            
**** Gym & Walking Track will be closed on May 13-14 for Primary Elections                    

Lap Swim Schedule (May 13-19)  

Beach Entry Availability

Diving Well Availability

Open Swim (General/Public Use) Availability

Facility Features

• Zero slope entry    
• Splash pad/water feature
• Sun deck
• Platform board and 10'6" deep well
• ADA accessible with remote control chair lift and pool wheelchair
• Six 25-yard lap lanes
• Retractable roof for the indoor/outdoor pool feel
• ​Group Lessons for all ages
• Private/Semi-Private Lessons
• Swim Team
• Lifeguard Instruction

Aquatics Program/Lesson Offerings

When Can I See The Lesson Schedule?

You can view each season's lessons one week prior to the date registration opens.

• Spring & Summer Classes: View online starting Wednesday, February 28, 2024. (Program registration opens for in-county residents online: Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 6pm.)
• Fall Classes: View online by August 1, 2024.
• Winter Classes: View online December 1, 2024.

Swim Lessons FAQs

Which level should I register for?

• We suggest you attend a free skill evaluation to determine the appropriate level for your child. Evaluations are held Monday evenings from 7-8pm. No reservation is required, participation is first come, first serve. During the summer (June-August), evaluations will be held on Friday evenings.
• Descriptions of each level, class, and age requirement can be viewed below.  
  Document

  Guidelines for Placement in Swim Classes.pdf
• Most children require at least two sessions of each level to master the skills presented. Please register for two sessions of each level for continuation.
• All participants must meet the necessary prerequisites to participate. Failure to meet the prerequisites may result in removal from the lesson. 

My child currently takes Level 4 at Kids First Swim School. Are the levels the same at Roger Carter?

• No, Roger Carter teaches a unique curriculum, and the levels of other programs such as Kids First, YMCA, or Columbia Association are not the same. Please bring your child in for an evaluation to determine the appropriate level.

Where can I find the swim lesson program(s) schedule?

• The most up-to-date schedules and availability are located online.
• Fall, Winter, and Spring group lessons are held on Tuesdays/Thursdays or Wednesday/Fridays for 4 weeks for a total of 8 lessons per session. Each lesson is 30 minutes in duration and is taught by an instructor trained at our Facility.
• Summer group lessons are held Mondays-Thursdays for 2 weeks for a total of 8 lessons per session.

What happens if my child misses a class due to illness, traveling, inclement weather?

• We do not offer individual make-up lessons. We will do our best to provide a group make-up day for a class that we have to cancel due to inclement weather, pool closures or facility closures.
• If the participant is sick or injured, we can provide a prorated refund for the number of classes missed with a provided Doctor’s note.

Do you offer private swim lessons? How can I register for them?

• Private and Semi-Private lessons are offered in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. You may register online HERE. Registration will hold your place and you will be contacted by the Program coordinator to schedule individual dates and times.

Do I need to have a membership to take swim lessons?

• No, a membership is not required. If you or your child wish to swim before or after the lesson (only lap lanes available), either a membership or payment of the drop-in fee is required.

What if my child requires accommodation/an aide during a group lesson? 

• The Accommodations Services Office has developed an inclusion process to better accommodate Howard County residents with disabilities for you to make an accommodation request, provide your own support staff or for parents or caregiver to act as the support. Please make your accommodation request HERE.

Info: Ann Joseph, ajoseph@howardcountymd.gov or 410-313-2752.

Roger Carter Community Center offers both room rentals and party packages. View the frequently asked questions and rental request forms for more information regarding rentals or party packages.

Party Packages

Let us host your next occasion to create a memorable experience. All party packages include table coverings, plates, napkins, cups and eating utensils for 20 guests; fees applied for additional guests. Party times are scheduled depending on room availability. To request a party package visit:

Rentals

Roger Carter offers multiple spaces within the facility for rent. Rentals at the center include tables and chairs set to the agreed upon specifications.

Submit your request form online HERE.

*Audio Visual Package available for an additional $40/per rental, per day

For questions or Fitness Room Orientations, please contact Carole Cotton at 410-313-2763.

Rock Climbing Wall Open Climbs

Open Climbs: Monday, 6-8pm

• For daily updates or the drop-in schedule, call 410-313-2764.
• Climbers must be 5 years or older. 
• Closed-toed shoes required. (No sandals or Croc-type footwear)
• All equipment provided; HCRP staff will belay participants and rotate through the climbers in attendance.
• $5 drop-in fee, free for Fit4U & Go50+ members.
• Groups of five or more must contact Matt Medicus (410-313-1769, mmedicus@howardcountymd.gov) for group rates and times. Please provide at least two weeks’ notice.

Friends & Family Adventure in Rock Climbing

Learn the basics of rock climbing in a small group. Enjoy a private setting with our certified instructors, including equipment usage, safety on the wall, bouldering, and climbing technique. No experience necessary. All equipment provided.

$135 for up to three people for 1.5-hour session (add up to two additional participants for $25 each).

Additional activities and custom program information for larger groups available.