01 April 23 - Can Bouncy Castles be used on Hard Standing?

We are frequently asked if bouncy castles may be placed outside on concrete, tarmac, or artificial grass. A normal children's bouncy castle will have at least six anchor points, and the European Standard (BS EN 14960) states that each of the six anchor points must be secured with a minimum weight of 163 kilogrammes.

Concrete/tarmac

In order to meet this requirement a reputable hire company will usually drill small holes (approx 1cm across and 10-12cm deep) and anchor the inflatable with thunderbolts into the ground. This is only possible on concrete or tarmac; it is not possible on paving stones/block paving/brick weave. If you have concrete/tarmac, please ensure you have the landowner's permission for them to drill. Alternatively, If the location of the inflatable is block paving etc (anything that's not concrete or tarmac) the only option for securing it is by tying the anchor points to something extremely heavy or strongly anchored into the ground, such as concrete fenceposts, lamposts, or even parked vehicles (with the owner's permission of course). These anchoring points would need to be available in close proximity at the back and both sides of the inflatable. All inflatables have a minimum of 2 anchor points at the back and 2 on each side, each of which must be secured to something that weighs 163kg or more and therefore sandbags are not sufficient. Bigger inflatables will have more anchor points.

Artificial grass

If there is earth underneath the Artificial Grass, the reputable hire company will need to put pegs through to secure the bouncy castle (as they would on normal grass). Please note, this will leave several small holes in the artificial grass, approx. 1cm in diameter. However, if it is concrete underneath, the concrete information above applies.