In the United States, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) strikes nearly 1,000 people each day, and only 5% survive. However, the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) could potentially prevent 100,000 deaths per year. The potential for cardiac arrest to occur in sport and recreation settings is well documented. Studies show that sport stadiums, golf courses, and health/fitness facilities are among the top 10 public places with the highest incidence of SCAs. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the constraints to AED implementation in Florida municipal park and recreation agencies. Based on a review of the literature, interviews with practitioners, the use of focus groups, a test of content validity, and a pilot study, a survey was developed to measure factors and constraints affecting implementation decisions for facilities without AEDs. Measurement format included Likert scales, multiple choice, and open-ended responses. A mail survey with follow up procedures was conducted. The survey was mailed to all identified park and recreation directors in Florida. Follow up procedures were conducted and 96 completed forms were returned, representing a response rate of 54%. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analyses, and one-sample t-tests with adjusted alpha levels were conducted. The majority of respondents were male (71%), between the age of 40-49 (37%), CPR certified (65%), had worked in their current position less than 6 years (48%), had a community population less than 75,000 (79%), and required a CPR-certified employee to be present during all activity programs (45%). The number of agencies that did not have AEDs (69%) was significantly (p < .05) greater than those with AEDs (31%). A total of 27 constraints that affected AED implementation were identified. The primary constraints were (1) a lack of information about protection from liability, the use and operation of AEDs, and required certification and training, (2) the cost of purchasing an AED, (3) the feeling that AEDs were not necessary due to the proximity of local EMS, (4) concerns that having an AED was not current standard practice, and (5) the time involved implementing and training staff to use AEDs. The weakest constraints to AED implementation were concerns about additional supervisory responsibilities, and lack of support from upper administration and professional associations. Given the importance of AEDs as lifesaving devices, these results may assist educational and promotional efforts targeted to park and recreation agencies. This study was supported by American Heart Association grant 01304478. Keyword(s): administration/mgmt, medical/medical care, safety/injury prevention