State Regulations

Overview

Devices Covered:

Includes go-karts, waterslides and ziplines at carnivals and non-exempt parks. Excludes rides at large amusement parks, rides at trade shows, laser or paintball games, mechanical bulls, inflatable amusement devices, trampolines, trackless trains, and animal rides.

Inspection Program:

Non-exempt rides must be inspected annually by a professional engineer or qualified inspector who certifies the ride meets state standards and NDT is up to date. State officials inspect fixed-site rides at non-exempt permanent parks every 6 months; portable rides at every setup.

Investigative Authority:

State officials have authority to investigate serious accidents at carnivals and non-exempt permanent parks. Accidents at exempt facilities (large parks, trade shows) are not investigated by public safety authorities.

Reporting Criteria:

Non-exempt parks and traveling carnivals are required by law to report ride-related death or injury requiring immediate transport to a medical facility. Exempt facilities (large parks and trade shows) are exempt from mandatory reporting. In 2001, Disney, Universal and Busch voluntarily agreed to report medical symptoms of patrons who die or are immediately admitted to the hospital after riding their amusement rides.

Special Conditions

Large parks (over 1000 employees) and trade shows (e.g., IAAPA) are exempt from state safety regulation.

Last Update

April 8, 2017