Recreational Devices

Recreational Devices, And Dumbwaiters - Mechanical Inspection Section

The section administers the state’s recreational device inspection program. All new ski lifts, tramways and amusement ride installations require annual registration and inspection. Mechanical Inspection certifies third-party inspectors as Amusement Specialist and/or Tramway Specialist to perform inspections at the request of owners. The section also maintains records of inspections conducted and conducts safety investigations into incidents involving fatalities or injuries.

Before the installation or operation of new equipment, the operator or contractor must submit a working layout of the equipment or apparatus to Mechanical Inspection for review. The operator or contractor must arrange for an initial inspection prior to placing the device into service. When an inspection is completed, the owner, contractor, or maintenance provider is notified of the results, including any deficiencies noted at the time of inspection.

The department does not employ specialized inspectors with specific training on various rides. Inspector requirements are listed on the Licenses and Requirements page of this site. It is the owner’s responsibility to engage with and pay for the inspection. The inspector must submit the inspection paperwork directly to the department within 15 days of the inspection.

Device Definitions

Amusement Ride:

1. means a mechanical device, aquatic device, or combination of devices, if safety of the patrons, employees, and the public are within the department's jurisdiction, that carries or conveys passengers on, along, around, over, or through a fixed or restricted course or within a defined area for the purpose of giving its passengers amusement, pleasure, or excitement;
2. includes carnival rides, fair rides, water park facilities, bumper boats, go carts, or other commercial activities, of either a permanent or temporary nature;

Tramway:

1. means a device that is a passenger tramway, aerial or surface lift, ski lift, or rope tow;

Water Slide:

1. means an amusement ride utilizing a straight or twisting slide
   1. along which a continuous stream of water passes;
   2. on which patrons rapidly slide down independently or riding on a sled, mat or inflatable device; and
   3. that empties into a pool of water or a run-out;
2. includes the receiving pool of water and the run-out described in (A)(iii) of this paragraph; and
3. does not include a slide with less than a 10-foot vertical drop from the launch platform to the water surface;