Aug. 21 – Labor Day, Sept. 1, 2025
351 Days 1 Hours 25 Mins
This information is for 2024 Minnesota State Fair licensed Mighty Midway and Kidway operators. All information is subject to change.
Our Mission: To educate and involve our guests by providing a world-class showcase that is innovative, entertaining and fun.
We strive to:
The Minnesota State Fair has established a tradition of providing a quality family entertainment experience that is clean, wholesome and fun, with a commitment to total guest satisfaction. As a member of the Minnesota State Fair team, you have been selected and licensed by the fair to help us continue the high standards established by this Great Minnesota Get-Together. We look forward to working with you to help carry on this tradition of exposition excellence in your operation and the environment you help create.
This manual is designed to inform those holding licenses granting Mighty Midway and Kidway attraction operation privileges of fair policies and procedures. This information and Minnesota State Agricultural Society Rules are made a part of each license agreement by reference. Both are meant to foster better fair operations, and it is each licensee’s responsibility to be knowledgeable of these policies, procedures and rules. Each section is important. Please familiarize yourself with this information, share it with your employees, preferably in the primary language of your employees, and direct any questions to the staff below.
Minnesota State Fair management reserves the right to interpret and apply these policies, procedures and rules as it deems appropriate in the best interest of the public and furtherance of the fair’s statutory duties.
The State Fair board of managers authorizes the licensing of privileges to serve the comfort, convenience, pleasure, needs and wishes of the State Fair’s large and diverse audience. Fair management reserves the right to prohibit the showing of any attraction, exhibit, concession or animal that may be falsely entered or represented, or to remove any attraction, concession, exhibit, sign, display material, merchandise, animal or advertising if it is contrary to law or a violation of the State Fair’s valid interest in providing for the health, safety, protection or best interest of the public. Privileges will not be licensed, nor will business pursuits be permitted, which are not conducted safely, ethically and in a manner consistent with the purposes of the exposition, as determined by the State Fair. The board of managers and the sales division will use every precaution to guard against extortion practiced upon patrons of the State Fair.
A violation of the terms and conditions of a license agreement or the rules, policies and procedures of the Minnesota State Fair in its Rules and/or Midway Information Manual may cause the full amount of a license to become due and work a revocation and forfeiture of all privileges therein granted to a licensee, in which case all sums paid or to be paid shall become the property of the Minnesota State Agricultural Society as liquidated damages, and cause will be created for expulsion of the licensee from the fairgrounds as fair management may direct. The Society shall have a lien on all property kept, used or situated upon premises assigned for licensee use on the State Fairgrounds for any unpaid fees due the Society and any damages sustained by the Society by breach of license by a licensee.
The Minnesota State Fair sales department is authorized by the Society to license and regulate all attractions (rides, shows and games of skill), concessions and exhibits on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. State Fair license agreements, any portion(s) thereof, as well as the privileges, duties, responsibilities, obligations and interests granted therein, may not be assigned, sold, transferred, devised by will, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of, except with the written consent of the Minnesota State Fair; nor may licensees subcontract or sublet attraction space or license privileges to any other person or firm. Obligations provided for in licenses, including, but not limited to, payments for insurance, utilities and/or special services, shall remain the obligation of the initial licensee regardless of approved assignment.
All licensees are independent contractors in their relationship with the Minnesota State Fair. All aspects of a licensee’s operation, including, but not limited to, staff conduct and appearance, maintenance of appropriate and reasonable sound levels, handling consumer complaints, hours of operation and any other requirements placed on the licensee by the State Fair are the responsibility of the licensee. The physical, onsite presence of the licensee, or State Fair approved representative of the licensee, is a condition precedent to the granting of a license. In the event a licensee should sell all or part of its attraction(s) to a third party and/or the current owner(s) should, for any reason, cease to be active in the daily management and operation of same, the State Fair, at its sole option, shall have the right to terminate its license by giving the licensee 30 days written notice.
The State Fair shall designate the area(s) where each licensee may operate their attraction(s) during the State Fair. The location(s) shall be selected solely by the Minnesota State Fair; the State Fair, through its duly authorized agents or officers, shall at all times have free access to each licensee’s area(s) of operation for the purpose of inspection and to ensure compliance with license terms and conditions, as well as State Fair rules, policies and procedures.
Unless otherwise specified, all costs and expenses of operation, including wages, maintenance, repair parts, transportation, contract labor, licenses, permits, utilities, insurance and all overhead expense shall be the obligation of each licensee. Licensees will also provide and pay all personnel required for attraction and support equipment operation and maintenance, unless otherwise specified.
The State Fair operates an “All Pay” gate. Each person entering the fairgrounds, including employees and delivery personnel, must have an admission ticket each day. No passes or complimentary tickets of any kind are provided by the State Fair.
You may purchase pre-fair discount gate admission tickets ($14 each, a savings of up to $4) online (via the link in your exhibitor portal), over the counter at our State Fair Ticket Office or by mail. Pre-fair discount gate ticket prices are subject to change.
*NOTE: Pre-fair discount gate admission tickets are not refundable.
Licensed exhibitors and concessionaires can purchase vendor parking vouchers for $20; this is not a discounted rate. Parking in State Fair public lots is on a first-come basis and is not guaranteed or reserved with a voucher. You will need a voucher for each day you wish to park in a State Fair parking lot.
A separate mail-in order form with more detailed information regarding pre-fair discount gate admission tickets and vendor parking vouchers will be provided to you in June. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to obtain admission tickets and vendor parking.
Pre-fair discount gate admission tickets and vendor parking vouchers may also be purchased in person at the State Fair Ticket Office this summer.
*NOTE: Vendor Parking Vouchers are not refundable.
No Midway attraction may be open prior to 10 a.m. (9 a.m. at Kidway) on Thursday, Aug. 22, or operate between the hours of 11 p.m. (10 p.m. at Kidway) and 10 a.m. (9 a.m. at Kidway) during any day of the State Fair without the prior written consent of Midway/Kidway operations staff.
All Mighty Midway and Kidway attractions and concessions must be open, staffed and in full operation every day of the fair. Kidway hours of operation are 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily (13 hours), except Labor Day, when Kidway closes at 8 p.m.
Mighty Midway hours of operation are 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. daily (13 hours), except Labor Day, when Mighty Midway closes at 9 p.m.
*Daily closing times may vary. Ticket booths close 1/2 hour before rides and games close.
No Midway attraction or concession may be unattended, closed or dismantled prior to 9 p.m. on Labor Day, Sept. 2 (8 p.m. at Kidway).
Hours subject to change.
Persons working for licensees in or on any attraction are considered the employees of the licensee. Licensees are responsible for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, appearance, conduct and behavior of their employees. Licensees are also responsible for their employees’ compensation and unemployment coverage, social security taxes and other federal and state employment requirements. Independent contractor relationships or subleases between license holders and their personnel are prohibited.
Licensees and their staff must be clean and neat in their appearance, hygiene and dress, with uniform wearing apparel as required, during the operation of their attraction(s) or concession(s). Employees must be shaven with hair, mustaches and beards clean and neatly groomed.
For the safety and dignity of Mighty Midway and Kidway employees, all employees must be housed in proper living quarters acceptable to and approved by the State Fair. Living or sleeping on, in or under rides, in games or concessions, in tents, automobiles or in stock or storage trucks/trailers will not be permitted in the Midway/Kidway area. Housing areas will be monitored by Minnesota State Fair Midway Operations staff for living quarters acceptability based on compliance with OABA Portable Workforce Housing Guidelines.
The Minnesota State Fair strongly supports the human dignity of each individual. It condemns, opposes and will not tolerate any behavior on the part of any member of its community which constitutes discourtesy toward or unnecessary touching or grabbing of fair guests, sexual harassment, offensive behavior or workplace violence. Impolite, foul or abusive language or conduct will not be tolerated.
Employees of all licensees must be uniformed with matching shirts, jackets and hats (if worn) provided by the State Fair at the licensee’s cost and worn in a manner approved by the State Fair. In addition, all ride, game of skill and attraction employees and operators will be required to wear either khaki, navy blue or black pants or shorts (denim jeans will not be permitted). Licensees or their employees who do not comply with this policy may be dismissed.
Identification badges, provided at no charge by the State Fair, must be worn in public view at all times by all on-duty attraction, support equipment and service supplier licensees and their employees as prescribed by the State Fair. ID badges may only be obtained at the Midway office with authorization by the licensee.
ID badges will be required for access to services and amenities provided for Midway and Kidway licensees and employees but do not provide admission to the fairgrounds. Moreover, State Fair public safety personnel will be checking the fairgrounds throughout each night for unidentified and unauthorized persons; when found, they will be asked to leave the fairgrounds immediately.
If lost, such ID badges will be reissued for a $5 fee, which must be paid in cash at the time of reissue. Persons terminated or leaving employment prior to the conclusion of the fair must return their ID badge before leaving the fairgrounds.
Licensees operating under a percentage license fee formula agree that all books, financial statements, source documents, accounting, financial, supply and other records (e.g., game stock delivery slips and wholesaler invoices with pricing) relevant to their operations shall be open and readily available for audit upon request by the State Fair and/or its auditors.
Misrepresentation of any type, including, but not limited to, attraction, exhibit or concession ownership, products and/or services offered, operation, mechanical condition or appearance in the registration process or photographs provided therewith, shall be grounds for license cancellation, forfeiture of any payments made and immediate removal from the State Fairgrounds. In this case, the affected licensee shall waive all claims for damages against the State Fair, its officers, agents and employees.
The Minnesota State Fair assumes no responsibility for any accident, injury or mishap which may befall you, your employees or fair guests.
The State Fair will not be responsible for losses or the security and protection of property and merchandise belonging to license holders anywhere on the fairgrounds. The Minnesota State Fair Police will provide general fairgrounds patrol from Monday, Aug. 5 through Wednesday, Sept. 4. However, it is strongly advised that license holders take adequate steps to prevent theft or damage to their property. Any loss or damage should be reported to State Fair Police at 651-288-4500 immediately upon detection.
Licensees shall waive any claims against the State Fair for liability arising out of any damage done to their attraction, concession, exhibit, products or property from any cause. The risk of loss occasioned by all of the operations, installations, acts, errors and omissions of the licensee or the employees and agents of the licensee on the State Fairgrounds shall be that of the licensee, not the State Fair. Licensees shall not seek contribution, damages or indemnification from the State Fair for any loss.
Licensees shall assume all liability for injury to persons, including death, and for damage to property arising from accidents or other causes incident to movement, setup, teardown and operation of their attraction, exhibit or concession on the State Fairgrounds and release the State Fair from any liability, including, but not limited to, liability for licensee’s employees and to its workers’ compensation insurance carrier for injuries sustained by licensee’s employees in the course and scope of their employment.
It shall be the duty of licensees, support equipment and service contractors, and their insurers, to protect, defend with counsel acceptable to State Fair, indemnify and hold the Minnesota State Fair harmless from all damages, costs, attorney and court fees, and other claims arising out of their actions, errors, omissions, movement, setup, teardown and operation of their attraction(s), exhibit(s), concession(s) or support equipment and/or provision of service(s) on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
Prior to opening at the 2024 State Fair, each licensee, support equipment and service contractor shall obtain a policy(s) of occurrence form for commercial general liability, automobile liability and workers’ compensation insurance covering themselves, the State Fair (with the exception of automobile liability and workers’ compensation) and their entire operations at the State Fair against all claims for personal injury, property damage, bodily injury or death incurred by reason of: accidents; the licensee’s or contractor’s operations, maintenance or installations; any claims for personal injury, property damage or death claimed by reason of their acts, errors or omissions or the acts, errors or omissions of their employees or agents on the State Fairgrounds; the design, condition, maintenance and operation of their attractions and support equipment; or loss or damage to persons or property deemed to be the responsibility of the State Fair because of its failure to supervise, inspect or control the licensee’s or contractor’s operations or otherwise discover or prevent their actions that give rise to liability to any person or property.
The minimum amount of commercial general liability insurance shall be $1 million per occurrence, $2 million annual aggregate, to cover all liability for bodily injury, property damage and personal injury. The State Fair may require higher insurance limits in certain circumstances. Under the commercial general liability insurance policy, the “Minnesota State Agricultural Society (Minnesota State Fair)” must be listed as an “additional insured” with respect to attraction operation and/or service or equipment provision at the Minnesota State Fair.
Licensees, support equipment and service contractors must agree to release and indemnify the State Fair from any liability whatsoever associated with set up, tear down and operation of their attraction(s), support equipment and/or their provision of services, and furnish the State Fair with a copy of their certificate of insurance and full policy for general liability insurance by July 1, 2024. The State Fair sales department must be given 30 days written notice of any policy cancellation or material change in policy terms by licensee’s general liability insurance carrier.
Minimum automobile liability insurance shall cover owned, hired and non-owned vehicles. A certificate of such automobile liability insurance must be provided to the State Fair by July 1, 2024. Also, the State Fair sales department must be given 30 days written notice of any policy cancellation or material change in policy terms by licensee’s automobile insurance carrier.
All licensees, support equipment and service contractors are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance coverage in full compliance with State of Minnesota statutes. The State Fair must be furnished with a copy of the workers’ compensation insurance certificate and full policy by July 1, 2024. The policy must include “all states” coverage or specifically name coverage for the State of Minnesota. The State Fair sales department must be given 30 days written notice of any policy cancellation or material change in policy terms by licensee’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
If you cannot have coverage for Minnesota added to your current workers’ compensation policy, you may obtain coverage through the Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Insurer’s Association Assigned Risk Plan. To obtain an application, call 952-897-1737 or download it at www.mwcia.org. In order to complete the application, you will need to obtain a Minnesota Unemployment Account Number from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development by calling 651-296-6141.
If you currently have a workers’ compensation policy through the Minnesota Assigned Risk Plan, you will receive a renewal offer at least 60 days before your policy expires; simply pay the renewal premium to keep your policy in force for the next year. You are also urged to promptly respond to all requests from the insurance company for additional information, payrolls, etc. (If you do not keep your policy in force, you will need to fulfill past requests before you can apply for coverage again through the Minnesota Assigned Risk Plan.)
All of the preceding certificates of insurance and full policies must be provided to the State Fair by July 1, 2024. If your license issue date is after July 1, they must be provided within 15 days of the license issue date. Insurance certificates and policies must include evidence of commercial general liability, automobile liability and workers’ compensation insurance in amounts and with terms, conditions and a company(s), eligible to do business and provide coverage in the State of Minnesota, satisfactory to the State Fair.
The safety of fair guests and employees is the Minnesota State Fair’s highest priority!
Licensees shall keep their attraction(s) and support equipment in a good and safe state of repair and upkeep, use every known practicable safety device for the protection and safety of passengers and the public, and not bring onto the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, or operate thereon, any attraction or support equipment which may be deemed by the State Fair to be unsafe, inappropriate, illegal or otherwise objectionable.
The State Fair shall have the authority to immediately close and order the removal of any attraction or support equipment that in its discretion is deemed objectionable, in which case the licensee of such attraction(s) shall waive all claims for damages against the State Fair, its officers, agents and employees.
All attractions and support equipment must be in good electrical and mechanical condition and all safety and restraint systems specified by the attraction or support equipment manufacturer must be in place, in proper working order and used on all attractions and support equipment. Licensees shall meet or exceed all applicable standards for the safe placement, erection, testing, maintenance, inspection and operation of attractions and support equipment as set forth in the most current specifications of the manufacturer, American Society for Testing and Materials (F-24) standards and/or any other agency having jurisdiction, together with those modifications and amendments to same promulgated and received by the licensee prior to opening at the Minnesota State Fair.
All set up, tear down and maintenance activities must be undertaken based on OSHA Title 29 training and safety rules related to personal protection, e.g. personal protective equipment, fall protection, bloodborne pathogens, MSDS awareness, lockout/tagout, etc., and licensees operating or using power-driven machinery must comply with OSHA Standards for presenting, guarding, operating and using same.
All attraction licensees, support equipment and service providers and their employees are required to attend all safety, orientation and training meetings scheduled by the State Fair that pertain to their operations and activities. Attendance is mandatory.
Movement of benches, picnic tables and trash or recycling containers placed by the State Fair for public use is prohibited. The movement or damaging of any trees, shrubbery, flowers or other vegetation and decorations on the State Fairgrounds is also prohibited.
For the comfort and safety of all, designated smoking areas have been established at convenient locations throughout the fairgrounds. Smoking (including the use of e-cigarettes and vape pens) is permitted only in these areas. Consult a State Fair map for specific locations. Each designated smoking area consists of a bench and receptacle to safely deposit spent cigarettes. If you, your employees or volunteers wish to smoke, we require that you utilize these designated smoking area(s) during the Minnesota State Fair. Smoking is strictly prohibited in all public buildings, in the seating area of all entertainment venues, including the Grandstand, the Bandshell and the Coliseum, and in any indoor or outdoor food and beverage concession areas.
It is the policy of the Minnesota State Fair to create a drug-free workplace. Use of alcoholic beverages, drugs or controlled substances, including, but not limited, to marijuana, cannabis and/or cocaine, as well as possession or being under the influence or impaired by same while on duty, will not be tolerated.
No gummed or adhesive-backed labels, stickers or signs are allowed on the fairgrounds.
The display, sale, distribution or use of weapons (including, but not limited to, firearms, knives, whips, martial arts items, chains, studded jewelry, water pistols, pea and rubber band shooters), fireworks, drug paraphernalia, laser pens and pointers, pornographic or offensive materials of any type, including their use as game prizes, is prohibited unless such display, sale or distribution is specifically authorized under the terms of a license agreement executed by the State Fair. Use of live animals, cigarette lighters and smoking/vaping equipment as game prizes is also prohibited. State Fair staff discretion will be final in making a determination with respect to such matters.
Any item given away as a prize or used as a free hand-out must be approved by the State Fair before it is ordered. There are companies on the fairgrounds that pay for the privilege of selling certain items, and we must honor their licenses by not allowing free distribution of the same or similar items, or their use as game prizes.
It violates State Fair policy for any employee of the fair to accept from any license holder, concessionaire, exhibitor, supplier or fair guest any tip, gratuity, gift or merchandise, including free rides, game play, prizes or food & beverages. Offering any of these to employees will place your participation in the fair and their employment in jeopardy.
Donations or contributions may not be requested, solicited or accepted at the State Fair without the prior written approval of the sales department and execution of a license providing for payment of appropriate fees for such privilege.
No raffles of any kind are allowed on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
LICENSE CANCELLATION
A licensee may cancel their licensee by providing the State Fair with written notice of cancellation no later than July 15. After July 15, monetary deposits made at the time of license agreement execution to secure faithful performance by a licensee shall not be refunded. A site(s) assigned for use by a licensee but not properly set up and ready for business by 9 a.m. on the first day of the fair, as well as the privilege to use any site(s) not open for business or without an attendant at the site during prescribed operation hours every day of the fair, may be forfeited and reassigned at the discretion of the fair with fees previously paid for such license surrendered as liquidated damages.
Sites assigned for use under a license may not be occupied until the original copy of the license has been signed by both the State Fair and the licensee, and returned to the State Fair with the required deposit.
The State Fairgrounds will be closed to anyone not involved in preparation for the fair beginning on Monday, Aug. 5. Move-in at the Mighty Midway and Kidway may begin Friday, Aug. 16. Earlier move-in may be approved by the State Fair upon request.
All attractions, concessions and support equipment must be positioned at Mighty Midway and Kidway by an authorized representative of the Minnesota State Fair Midway Operations staff. Please check in at the Midway Operations Office upon arrival. No one is to locate themselves.
Once space is assigned, no placement of equipment or storage of merchandise outside that space or on the exterior of any attraction or concession will be allowed without the prior approval of State Fair Midway Operations staff.
All setup must be completed in such a time and manner as to ensure that attractions can be inspected, tested and fully operational at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22, prior to the opening of Mighty Midway and Kidway.
On Labor Day, Sept. 2 (the last day of the fair), all Mighty Midway attractions and concessions must remain fully intact and in operation until 9 p.m. Kidway attractions and concessions must remain fully intact and in operation until 8 p.m. on Labor Day. Vehicles will not be allowed through barricades for tear down before 9 p.m. (8 p.m. at Kidway).
Utility services for tear down and living quarters will cease to be available at noon on Thursday, Sept. 5. License holders must remove all equipment from the fairgrounds by 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6. If license holders are unable to have all equipment removed by Friday, Sept. 6 please notify the Midway & Attractions Manager.
The State Fair shall furnish all equipment required and sell all electronic tickets for all attractions (rides, shows and games of skill), as well as provide all electronic ticket equipment, at no cost to licensees. Licensees shall provide a ticket taker at each attraction, be responsible and accountable for all electronic ticket scans collected at their attraction(s) and comply with all ticket reconcilement procedures prescribed by the State Fair. (See Appendix D – Electronic Ticket Reconcilement Procedures)
Licensees may not provide passes, tickets, coupons, game play, rides, products or services to State Fair personnel or to other individuals without charge and the expressed, written consent of the State Fair, except as may be required for inspection and audit purposes.
The license fee for Mighty Midway and Kidway attractions and concessions will be based on a percentage of gross receipts, after removal of applicable tax. Consult your license for specifics regarding your license fee and any deadlines for deposits, etc. which may be required to bind your license.
Licensees operating under a percentage license fee formula shall report their gross receipts on a daily basis, for the preceding day, at a time, place and in a manner prescribed by the State Fair. (See Appendix D – Electronic Ticket Reconcilement Procedures)
By Monday, July 15, licensees shall submit a statement of the number of tickets they would like to charge for attractions they are licensed to operate for State Fair review and approval. The State Fair and licensee shall mutually agree upon the number of tickets to be charged for attractions the licensee is licensed to present and licensees shall not change any ticket charge designation without the prior approval of the State Fair. (See Appendix A – Promotions)
No ride, show or game of skill may be operated without a ticket charge for use, admission or play.
The State Fair may negotiate and/or initiate an alternative attraction admission program if it deems appropriate.
Licensees are required to comply with the State of Minnesota’s ride safety and electrical inspection laws (See Appendix E – Regulation of Amusement Rides). The State Fair must be provided with copies of any inspection reports, correction orders, affidavits, insurance records, etc. required or generated thereby relative to licensee’s operation at the State Fair within 24 hours of their receipt.
The State Fair has contracted for the services of safety, inspection and loss control personnel of proven ability with industry credentials to conduct inspections of attractions, concessions and support equipment. Inspections by the State Fair’s safety, inspection and loss control contractor will be conducted prior to the opening of the fair and daily during the fair. Licensees are required to provide access for and fully cooperate with these inspectors throughout the inspection process; the inspectors’ directives and correction orders are to be implemented immediately.
Licensees are required to have in their possession manuals provided by the attraction manufacturer that detail operating, maintenance and inspection procedures for their attraction(s) and make them available for reference and review by the State Fair, electrical inspectors and/or safety, inspection and loss control personnel. Manuals must be printed in English or must have been translated into English at the licensee’s expense.
Prior to the opening of the Minnesota State Fair, each day during the fair before opening and operation, and subsequent to any repair or maintenance shut-down before commencing ride or show operation, licensees shall conduct an inspection of and submit to the State Fair a properly completed manufacturer’s operator/inspector manual safety checklist for each ride and/or show they are licensed to present, with the authorizing signature of the State Fair’s safety, inspection and loss control contractor. If a checklist is not available, the State Fair and its safety, inspection and loss control contractor may substitute their own inspection form for submission by the licensee, with the authorizing signature of the State Fair’s safety, inspection and loss control contractor. Copies of completed and authorized checklists must be provided to the State Fair within 1 hour after their completion.
Licensees shall provide the State Fair with notice of any prior accidents or significant incidents involving their attraction(s) during the 12-month period preceding the fair. If others may have owned or operated the attractions(s) during this period, details of such circumstances must be provided. Upon request, licensees shall also provide the State Fair with copies of all attraction inspection and/or insurance loss reports relative to any attraction(s) they are licensed to present at the Minnesota State Fair.
Licensees must also provide the State Fair with duplicate copies of all insurance company and/or underwriter inspection reports relative to their operations at the State Fair. These reports must be provided within 24 hours of their receipt.
All electrical work and wiring must meet the standards and requirements of the National Electric Code and State of Minnesota. All substandard electrical equipment must be repaired or replaced at the licensee’s expense.
Unless otherwise agreed by the State Fair and licensee, the fair will provide and licensee shall utilize electric power generated, supplied and distributed by the fair for operation of licensee’s attraction(s) and support equipment.
Temporary electrical service will be provided for attraction, concession and support equipment set up if a representative of the licensee is present, as well as for testing and inspections. Permanent electric power will not be connected to any attraction concession or support equipment until it has passed electrical inspection and inspection by the State Fair’s safety, inspection and loss control contractor, which will require having a representative of the licensee present to check motor rotation, lighting, etc. and make corrections as directed by inspectors.
Electric service staff will be available during setup hours and will make arrangements for all power connection(s). No “cut-in” or connection fees will be charged to licensees.
Licensees must supply at least 150 feet of appropriate connecting “lead wire” from the perimeter of each of their attractions or concessions and an acceptable and compatible connection device for any attraction(s) or concession(s) and/or support equipment they present.
The following provisions also apply:
Electric service shall be available for setup and teardown work from Friday, Aug. 16, until noon on Thursday, Sept. 5, unless early setup or longer teardown is approved by the Minnesota State Fair.
The State Fair does not assume responsibility for electrical failures of any kind or liability for costs and/or damages related to electrical failures, including, but not limited to, damage to equipment or property caused by drops or increases in power supply, low voltage or power surges, loss of profits or revenue, loss of equipment use, cost of capital, cost of temporary equipment (including additional expenses incurred in using existing facilities), claims of customers of the licensee, or for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages due to interruption or fluctuation in electrical service on the fairgrounds.
Water and sewer service is available on a limited basis and may be furnished to the licensee’s attraction(s), concession(s) and/or support equipment if and when requested and available. Licensees will be charged for water and sewer services used based on actual costs. Where sewer access is not available, holding tanks are required.
All plumbing, sewer and water equipment and work found to be substandard must be repaired or replaced at the licensee’s expense. Such work may only be undertaken on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds with the prior approval of the State Fair.
Water and sewer service shall be available for setup and teardown work on attractions and concessions from Friday, Aug. 16, until noon on Thursday, Sept. 5, unless early setup or longer teardown is approved by the Minnesota State Fair.
The State Fair does not assume responsibility for water or sewer service failures of any kind or liability for costs and/ or damages related to water or sewer service failures, including, but not limited to, damage to equipment or property caused by drops or increases in water supply, water surges, sewer backups and blockages, loss of profits or revenue, loss of equipment use, cost of capital, cost of temporary equipment (including additional expenses incurred in using existing facilities), claims of customers of the licensee, or for any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages due to interruption or fluctuation in water or sewer service on the fairgrounds.
All gas work must have the prior approval of the State Fair. The following provisions shall also apply:
All signs must be professionally made, neat in appearance and of a size, type and placement approved by the State Fair. Hand-lettered signs, “paste-over” sign changes, handwritten sign corrections and felt-marker signs are not permitted. No ‘A’ boards or free-standing sign boards will be permitted unless approved by the State Fair. All signs you plan to use must be approved for placement by the State Fair and must be placed inside your assigned area. (Trucks with company names printed on them are allowed.)
Licensees shall prominently post at their attraction(s) clearly understood and visible signs, approved by the State Fair, that communicate to the public appropriate instructions and warnings regarding safe use of their attraction(s). These signs should include, but not be limited to, instructions for persons with disabilities and parents of minor children, as well as limitations or exclusions due to age, weight, height or physical condition. (Licensees are responsible for observance and enforcement of these instructions, warnings, limitations and exclusions.)
All attractions operated at the Minnesota State Fair shall work on a specified ticket basis requiring a specific ticket count for admission or play. The State Fair will provide signs listing the ticket count for admission to each ride or show. Game of skill licensees must provide and prominently display signs listing the number of tickets payable for all game play, using lettering a minimum of 3 inches high. Licensees may not change the established and posted price (ticket count) of any attraction, whether or not part of an approved State Fair promotion, without the prior approval of the State Fair.
Licensees must prominently display professionally printed, large and easy-to-understand signs listing clear instructions and rules for their game(s) (including how prizes are won and any restrictions on numbers or types of prizes which may be won by an individual player per day), using lettering a minimum of 2 inches high. These signs must be approved in advance by the State Fair. Game licensees must also prominently display a sign listing the name of the game licensee as it appears on their license. Posted game rules, instructions and ticket signs may not be changed without the prior approval of the State Fair.
Licensees may not display signs advertising any product by brand name, trademark or trade name on or facing the outside of any attraction, concession or structure, unless prior approval is obtained from the State Fair.
Licensees must provide their cell phone number to the Midway Operations Office and must be accessible via their cell phone at all times. Cell phone use and text messaging is absolutely prohibited while working on any ride, show or in any game. Anyone found using a cell phone or texting while working on a ride, show or in a game will have their phone confiscated. Confiscated cell phones will be given to the ride/game owner to hold until after the fair.
All games of skill must fully comply with Minnesota Statutes related to such games and, in every instance, must involve skill (not chance), must be fair and must provide the player with a reasonable opportunity to win. All games of skill must be attainable and possible for the player and game employee to win under the game rules from the player’s position. Licensees and their employees are to clearly explain all game rules and playing procedures when they are not fully understood by the player. If, after explanation, the player still does not understand, they should be discouraged from playing. It is easier to eliminate confusion by preventing guests from breaking the rules than it is to solve a problem after the rules have been broken.
The following general playing procedures shall also apply to all games of skill:
| Category Name | Size | Approx. Per Unit Cost (Including freight) | |
| Mini* | Less than 8” | $0.35 to $1.80 | |
| Small | 8” to 16” | $1.80 to $7.50 | |
| Medium | 16” to 24” | $7.50 to $16.75 | |
| Large | 24” to 32” | $16.75 to $32 | |
| Extra Large | 32” to 40” | $32 to $45.50 | |
| Jumbo | 40” to 48” | $45.50 to $60 | |
| Super Jumbo | 48”+ | $60 to $70 | |
| Choice** |
The Minnesota State Fair may have additional specific operation requirements for certain types of games of skill.
Game personnel are to clearly explain all game rules and playing procedures when they are not fully understood by the player. If, after explanation, the player still does not understand, they should be discouraged from playing. It is easier to eliminate confusion by preventing guests from breaking the rules than it is to solve a problem after the rules have been broken.
“Customer satisfaction should be guaranteed!”
(See prohibited Merchandise and Prizes)
The Minnesota State Fair name, logos and graphics are protected under U.S. trademark law. Use of the name “Minnesota State Fair,” the words “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” the State Fair’s logos, color scheme or any other aspect of the State Fair’s graphics program is forbidden without the written consent of the State Fair. For further details regarding the State Fair graphics program and associated fees learn more on our logos & trademarks page.
Sound systems (e.g., loudspeakers, amplifiers, radios, broadcasting devices and music systems) may not be used or operated unless permission is first obtained from the State Fair and, if approved, will be controlled as to volume levels, operation hours, location and manner of operation. If sound system use is approved, speakers must be aimed down and into the licensee’s attraction and area of operation. No sirens, bells or horns may be used on attractions. The maximum allowable sound level is 85 decibels; all attractions will be checked daily for proper decibel levels and sound quality. In addition, approved sound systems must be kept at volume levels that do not disturb normal business at adjoining attractions, concessions and exhibits or activities in adjacent public space, regardless of whether the sound meets decibel level requirements. State Fair management discretion will be final in all such circumstances, and they reserve the right to revoke permission to use sound systems if these provisions are not observed. (If you would like to use sound equipment of any kind, check with the appropriate Midway staff for approval and further details regarding proper operation methods, hours and decibel levels.)
Demonstrations, “pitches” or use of “grind tapes” will not be allowed unless specifically approved by the Minnesota State Fair with respect to time, place, manner, content and sound volume.
Space is available for a limited number of living quarters units (i.e., trailers, motor homes, campers, bunk house units and other types of approved living quarters). A fee of $40 per unit per night, including tax, will be charged for each space, regardless of the type of unit occupying the space. This fee includes electrical service (50 amp, 110 volt, single phase), water and sewer service access. An additional fee will be charged to those who need electrical service in excess of the preceding. Standard space width is 15 feet. Units exceeding 15 feet in width will be charged for additional space. Locations for all living quarters units will be designated by the State Fair. No person under age 18 shall be allowed to register for or occupy living quarters space unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
For the safety and dignity of Mighty Midway and Kidway employees, all employees must be housed in proper living quarters acceptable to and approved by the State Fair. Living or sleeping on, in or under rides, in games or concessions, in tents, automobiles or in stock or storage trucks/trailers will not be permitted in the Midway/Kidway area. Housing areas will be monitored by Minnesota State Fair Midway Operations staff for living quarters acceptability. Compliance with OABA Portable Workforce Housing Guidelines is recommended. No dogs or other pets are allowed on the State Fairgrounds.
A living quarters registration form is provided to operators. Living quarters sites will be made available on a “first-returned, first- reserved, if available” basis.
Any towing or towed vehicles unable to be acceptably parked on living quarters sites must be parked as designated by Midway Guest and Operator Relations staff.
Licensees should advise those delivering their equipment and attractions to access the fairgrounds via Snelling Avenue (State Highway 51) to Como Avenue; west on Como Avenue six-tenths of a mile to the Canfield gate (#14); turn right into the fairgrounds and proceed straight ahead to the Mighty Midway.
If you are having equipment or merchandise shipped for use at the State Fair, please have one of your employees at the fairgrounds to accept delivery. If it is impossible for you or your representative to be here, have the cartage company hold your shipment(s) for you at its local office until you or your representative contact them with an exact location, date and time when you will be at the fairgrounds to take delivery. The State Fair cannot accept your deliveries.
All deliveries must be made between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. through the Transitway, west of the Canfield Gate (#14) off Como Avenue. No on-grounds deliveries will be allowed by motorized vehicles between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. any day of the fair. All vehicles must complete their deliveries and be off the streets and out of the barricaded areas by 8 a.m. On Labor Day, no delivery vehicles will be allowed inside barricaded areas of the fairgrounds between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. (See Wholesale Permits)
Entry to the fairgrounds for all Mighty Midway and Kidway licensees holding proper credentials and valid admission tickets shall be permitted throughout the day only at the Transitway entry west of the Canfield gate (#14) off Como Avenue. This service entry is open 24 hours a day and is designated strictly for non-public use by service vehicles. Persons on foot must enter at the Canfield gate (#14). (See Midway Vehicle Permits)
If you see trash on the ground, pick it up and dispose of it properly. Trash removal and sanitation services will be provided for setup and teardown from Monday, Aug. 5 through Friday, Sept. 6.
Licensees are required to keep their attractions, concessions and support equipment, plus the areas surrounding their equipment, in a clean, sanitary condition at all times by removing any refuse and placing it in centralized trash vats located throughout Mighty Midway and Kidway. Licensees are responsible for sweeping and raking the area in, under and around their attraction(s), and removing debris to a trash vat at the close of each business day. State Fair sanitation crews will remove debris from Mighty Midway and Kidway, and flush or mechanically sweep the areas at night.
Licensees may not deposit any refuse or empty any fluid waste, water or other liquids onto the ground or into the street or gutter. Fluids (not grease and oil) and waste water must be discharged into approved sanitary sewer systems only.
Moving public trash barrels and recycling containers is prohibited without authorization. Contact the Midway Office for the location of the trash disposal point nearest your attraction.
The State Fair has recycling stations throughout the fairgrounds for disposal of clean, dry cardboard, metal containers and non-petroleum grease, oil and fat (by-products of food preparation). All such materials must contain no other trash, paper or food waste and must be deposited at these locations only (not into trash cans, garbage vats or sewers, in the street or on the ground).
Empty boxes must be collapsed, removed from the Mighty Midway or Kidway immediately and placed flat in the appropriate recycling containers. Metal containers should be rinsed clean, have all labels removed and be crushed before being placed in recycling containers.
Petroleum grease and oil, old tires, etc. must be properly disposed of, not into trash cans, garbage vats, sewers, streets or onto the ground.
Contact the Midway Office for the location of the recycling station and trash disposal point nearest your attraction.
In the event of an emergency (accident, incident, crisis, fire, etc.), immediately contact both the Midway Office (651-288- 4491) and the appropriate emergency service(s) at the telephone number(s) listed below:
All incidents and/or injuries of any type must be reported to the Midway Office immediately with a written report filed by the licensee and/or their employee(s) involved in or who witness same.
In order to prevent the conception or spread of misinformation, it is essential that all information given to the media comes from a single source. Never speculate or repeat rumors. As a ride or game owner/operator or concessionaire, you may speak on behalf of your business. However, you may not speak or post on social media on behalf of the Minnesota State Fair. All media personnel and inquiries should be directed to the marketing department’s media relations team at media@mnstatefair.org or 651-288-4321.
If you are approached by media representatives who are not escorted by a fair representative, please remain friendly and courteous as you offer to call the fair’s media relations team to assist them, but do not attempt to answer their questions or speculate as to the specifics of a circumstance. Also, do not let the media interfere with guests or the operation of an attraction; call the Midway Office immediately and a fair media relations staff member will make arrangements to respond to their inquiry.
The State Fair provides guest relations and information facilities at Mighty Midway as a service to fair guests and Midway personnel. Kidway guests should be referred to the Kidway Operations office. Any requests for assistance, comments, complaints or questions should be referred to Midway Guest Relations or Kidway Operations.
The State Fair provides medical assistance at First Aid West (across from West End Market at 1834 Dan Patch Ave.) and basic first aid at First Aid East (outside the northwest corner of the 4-H Building at 1424 Cosgrove St.). Walk-in treatment is available at First Aid West from 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. each day and First Aid East from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day. In case of an emergency after hours, dial 911 or 9-911 from a State Fair phone.
All posted traffic and parking restrictions are in effect year-round. Parking is prohibited on all streets and in public parking lots between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. For the locations of overnight and long-term parking, as well as off-site parking for empty trucks and trailers, check with the Midway Office.
Only golf carts or similar delivery vehicles authorized and permitted by the State Fair may be used on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. No such privately owned vehicles are allowed on the Mighty Midway or Kidway. (See Rule 1.09 – Two-wheeled and track-vehicles)
During the fair, vehicle parking and traffic in certain areas within the fairgrounds will be restricted during certain hours each day or prohibited without special permit. (See Deliveries During the Fair and Permits)
A number of public parking lots are located around the State Fairgrounds. No specially designated on-grounds parking area is set aside for licensees and their employees. Visit our on-site parking page for pricing information regarding parking in State Fair public lots. (See Gate Admission and Vendor Parking)
Free parking with free bus service to and from the fairgrounds is provided through the State Fair’s network of Park & Ride lots. Licensees and their employees (living off-grounds) are encouraged to use this free service. Visit our transportation page for more information on transportation to and from the fair.
Only those living in the Midway area may obtain a Midway vehicle permit for parking in the Midway or Kidway area. All others must park in the general public parking lots on-grounds (not the Midway area) and pay applicable fees for personal and vehicle admission.
As parking lots fill, gates will close to vehicles, or they may be directed to another gate where access to parking may still be available. Vehicles are placed in parking spaces during the State Fair at the owner’s risk.
(See Permits and Appendix A – Promotions)
The State Fair operates an Employment Center that is a resource for potential job applicants. If you need employees, please call 651-288-4475, or email joborders@mnstatefair.org or visit our employment page.
The Employment Center operates in full compliance with federal and state laws. Persons registering for work are referred without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability (physical, mental or sensory) citizenship status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, being a member of a local human rights commission, receiving public assistance or familial status.
EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
The provisions of the Minnesota Fair Labor Standards Act cover all persons employed at the State Fair. For further information regarding wages, labor laws, etc., contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry at Labor Standards Division, 443 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155; by phone at 651-284-5005 or 800-342-5354; or visit www.doli.state.mn.us.
The State Fair operates an “all pay” outside gate. Your employees will be held responsible for their admission to the fairgrounds each day. Licensees must provide employees with tickets of admission or monetary reimbursement to cover this cost, in addition to their regular rate of pay, to ensure employee pay of at least the minimum wage. (See Gate Admission and Vendor Parking)
In an effort to maintain a safe environment for fair guests, the Minnesota State Fair encourages all employers to conduct annual pre-employment national criminal background checks, including sexual offense registrations, as well as annual pre-employment and random employee drug tests, by certified contractors. The State Fair may verify such checks/testing.
Minnesota law does not require an employer to provide a specific amount of employee break time, but employers are required by law to allow an employee to use the nearest restroom once every four hours and sufficient time to eat a meal once every eight hours. Breaks of less than 20 minutes must be paid. Breaks of 20 minutes or more are considered to be on the employee’s time and do not require compensation.
Employees who quit must be paid within the following pay period, not to exceed a total of 20 calendar days after the employee’s final day of employment. Employees who are fired must be paid within 24 hours. (See Minnesota Statute 181.14)
Licensees must apply equal employment policies to all U.S. and foreign workers with respect to working conditions and employee work rules, and pay their employees no less than the applicable minimum wage for all hours worked. Employee pay in a given work week must meet the minimum wage rate regardless of the method of compensation. Hours worked include training time, waiting time, rest periods of less than 20 minutes and other time the employee must be at work. This includes “on-call time” (i.e., any time an employee is required to remain on the employer’s premises or so close that the employee cannot use the time effectively for their own purposes).
Please refer to federal and state guidelines regarding minimum wage laws and contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry with specific questions regarding employee wages.
The State Fair has its own telephone system and offers complete telecommunications service, including installation and repair. If you are interested in telephone service, complete the phone & data services application. If you have questions or additional telephone needs, please call 651-288-4457.
The UPS Store off the fairgrounds is located at 2355 Fairview Ave., Roseville, across from the Rosedale Mall. Please contact them at 651-635-0636.
All items lost or found on the fairgrounds should be turned in to the Midway Office or the information booth located at Mighty Midway. Items will then be forwarded to Lost & Found on West Dan Patch Avenue, across from West End Market. To claim items, visit Lost & Found (hours are 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., 10 p.m. on Labor Day) or contact the office at 651-288-4555 or lostandfound@mnstatefair.org., across from West End Market.
Care & Assistance is located next to First Aid on West Dan Patch Avenue, across from West End Market. Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (8 p.m. Labor Day). Care & Assistance is the central meeting point for people of any age who are separated from their group; lost children and vulnerable adults are taken here to be reconnected with their guardians. If you or your employees encounter lost individuals, please contact Midway Guest Relations or Kidway Operations. Nursing and infant care facilities, free ID wristbands and wheelchair battery charging are also available.
Opening Day features reduced gate admission for all ages. All-day discounts will be offered at all Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, games and concessions.*
Service members and their families receive discounted admission at the gate by presenting proof of U.S. Military service. All-day discounts will be offered at all Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, games and concessions.*
Kids (age 5-12) receive discounted admission at the gate. All-day discounts will be offered at Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, games and concessions.*
Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, games and concessions will offer discounts every weekday during these hours.*
*During the promotion periods, the following adjustments will be made to all ride and show ticketing:
These promotions also include special deals at all Midway and Kidway games of skill and concessions.
Other promotions, discounts or ticket adjustments beyond the preceding are prohibited without the prior written consent of the State Fair.
As a convenience to Mighty Midway and Kidway licensees and their staff, the following services and amenities are available on the fairgrounds.
All rides, shows and games of skill will operate on a specified ticket basis requiring a specific ticket count for admission or play; the number of tickets shall be approved by the State Fair and conspicuously posted at each ride, show or game of skill location. The State Fair will provide all ticket signs for rides and shows at no cost to licensees. Skill game operators must provide their own ticket signs to State Fair specifications. (See Ticket Signs)
The State Fair shall furnish all equipment and sell all tickets for all rides, shows and games of skill, as well as provide all required ticket collection equipment (scanners) for each ride, show and game of skill, at no cost to licensees.
Ticket Values:
Computation of individual attraction gross revenues for the purpose of daily reconcilement between the State Fair and licensees shall be accomplished by electronic calculation of the tickets collected at each attraction to determine the total number taken and multiplying said count by the actual average ticket value of each ticket sold on the subject date. Actual average ticket value will be established each day by dividing the total of daily on-grounds ticket sales revenue by the total number of tickets sold of all denominations. Advance sale tickets will be reconciled based on their $.80 face value.
Licensees shall provide a ticket taker at each ride, show and game of skill who, upon receipt, shall promptly scan each ticket card for attraction admission or game play to accomplish ticket collection for attraction access and return the ticket card to the fair guest.
Electronic ticket collection scanners shall be consigned to licensees by a representative of the Minnesota State Fair for licensee use. Each day, at the close of business, the licensee will bring the scanners from their attraction(s) to the designated turn-in area, at which time fair representatives will provide a ticket collection receipt to the licensee for each scanner, and retain the scanner(s) for processing by ticket reconcilement staff. State Fair ticket staff will retain the ticket collection scanner and give it back to the licensee for continued use the following morning prior to Midway/Kidway opening.
Only those authorized by the fair and licensee will be permitted to have ticket collection scanners placed in their possession and produce same for reconcilement.
During ticket reconcilement, each scanner used for the preceding day’s business from a licensee’s attraction(s) shall be downloaded; the tickets contained therein will be deposited into the licensee’s account (fair-time from advance sale tickets) by State Fair staff and ticket reconcilement will occur, in succession, for each attraction.
Daily reconcilement reports for the preceding day will be available at the Midway Operations Office each day after 2 p.m., at which time Minnesota State Fair staff and the attraction licensee or their authorized representative shall review and accept the daily ticket reconcilement report for the subject period.
Game operators must turn in a daily game stock throw report form, provided by the State Fair, for each game they are licensed to present, at the time they receive their ticket reconcilement report(s) for the comparable period.
Checks as payment for attraction presentation, on the basis of tickets electronically redeemed to the State Fair, will be made payable only to licensees (as the name appears on their license for attraction presentation), unless the fair is otherwise advised in writing by the licensee. Such checks will be available for pickup by each licensee or their authorized representative at the Midway Office after 2 p.m. every fourth day of the fair, for the preceding three days’ business activity. Checks for the last three days of the fair will be available for pickup after 2 p.m. the day after the fair closes (Sept. 3, 2024) or will be mailed to licensees as agreed.
Note: It is important for each licensee to see that every ticket collected is deposited into their ticket collection account with the fair as promptly as possible to ensure an accurate reconcilement. Operators should also be aware of, and immediately report to Midway Operations staff, any electronic scanner malfunction.
Subdivision 1. Scope.
For the purposes of this chapter, the terms defined in this section have the meanings given them.
Subd. 2. Amusement ride.
“Amusement ride” means a mechanical device that carries or conveys passengers along, around, or over a fixed or restricted route or course for the purpose of giving its passengers amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement.
“Amusement ride” does not include:
(1) a coin-operated ride that is manually, mechanically, or electrically operated and customarily placed in a public location and that does not normally require the supervision or services of an operator; or
(2) nonmechanized playground equipment, including but not limited to swings, seesaws, stationary spring-mounted animal features, rider-propelled merry-go-rounds, climbers, playground slides, trampolines, and physical fitness devices.
Subd. 2a. Certified amusement ride inspector.
“Certified amusement ride inspector” means an individual who holds one or more of the following current certifications:
(1) a Level II Amusement Ride and Device Inspector certification issued by the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO);
(2) a Level III Amusement Ride and Device Inspector certification issued by the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO);
(3) a Level II Certified Maintenance Technician certification issued by the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers (AIMS) International;
(4) a Level III Certified Maintenance Professional certification issued by the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers (AIMS) International;
(5) a Level II Certified Operations Technician certification issued by the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers (AIMS) International; or
(6) a Level III Certified Operations Professional certification issued by the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers (AIMS) International.
Subd. 3. Commissioner.
“Commissioner” means the commissioner of labor and industry.
Subd. 4. Operator.
“Operator” means the individual having direct control of the starting, stopping, or speed control of an amusement ride.
Subd. 5. Owner.
“Owner” means a person who owns, leases, or manages the operation of an amusement ride.
Subd. 6. Rider.
(a) “Rider” means an individual who is in the immediate vicinity of an amusement ride, including an individual:
(1) waiting in the immediate vicinity of an amusement ride;
(2) getting on an amusement ride;
(3) on an amusement ride before, during, and after its operation;
(4) getting off an amusement ride; or
(5) leaving or approaching an amusement ride and in its immediate vicinity.
(b) “Rider” does not include:
(1) any operator while operating the amusement ride or any employees, agents, or servants of an operator while engaged in the duties of employment; or
(2) any owner or any employees, agents, or servants of an owner while engaged in the duties of employment.
History:
1992 c 382 s 1; 2007 c 95 s 1-4
No person shall operate an amusement ride unless there is an insurance policy in force, written by an insurance company authorized to do business in this state, with limits of not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, insuring all owners against liability for injury to a rider in connection with the amusement ride. Before an amusement ride is operated, an owner of the amusement ride must file with each sponsor, lessor, landowner, or other person who has contracted for the amusement ride to be offered to any riders a copy of the insurance policy or a certificate stating that the insurance required by this section is in effect.
The copy of the insurance policy, insurance certificate, or attached schedule shall identify each amusement ride included in the coverage by name, manufacturer, and serial number.
An owner of the amusement ride, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, must file with the commissioner a certificate stating the insurance required by this section is in effect. If the amusement ride is not operated on a continual year-round basis, an owner, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, must file the insurance certificate with the commissioner not later than 30 days before the first operation of the amusement ride in Minnesota in any calendar year. If the amusement ride is operated on a continual year-round basis, an owner, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, must file the insurance certificate with the commissioner not later than ten days after the effective date of the insurance.
History:
(a) The owner of an amusement ride must have a documented training policy for the operation of an amusement ride.
(b) The documented training policy must include, at a minimum:
(1) training on the amusement ride’s operating procedures;
(2) specific duties of assigned positions;
(3) general safety procedures, specific procedures to follow in the event of unusual conditions or an interruption of operations; and
(4) evacuation plans for the amusement ride.
(c) The ride owner must maintain a written certification for each person controlling the physical operation of an amusement ride that the person has received the training for the ride that is required by the documented training policy.
(d) A ride operator shall not operate or load and unload passengers on more than one amusement ride at a time.
History:
Subdivision 1.Annual inspections.
(a) An amusement ride must be inspected at least once annually by a certified amusement ride inspector. The certified amusement ride inspector must be either:
(1) an employee of the insurance company that insures the amusement ride; or
(2) an independent inspection service provider that the insurance company or owner, or the State Agricultural Society, has contracted with, or an employee of the independent inspection service provider. If the certified amusement ride inspector is not an employee or agent of the insurance company that insures the amusement ride, then the independent inspection service provider must, before performing the inspection, provide proof of liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 to the insurance company or owner, or the State Agricultural Society, with whom the independent service provider has contracted.
(b) Amusement rides that are not operated in Minnesota on a continual year-round basis must be inspected in the same calendar year and prior to July 1, or the first operation in Minnesota, whichever is earlier. Amusement rides that did not pass an inspection required by this section in the previous year must be inspected before being operated in Minnesota.
(c) If an inspection reveals that an amusement ride does not meet the current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices, F 846-92 and F 893-04, the insurer or independent inspection service provider must notify the owner of all defects.
(d) No person shall operate an amusement ride unless: (1) the amusement ride passed the most recent annual inspection required by this section; or (2) all defects identified during the most recent annual inspection have been corrected and the amusement ride passed a reinspection.
(e) All inspections and reinspections required by this section must include evaluation consistent with the current ASTM Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices, F 846-92 and F 893-04. All owners and operators must permit reasonable inspection of an amusement ride by the certified amusement ride inspector selected by the insurer or independent inspection service provider.
(f) The inspections required by this section are in addition to any other inspections required or permitted by law.
(g) Before the amusement ride is operated, an owner of an amusement ride must file with each sponsor, lessor, landowner, or other person who has contracted for the amusement ride to be offered to any riders an inspection affidavit attesting that the amusement ride passed the most recent inspection or reinspection required by this section. The inspection affidavit shall identify the amusement ride by name, manufacturer, and serial number, the date inspection was performed, and the inspector’s name and certification number.
(h) An owner of an amusement ride, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, must also file the affidavit of inspection with the commissioner not later than ten days after the completion of each inspection, required by this section, that the amusement ride passes.
Subd. 2.Daily inspections.
No person shall operate an amusement ride unless a daily inspection consistent with the current ASTM Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices, F 770-93, has been performed according to this section on the day of operation. At a minimum, an owner or operator who is 18 years of age or older, or certified amusement ride inspector shall perform the daily inspections required by ASTM Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices, F 770-93, sections 4.1.4.1 and 4.1.4.4, before the ride is put into operation that day. Other daily inspections required by ASTM Standards on Amusement Rides and Devices, F 770-93, sections 4.1.4.2 and 4.1.4.3, shall be performed by an owner or operator of the amusement ride or certified amusement ride inspector before the ride is put into operation that day. Each daily inspection shall be recorded in a daily logbook kept for each amusement ride. An owner of the amusement ride, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, shall maintain the record of daily inspections for a period of not less than three years, and shall make the record of daily inspections available to the commissioner upon request. An owner or operator shall not knowingly operate, or permit to be operated, an amusement ride that has not passed the most recent daily inspection.
Subd. 3.Inspection after alteration or modification.
An amusement ride that has been modified or altered in a manner that changes its dynamics or control system from the original manufacturer’s design or specification since its last annual inspection must be inspected by a certified amusement ride inspector before it may be operated.
Subd. 4.Inspection after serious injury or illness.
An amusement ride must be inspected by a certified amusement ride inspector and approved by the commissioner before it may be operated following a serious injury or illness involving the ride. A “serious injury or illness” has the meaning given it in section 184B.045.
Subd. 5.Availability for inspection.
The owner of an amusement ride must make the ride available for inspections at all reasonable times and places requested by the commissioner or a law enforcement agency.
History:
1992 c 382 s 3; 2007 c 95 s 7; 2020 c 98 s 4,5
An operator must file with each sponsor, lessor, landowner, or other person responsible for an amusement ride being offered for use by the public:
(1) a certificate stating that the insurance required by section 184B.02 is in effect; and
(2) an affidavit attesting that the inspection required by section 184B.03 has been performed.
History:
(a) An owner, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, shall maintain a first-aid incident report log for all rider injuries or illnesses resulting from the operation of an amusement ride, other than minor injuries or illnesses. The recorded information shall include the following:
(1) date the injury or illness occurred;
(2) name, address, and telephone number of the rider receiving emergency health care service or treatment;
(3) age of the rider;
(4) manufacturer’s name and serial number of the amusement ride involved in the incident or illness;
(5) description of the injury or illness;
(6) description of the first-aid service or treatment administered; and
(7) any other pertinent information.
(b) An owner, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, shall maintain the first-aid incident report log for a period of not less than three years, and shall make the first-aid incident report log available to the commissioner upon request. An owner of an amusement ride, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, shall provide a report to the commissioner and a local law enforcement agency of any accident or incident arising from the use or operation of an amusement ride resulting in serious rider injury or illness. The accident involving the serious injury or illness must be investigated by the local law enforcement agency or the commissioner. A serious injury or illness is an injury or illness that results in death, dismemberment, disfigurement, compound fracture, or permanent loss of the use of a body organ, member, function, or system, or that requires hospital admission within 24 hours of the accident or incident.
History:
Each owner of an amusement ride, or the State Agricultural Society on its behalf, shall cooperate with the commissioner and shall, upon the commissioner’s request, provide information to the commissioner regarding the operation of the amusement ride. When the commissioner requests information about the operation of an amusement ride, the commissioner shall identify a reasonable time limit for a response to the request.
History:
A county attorney in a county in which an amusement ride is operated may obtain an injunction or other equitable relief against an actual or threatened violation of this chapter.
History:
1992 c 382 s 7; 2007 c 95 s 10
A ride operator, owner, the State Agricultural Society, a sponsor, lessor, landowner, or other person who has contracted for the amusement ride to be offered to any riders may impose and enforce reasonable safety rules regarding the behavior of riders. An operator, owner, the State Agricultural Society, a sponsor, lessor, landowner, or other person who has contracted for the amusement ride to be offered to any riders, or its agents, may prohibit a person from riding a ride or may remove a rider from a ride for violations of those rules.
History:
184B.09 COMMISSIONER ORDER.
The commissioner may issue an order requiring an amusement ride operator to cease operation of a ride if the commissioner finds that a ride is unsafe to operate.
History:
Subd. 1. Definitions.
“Commercial use” does not include use of an inflatable (i) at a carnival, festival, fair, private party, or similar venue at a location other than the permanently located facility, or (ii) at a facility where the use of the inflatable is incidental to the primary use of the facility.
Subd. 2. Prohibition. No owner shall provide an inflatable for commercial use in this state by others unless the owner complies with this section.
Subd. 3. Protection against injuries from falls. An inflatable that is in commercial use must be placed in a manner that complies with ASTM Standard F 2374.07, adopted by the American Society for Testing and Materials, including any future updates to that standard.
Subd. 4. Supervision by trained person required. No owner of an inflatable shall allow commercial use of the inflatable unless a trained supervisor is present in close proximity to the inflatable and is actively supervising its use. The ratio of supervisors to inflatables must comply with ASTM Standard F 2374.07, as referenced under subdivision 3.
Subd. 5. Insurance required; waiver of liability limited. (a) An owner of an inflatable that is subject to subdivision 2 shall maintain liability insurance covering liability for a death or injury resulting from commercial use of the inflatable with limits of no less than $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate per year. The insurance shall also include medical payments coverage of no less than $5,000 per occurrence, which may be limited to injuries incurred while using an inflatable, including getting on or off of the inflatable. The insurance must be issued by an insurance company authorized to issue the coverage in this state by the commissioner of commerce, and must be kept in force during the entire period of registration. In the event of a policy cancellation, the insurer will send written notice to the commissioner of labor and industry at the same time that a cancellation request is received from or a notice is sent to the insured.
A waiver of liability signed by or on behalf of a minor for injuries arising out of the negligence of the owner or the owner’s employee or designee is void.
Subd. 6. Registration required. An owner of an inflatable that is subject to subdivision 2 must obtain and maintain a current registration with the commissioner of labor and industry. The registration information must include the name, address, telephone number, an e-mail address of the owner, the street address of each facility at which the owner regularly provides inflatables for commercial use in this state by others, and a current insurance certificate coverage proving full compliance with subdivision 5. The commissioner shall issue and renew a certificate of registration only to owners who comply with this section. The commissioner shall charge a registration fee of $100 for a two-year registration designed to cover the cost of registration and enforcement. Fee receipts must be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the construction code fund. The registration certificate shall be issued and renewed for a two-year period. The registrant shall promptly notify the commissioner in writing of any changes in the registration information required in this subdivision.
Subd. 7. Enforcement. The commissioner of labor and industry shall enforce this section and may use for that purpose section 326B.082 and any powers otherwise available to the commissioner for enforcement purposes, including suspension or revocation of the person’s registration and assessment of fines.
History: 2010 c 347 art 3 s 2
In accordance with requirements of Minnesota Statute 299f.011, the fire marshal and fire code, compliance with the following measures is required.
