In California temporary amusement rides operating throughout the state each week. In order for these rides to operate each ride must have been inspected; and receive a valid permit for the current year to operate. This permit is issued by the office of the Division of Occupational Safety and Health, Amusement Ride Section.

As the 2008 temporary amusement ride season starts we would like to request your assistance and support. When festivals and events occur in your area involving amusement rides we request that you notify the ride owner/operators, prior to the event, that each ride must have a valid permit to operate.

The permits are attached to the ride, as are automobile registration tabs. The expiration date is located on the permit. After that date the permit is no longer valid, it must be attached to the ride for which it was issued. If it’s not there, the ride has no permit. There is one exception to the permit date: On or before March 1, 2008, all rides owners must submit an application to the Division. Once received an owner is allowed to operatue using last year's permit until the Division can schedule an inspection.  This is only allowed as long as the current permit is not a temporary blue permit.

All simulators, orbitrons, space balls, whirlybirds and bungee jumping operations (conventional or reverse) are also considered temporary amusement rides and require permits. We do not inspect inflatable, climbing walls and fun houses.

All known rides and ride owners are listed in our data base. During business hours you are welcome to call the office to verify that the status of any rides. We will need the name of the owner and list of the rides. Your cooperation and assistance is greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions please contact my office in Sacramento listed below.  Additional information can be found at www.dir.ca.gov/DOSH/amusement rides.htm  or contact:

Nancy Medeiros, Senior Engineer
Division of Occupational Safety, Amusement Ride Section
State of California - Department of Industrial Relations
2424 Arden Way, Suite 340
Sacramento, CA 95825
(916) 263-3511
(915) 263-3576 FAX