Ohio Regulatory Update

Dear Operators,

We’re reaching out to provide important updates regarding the regulation of challenge courses and zip lines in Ohio.

Recently, our organization was informed of some confusion within the community following a letter sent by the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) Amusement Ride Safety Division. To help ensure our community has the correct information, we contacted the ODA for clarification. We appreciate the ODA’s time and effort in providing detailed background information and guidance.

Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Background: In 2010, conversations began regarding the regulation of zip lines in Ohio. At that time, the ODA was unable to formally recognize ACCT standards under existing law. As a result, zip lines operated under an exemption for several years. Following the development of the 03-2016 ANSI/ACCT standards, the ODA began considering these standards as a recognized standard. Simultaneously, the ASTM standards remained a primary reference point, especially for aerial and indoor courses.

• Current Status: There have been no recent rule changes to the Ohio amusement ride regulations. However, the ODA has been regulating ropes and challenge courses that they have been made aware of for several years. The recent letters sent to some facilities were not blanket notifications to the entire industry. They were targeted communications sent to facilities identified as operating without the necessary permits. The goal of these letters is to encourage compliance, not to shut down operations.

• Next Steps for Facilities:

  • If you received a letter from the ODA, it means your facility was identified as needing a permit.

  • The process begins with a site visit by ODA inspectors to:

    • Verify substantial compliance with ACCT or ASTM standards (including reviewing historical inspection records).

    • Determine permit requirements and associated costs based on the unique layout of each course.

    • Assess staffing needs for efficient inspections.

  • Facilities will need to provide documentation such as past inspections and proof of insurance.

  • An annual arborist report will now be requested for courses that use trees as structural elements to ensure ongoing safety.

  • Some additional requirements, such as fencing or barrier updates, may be discussed during the site visit.

Permitting Timeline:
After the site visit, facilities can register with the ODA, upload the required insurance, and request an inspection. Once an inspection is complete and all requirements are satisfied, the facility will be issued a permit and may continue operations.

Important: Third-party inspections alone do not replace the need for a state permit. Facilities must complete the ODA’s permitting process prior to continuing operation.

We appreciate the ODA’s willingness to work collaboratively with facilities to help them meet the necessary requirements without unnecessary disruption to their business. Their focus is on ensuring public safety while supporting operators through the transition.

If you have any questions about your specific facility or the permitting process, please reach out directly to the Ohio Department of Agriculture Amusement Ride Safety Division via e-mail at ridesafety@agri.ohio.gov. They are ready and willing to assist.