FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2005

The New York City Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and Department of Buildings (DOB) today kicked off the summer season with a reminder for ride operators and event organizers: all rides at popular street fairs, block parties, and carnivals need to be licensed and safe. DCA and DOB are inspecting amusement rides at events citywide throughout the summer to prevent serious safety risks. DCA will also post a list of licensed rides online at www.nyc.gov/consumers. The announcement was made at St. Athanasius Church in Brooklyn, where rides got a full inspection in preparation for its annual week-long carnival fair and feast.

Temporary rides including, but not limited to, Ferris Wheels, Swings, Tilt-a-Whirls, and Carousels, that are erected for each special event, street fair or block party must be licensed by the DCA and pass inspection by the DOB's Elevator Division each time they relocate. Operators of popular inflatable bouncers and slides, like the Moonwalk or Super Slide, must also be licensed and comply with standard manufacturer's safety requirements, as well as properly secure each ride. So far this season, the DCA has processed more than 160 applications for temporary and inflatable rides at street fairs, carnivals, or block parties. DOB inspectors will perform more than 2,000 total inspections during the amusement park/carnival season, including unannounced spot checks. DCA and DOB have improved efficiencies, and beginning this summer season, will process license applications and inspections within 12 days before an event, instead of the previously required 15.

“Street fairs and block parties are New York summer pastimes, but rides need to be licensed, safe, and secure,” said Consumer Affairs Acting Commissioner Jonathan Mintz. “Getting a license is easier than ever, and provides both parents and event organizers with peace of mind that rides have been inspected and are insured. Operators can get license applications by calling 311 or by going online.”

“Last year, the amusement ride season was both fun and safe, thanks to the cooperation of the rider vendors and operators, and the agencies that regulate them – the Department of Buildings and the Department of Consumer Affairs. We hope to get this year off to another great, safe start so that everyone can enjoy New York City’s street fairs, block parties and carnivals,” said Buildings Commissioner Patricia J. Lancaster, FAIA.

“We share the same common goal of making the industry safer; and licensing rides helps ensures that,” said Scott Weisberg of R.O.A.R. (Responsible Operators of Amusement Rentals), and owner of Scott's Magic and Entertainment Company. “It’s crucial that ride operators be licensed, trained, insured, and tether equipment properly.”

All operators for portable amusement rides are required to have a one-year license from the DCA and carry appropriate insurance. Truck-mounted rides must pass inspection by the DOB's Elevator Division. Operators who operate without a license face maximum penalties of $100 per day of unlicensed activity, and rides without a license must be taken down.

Complete license applications, and safety tips from the DOB, are available by calling 311 within New York City, 212-NEW-YORK outside, or on the DCA web site at www.nyc.gov/consumers. The Mayor's Community Assistance Unit (CAU) issues permits for street fairs and block parties throughout the City, and more information can be found at www.nyc.gov/cau.

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