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This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and universities.

Chapter 901:9-2 | Concession Licenses

 
 
 
Rule
Rule 901:9-2-01 | Definitions.
 

(A) "Agent" means any person who is employed, whether or not paid in any manner, by a concessionaire to work in any game or novelty stand at a fair.

(B) "Amusement" means an entertainment that is applied to activities, where no prize or where equal prizes are given by the operator/agent to each participant, whether or not the object is accomplished. An example may include, but is not limited to, electronic amusement games, or any pleasurable activity where a player places a stake, in the anticipation of little or no reward.

(C) "Concession" means any show, game, or novelty stand operation at a fair or exposition.

(D) "Concessionaire" means any person who owns, operates, or leases a concession and has obtained a license from the department.

(E) "Department" means the Ohio department of agriculture.

(F) "Director" means the director of the Ohio department of agriculture.

(G) "Fair" means the annual exposition conducted by any county or independent agricultural society or the Ohio expositions commission.

(H) "Electronic Amusement Game" means a non-gambling game that employs electronics to create an interactive system with which only a single player can play, of which the outcome is predominantly determined by the skill of the player and for which a prize is awarded.

(I) "Group games" are those games where the skill of one or more players is pitted against the skills of other players playing the same game simultaneously.

(J) "Inspector" means any person employed by the department or under contract with the department, the director or the director's designee, assigned to work at county or independent fairs or the Ohio state fair for the purpose of inspecting games, shows, concessions, and sales of novelties.

(K) "Novelty" means any items for sale that list the fair's name and/or logo and are approved for souvenir sale by the county or independent agricultural society or by the Ohio expositions commission.

(L) "Novelty stand" means a location at a fair from which novelties are sold.

(M) "Person" means any individual, partnership, corporation or agent of the same, acting either individually, or as a group, in any manner covered by this chapter.

(N) "Player" means any person who plays a game at a fair whether or not he is attempting to win a prize.

(O) "Prize" means any item won by a player of a game at a fair upon completion of some task.

(P) "Show" means an exhibition or demonstrative display but not a grandstand or other fair-sponsored event.

(Q) "Trade up games" are those games where a prize that was awarded for a win at one tier may be combined to trade up for a prize at another tier.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 9:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 1/3/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 8/6/1990, 8/18/2000
Rule 901:9-2-02 | General provisions.
 

(A) No concession shall be permitted at a fair which does not meet with the approval of the inspector, the designated official of the fair board, and/or the Ohio expositions commission.

(B) False or misleading advertising in writing, orally, or otherwise is prohibited by any concessionaire or its agent.

(C) Every concessionaire shall be responsible for all the actions of his agent while the agent is working a concession at a fair.

(D) No person shall interfere with any inspector in the performance of his lawful duties of inspection.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:35 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 4/6/2009
Rule 901:9-2-03 | Licenses.
 

(A) No person shall operate any concession at any fair without first obtaining a license from the department.

(B) One license shall be required for each separate game at a fair. More than one unit may be included under one location as long as all of the units of play are in the same location, and are not separate from each other by any wall, canvas, or other partition.

(C) Licenses issued under the authority of section 1711.11 of the Revised Code are not transferable. The license for each concession shall be issued only to the owner or lessee of the concession. A licensee who permits another individual to use the license issued to a licensee in a concession not owned or leased by the licensee shall be held in violation of section 1711.11 of the Revised Code.

(D) Every novelty stand must have a separate license.

(E) The license of every concession must be conspicuously posted in the concession while the concession is in operation.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:35 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 9/2/2005
Rule 901:9-2-04 | Prizes.
 

(A) All prizes which can be won must be displayed at all times while the game is open to the public for play.

(B) In no case shall:

(1) An item be given as a prize which is not on display:

(2) Any merchandise be displayed which is not one of the prizes possible to be won during the play of the game; and

(3) Any concessionaire or agent buy back any prize for money, cash, check or like payment from a player at a fair.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:35 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/20/1988, 8/6/1990, 8/18/2000
Rule 901:9-2-05 | Signage requirements.
 

(A) At all times while in operation, every game operated at a fair shall have a sign conspicuously posted that is easily visible to both the player and any prospective player and at no time be obstructed by any object contained in the unit and states all of the following:

(1) The price of play;

(2) How the game is played; and

(3) Exactly what is required of the player in order to win each prize offered.

(B) The sign required by paragraph (A) of this rule must be professionally printed, non-handwritten and is:

(1) At least two feet in width;

(2) At least two feet in length;

(3) Permanently affixed to the unit;

(4) All words are at a minimum of one inch in height; and

(5) The price of play may be handwritten so long as it is legible, easily read, and at least one inch in height.

(C) All trade up games must have the following statement on their sign: "THIS GAME REQUIRES NO MORE THAN FIVE WINS TO WIN ANY PRIZE."

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:35 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 3/23/2017
Rule 901:9-2-06 | Trade up games.
 

(A) Except for paragraph (B) of this rule, no combination of prizes, articles, tickets, numbers or money may be exchanged for other prizes.

(B) In trade up games, a player may accumulate up to five wins in order to win the prize of the player's choice.

(C) In trade up games, only one price of play is allowed.

(D) Each level of prize must be plainly marked as to the number of wins required.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:36 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 12/23/1986, 6/20/1988
Rule 901:9-2-07 | Prohibited games.
 

(A) No game shall be permitted that:

(1) Is considered gambling or a game of chance;

(2) Either by its design or by its operation, is controlled by the operator to the extent that the outcome of the game is determined either partially or entirely;

(3) The outcome depends upon the word of the operator against the word of the player;

(4) Hidden numbers are used; or

(5) Includes any mechanical or physical devise which directly or indirectly impedes, impairs, or thwarts the skill of the player.

(B) The following games are prohibited games:

(1) Corn game, bingo, keno, bean game, amazo, and any other such game;

(2) Dial striker (hand binger);

(3) Electric shuffle board;

(4) Climbing man game (run by electricity);

(5) Wheels of all kinds;

(6) Duck pond, using hidden numbers and/or colors, or add-up game with a mirrored bottom;

(7) Roll downs (tip-ups), beef roll, or bottle roll downs (i.e., soda pop bottles, beer bottles, etc.);

(8) Add-a-ball;

(9) Devil's bowling alley or roll-a-ball alley and three-pin bowling alley;

(10) Marble trivoli, roll-down gum game;

(11) English pool;

(12) String game;

(13) Spot the spot or cover the spot;

(14) Jingle board;

(15) Swing ball game;

(16) Slot machine;

(17) Circular dart game, poker dart game, or swinging dart game;

(18) Novelty dart shooting game;

(19) Watch-a-la;

(20) Clothes pin and pin games with slanting pins or hidden numbers;

(21) Punch boards;

(22) Knife racks having curved pegs for merchandise prizes;

(23) Country store wheels;

(24) Ringing live ducks;

(25) Poly-poly boards;

(26) Shell game;

(27) Hurdle ladder game;

(28) Cone and baseball game;

(29) Coin and ten-pin game;

(30) Pop-em-in the bucket game;

(31) Red, white, and blue ball game;

(32) Tumbler game;

(33) Short-range shooting gallery;

(34) Money pitch for money;

(35) Ping-pong drop-em-in ball game;

(36) Big Tom game;

(37) Grab bags or pick-outs;

(38) Penny fall games and/or all pusher-type games; and,

(39) Five-pin bowling game.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:36 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 8/6/1990
Rule 901:9-2-08 | Games: rules of play.
 

(A) All rules of play issued by the department must be followed.

(B) In any game, the concessionaire or agent may designate a physical line or barrier a certain distance from the target behind which the players must stand to play the game, thus preventing the agent from judging the validity of the play. In all cases, leaning over the physical line or barrier shall be permitted.

(C) No sign stating that a player must stand straight shall be allowed.

(D) If a game is trailer mounted, the inspector will determine the height of the base on which the game is set.

(E) Concessionaire or agents must have a tool on hand which can demonstrate the angle of a game element if a rule in this chapter establishes a specific angle.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:36 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 12/23/1986, 8/1/1993
Rule 901:9-2-09 | Ball and bag tossing games.
 

(A) In any game at a fair in which balls or other objects are rolled or slid on a platform of any kind, the platform shall be level laterally, unwarped, and have no obstruction of any kind between the players and the targets. Balls must be round, solid and firm.

(B) Basketball-type games. Games resembling basketball, but having rims or hoops with an inside diameter of less, or greater than, eighteen inches. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The difference between the inside diameter of the rim and the outside diameter of the ball is no less than three and one-quarter inches;

(2) Rims are circular;

(3) Rim size is posted on the backboard;

(4) The game is not called basketball; and

(5) The ball's air pressure is within the manufacturer's recommended air pressure. If the ball does not have an air pressure recommended by the manufacturer or the manufacturer's air pressure can not be located, the ball's air pressure should be between 7.0 to 9.0 psi at the time of play.

(C) Basketball games. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The basket or hoop is ten feet high and has an inside diameter of eighteen inches;

(2) A regulation-size basketball with a minimum circumference of twenty-nine and one-half inches and a maximum of thirty inches, with a weight minimum of twenty ounces and maximum of twenty-two ounces is used for play; and

(3) The ball's air pressure is within the manufacturer's recommended air pressure. If the ball does not have an air pressure recommended by the manufacturer or the manufacturer's air pressure can not be located, the ball's air pressure should be between 7.0 to 9.0 psi at the time of play.

(D) Football toss and similar games. Operators of this game, where a tire or hole is used as a target, shall provide:

(1) Regulation-size footballs or similar objects to be thrown;

(2) A target clearance of at least one inch measured from the largest part of the football or other object on one side; and

(3) No obstruction between the player and target.

(E) Pan ball or box ball game. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The game is operated in a level position at all times;

(2) The use of rubber, plastic or cork balls is prohibited. However, a plastic ball with holes (wiffle ball) may be used; and

(3) The table or stand supporting the pans or boxes does not exceed three feet in height from the ground.

(F) Ping pong ball fish bowl game. The table or stand supporting the fish bowls shall not exceed four feet in height from the ground. The width of the opening of the fish bowl shall be such that there will be not less than one inch from center position of the ball on one side.

(G) Pop bottle ball game, bottle tip-em-over. who desire to operate with four bottles and two balls may play in a similar fashion.

(1) The operators of these style games shall:

(a) Keep bottles at least twelve inches from any obstruction so bottles are free to fall over at all times;

(b) Place bottles side by side in an upright position, bottom down, on the supporting platform parallel with the front of the game;

(c) Ensure that a leather-covered ball, approximately the same diameter as a baseball and weighing no less than one and one-half ounces is tossed underhand; and

(d) Not wax any boards.

(2) In order to win, a player may throw one ball and knock both bottles over.

(3) Operators who desire to operate with four bottles and two balls may play in a similar fashion.

(H) Roll-a-game. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The board is rigidly mounted, level laterally, and unwarped with no obstructions which could cause the ball to jump;

(2) All slots or holes are in an even row at the back of the board and not staggered;

(3) The balls are solid and round at all times;

(4) The slope of the board does not exceed one inch per foot of board length; and

(5) All openings or slots are of the same width.

(I) Clown pop-em-in, stars, lion's mouth, and similar games. This game shall have at least one-half of an inch clearance on one side of the ball, and the target not over six feet in distance from the front barrier. Motion of the game will be permitted if constant and not erratic. The approval by the director or his designee is required for a moving target.

(J) Huckla buck kegs, milk can or similar game. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) These games are set on a frame and always kept level;

(2) Rubber and/or plastic balls are not used;

(3) A clearance of at least three-quarters of an inch is present between the opening of the kegs in huckla buck, milk can or similar games; and

(4) At least a four-foot clearance from any obstructions above or around the cans.

(K) Milk bottle ball game.

(1) The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(a) All bottles are free from defects, weigh less than three pounds, and each set of bottles is uniform in size;

(b) The base on which the bottles sit is at least eighteen inches from the ground and at least six feet from the front barrier;

(c) The front barrier is not higher than the base on which the bottles sit; and

(d) The game is played with a rubber or leather covered softball with a minimum weight of five ounces.

(2) Variations:

(a) If the game is played as "all over," a rim not to exceed one-half of an inch is permitted.

(b) If the game is played as "all off," no obstructions are allowed around the base on which the bottles sit.

(L) Break the bottle, plate, and similar games. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Targets are placed in a stationary rack at least twenty-four feet from the barrier with no exceptions for trailer-mounted games. If bottles are used as targets they are of uniform shape and size;

(2) A protective covering, including a canvas drop, is provided on three sides and the top for public safety;

(3) Baseballs as described in paragraph (U)(1) of this rule are used and are inspected for embedded glass before being offered to the player; and

(4) Plastic or bisque plates or discs have a minimum distance of six feet clearance from the front portion of the trailer. In the break the plate game, the distance between the plates must is less than the diameter of the ball thrown when the object of the game is to break two plates with one ball to win.

(M) Dunking machine or similar games. Persons seated on the target seat shall not use foul or offensive language and be properly dressed. The use of rubber, plastic, or cork balls is prohibited.

(N) Cat rack. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The rack may consist of one or more tiers;

(2) Shelves are level;

(3) Cats do not weigh more than two pounds;

(4) Cats do not have to be knocked from the shelf to be considered over (same as if game is played when cats are hinged);

(5) The canvas backdrop will not interfere with the falling cat; and there are not any other obstructions to prevent the cat from falling;

(6) The front molding (rail) on the shelf does not extend over one inch above the shelf and may be padded to lessen the chance of rebound balls; and

(7) Balls are to be the size of baseballs and weigh not less than three ounces.

(O) Slat racks. Hinges on racks using fixed targets shall work freely to permit targets to fall over when hit.

(P) Beverage can - bean bag can. This game may be operated with either six or nine empty cans and may be played "all over" or "all off." The platform shall be no greater than twenty-one inches in diameter or a twenty-one inch square with the height being no less than thirty inches and no higher than fifty-two inches from the ground. Cans shall be placed no more than three-eighths of an inch apart. Two bean bags, three inches by three inches, with a minimum weight of two ounces shall be used. Cans shall have clearance of the can plus three inches. A lip not to exceed one-eighth of an inch will be permitted. Cans are to be stacked "4-3-2" or "3-2-1." No obstructions whatsoever shall be permitted around the base on which the cans sit if operating the game "all off."

(Q) Bank-a-ball game. This game shall be operated with the following requirements:

(1) Played with standard unaltered wiffle ball (a hollow plastic ball with holes);

(2) Foul lines, edge lines and borders will not be permitted on bank board;

(3) Baskets are to be standard-size clothes baskets and stationary to frame;

(4) Edge shots count;

(5) The angle of the bank board is to be no less than sixty degrees off plumb, and no greater than seventy degrees off plumb, away from player;

(6) The center of the basket are to be positioned no further away from the player than the bottom edge of the bank board. It may be placed closer to the player;

(7) The bottom distance between the edge of the bank board and the top of the basket is to be no greater than twenty-four inches; and

(8) The maximum distance that the player is to stand away from the bottom of the board is six feet.

(R) Slam dunk game (bank-a-ball type - Dobco manufacturing). This game shall be operated with the following requirements:

(1) Played with standard unaltered wiffle ball (a hollow plastic ball with holes);

(2) The angle of the bank board is no less than sixty degrees off plumb and no greater than seventy degrees off plumb, away from the player; and

(3) A sign will state: "When player hits plastic red zone area with ball, foul shot is created and player loses turn."

(S) Bushel basket game. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The game is played with a ball the same size as a softball;

(2) The basket is a standard bushel basket of four pecks having a height of at least twelve inches and a diameter of at least eighteen inches at the opening;

(3) The basket is securely fastened to the backboard in a manner that they may be easily removed for inspection;

(4) The angle of the basket is no less than sixty degrees off plumb and no greater than seventy degrees off plumb away from the player;

(5) Distance of throw shall is less than eight feet from toe line to the basket rim; and

(6) Rim shots are allowed.

(T) Tub game. The operators of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The game is played with a ball the same size as a softball;

(2) The tub has a height of at least twelve inches and a diameter of at least eighteen inches at the opening;

(3) The tub is securely fastened to backboard in a manner that they may be easily removed for inspection;

(4) The angle of the tub is no less than sixty degrees off plumb and no greater than seventy degrees off plumb away from the player;

(5) Distance of throw shall be no greater than eight feet from toe line to the tub rim; and

(6) Rim shots are allowed.

(U) For purposes of defining standard balls to be used in playing games, the following shall apply:

(1) Baseball: The ball will be a sphere formed by yarn wound around a small core of cork, rubber or similar material and covered with two strips of white horsehide or two strips of white cowhide tightly stitched together. It will be nine to nine and one-half inches in circumference.

(2) Softball: The ball will be a sphere formed by either a core of number nine long fiber kapok or yarn wound around a small core of cork, rubber or similar material and covered with a smooth seam stitch which is not visible on a flat surface. It will weigh not less than six and one-fourth ounces nor more than seven ounces and be eleven and seven-eighths to twelve and one-eighth inches in circumference.

(3) Football: The weight will be from fourteen to fifteen ounces and it will be inflated to a pressure of twelve and one-half to thirteen and one-half pounds. The measurements will be as follows: long axis is ten and seven-eighths inches to eleven and seven-sixteenths inches; short circumference will be twenty and three-fourths inches and the long circumference will be twenty-seven and three-quarter inches to twenty-eight and one-half inches. Method of measuring will consist of the following: all measurements will be made after the ball is inflated to thirteen pounds; the long circumference should be measured ninety degrees from lace around the ends of the ball, over the groove but not in the groove; the long axis should be measured from end to end, but not in the nose indentation; the short circumference should be measured around the ball, over the valve, over the lace, but not over a cross-lace.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:36 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/28/1974, 8/11/1978, 8/6/1990, 9/2/2005
Rule 901:9-2-10 | Ring games.
 

(A) In any game at a fair in which rings are thrown over blocks or prizes, the operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) All rings are round and unwarped;

(2) The target is vertically and horizontally level as well as vertically straight;

(3) No slanting blocks; and

(4) There is a clearance of at least three-eighths of an inch on one side measured from the inside of the ring to the block or target.

(B) Ring the bottle games. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The table or stand supporting the bottles is at a height so that the top of the bottles to be ringed will not exceed four feet in height from ground level;

(2) There are no obstructions between, around, or above the bottles at any time;

(3) The clearance of the rings is no less than one-fourth inch clearance measured from the inside of the ring to the neck of the bottle;

(4) The ring bottle game surfaces are level; and

(5) The distance of all obstructions above or around all items to be ringed is not less than four feet.

(C) Ring the pin game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Pins remain stationary at all times;

(2) Pins are arranged in a manner in which it is possible to ring each and every one; and

(3) The top row of pins is not higher than four feet above the ground.

(D) Cane rack and ring the cane. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Canes are arranged so that each and every cane can be ringed, including all canes with hooked handles;

(2) All canes to be ringed need to have the end which is to be ringed perpendicular with the ground; and

(3) The clearance of the ring is to have no less than three-eighths of an inch clearance measured from the inside of the ring to the head of the cane. The measurement is to be made with the ring held next to the head of the cane.

(E) Ring the wooden duck game. The clearance of the ring shall be not less than three-eighths of an inch on one side measured horizontally from the back of the duck's neck to the tip of the duck's beak.

(F) Hoop-la games and ring the block game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) These games have three-eighths of an inch clearance on one side;

(2) Blocks are to be flat, solid, uncovered and not more than two inches high;

(3) Prizes are not projecting over the block;

(4) Blocks are placed on the table with sufficient clearance permit the hoop to surround the block unobstructed;

(5) The player wins all the prizes that are displayed on the blocks; and

(6) Hoops are round and uniform in size.

(G) Pitch till you win hoop-la. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) All targets used are vertical and maintained in a level position at all times (no slanting blocks will be permitted). All rings shall be round and unwarped and have a three-eighths of an inch clearance on one side.

(2) There are no slanting blocks;

(3) All rings are round and unwarped; and

(4) All rings have a three-eighths of an inch clearance on one side.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:36 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/20/1988
Rule 901:9-2-11 | Shooting games.
 

(A) Cork shooting gallery. This rule applies to games using wooden-type targets or a shoot until you win game or a game giving a prize every time. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Guns are in good mechanical condition;

(2) Chipped or crooked corks are not in use;

(3) The target shelf does not exceed four inches in width;

(4) Obstructions are not allowed to interfere with the prize target falling off the target shelf;

(5) No target is allowed to be used which patrons cannot shoot off the shelf;

(6) All targets are placed the same distance from the counter or "foul line";

(7) All cups are uniform in the type of material they are made of; and

(8) Prizes are not attached to the targets.

(B) Long range, flip, or sling-shot galleries. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The guns are attached to the counter in a manner to protect the public;

(2) Only non-splatter bullets are used in lead galleries;

(3) Galleries always have good side and back wall protection; and

(4) Unless otherwise specified, galleries will be operated for amusement only.

(C) Can shooting gallery. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) This game is played with different sized beverage cans;

(2) The cans are empty and devoid of any matter;

(3) The object of the game is to knock over two or more cans of a matching size;

(4) Only non-splatter bullets are use in lead galleries;

(5) Prizes are not attached to the cans; and

(6) All of the cans are able to be knocked over.

(D) Shoot out the star games. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The size of the star to be shot out is no greater than one and one-quarter inches;

(2) The targets are approximately nine feet from the gun muzzle;

(3) Each load is to be at least one hundred shots;

(4) All guns are chained down to prevent them from being turned toward the player or midway;

(5) All stars are on seventy-pound velum paper as approved by the department;

(6) Only non-splatter bullets are used in lead galleries;

(7) Manufacturer's verification is on all paper targets; and

(8) The guns operating on pressure have between one hundred twenty-five to one hundred fifty pounds of air pressure.

(E) Archery. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) There is a protective covering on three sides;

(2) A covering will be erected across the top to protect the public if the state inspector and/or a representative of the fair board determines one is needed; and

(3) The device is chained to the counter to prevent the ability to shoot in any other direction other than towards the target, if required by the department.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/28/1974, 12/23/1986
Rule 901:9-2-12 | Coin or washer pitch games.
 

(A) In any game at a fair in which washers, disks, or coins are thrown, the operator shall ensure:

(1) The target is level horizontally;

(2) The coin to be tossed or pitched is no larger than a quarter; and

(3) Only metal washers or coins are used if requested by the fairboard.

(B) Washer or coin pitch games including pitch for glass. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Each prize has a large enough opening and is arranged so that it can be won; and

(2) When a target is used for "choice," a sign needs to show how a "choice" prize is won.

(C) Washer or coin spot pitch games. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The boards on which spots are arranged are level and unwarped;

(2) The boards on which spots are arranged are not greased, waxed, or powdered;

(3) The spots, washers, and coins are of contrasting colors;

(4) The diameter of each and every spot is three-sixteenths of an inch greater than the diameter of the washer or coin used to play the game; and

(5) The entire washer or coin is in the spot to "win."

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 8/11/1978, 6/20/1988
Rule 901:9-2-13 | Dart games.
 

(A) All darts will have a minimum weight of twelve grams. Darts need to be straight with no damage to any flights.

(B) Add-em-up dart game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The game is operated with no more than four darts;

(2) No major prize-winning numbers or colors appear in the extreme outside rows;

(3) For every one hundred numbers or colors on a board, at least four major winning numbers, both high and low numbers or colors, appear; and

(4) The squares are not less than one square inch.

(C) Dart suction cup. This game shall have a minimum of three-sixteenths of an inch clearance on all sides after the cup is stuck to the target.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 8/11/1978
Rule 901:9-2-14 | Miscellaneous games.
 

(A) Guess weight, age, or birth month. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) No patrons are touched;

(2) In guessing age, the guess is written down and the guess is within two years of the age in order to be correct; .

(3) In guessing birth month, the guess is within one month on either side of the patron's actual birth month to be correct;

(4) In guessing weight, the weight is written down and in order to be correct the guess is within three pounds of either side of the patron's actual weight; and

(5) The scale dials have clear figures which are illuminated at all times in order that they may be read by the public.

(B) Rope ladder game - climb the ladder game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The ladder is not touched by the operator; and

(2) The ladder remains taunt at all times during game play.

(C) Bumper car. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) Barriers or foul lines are not permitted. Only starting lines are permitted;

(2) The car does not have to hit a backstop to win; and

(3) The car is completely released by the patron.

(D) Pool game. Pool games shall have pegs so spaced that the total clearance is at least one-fourth of an inch greater than the diameter of the ball.

(E) Shuffle boards or alleys. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The slide board is level laterally and unwarped with no obstructions;

(2) The slide board is smooth at all times; and

(3) When numbers are used, they are plain, with no blank targets.

(F) Spoke wheel game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The wheel is stationary at all times; and

(2) The ball has one-and-one-fourth-inch clearance on one side.

(G) Fishing pole or bottle set-up game. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The playing surface on which bottles are placed is not less than twelve inches square for a minimum of one hundred forty-four square inches per square area;

(2) The playing surface is level;

(3) The bottles are placed in the center of the playing surface;

(4) That grease or wax on rings and playing surfaces or bottles is not used;

(5) The string is not more than fifty-four inches long and not less than thirty-six inches long; and

(6) The pole length will measure no longer than thirty-six inches and no shorter than twenty-four inches.

(H) High strikers. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The equipment is in good condition at all times;

(2) The slides or wires are straight and free of any obstruction;

(3) The slide board is plumb at all times;

(4) Patrons are not permitted to swing the mallet unless both arms are used, but individuals with permanent limb physical disabilities may use one arm; and

(5) Only one player will be permitted at one time to play where adjacent high strikers are located.

(I) Skee ball. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) The use of coin slots or aprons are permitted;

(2) The score is reset by a reset device in full view of the participant when operating from an apron;

(3) The balls in use are solid, firm, round and not less than three inches in diameter;

(4) There is a minimum clearance of one inch between the ball and ring on all target scoring areas;

(5) The ball rolling alley surface is smooth; and

(6) If any coins are lost due to mechanical failure of machine, the coins will be replaced when reported to the game owner.

(J) In any game at a fair, including the Ohio state fair, where coin-activated games are played, the following shall apply:

(1) The device, when reset, is done so in full view of the patrons;

(2) The operator will replace the patron's money due to mechanical failure of the machine; and

(3) An attendant is present.

(K) Mirror duck pond. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(1) This game is played for amusement only as defined in paragraph (M) of rule 901:9-2-01 of the Administrative Code;

(2) The water in the pool is where the selection is to be made is kept slow;

(3) The object to be selected is highly visible; and

(4) This game is not to be operated in the add-up or match-up version.

(L) Cane rack signage. Minimum signage requirements for all cane racks shall contain the following language: "Canes are to be used as walking sticks only. Any improper use of canes is prohibited and may be cause for removal from the fairgrounds."

(M) Bowler roller game. All trailers must be level.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/20/1988
Rule 901:9-2-15 | Group games.
 

The department may license group games. In establishing rules to regulate group games the department may consider, but shall not be limited to the following:

(A) There may be more than one winner in group game competition or there may be only one winner. In either case, the rules of the group game shall stipulate whether more than one winner is permitted and such rules are posted in a conspicuous place in the concession while it is in operation.

(B) The department shall have the authority to seal any group game's timers, master controls or any other device of the game which the department believes needs sealed to protect the integrity of the game, and to protect the public against fraud in the game's operation. Any unauthorized tampering with such seals is prohibited.

(C) No licensee shall change, alter or modify any critical component of any group game at any time for any reason without first notifying the department and receiving written approval to do so from the department.

(D) Where possible, the state inspector will gear his inspections of group games so such games maintain the manufacturer's original purpose and operation of said game, unless such game has been modified, changed or altered under the conditions of paragraph (F) of this rule.

(E) Any group game which has been legally modified, altered or changed under the conditions of paragraph (F) of this rule shall be reinspected by the department prior to that game operating in the modified, altered or changed condition unless the department, in writing, agrees that the game so changed, altered or modified may continue to operate without reinspection.

(F) The owner of any group game will possess the manufacturer's schematics, manuals, and any applicable modifications or alterations recommended by the manufacturer to the group game at the place of play at all times.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:37 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 3/23/2017
Rule 901:9-2-16 | Electronic amusement games.
 

Electronic amusement games shall be subject to the following:

(A) The department has the authority to seal or require to be sealed the electronic amusement game's timers, motor controls or any other devices of the game which the department feels should be sealed to protect the integrity of the game. Any unauthorized tampering with such seals is prohibited.

(B) The owner of any electronic amusement game will possess the manufacturer's schematics, manuals, and any applicable modifications or alterations recommended by the manufacturer to the electronic amusement game at the place of play at all times.

(C) The operator will replace a patron's money due to mechanical failure of the machine.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 6/20/1988, 8/18/2000
Rule 901:9-2-18 | Fish-o-rama.
 

(A) Winning discs may be less magnetic and may be of a smaller size than losing discs. All winning discs must be able to be picked up from moving water.

(B) Rules of play must be posted and include the following or similar language:

"Winning discs are less magnetic. Pick a winning and losing disc at the same time, and the game shall be played over."

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Rule 901:9-2-19 | Gun ball.
 

Gun ball. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(A) The game is played with three cylinders of the same size, shape, and weight;

(B) The playing surface is marked or scribed to show placement of cylinders;

(C) The top cylinder is centered evenly between the bottom cylinders; and

(D) If the game is played as all off, the playing surface will have no lip.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Rule 901:9-2-20 | Tee pool.
 

Tee ball. The operator of these style games shall ensure:

(A) The playing surface is at least twenty inches wide, level, true and of sufficient weight to maintain this condition;

(B) The shot is not over four feet;

(C) The cue ball and two object balls are regulation size and weight;

(D) The golf tee is a standard size; and

(E) All necessary spots on the playing surface are indicated in the fashion used on standard pool tables.

Last updated March 21, 2024 at 8:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: ORC 1711.11
Amplifies: ORC 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 3/21/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 3/23/2017
Rule 901:9-2-21 | Crazy bike.
 

(A) There must be a marked start and finish line. The front wheel of the bike must be behind the starting line. Patrons are to hold the handle bars and ride the bike with all wheels on the ground.

(B) The rear wheel must cross the finish line for the patron to win. The game is over and the patron loses when any body part has contact with the ground after the starting line and before the rear wheel crosses the finish line.

Last updated February 6, 2024 at 9:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 1711.11
Amplifies: 1711.11
Five Year Review Date: 1/3/2029