Definition of an Amusement Device

In order to determine if amusement device companies are required to have an annual permit, the definition of an amusement device must be considered.

What is Considered an "Amusement Device"?

(3) “Amusement Device” means: (A) Any mechanical or structural device that carries or conveys a person, or that permits a person to walk along, around or over a fixed or restricted route or course or within a defined area, including the entrances and exits to the device, for the purpose of giving persons amusement, pleasure, thrills or excitement.

“Amusement Device” includes, but is not limited to, roller coasters, Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, glasshouses and walk-through dark houses; Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-121-101 (3)(A)

Other devices adopted for regulation by the Amusement Device Unit and/or the Elevator and Amusement Device Safety Board include, but are not limited to:

• Inflatable Devices (Bounce Houses)
• Trampoline Parks
• Indoor Skydiving
• Virtual Reality Ride Devices (that meet the criteria for regulation)
• Trackless Trains
• Ziplines
• Canopy Tours
• Aerial Adventure Courses
• Low and High Ropes Courses
• Obstacle Courses

• Challenge/Ninja Courses
• Mountain Coasters
• Escape Rooms/Games
• Bumper Cars/Boats
• Dry Slides (over 20 feet in height)
• Tube Slides
• Stunt Jump Devices
• Mechanical Carnival Devices
• Construction Type Amusement Devices/Theme Parks
• Wipeout Devices

Examples of some devices not included are: Wavepools, Roller and Ice Skating Rinks, Skateboard Ramps or Courses, Hay Rides, Mechanical Bulls, Go-Karts, Bungee Cord (or similar elastic devices), and devices operated on a natural body of water.


Safety Compliance Officers

 

Kevin Klutts (West)
(731) 693-0687
Kevin.Klutts@tn.gov

 

Jennifer Murphy (Central)
(615) 866-8509
Jennifer.B.Murphy@tn.gov

 

John Tarpley (East)
(865) 318-1780
John.Tarpley@tn.gov


Contact Us

Amusement Device Unit
(615) 741-1900
(615) 532-1116