Props Guidelines

Purpose

We want cosplay to look great and be safe. These guidelines protect attendees, staff, guests, vendors, and the venue while allowing creative, faithful props when they can be used safely.

Definitions

Prop / Replica: Any item carried or worn as part of a costume (swords, guns, staffs, shields, blasters, etc.).
Functional Weapon: Any item that fires, shoots, or can injure (airsoft, paintball, live firearms, etc.). These are prohibited.

Quick Summary: Safety first. No real or functional weapons. All weapon-like props must be inspected & peace-bonded at Prop Check before entering the show floor. Blades must be blunt, projectile devices disabled, and oversized props may require a handler or pre-approval. Staff decisions are final. For examples of allowed materials and detailed rules, see our full Props Guidelines.

Core Rules

No real or functional weapons.
- - Live firearms, functional airsoft/paintball/BB guns, or any device that can discharge a projectile or explosive are banned.
Props must be safe in material and construction.
- - Foam, cardboard, plastic, resin, EVA foam, and lightweight wood are acceptable when not sharp or rigid.
  - Metal props are generally disallowed unless pre-approved and rendered completely blunt and safe; final approval is at staff discretion.
No sharp edges or real blades.
- - Blades must be blunt, dulled, or covered; otherwise they’ll be denied entry or required to be peace-bonded/modified.
Size & weight limits.
- - Oversized or heavy props that obstruct pathways, block emergency exits, or endanger attendees may be banned or required to be carried by a handler.
  - Staff will evaluate on arrival.
Peace-bond / prop check is mandatory.
- - All props that resemble weapons must be inspected and tagged/peace-bonded before entering public areas.
  - Do not attempt to carry them through the show floor without inspection.

Specific Prop Types

Firearm replicas / pistols / rifles:
- - Must be non-functional, clearly marked (orange tip or staff tag), and rendered inoperable.
  - Replica firearms made of metal or solid resin/plastic may be restricted. Check with staff.
Bladed props / swords / daggers:
- - Must be blunt, non-sharp, and sheathed or peace-bonded.
  - Metal blades are usually not allowed unless pre-approved and rendered completely safe.
Large or structural props (wings, scaffolds, stilts, large scenery):
- - May require a handler or advance approval to ensure safe movement and egress.
Projectile or launching props (bows, slings, foam guns):
- - Not permitted to fire projectiles in public areas.
  - If they can launch or eject anything, they will be denied or must be permanently disabled.

Handlers & Assistants

Cosplayers with large, awkward, or vision-obstructing props should bring a handler to assist in crowds, in elevators, and on stairs.
Handlers must wear a badge and follow rules.

Enforcement & Liability

Final decisions rest with convention staff, venue security, and local law enforcement.
If an item is deemed unsafe, offensive, or illegal, staff may require modification, removal, or confiscation.
Non-compliance can result in ejection without refund.

Safety Tips for Attendees:

Bring props made of foam, cardboard, or lightweight plastic where possible.
Bring your prop to Prop Check before entering the show floor.
If your prop is large/heavy, bring a handler and plan how you’ll move through crowds.
Don’t point props at people, children, or security. Ask before taking photos.
If you’re unsure whether your prop is allowed, don’t bring it, or contact us in advance for a ruling.

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