Over the course of the last 10 years, we've found that there's a few questions that come up often. To help you get the answers to those common questions, we've put together this FAQ list for both membership and for appearances. If you aren't able to find the answer to the question you're looking for, please see the contact page and drop us a line!

Membership FAQ

What are the requirements to join the Steel City Ghostbusters?

At minimum, potential members must meet all of the following requirements.

• • • • Must be 18 years of age or older 

      • Must have a full uniform

      • Must agree to official group bylaws

      • Must be active during a 12 month probationary period. Full membership to be voted on by SCGB council members.

      • Must be able to provide a clean PA State Criminal Background Check & Child Abuse Clearance via Keep Kids Safe. Non-negotiable.

What is considered a “full uniform” for membership?

• • • A full “Traditional” (‘84 / ‘89, Afterlife Films) Uniform consists of:

      • • Tru-Spec of Nomex Flight Suit (Dickies coveralls or similar dress acceptable for female members)

        • Black or White Pistol/Web Belt

        • Elbow Pads

        • Movie appropriate name tag (Character name or custom)

        • Black Combat / Work Boots

        • Black Undershirt

        • No Ghost Patch

        • One small prop (Ecto-Goggles, Ghost Trap/Pedal,  PKE Meter, Giga-Meter etc.)

    • A full “Reboot” (2016 Film) Uniform consists of:

      • • Khaki work coveralls with orange safety striping

        • Black combat/work boots

        • Shin guards

        • Era appropriate name tag & No Ghost patch

        • One era appropriate prop (Trap, PKE Meter, Holtzmann glasses, etc.)

Do I need props?

• • • Yes. Members are required to have at least one era appropriate prop, such as Ecto Goggles, PKE Meter, Trap/Pedal, Giga-Meter, etc.

Do I need a proton pack?

• • • No. Proton Packs are not a requirement for membership but are highly encouraged. 

How do I apply?

• • • You can apply by filling out the application form on our site, found here.

When do I get my patch?

• • Patches are only available to members who have gone through the 12 month probationary period and are voted to be in good standing by the council. Patches are made available on a first-come first serve basis, as they are made available.

Appearance FAQ

Can you get rid of the ghosts at my house?

• • • No. Our equipment, while looking realistic, is more or less an electronic light show. (See what we did there?)

How much does an appearance cost?

• • We do not charge for our appearances at your events. We are a volunteer group that donates our time. With that in mind, we cannot guarantee that we can attend every appearance. Our members are a variety of folks who are students, parents, workers and more. Sometimes real-life obligations create scheduling conflicts that prevent us from taking on an event. 

Do you do children's birthday parties?

• • Unfortunately, due to the nature of our scheduling we are currently not appearing at children's birthday parties. We would hate for your little 'Buster to be disappointed in the event that we are unable to appear, nor are we comfortable with a child's party hinging on our attendance. 

What types of events do you typically appear at?

• • • We have appeared at a variety of events over the past 10 years. Check out the list below for some of our frequent appearance types. We’re always open to heading out to new places!

      • Parades

      • Conventions

      • 80’s Events

      • Pop Culture Events 

      • Charity Events 

      • Halloween Events

What do you provide?

• • When we can confirm an appearance at an event, you will always have a minimum of 4 costumed members. 

    • Depending on the schedule of the driver, you may also request one (or more!) of the Ecto Vehicles!

    • Depending on availability we have an 8 ft inflatable Stay Puft

    • Depending on availability we have an 8 ft. inflatable Slimer

    • Depending on availability we have a 7ft Vigo The Carpathian Portrait

How far away do you appear?

• • Generally we try to stick to within a 30 mile radius of Pittsburgh. Some exceptions do apply. Please see the map below of our general area of operation.

  • If you are too far outside of our operating area, we can usually help put you in contact with a closer Ghostbuster group