The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regulates amusement rides and devices in Ontario. Here are frequently asked questions about our role.
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regulates amusement rides and devices in Ontario. Here are frequently asked questions about our role.
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What is considered an amusement device?
The definition of “amusement device” is broad. However, a primary component requires that the device be “used to entertain persons by moving them or causing them to be moved.” Read more in O. Reg. 221/01: Amusement Devices.
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What is NOT considered an amusement device—are there any exemptions to the regulation?
The regulation outlines all known exemptions. These include, but are not limited to:
Fixed or portable climbing walls, rock climbing walls and most inflatable climbing walls.
Devices typically found in retail shopping centres, which are designed and built to be operated by coin, token, or card.
Public pools, wave action pools and lazy rivers.
Further details on exempted devices can be found in section 2. (2) of O. Reg. 221/01: Amusement Devices.
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How does amusement device licensing work?
You need a license to operate an amusement business, but each device or ride requires its own permit.
You must hold a valid license in to obtain a permit.
Learn more about how to obtain an Amusement Devices Operating Licence or permit.
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Where can I report a change to my operating schedule as an AD company?
Holders of an Amusement Devices Operating Licence must submit an Operating Schedule for each of their devices. These schedules detail where each device will be used throughout the year so TSSA can keep track of devices in the province.
If your submitted schedule changes, you are obligated to inform TSSA. Email details of schedule changes to adoperatingschedules@tssa.org.
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How can you determine if an inflatable device is regulated?
To determine if an inflatable device is subject to regulation, consult the Inflatable Device Decision Tree (PDF), or contact TSSA at addesignsubmittal@tssa.org for more information.
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How do I report an inflatable device operating illegally?
First, try to determine if the device is already TSSA-certified. If you are not able to do that, use the Inflatable Device Decision Tree (PDF) to determine if the device in question actually falls under TSSA regulations.
If you still wish to report a device you believe should be regulated or provide information about an illegal operator, please e-mail a complaint in the following format to ad-incident@tssa.org.
Subject: Amusement Device Complaint from OCI <Your Name>
Body:
Name: (we do not take anonymous complaints)
Phone Number: (all information stays private)
Address of Inflatable (if possible):
Installation Number (if possible):
Summary of Issue:
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I have found an amusement device at a residential dwelling. Should this be inspected by the TSSA?
TSSA does not have jurisdiction over amusement devices used in private backyards.
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Does the TSSA regulate trampolines?
TSSA does not regulate trampolines in the traditional sense. If the device incorporates a bungee or harness, it may be regulated by the TSSA. Read more in O. Reg. 221/01: Amusement Devices.
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Do ziplines require TSSA approval?
A zipline is an amusement device that incorporates a structural cable and pulley system which may include a harness that riders use to suspend and glide along a predetermined horizontal or inclined path.
All ziplines in Ontario, except those located in the backyards residences, are classified as amusement devices and fall under the jurisdiction of TSSA and O. Reg. 221/01: Amusement Devices.
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Can the TSSA recommend an amusement device mechanic?
Since we regulate the Amusement Devices industry, we are not permitted to provide recommendations for contractors or mechanics.
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Where can I find general safety tips on amusement devices and amusement parks?
Find safety tips for amusement rides and devices on our Amusement Park Safety site.