McKinney: Haunted houses, scare houses or haunted mazes need permits to operate

McKinney, Texas (Oct. 5, 2017) – Halloween season is around the corner and the McKinney Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO), is ready to make sure everyone is safe during the scary season. A permit is required for any special community, school or local fundraising events that want to operate a temporary special amusement building. Haunted Houses are considered a special amusement building designed for the purpose of entertainment. This includes indoor and outdoor haunted houses that contain a pathway arranged so that the exit is not readily visible.

The requirements apply not only to commercial buildings, but to residential homes in which the public is invited or allowed on the property for the purpose of entertainment. Haunted Houses are unique, thus, the fire safety concerns are unique and must be evaluated accordingly. The McKinney FMO want to ensure that those who operate and visit these unique entertainment venues are safe and are able to enjoy the experience.

More information regarding the background, fire safety requirements and permit can be found at http://www.mckinneytexas.org/1165/Haunted-Houses or call 972-547-2850.