Haunted Houses Across Illinois Face Safety Inspections Ahead of Halloween (Springfield, IL) – As Halloween approaches, state officials are reminding haunted house operators that thrills and chills must be paired with safety.
The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) are conducting inspections to ensure haunted houses meet fire and safety standards before opening to the public.
“Spooky season is something many people look forward to in Illinois,” said Brian Fox, IDOL’s carnival manager. “Our inspectors work to make sure the experience is safe and fun by verifying that operators have taken the necessary precautions before an operating permit is issued.”
Oversight of haunted houses has been strict since several tragic fires in the 1970s and 1980s. Today, most haunted houses in Illinois must have fire alarms with smoke detection, automatic sprinklers, flame-resistant decorations, and exits equipped with panic hardware. The OSFM also limits dead-end paths, open flames, and pyrotechnics.
“Our inspectors are committed to working with owners and operators to quickly address any violations, ensuring their attractions can open safely and remain in compliance,” said State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow.
For haunted houses operated by not-for-profit religious, educational, or charitable groups, inspections may be handled by local authorities instead of IDOL. In municipalities without local codes or inspectors, the OSFM may step in at the request of the local fire chief.
In addition to fire safety requirements, Illinois law mandates background checks, sex offender registry checks, and written substance abuse policies—including random drug testing—for all haunted house workers.
Residents who suspect a haunted house is operating without a permit or notice unsafe conditions can report concerns to IDOL by phone or online.
Haunted Houses Across Illinois Face Safety Inspections Ahead of Halloween
