Firearms and Weapons
11.1 Definitions
- Firearm means: (a) gun, pistol, rifle, or device designed, made, adapted, or readily convertible to use explosive energy generated by an explosion or burning substance to expel a projectile through a barrel; or (b) An air gun.
- Demo/Simulated Firearm means: Simulated rifle, shotgun, pistol or revolver that has been manufactured to resemble actual firearms modified by the manufacturer to be incapable of firing or discharge.
- Dangerous Weapon means: Gas, liquid, solid, edged weapons, or instrumentality, which, in the manner used, is calculated or likely to produce death or great bodily harm or injury.
- Illegal knife means: (a) knife with a blade over five and one-half inches; (b) hand instrument designed to cut or stab another by being thrown; (c) dagger, including but not limited to a dirk, stiletto, and poniard; (d) bowie knife; (e) sword; or (f) spear.
11.2 Event Requests
All Event requests to possess, show or display any firearms, ammunition, simulated firearms, simulated ammunition, or dangerous weapons on PEC premises must be made in writing to the PEC ninety (90) days prior to the first contracted date. The request must include the following information:
- a. Person making the request, including contact information.
- b. Any organization, public or private, represented.
- c. Type and number of firearms, ammunition, or weapons to be displayed.
- d. Purpose or intent of the possession, show or display.
- e. Any additional background requested by the PEC Security and Safety Division.
- f. Any supporting material for consideration.
The PEC Chief of Security and Safety will ensure each request is reviewed and approved by the PEC Director as deemed appropriate. If approved, the requestor will be notified of such, and a pre-event meeting may be scheduled with the PEC Security and Safety Division’s Health and Safety Specialist.
Events anticipated to attract a large number of costumed attendees may be required to have a dedicated check-in area for those bringing simulated firearms or demonstration/simulated weapons. Staffing charges may apply in these cases.
11.3 License to Carry
The Austin Convention Center Department follows all applicable State and local laws regarding the licensed carrying of handguns in the facilities.
- a. It is the policy of the Austin Convention Center Department to allow tenants/clients who lease space to generally control access to the space, including any decision to allow or not allow lawfully carried handguns (concealed or openly carried) in the leased space, during the time of the leasehold. The client is responsible for posting any and all legal signage pertaining to the law.
- b. Some areas of Austin Convention Center Department facilities are considered “Non-Public” and accessible to authorized persons only. These non-public areas include service halls, service yards and department business offices. Weapons, including those lawfully carried, are restricted from these areas.
- c. Illegal weapons are prohibited at all times.