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YetiCon Prop & Costume Safety Rules

YetiCon is a cosplay-friendly event, and we love seeing your creativity come to life. To keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone, including attendees, staff, and our venue partners, all props must follow the guidelines below.

If you’re ever unsure about a prop, it’s always best to play it safe or reach out to us in advance. YetiCon is about creativity, fandom, and having fun while keeping everyone safe. Staff and security always have final say on prop approval, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you want clarification about a prop, feel free to contact us before the event. We are happy to help.

Official Rules

 Props That Are Not Allowed

For safety reasons, the following items are not permitted at YetiCon:

  • Real firearms of any kind
  • Airsoft, BB, pellet, or paintball guns
  • Realistic replica guns that could be mistaken for real
  • Functional weapons, including:
    • Sharp or metal swords, knives, daggers, axes, or spears
    • Nunchaku, batons, whips, chains, or similar items
  • Live ammunition or shell casings
  • Explosives, fireworks, or pyrotechnics
  • Pepper spray, mace, tasers, or stun devices
  • Real arrows or bolts

Props That May Be Allowed

The following props are generally allowed if they are clearly fake and safe:

  • Foam, plastic, rubber, cardboard, resin, or 3D-printed weapons
  • Dull, non-metal blades with no sharp edges
  • Toy or replica guns that are clearly unrealistic or brightly marked, such as water guns
  • Oversized props, as long as they don’t block walkways or create hazards

Some props may require peace-bonding, which is a small zip tie or tag added by staff.

Prop Check and Peace-Bonding

  • YetiCon staff may inspect props at entry or during the event
  • A prop check table will be set up at registration – we suggest attendees have props checked preemptively
  • Approved props may be peace-bonded and must remain that way

  • Removing a peace bond may result in the prop being held until you leave

Cosplay Etiquette and Photography

  • Always ask before posing or taking photos with others
  • No mock fighting, swinging, charging, or aiming props in public areas in a way that may cause harm to others
  • Be especially mindful in crowded spaces and around children

After Dark Events (19+)

Even during YetiCon After Dark events:

  • All prop rules still apply
  • Party environments do not change safety standards
  • Props may be restricted in certain venues or late-night spaces

Nudity Policy

During all events, and in all public spaces, including during 19+ events:

  • No person shall expose any part of their genitalia, whether directly or indirectly
  • Cosplay materials in areas covering the bra or panty areas must be opaque
  • Body suits that accurately mimic nudity are not permitted
  • Please refrain from adding costume elements that may be sexually disturbing to others