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Theatrical Use of Simulated Weapons Policy

Purpose

T��ɫ��Ƶ (CCNY) is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of our campus community. This policy outlines the regulations governing the use of simulated firearms and other prop weapons (including, but not limited to, guns, knives, swords, spears, bows, arrows, crossbows, and clubs) for theatrical purposes in CCNY-sanctioned activities, such as stage plays and film productions. This policy does not apply to real weapons or to the use of simulated weapons for non-theatrical purposes, which are addressed under the University’s Weapons and Simulated Weapons Policy. Note: Real firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited in CCNY theatrical productions.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the CCNY community, including faculty, staff, students, and visitors, as well as anyone participating in CCNY-sponsored events, whether on CCNY property or at off-campus locations under CCNY’s authority.

Policy

The possession of simulated firearms or weapons, including disabled firearms modified to be inoperable, is strictly prohibited on CCNY property unless explicitly authorized in writing through the Prop Weapons Use Application form, which must be approved by the department head, dean, and director of Public Safety (or his/her chosen representative). Requests for the use of prop weapons will only be considered if they are for projects under the auspices of the Division of Humanities and the Arts or the Leonard Davis Center for the Performing Arts. The conditions for approval, including required safety training and procedural guidelines, will be established by the relevant academic department or school sponsoring the production.

Simulated weapons may only be possessed for purposes directly related to CCNY-sanctioned theatrical productions (e.g., stage plays or film projects) or rehearsals for such productions.

Authorized Possession and Use

When authorized to possess a simulated firearm or weapon for theatrical purposes, the following conditions apply:

Inspection by Public Safety:

The Public Safety Department must inspect all simulated firearms and weapons in their performance-ready state before they are used. If renting theatrical weapons, approval must be obtained before rental. To schedule an inspection, contact the Public Safety Department via email at  publicsafety@ccny.cuny.edu . It is recommended that theatrical prop suppliers with a good track record be used to minimize the risk of rejection.

Event Application Requirements:

The words “USE OF PROP WEAPONS” must be clearly noted on all event applications submitted at least three weeks in advance of the first rehearsal or performance that involves prop weaponry.

Authorized Use and Transport:

The approved simulated firearm or weapon may only be used during the specified times and in the manner outlined in the written authorization. When transported within or between CCNY locations, the weapon must be securely contained and concealed from view.\

Custody and Responsibility:

The individual granted permission to possess a simulated weapon must maintain custody of it at all times and may not transfer it to anyone not authorized in the written permit. A designated production team member (preferably a Stage Manager or Props Master) must be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the prop weapon.

Safety Meetings:

At the start of the rehearsal process, a safety meeting must be held to inform the cast and crew about the presence and use of prop weapons. Additional safety meetings must be held whenever the use or handling of a prop weapon changes during the production.

Handling of the Prop Weapon:

The designated responsible party must hand the prop weapon to the actor at the appropriate moment. Once the scene is completed, the actor must immediately return the weapon to the responsible party and secure it until needed again. Prop weapons should never be left unattended on a prop table or preset.

Prohibited Behavior:

The individual authorized to possess a simulated firearm or weapon may not consume alcohol or use drugs, nor may they engage in reckless behavior while in possession of the prop.

Storage of Simulated Weapons:

When not in use, simulated firearms or weapons must be stored securely in a designated location approved by the Director of Public Safety. These items should not be stored in any facility not explicitly designated for safe storage.

Temporary Safe Storage:

If the authorized individual cannot return the prop weapon to an approved storage area after use, it must be temporarily stored with the Public Safety Department at NAC 4/201.

Student Restrictions:

Students are not permitted to bring their own simulated weapons to campus. Only props supplied by the school or department, or rented from licensed theatrical suppliers, may be used.

Required Documentation

A Prop Weapons Use Application Form must be completed and approved before the possession or use of any simulated weapons in a theatrical production.