Anime Central: costume, prop and weapon rules

Last checked against the con's own rules on 2026-10-21.

A summary of Anime Central's official costume, prop, and weapon rules for cosplayers planning to attend, based on the con's own policy page.

These rules come from Anime Central's official policy page at acen.org. Convention rules change from year to year, so check that page before you go — it is the authority on what is and is not allowed at any given event. The Membership Services Chairperson has the final say on whether any prop or costume is acceptable. If something is ruled unacceptable, it goes back to your room; repeated issues can lead to confiscation. Props fitted with laser pointers are not allowed. If your costume is oversized or your prop is larger than you are, the policy asks you to stay aware of narrow hallways, doorways, and ceilings. Costumes that block your vision require a handler to walk with you, and cosplay with spikes or sharp edges is not permitted. Bare feet, footpads, and roller-wear such as Heelys are also banned on the convention floor. On weapons, the policy bans all live steel, and extends that ban to any metal prop or piece of cosplay that has a blade or comes to a point — whether sharp or blunt. Metal props without points or blades are acceptable. Real firearms, airsoft guns, and pellet guns are banned even if disabled, and vendor-purchased live steel must stay boxed. Non-realistic gun-like props need an orange tip and a disabled firing mechanism with no ammunition. Realistic weapon props — including imitation firearms, grenades, and Tasers — are not permitted in convention spaces or on village-controlled grounds, which includes parking lots and public rights-of-way; carrying them there can result in fines under Rosemont village rules. Bow and crossbow props may not carry arrows or bolts and must not be fireable. Obviously stylized or fantasy props are not subject to the realistic-weapon restriction. For makeup and body paint, the policy states that body paint must be sealed, dry, and non-transferable before you enter; you are responsible for any damage it causes to furniture or other surfaces. All costumes must comply with Illinois indecent exposure laws. The policy also reminds attendees that cosplay is not consent. When building props or applying materials that involve heat tools, adhesives, resins, solvents, or power tools, work in a well-ventilated space, wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and eye protection, and follow the safety instructions on every product you use. Younger makers should have an adult present. None of that changes what the convention itself permits — always re-read the official policy page close to your event date.

Full details at Anime Central →