From Otakon; edited by Atlas curators.
Con rules
Otakon: costume, prop and weapon rules
Last checked against the con's own rules on 2026-10-21.
A plain-language summary of Otakon's costume, prop and weapon rules for cosplayers attending the convention, drawn from the con's own policy page.
Otakon holds its event in Washington, DC, and sets its own rules for what costumes and props are allowed in the convention space. The policy covers props, weapons, makeup, and how you move around the venue. Because rules change from year to year, you should read the current policy at otakon.com/rules before you attend, and treat that page as the authority on anything not covered here. On the prop side, staves, swords, and similar items made from wood, plastic, foam, or comparable materials are permitted as long as you handle them responsibly. Props must stay under six feet six inches tall and under fifty pounds, and any chain sections must be shorter than three feet. Every prop is inspected by Otakon staff and, where relevant, DC Metropolitan Police at each event, and a prop cleared at a previous Otakon is not automatically approved again. When it comes to weapons, the policy is strict in several areas. Metal weapons are banned without exception, whether sharp or sheathed, and that includes swords, axes, knives, and throwing weapons. Metal or wooden bats and bokken or shinai are also banned. No projectile weapon of any kind is allowed, including real, replica, or decommissioned firearms, airsoft and BB guns, and functioning bows. Prop bows may be carried but must not be strung to fire, and any arrows or bolts must be blunt and non-metal. Resin, rubber, or 3D-printed guns are allowed only if they have no moving parts and a bright orange tip; the same applies to toy or water guns. Paddles, nunchaku, three-section staves, and real whips are banned. For makeup and body paint, the policy states that body paint, liquid latex, makeup, and pasties are not acceptable as coverage on their own. Garments must cover genitalia and nipples, and no one may be topless, bottomless, or barefoot. Heavy or special-effects makeup is allowed but should be set with a fixative so it does not transfer. The policy also asks attendees to get consent before photographing anyone in costume. A few other rules are worth knowing. Wheeled props, carts, and wheeled footwear are not allowed in the venue. Large costumes with wings, stilts, or mecha elements should not be taken on escalators. Signs are only permitted when they are part of the character's canon, and costumes may not impersonate law enforcement, emergency services, or military personnel. When working with materials like resins, adhesives, or heat tools during the build process at home, always work in a well-ventilated space, wear appropriate protective gear, and follow the safety instructions on each product.
Drafted with AI and reviewed by Atlas curators.