Carnival/Independent Amusement Ride Safety Inspection Services

The 32nd District Agricultural Association, which operates the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California, is soliciting proposals for comprehensive Carnival/Independent Amusement Ride Safety Inspection Services through a Request for Proposal (RFP). The scope of work includes pre-assembly, assembly, final inspection, and operational monitoring of approximately 60 to 70 rides during the annual OC Fair (held over 23 days in July and August), as well as inspection services for year-round events including Imaginology (a two-day April event) and other attractions throughout the calendar year. Contractors must provide daily operational inspections, accident investigation support, and maintenance of detailed inspection records. Minimum qualifications require current Level II or III Ride Inspector certification from AIMS and NAARSO, at least ten years of relevant ride safety inspection experience with a minimum two-year California component, and knowledge of California Department of Industrial Relations Temporary Amusement Ride compliance requirements. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scale based on Company History and Personnel (35 points), Experience and Ability to Perform (35 points), and Financial Proposal (30 points). The proposal deadline is April 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., with electronic submission required via WeTransfer to RFP@ocfair.com. The contract term runs from May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2028, with three optional one-year renewal periods, and the Board of Directors will issue a Notice of Proposed Award on April 10, 2026, followed by a five working-day protest period ending April 17, 2026, and final Board approval anticipated on April 23, 2026.

Certified small businesses are eligible for a five percent preference, and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBEs) are eligible for incentives ranging from one to five percent. Bidders must submit a Financial Proposal Bid Form specifying unit costs for an annual OC Fair flat rate and daily rates for year-round events, with year-round event travel expenses reimbursed at actual cost up to $10,000 annually. Contractors must provide proof of commercial general liability insurance with minimum limits of $5,000,000 per occurrence for carnival rides, workers' compensation coverage, and an additional insured endorsement naming the State of California and related entities. All contractor personnel must pass Megan's Law background screening, obtain OCFEC photo identification badges, and comply with all District policies regarding conduct, safety, and customer service. No specific budget range or award value is stated in the procurement documents, as pricing is to be submitted by bidders on the Financial Proposal Bid Form and will be evaluated competitively.