Know the Basics of Trade Show Booth Regulations for your Display

Know the Basics of Trade Show Booth Regulations for your Display

You may have your design figured out for your trade show display, but the regulations for booths might throw some presenters for a loop. For instance, a booth that is more than 12 feet tall is unlikely to be allowed. While regulations are sure to vary from event to event, there are some rules of thumb that can be followed to ensure you follow the rules of the event.

trade show display

Types of Booths

Understanding the rules and regulations of a trade show is easier when you understand the types of booths found at such an event.

  • As the name implies, this is the most common booth style with other booths on each of its sides and its back with 10’ x 10’ of area.
  • At the same size as a standard booth, this type has booths on either side but with a back that is against a wall.
  • This type is any booth that is 20’ x 20’ or larger that has aisles on three sides.
  • Same as a peninsula but is surrounded by aisles on all sides.

Height Restrictions

For a standard booth, there is typically a restriction of 8’ height for the back of the booth and 4’ feet from the front to 5’ from the back. A perimeter booth has a restriction of 12’ on the back, with the same 4’ restriction for the front of the booth.

setting up display

ADA Requirements

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), trade booths must be equally accessible to all individuals to provide the same experience to all attendees. This means adding a ramp when the floor is raised. Exhibitors need to be careful with these regulations as they can be fined for non-compliance.

Stay Within Your Perimeters

Displays and other materials cannot be placed outside of the booth. Additionally, marketing activities cannot be conducted outside of the booth. This is to ensure everyone gets the marketing they pay for and are respectful of other booths.

Sight Lines

To keep all sight lines easy to see, there are no displays over 4’ tall permitted in the front half of the booth.

Lights and Electrical Elements

Be sure to check with your event ahead of time to see what is allowed and what they have accommodations for and make sure electrical cords are secured to the floor with tape to avoid trips. Lights are not permitted to extend outside the booth. Spotlights are required to be pointed to the inside of the booth and cannot be distracting from other exhibits.

Music

Copyrighted music you don’t have permission to use is not permitted. Songs of your choosing can be licensed but be aware: it can get very pricey. Also be aware that bigger brands are much more likely to face penalties for using music without a license as they are more likely to be caught.

Failing to meet any of these requirements could jeopardize your ability to have a successful booth. Talk with our team of professionals at Alpine Sign & Graphics Studio. We understand what is permitted and how to make an impact around those parameters.

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