Show Rules

This event is a private, invitation-only show. Admission is limited to:

1. Active and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and military personnel
   
   

2. Spouses, domestic partners, children, and other immediate family members of eligible personnel—provided they remain accompanied by their sponsoring attendee at all times on the show floor
   
   

3. Bona fide collectors who are known within the collecting community or who can otherwise demonstrate their collector status upon request
   
   

If you do not meet one of these criteria but wish to attend, you must submit a written exception request to the show hosts at least two days before the event. All exception requests are subject to final approval by the hosts and must be granted in writing.

At entry, we reserve the right to verify your eligibility by inspecting official identification or, for collectors, by confirming your reputation among fellow collectors or reviewing any evidence you can provide to demonstrate your bona fide status. Please have whatever proof you can assemble ready to present upon request to ensure efficient check-in.

All admission fees and table rental charges are final and non-refundable. No credits, transfers, or refunds will be issued under any circumstances except in the rare case of event cancellation by the organizers or a pre-approved exception granted in writing prior to the show.

Acceptance of Show Rules:
By participating in the PBC Public Safety Collectors’ Trade Show (as a table holder, table assistant, guest, family member, or walk-through patron), you confirm that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with all of these rules. These guidelines apply equally to all attendees, regardless of when their table reservation was made. Failure to adhere to any rule may result in penalties as outlined below.

1. No Refunds

All table fees and entry charges are final. No refunds will be issued under any circumstances except when a show host grants an exception in writing before the event begins. This policy ensures fairness to other participants and allows organizers to finalize logistics and exhibitor arrangements. Any requests for consideration must include supporting documentation and be received at least seven days before the show opens.

2. Liability and Hold Harmless

You attend this event entirely at your own risk. By entering the venue, you release the PBC Public Safety Collectors’ Trade Show, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, contractors, venue management, and show hosts from liability for any loss, theft, personal injury, death, or property damage sustained on the premises. You agree not to hold the organizers responsible for any incidents and to indemnify and defend them against any claims arising from your participation.

3. Theft and Fraud Prevention

Because the event does not provide onsite security or insurance, each individual is responsible for safeguarding personal property. Recommended measures include:

• Keeping valuable items under constant supervision or locked away when unmonitored
  
  

• Using tamper-evident seals or cable locks on display cases
  
  

• Exchanging contact information with neighboring table holders for mutual oversight
  If you suspect theft, fraud, or suspicious activity, notify a show host immediately. Hosts will document incidents and assist with law enforcement referrals but cannot assume responsibility for losses.

4. Responsible Transactions

Every sale, trade, transfer, or purchase is the sole responsibility of the involved parties. To ensure ethical and lawful dealings:

• Verify credentials of your counterparty before proceeding, especially when badges are involved
  
  

• Restrict exchanges to collectible or display purposes; do not permit any official use or representation
  
  

• Request and inspect valid identification (department credentials, collector membership cards, etc.) if legitimacy is in question
  
  

• If a buyer or trader refuses to provide satisfactory ID, discontinue the transaction and inform a show host immediately

5. Prohibited Badges

The sale or trade of current-issue federal badges (authentic, replica, or souvenir) is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized handling of these items may constitute a federal offense. Permitted exceptions include:

• Commemorative badges such as millennium or inaugural badges, only if the issuing agency publicly authorized them for civilian sale
  
  

• Federal badges displayed for exhibit purposes when accompanied by written proof of lawful possession, available for inspection by a host or federal authority

6. Reproductions

A reproduction is any unauthorized copy, likeness, or facsimile of an authentic item, regardless of color variations. To maintain transparency:

• All reproductions for sale, trade, or display must be clearly labeled Reproduction in legible lettering visible to attendees
  
  

• Any reproduction entered in a judging display without proper labeling will be disqualified and forfeit any prizes or recognition
  
  

• Show hosts have final authority on authenticity disputes; their judgment is binding
  
  

• Exception: Genuine bullion patches woven in gold or silver thread are exempt from reproduction labeling

7. Identification Cards

Department-issued ID cards may be displayed only. They remain the property of the issuing agency and may not be sold, traded, transferred, or otherwise conveyed. Old or expired cards exhibited for historical interest must be clearly distinguished from currently valid credentials.

8. Firearms

Firearms are permitted for display only under these conditions:

• Completely unloaded, with ammunition stored separately off-premises
  
  

• Secured in a locked case or display enclosure that attendees cannot open
  
  

• Positioned so trigger mechanisms are inaccessible
  Any breach of these requirements will result in immediate removal of the firearm and possible ejection of the exhibitor.

9. Alcohol and Smoking

To maintain a safe and professional environment:

• Alcoholic beverages and smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping) are prohibited within the exhibit hall
  
  

• Designated outdoor smoking areas will be clearly marked, and alcohol consumption may occur only in specified hospitality zones subject to local laws and venue rules

10. Sales Tax Compliance

As a nonprofit event, the show does not collect sales taxes. Each exhibitor selling taxable goods or services is responsible for:

• Registering with the Florida Department of Revenue or their home state if applicable
  
  

• Collecting the correct rate of sales tax at the point of sale
  
  

• Filing and remitting all tax returns and payments by legally mandated deadlines
  Failure to comply may result in civil or criminal penalties from taxing authorities.

11. Penalties for Violations

Compliance with these rules is mandatory. Show hosts may enforce these guidelines through the following measures, depending on the severity of the violation:

1. Verbal warning for minor infractions or first-time offenses
   
   

2. Removal of noncompliant merchandise or display materials
   
   

3. Expulsion from the event without refund of fees or admission
   
   

4. Notification of local law enforcement for suspected criminal activity
   
   

5. Exclusion from future events at the discretion of the organizers
   Decisions made by show hosts are final and binding.