We are pleased that you have chosen to join our group of volunteer supporters and look forward to forging a life-long relationship with you. Many of our current members have invested decades with us and some have even grown up here at the museum. The Museum is a public place for everyone to enjoy. To ensure everyone's enjoyment, your respect of the following rules and regulations is sincerely appreciated.

Should questions arise, please contact the museum office at (760) 941-1791 or email us from our website at agsem.org.

The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM) is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to preserving and demonstrating antique equipment and promoting hands-on education in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. To protect our guests, members, and property, the following rules and regulations are strictly enforced.

I. Property Use and Access

1. Trespassing is Forbidden:
   Entry onto the Native American Archaeological site located on museum property is strictly prohibited. This area is protected under state and federal preservation laws.
2. Unauthorized Construction/Excavation:
   No individual or group may construct, alter, excavate, or otherwise modify museum property without written approval from AGSEM Administration.
3. Camping & Overnight Parking:
   Permitted only with prior written approval from the Museum Office. Unauthorized overnight stays are not allowed.
4. Personal Property & Equipment:
   Personal property or equipment may not be left on museum grounds without prior written authorization. Unapproved items will be considered either donated to the Museum or disposed of at the owner's expense.
5. Equipment Entry/Exit Notification:
   The Museum Administration must be informed prior to bringing any equipment onto or removing equipment from the premises.
6. Content Standards for All Created Materials:
   All items created, displayed, or shared on Museum property, including but not limited to artwork, exhibits, signage, printed materials, and multimedia content, must be suitable for a general audience, including children and families. Content that is graphic, offensive, discriminatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise inappropriate for a family-friendly public setting is strictly prohibited.
7. Dogs on Museum Property:
   Dogs are welcome on Museum grounds; however, all dog owners and handlers must adhere to San Diego County Parks regulations. Dogs must be physically restrained at all times with a leash of no longer than six(6) feet, held by a person capable of controlling the animal. Dogs must have current vaccinations and licenses as required by law. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and properly disposing of waste. Aggressive dogs, those in heat, or dogs exhibiting disruptive behavior are not permitted. 

II. Vehicles & Equipment

8. Vehicle Access and Identification:
   Any member accessing Museum grounds by vehicle must have a valid Vehicle Use Waiver and Agreement on file with the Museum Administration. Additionally, members are required to display their assigned vehicle placard in a clearly visible location on their vehicle at all times while on Museum property. Failure to display the appropriate placard may result in the vehicle being subject to towing at the owner's expense. This policy ensures the safety and security of all individuals and property on Museum grounds.
9. Prohibited Vehicles:
   Dirt bikes, ATVs, quad racers, off-road vehicles, and similar recreational vehicles are not permitted on museum grounds.
10. Operation Restrictions:
    Operation of vehicles, equipment, or machine tools is prohibited unless the individual demonstrates competence and receives approval. Ask before using any Museum-owned equipment. Unsafe operation will result in immediate loss of privileges.
11. Loans of Tractors/Equipment:
    Loans are granted only to Active AGSEM Members. Applications must be submitted and approved prior to arrival. All loans must benefit the museum’s collection and are not intended for personal storage.
12. Adoptions of Museum Equipment:
    Only Active AGSEM Members may apply to adopt museum-owned equipment. Approval must be granted before any work begins. A complete work log must be maintained and submitted to AGSEM Administration.

III. Safety & Conduct

10. Child Supervision:
    Children must be supervised at all times. They may not climb on, play with, or operate any equipment, except in the designated playground area. Children are never permitted to operate equipment during public demonstrations or ride equipment without appropriate safety platforms.
11. Authority and Responsibility to Report Unsafe Practices or Misconduct:
    The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum prioritizes the safety and well-being of all members, staff, volunteers, and visitors. All individuals, including Board Members, Staff, Live-On Attendants, Volunteers, and Active AGSEM Members are both empowered and encouraged to report any unsafe behavior, equipment operation, environmental hazard, or misconduct they witness on museum grounds.
    Concerns should be reported directly to Museum Administration as soon as possible.
12. Zero Tolerance for Illegal Substances and Intoxication:
    The use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances, including Marijuana, on Museum property is strictly prohibited. Intoxication—whether due to alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substance—while operating any equipment, vehicle or machinery or while instructing others, is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disciplinary action. This zero-tolerance policy is enforced to uphold the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and public trust.
13. Theft & Unauthorized Use:
    Theft or unauthorized use of any item on the grounds—whether Museum-owned or privately owned—will result in prosecution and permanent expulsion from the organization. Museum property is not to be used for parts or personal projects without approval.
14. Fighting, Abusive Language & Harassment:
    AGSEM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding violence, any form of harassment, and abusive behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, Sexual harassment, physical altercations, threats, verbal abuse, intimidation, bullying, stalking, discriminatory remarks, or any form of unwanted physical or verbal conduct that creates a hostile or unsafe environment for members, staff, volunteers, or visitors.
    Any individual engaging in such behavior will be subject to immediate removal from the property. In serious cases, law enforcement may be contacted. Offenders may also face permanent revocation of membership pending the outcome of a formal internal investigation conducted by Museum Executives and/or other members of the Board of Trustees.
15. Respect for People & Property:
    Treat fellow members, visitors, and their property with respect. Always clean up after yourself and repair or replace anything you damage. Workshops, tools, and artifacts must be used with care. All members are expected to treat others with respect, professionalism, and courtesy at all times. Failure to do so will not be tolerated.

IV. Environmental & Legal Compliance

15. Waste Disposal:
    The dumping of any waste materials, including, but not limited to, oils, chemicals, solvents, and other hazardous substances—is strictly prohibited on museum property. Each individual is solely responsible for the proper, lawful off-site disposal of all waste in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Any individual found in violation of this policy may face disciplinary action, including immediate removal from the premises, revocation of membership, and potential legal consequences.
16. Non-Discrimination Policy:
    AGSEM is committed to maintaining an environment that is inclusive and free from discrimination. In accordance with state and federal law, discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, creed, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected category will not be tolerated.
17. Unauthorized Representation:
    Members, volunteers, or affiliates may not represent, speak for, or act on behalf of the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum in any capacity—publicly or privately—without prior written approval from Museum Administration. This includes but is not limited to making commitments, participating in media interviews, or entering into agreements using the Museum's name. Unauthorized representation is a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of membership.

V. Enforcement & Violations

17. Violations of these rules may result in:

• Immediate removal from the premises
• Suspension or permanent revocation of membership
• Legal action and reporting to appropriate authorities
• Confiscation or disposal of unauthorized property

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all.
All members, volunteers, and visitors are expected to comply with these rules at all times.