As we gear up for another exciting fair, we want to remind you about some important responsibilities that come with exhibiting animals, specifically around liability and insurance coverage.
In Kansas, if an animal gets loose at a county fair and causes injury or damage, the owner of the animal is generally responsible under state law (K.S.A. 47-123). Even at organized events like fairs, livestock are considered “at large” if they aren’t properly secured. That means if your animal injures someone or causes property damage, your family could be held liable.
The Fair Board Association is responsible for keeping the grounds safe, but they are not typically liable for injuries or incidents caused by 4-H exhibitors’ animals, unless there was clear negligence on the part of the Fair Board.
Some families may believe that their homeowners’ insurance will cover these types of situations, but most policies do not include agricultural or livestock-related incidents. That’s why it’s highly recommended that families carry farm or livestock liability insurance. This type of coverage helps protect you in case something goes wrong during the fair.
You may also want to consider medical or accident insurance. While some state 4-H programs carry general liability insurance, this typically does not cover injuries to the 4-H members themselves.
It’s also important to know that under Kansas law (K.S.A. 60-4001 through 60-4004), people who participate in or attend domestic animal activities—like our county fairs—are assumed to accept the natural risks of being around animals. That means the Fair Board and the 4-H program are not usually liable for injuries that happen simply because animals behave like animals.
To protect your family and your project, we strongly encourage you to talk with your insurance provider and make sure you have the coverage you need before fair week arrives.
If you have questions, please reach out to the Extension Office.
Let’s make it a fun, safe, and successful fair for everyone!
Liability Insurance during Fair for 4-H Members with Livestock