Decree No. 103-F: “All Ladders Over Eight Rungs Must Be Registered”
Enacted: 12th Waking Light, Year 909
📖 Background & Origin
Enacted following the infamous Festival of Ladders Collapse in Year 908, Decree 103-F was introduced by the Ministry of Structural Confidence after a parade float, built entirely from lashed-together ladders, collapsed spectacularly during the opening procession. No serious injuries were reported, though one town crier was airborne for an impressive distance and a goose had to be formally retired from service.
According to archived witness testimony, the issue was not the ladders themselves, but “an enthusiastic disregard for physics.” The decree was drafted within a week.
⚖️ Summary of the Ordinance
All ladders exceeding eight rungs in height are to be registered with the Office of Ascending Equipment, a sub-division of the Ministry of Public Steadiness. Registration involves:
- A brief inspection.
- Proof of ownership.
- A solemn vow not to juggle while atop it.
Registered ladders are marked with a discreet silver ring, which must not be removed or engraved with slogans, particularly ones mocking gravity.
🧾 Application & Enforcement
The ordinance has been enforced with modest consistency, primarily in the capital and within festival grounds. Over the years, enforcement has expanded to include:
- Stage setups.
- Roof repairs.
- And one memorable instance where a ladder was declared “emotionally too tall” and sent back for adjustment.
To date, over 3,000 ladders have been registered. Two were discovered to be towers in disguise and reclassified.
The Constabulary has emphasized that failure to register a tall ladder may result in a fine of 3 crowns and temporary confiscation (ladder returned upon proof of character and humility).
🪜 Legacy
Though often mocked by tradesfolk, the ordinance remains in force. A commemorative engraving near the Ministry reads:
“We rise by rungs — but not without reason.”