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Ohio Stadium

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Stadium & Arena · Columbus, OH · Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics

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Bags & Backpacks

Conditional
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

No bags of any size (including clear bags) are permitted; only a wallet, wristlet, or clutch no larger than 5"x8"x1" is allowed, plus one exception bag for medical/dietary/childcare needs.

Guests with medical, dietary, or childcare needs may bring one bag (no strict size cap per the 2026 A-Z guide, though other official pages cite ~14x14x4) but must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center entrance (between Gates 10 & 12) or the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) for inspection. No written proof of need is required.

Max size
5"x8"x1" (standard); medical/childcare exception bag inspected on entry, no fixed size cap stated
Max quantity
1 bag per guest with qualifying need

Exceptions: Medical, dietary, or childcare needs via designated gates only

Water Bottles

Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Guests may bring in water bottles that are clear, plastic, and empty.

Water refill stations are available at soda fountain machines throughout the stadium.

Exceptions: Must be clear, plastic, and empty (not sealed/full) when brought in

Outside Food

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Outside food or beverages are not permitted into Ohio Stadium; a single-serving snack/beverage is allowed only under the medical/dietary needs exception.

Concessions are available throughout the stadium via Levy Restaurants (cashless only).

Exceptions: Single-serving dietary/medical-needs food or beverage permitted via the medical bag exception at designated gates

Medical Supplies & Equipment

Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Medications, medical equipment, and medical supplies are permitted via the one-bag medical needs exception.

Guests must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance (between Gates 10 & 12) or the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have the bag inspected; no written proof of medical need is required, just a declaration at those gates.

Max quantity
1 bag per guest with qualifying need

Alcohol / BYOB

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Outside alcohol may not be brought into Ohio Stadium, but alcohol (beer, seltzers, wine) is sold at concession stands throughout the stadium's general seating, not just premium areas.

A maximum of two alcoholic beverages may be sold per person at one time; guests must show ID if they appear younger than 35; alcohol sales end at the conclusion of the third quarter; a designated driver program offers free soft drinks.

Max quantity
2 alcoholic beverages per person per sale (in-stadium purchase only)

Exceptions: None for bringing alcohol in; concourse purchase available to guests 21+

Cannabis / Marijuana

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Marijuana, including medical marijuana legal under Ohio law, remains prohibited on all university-owned, operated, or leased property because federal law supersedes state law for federally funded institutions.

This follows the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, which the university is bound by due to federal funding.

Coolers

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State University Athletics Facilities Policies

Coolers and similar containers (hard-sided, soft-pack, ice chests, thermoses, picnic baskets) are prohibited from entering Ohio Stadium.

Strollers & Wagons

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Strollers and car-seat type baby carriers are not permitted into Ohio Stadium; wagons are not listed as permitted either.

Body-worn baby carriers with a child (wraps, slings, soft pack carriers) are allowed as an alternative.

Exceptions: Body-worn baby carriers permitted

Breast Pumps & Nursing Supplies

Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Breast pumps and nursing/childcare supplies (diapers, formula/breastmilk, baby food, ice packs, baby bottles) are permitted via the childcare-needs bag exception, and a dedicated Nursing Mother's Room is available in the stadium.

The Nursing Mother's Room is located near the North Rotunda, at the top of the A concourse stairs on the western side, with an adjoining restroom. Guests must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance or Press Entrance for bag inspection.

Max quantity
1 bag per guest with qualifying need

Wheelchairs & ECVs

Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Mobility devices including canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, and scooters are permitted through any gate.

Storage of larger devices at seats may be difficult unless in wheelchair-accessible seating; First Aid Rooms can store items like walkers/wheelchairs. A complimentary wheelchair escort service is also offered from gate to seat.

E-Bikes, Scooters & Hoverboards

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Segways, motorized scooters, skateboards, roller blades, and bicycles are prohibited from being brought into Ohio Stadium.

A separate Scooter Parking Zone exists outside the stadium at the RPAC Tennis Courts for riders to park before entering on foot; scooters/bicycles may not be ridden or parked at the gates.

Cameras & Photo Gear

Conditional
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Still cameras with a lens 100mm or less are permitted; cameras with larger lenses, monopods, dual pods, tripods, and any audio/video recording equipment are prohibited.

Images are for personal use only; commercial use or resale is prohibited and may violate NCAA bylaws.

Max size
Lens must be 100mm or less

Drones

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Drones and unmanned aircraft systems are strictly prohibited; the FAA imposes a Temporary Flight Restriction over Ohio Stadium during games.

The TFR covers 3 miles radius up to 3,000 ft AGL, active from 1 hour before to 1 hour after each home game; violators are subject to criminal penalties under federal law.

Umbrellas

Conditional
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Umbrellas may be carried into Ohio Stadium for use before and after the game, but may not be opened in the seating areas.

Exceptions: Cannot be opened in seating bowl

Noisemakers, Flags & Banners

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State University Athletics Facilities Policies

Noisemaking devices (air horns, bullhorns, whistles, cowbells, etc.), as well as banners, flags, posters, and signs, are prohibited.

Banners/posters/signs will be confiscated or guests will be asked to return them to their vehicle.

Chairs & Blankets

Conditional
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Folding chairs, portable chairs, stools, and lawn chairs are prohibited, but unrolled/unbagged blankets and foam seat cushions (without back support, zippers, or storage) are permitted.

Seatbacks up to 16" wide with no metal framing are permitted only with a doctor's note, entering via the Band Center or Press Entrance for inspection; rentable seatbacks are also available via buckeyeseat.com on a season basis.

Max size
Seatbacks: 16in wide max (with doctor's note)

Exceptions: Doctor's-note seatbacks via designated gates

Weapons

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Weapons, firearms, and items that mimic weapons are strictly prohibited; possession results in immediate confiscation, ejection, and/or arrest.

Prohibited items include mace, pepper spray, lighters, matches, pocket knives, knives, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, stun guns, squirt guns, and chains. Only specific on-duty-jurisdiction off-duty law enforcement may carry concealed firearms, and must check in at the Press Entrance near Gate 23.

Exceptions: Certain off-duty sworn law enforcement officers per strict conditions

Vapes & Smoking

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

All tobacco and vaping products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, cigars, hookah, oral/nasal tobacco) are banned in all university buildings and on all university-owned property, including outdoor areas and parking lots.

The ban also covers any product intended to mimic tobacco products or deliver nicotine other than for cessation purposes.

Pets & Service Animals

Conditional
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Pets are not permitted, but trained service dogs, service dogs in training, and miniature horses are allowed; Emotional Support Animals may be permitted as a reviewed accommodation.

Service dogs in training must have liability insurance from the sponsoring non-profit agency and be under control. ESA requests require completing a Disability Needs Request Form at least two weeks before the event.

Exceptions: Service animals, service animals in training, miniature horses, and approved ESAs

Re-Entry

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Guests are not permitted to re-enter Ohio Stadium once they leave.

Other

Not Allowed
Source: Ohio State Buckeyes Athletics - Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide

Miscellaneous prohibited items include confetti, streamers, glitter, balloons, inflatables, laser pointers, sticks/poles/selfie sticks, televisions/video monitors, and wrapped gifts or packages.

Non-aerosol sunscreen is explicitly permitted to be carried in. Ohio Stadium is also KultureCity-certified Sensory Inclusive, with free Sensory Bags (fidget devices, noise-cancelling headphones, communication cards) available at Guest Services locations.

Exceptions: Non-aerosol sunscreen permitted

Only 21 item types have been independently verified for Ohio Stadium so far.

Not yet verified for Ohio Stadium: Costumes & Masks, Power Banks & Batteries — this doesn't mean it's unrestricted, just not researched yet.

Frequently asked questions about Ohio Stadium

What is the bag policy and size limit at Ohio Stadium?

Conditional. No bags of any size (including clear bags) are permitted; only a wallet, wristlet, or clutch no larger than 5"x8"x1" is allowed, plus one exception bag for medical/dietary/childcare needs. Guests with medical, dietary, or childcare needs may bring one bag (no strict size cap per the 2026 A-Z guide, though other official pages cite ~14x14x4) but must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center entrance (between Gates 10 & 12) or the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) for inspection. No written proof of need is required. Max size: 5"x8"x1" (standard); medical/childcare exception bag inspected on entry, no fixed size cap stated. Max quantity: 1 bag per guest with qualifying need. Exceptions: Medical, dietary, or childcare needs via designated gates only

What is the water bottle policy at Ohio Stadium?

Allowed. Guests may bring in water bottles that are clear, plastic, and empty. Water refill stations are available at soda fountain machines throughout the stadium. Exceptions: Must be clear, plastic, and empty (not sealed/full) when brought in

What is the outside food policy at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Outside food or beverages are not permitted into Ohio Stadium; a single-serving snack/beverage is allowed only under the medical/dietary needs exception. Concessions are available throughout the stadium via Levy Restaurants (cashless only). Exceptions: Single-serving dietary/medical-needs food or beverage permitted via the medical bag exception at designated gates

Can I bring medical supplies or equipment into Ohio Stadium?

Allowed. Medications, medical equipment, and medical supplies are permitted via the one-bag medical needs exception. Guests must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance (between Gates 10 & 12) or the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have the bag inspected; no written proof of medical need is required, just a declaration at those gates. Max quantity: 1 bag per guest with qualifying need.

Can you bring your own alcohol (BYOB) into Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Outside alcohol may not be brought into Ohio Stadium, but alcohol (beer, seltzers, wine) is sold at concession stands throughout the stadium's general seating, not just premium areas. A maximum of two alcoholic beverages may be sold per person at one time; guests must show ID if they appear younger than 35; alcohol sales end at the conclusion of the third quarter; a designated driver program offers free soft drinks. Max quantity: 2 alcoholic beverages per person per sale (in-stadium purchase only). Exceptions: None for bringing alcohol in; concourse purchase available to guests 21+

Is cannabis or marijuana allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Marijuana, including medical marijuana legal under Ohio law, remains prohibited on all university-owned, operated, or leased property because federal law supersedes state law for federally funded institutions. This follows the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, which the university is bound by due to federal funding.

Are coolers allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Coolers and similar containers (hard-sided, soft-pack, ice chests, thermoses, picnic baskets) are prohibited from entering Ohio Stadium.

Are strollers and wagons allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Strollers and car-seat type baby carriers are not permitted into Ohio Stadium; wagons are not listed as permitted either. Body-worn baby carriers with a child (wraps, slings, soft pack carriers) are allowed as an alternative. Exceptions: Body-worn baby carriers permitted

Can I bring a breast pump or nursing supplies into Ohio Stadium?

Allowed. Breast pumps and nursing/childcare supplies (diapers, formula/breastmilk, baby food, ice packs, baby bottles) are permitted via the childcare-needs bag exception, and a dedicated Nursing Mother's Room is available in the stadium. The Nursing Mother's Room is located near the North Rotunda, at the top of the A concourse stairs on the western side, with an adjoining restroom. Guests must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance or Press Entrance for bag inspection. Max quantity: 1 bag per guest with qualifying need.

Are wheelchairs and ECVs allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Allowed. Mobility devices including canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, and scooters are permitted through any gate. Storage of larger devices at seats may be difficult unless in wheelchair-accessible seating; First Aid Rooms can store items like walkers/wheelchairs. A complimentary wheelchair escort service is also offered from gate to seat.

Are e-bikes, scooters, or hoverboards allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Segways, motorized scooters, skateboards, roller blades, and bicycles are prohibited from being brought into Ohio Stadium. A separate Scooter Parking Zone exists outside the stadium at the RPAC Tennis Courts for riders to park before entering on foot; scooters/bicycles may not be ridden or parked at the gates.

What is the camera policy at Ohio Stadium, and what equipment is allowed?

Conditional. Still cameras with a lens 100mm or less are permitted; cameras with larger lenses, monopods, dual pods, tripods, and any audio/video recording equipment are prohibited. Images are for personal use only; commercial use or resale is prohibited and may violate NCAA bylaws. Max size: Lens must be 100mm or less.

Are drones allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Drones and unmanned aircraft systems are strictly prohibited; the FAA imposes a Temporary Flight Restriction over Ohio Stadium during games. The TFR covers 3 miles radius up to 3,000 ft AGL, active from 1 hour before to 1 hour after each home game; violators are subject to criminal penalties under federal law.

Are umbrellas allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Conditional. Umbrellas may be carried into Ohio Stadium for use before and after the game, but may not be opened in the seating areas. Exceptions: Cannot be opened in seating bowl

Are noisemakers, flags, or banners allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Noisemaking devices (air horns, bullhorns, whistles, cowbells, etc.), as well as banners, flags, posters, and signs, are prohibited. Banners/posters/signs will be confiscated or guests will be asked to return them to their vehicle.

Are chairs and blankets allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Conditional. Folding chairs, portable chairs, stools, and lawn chairs are prohibited, but unrolled/unbagged blankets and foam seat cushions (without back support, zippers, or storage) are permitted. Seatbacks up to 16" wide with no metal framing are permitted only with a doctor's note, entering via the Band Center or Press Entrance for inspection; rentable seatbacks are also available via buckeyeseat.com on a season basis. Max size: Seatbacks: 16in wide max (with doctor's note). Exceptions: Doctor's-note seatbacks via designated gates

What is the weapons policy at Ohio Stadium?

Not Allowed. Weapons, firearms, and items that mimic weapons are strictly prohibited; possession results in immediate confiscation, ejection, and/or arrest. Prohibited items include mace, pepper spray, lighters, matches, pocket knives, knives, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, stun guns, squirt guns, and chains. Only specific on-duty-jurisdiction off-duty law enforcement may carry concealed firearms, and must check in at the Press Entrance near Gate 23. Exceptions: Certain off-duty sworn law enforcement officers per strict conditions

Is smoking or vaping allowed at Ohio Stadium, and is there a designated area?

Not Allowed. All tobacco and vaping products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, cigars, hookah, oral/nasal tobacco) are banned in all university buildings and on all university-owned property, including outdoor areas and parking lots. The ban also covers any product intended to mimic tobacco products or deliver nicotine other than for cessation purposes.

Are pets or service animals allowed at Ohio Stadium?

Conditional. Pets are not permitted, but trained service dogs, service dogs in training, and miniature horses are allowed; Emotional Support Animals may be permitted as a reviewed accommodation. Service dogs in training must have liability insurance from the sponsoring non-profit agency and be under control. ESA requests require completing a Disability Needs Request Form at least two weeks before the event. Exceptions: Service animals, service animals in training, miniature horses, and approved ESAs

Does Ohio Stadium allow re-entry?

Not Allowed. Guests are not permitted to re-enter Ohio Stadium once they leave.

What else should I know about Ohio Stadium's policies?

Not Allowed. Miscellaneous prohibited items include confetti, streamers, glitter, balloons, inflatables, laser pointers, sticks/poles/selfie sticks, televisions/video monitors, and wrapped gifts or packages. Non-aerosol sunscreen is explicitly permitted to be carried in. Ohio Stadium is also KultureCity-certified Sensory Inclusive, with free Sensory Bags (fidget devices, noise-cancelling headphones, communication cards) available at Guest Services locations. Exceptions: Non-aerosol sunscreen permitted

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