Buying Beer At Rice-Eccles Stadium: What's The Deal?

Rice-Eccles Stadium is located on the campus of the University of Utah, which is a dry campus, meaning that alcohol is prohibited. However, there are a few locations on campus with liquor licenses, and alcohol can be served at events hosted by third-party entities. For example, alcohol is served at Supercross events and some concerts, but not at NCAA events or University of Utah football games.

Beer at Rice Eccles Stadium during football games

Rice-Eccles Stadium is located on the campus of the University of Utah, which is a dry campus. This means that alcohol is not sold during NCAA events, including football games. However, alcohol may be served at non-university athletic events, such as concerts, upon approval from the Vice President of Rice-Eccles Stadium. These events must be closed to the general public, and there can be no charge for alcoholic beverages. Additionally, the alcohol must be provided and served by the stadium's exclusive caterer, Oak View Group.

The University of Utah's athletics ticket office has stated that they will never sell alcohol at football games as long as the campus is dry. This is in line with the state's liquor laws, which prohibit the sale of alcohol near schools and churches. However, some people have found workarounds to this rule, such as tailgating in the parking lot before the game or smuggling alcohol into the stadium in flasks or plastic containers.

Some people have expressed disappointment or frustration with the lack of alcohol sales at football games, especially since other schools and stadiums in major cities allow alcohol sales. On the other hand, some people have pointed out that there are several other stadiums across the country that do not allow alcohol sales during football games, including the University of Georgia, Michigan, Nebraska, Clemson, and Stanford.

There have been discussions and proposals to change the alcohol policy at Rice-Eccles Stadium. One proposal suggests that selling beer at football games could be a significant source of revenue for the university. For example, if 30% of 30,000 attendees purchased a $5 beer, the university would make approximately $45,000, which could pay the annual tuition of 12 students. Additionally, it is argued that the sale of alcohol could lead to a happier and more enthusiastic student body, as well as improved halftime shows.

Rice Eccles Stadium's drunk tank

Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah, is home to the Utah Utes college football team. The stadium has a drunk tank, also known as a booze jail, where intoxicated and unruly fans are held until they sober up. The exact consequences of being placed in the drunk tank are unclear, but it is likely that those detained will be ejected from the stadium and may face additional penalties, such as losing future ticket purchasing privileges.

The existence of the drunk tank highlights the stadium's efforts to manage alcohol-related issues and promote safety. Intoxicated individuals pose a risk to themselves and others, and the presence of a designated holding area allows for better control and handling of such situations. It is important to note that drinking alcohol is not prohibited in the stadium, but there are rules and guidelines in place to ensure responsible consumption.

Rice-Eccles Stadium has a clear bag policy, which includes restrictions on the type and size of bags that can be brought into the venue. This policy enhances security and efficiency during the entry process, as bags can be easily inspected. It is worth noting that while alcohol is permitted in certain areas of the stadium, there are strict regulations surrounding its service and consumption. Alcohol may only be served in reception rooms, and only by the exclusive caterer, Oak View Group. Any other areas of the stadium are prohibited from serving alcohol.

The stadium also offers a variety of food and beverage options for fans, including multiple beer stands throughout the concourse. Fans can enjoy classic stadium food, such as hot dogs, chicken strips, and nachos, as well as options like subs, pizza, and burgers. However, it is important to note that outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the stadium, except for one factory-sealed water bottle per person.

In conclusion, the Rice-Eccles Stadium drunk tank serves as a measure to maintain order and safety during events. The stadium authorities' comprehensive guidelines on alcohol service, consumption, and fan behaviour aim to create a positive and enjoyable experience for all attendees while minimising alcohol-related incidents.

The University of Utah's Clear Bag Policy

The University of Utah has implemented a Clear Bag Policy for its sporting events, including football, basketball, and gymnastics. The policy allows fans to bring in one clear bag no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″ or a 1-gallon plastic storage bag, in addition to a small clutch or purse for privacy. This policy aims to enhance public safety, improve the game-day experience, and speed up security screening.

The Clear Bag Policy is designed to make stadium access more efficient and secure. It enables staff to quickly search bags and reduces the likelihood of faulty bag checks. It also aligns with the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign. Additionally, the policy provides convenience for guests by reducing wait times at security checkpoints.

Guests carrying medically necessary bags or equipment will need to have their bags inspected by security. Diaper bags are permitted but are subject to search, and guests must have the infant(s) present during the inspection. It is important to note that only clear bags are permitted at Utah Athletics-related events.

Rice Eccles Stadium's alcohol service approval process

The Rice-Eccles Stadium is located on the campus of the University of Utah, which is a dry campus. This means that alcohol is prohibited from being sold at the stadium during the school year when the University holds an event.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Firstly, alcohol can be served (but not sold) at events hosted by university entities if a third party holds the liquor liability. Secondly, non-university athletic events, such as Supercross and Monster Jam, are allowed to sell alcohol as they are considered separate from the University. Finally, alcohol may be served in reception rooms at Rice-Eccles Stadium for special events, but only upon approval from the Vice President of the stadium. This approval process involves several steps and restrictions:

• The event must be rented to and sponsored by an off-campus, third-party entity, with no involvement from university entities or departments.
• The event must be closed to the general public.
• No charge can be made for alcoholic beverages or entry to the event.
• The third-party lessee must agree to comply with Utah liquor laws, sign a rental agreement and alcohol service request addendum, and assume liability for any claims resulting from the service or consumption of alcohol.
• All alcohol must be provided and served by the exclusive caterer for Rice-Eccles Stadium, Oak View Group. Self-service and external bartending services are not permitted.
• All events must end before midnight, and additional restrictions may apply for events using in-stadium lighting and video boards.

These rules and restrictions are in place to ensure that alcohol service at Rice-Eccles Stadium is carefully controlled and complies with relevant laws and regulations.

The University of Utah's liquor liability insurance

The University of Utah does not have liquor liability insurance and therefore cannot sell alcohol of any kind. Any alcohol consumed on campus must be from a third-party that holds the liquor liability and it is limited to private functions in certain venues. The University's Risk and Insurance Manager requires that the University be named as an additional insured on the Commercial General Liability, and if applicable, Aircraft Liability and Liquor Liability insurance policy by endorsement.

The University of Utah's Risk and Insurance Services provides General Liability, Professional Liability, Errors and Omissions, and Excess Auto Liability insurance to the University and its employees or authorized volunteers through the Utah State Division of Risk Management. This coverage applies during the performance of the employee's duties within the scope of their employment at the University. Exceptions include employee activities outside the scope of their duties or conduct related to intoxication or substance abuse. The University's property insurance, provided by the Utah State Division of Risk Management, offers replacement cost coverage on property, including buildings and equipment, owned by the University or property for which the University has assumed liability before a loss.

The University's Risk and Insurance Manager also requires that the supplier or vendor maintain Commercial General Liability insurance with per-occurrence limits of no less than $1,000,000 and general aggregate limits of no less than $2,000,000. If applicable to the supplier's operations or performance, they must also maintain Liquor Liability insurance, among other types of insurance. The University must be named as an additional insured on the Commercial General Liability and Liquor Liability insurance policies.

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