New Policy to be Implemented at All Stadium Events
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Sports Authority and University of South Florida announced today that the National Football League’s new bag policy will be in effect for all Raymond James Stadium events beginning with the Buccaneers’ home preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, Aug. 8. The new bag policy, which has been established in order to provide fans with a safer environment and expedited entry on game day, places limits on the size and type of bags which may be brought into Raymond James Stadium. Additionally, the Tampa Sports Authority will enforce the policy for all events taking place at the stadium going forward.
“Our team takes the safety of our fans very seriously,” said Buccaneers Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford. “Every year we work diligently with the Tampa Sports Authority to put the best possible security measures in place and the new bag policy, which will now be a part of every event at Raymond James Stadium, is a crucial next step in this process. In an effort to make this a seamless process for our Season Pass Members, we have already begun mailing the NFL approved bags to ensure they arrive prior to next Thursday’s preseason home opener.”
The bag policy was unanimously recommended in May by the NFL Committee on Stadium Security and will be put into place at all NFL stadiums beginning with preseason games this season. The Tampa Sports Authority will adopt the policy for all events at the stadium which includes USF Bulls football games as well as the annual Outback Bowl and the Monster Jam Series.
“The Tampa Sports Authority has consistently provided a safe and secure environment for our fans at Raymond James Stadium,” said Eric Hart, President/CEO of the Tampa Sports Authority, operators of Raymond James Stadium. “This new bag policy being implemented in cooperation with the Bucs, USF and all our other partners, will continue to put public safety as our top priority.”
Under the new policy, fans will be allowed to carry in no more than one approved clear bag (not to exceed 12”x6”x12”) and up to one small clutch-style bag (not to exceed 4.5”x6.5”). The policy only restricts the type and size of containers used to carry items, but the list of approved items has not changed. Fans may still carry usual items such as keys, wallets, makeup, phones, etc., in pockets or jackets in addition to the approved containers that are detailed below. Patrons with medically necessary items will be screened at specifically designated gate locations.
“The safety of all Bulls’ fans is our number one priority, and as a result, we’ve been working closely with the Buccaneers and the Tampa Sports Authority on this new bag policy,” said USF Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Doug Woolard. “It’s important that we continue to analyze security measures that will allow all fans to have the best possible gameday experience. We appreciate your support and understanding of these new guidelines.”
During stadium events, there will be a secondary perimeter around the stadium where security personnel will check for prohibited items or bags in order to correct situations immediately. This will establish a protected buffer area for fans in plaza-level areas and at the queues for stadium entry.
Fans entering the stadium may carry the following permissible style and size bag:
· Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”
- One-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic bag.
- Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand (no larger than 4.5”x6.5”), with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at specific gates designated for this purpose. Fans should contact Maureen Myers at the Tampa Sports Authority office in advance by calling 813-350-6508 or emailing mmyers@tampasportsuthority.com to make special medical needs arrangements.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, binocular cases, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size. Fans are encouraged to visit www.nfl.com/allclear for all the details regarding the new bag policy as well as answers to frequently asked questions.
