Game Day on USC’s Campus is an experience like no other! Our goal is to ensure that fans of all ages enjoy a safe and entertaining experience. Please keep the following Game Day campus policies in mind so that all Trojan fans get the most out of all pre-game festivities.
Tailgate Permits and Registration
- A Tailgate Permit is required for all groups tailgating on campus.
- Fans must register for a tailgate permit at least three weeks prior to Game Day to avoid late registration fees. Questions may be directed to tailgate@usc.edu.
- Setting up, marking off, or holding a tailgate space on game day without a tailgate permit is prohibited. On-campus tailgate spaces are reserved for approved tailgate permit holders only.
- Tailgate spaces are measured based on the guest count you provide during registration. The Game Day team allocates approximately 7-10 square feet per person.
- Tailgate permits may not be purchased by a third party for resale, and permit holders are not permitted to resell or give away permits.
- Tailgate permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- All tailgate organizers, participants, and individuals are expected to comply with campus regulations on tailgating, and to comply with local, county, state, and federal laws and ordinances.
- All tailgate organizers must familiarize themselves with official USC tailgate policies.
Tailgate Hours and Access
- Tailgating on campus can begin no earlier than 6 hours before kickoff. This 6-hour timeframe includes your tailgate setup.
- The earliest campus will open on game day is 6 am.
- Tailgating ends promptly at kickoff time.
- Tailgaters who do not wish to register for a reserved space on campus are welcome to join the Trojan Family Game Day Experience tailgate located in the center of campus in the entirety of Alumni Park.
- Tailgating and open containers are strictly prohibited at USC Village.
- Areas of campus may be reserved for specific university needs or events and will not be available for all game days.
- Cars and catering/ delivery trucks may not drive into the center of campus.
Equipment and Amenities
- USC does not provide tents or any other equipment for tailgates. Tailgaters are responsible for bringing their own supplies.
- Signage or tents with commercial names or locations are not allowed.
- Use of any USC electricity or outlets that are not provided through a tailgate permit is strictly prohibited.
- Amplified sound that is audible from more than 5 ft. away or over 80 decibels is prohibited, including TVs, portable sound systems, etc. Live bands, Mariachi, DJs, and large sound systems are strictly prohibited. *Only homecoming tailgates registered with the Alumni Association are exempt from the above policy. This exemption is applicable only on homecoming game day.
- Only university-affiliated groups (using USC funds) may sell admission or products (including food, drinks, merchandise, etc.) at their campus tailgate. These groups must obtain the proper permits to host and sell at their event. Please contact tailgate@usc.edu for more information.
- Non-university-affiliated groups may not sell, sample or distribute any products or services on campus during game day.
Food, Beverages and BBQ Safety
- No glass containers are permitted. Please use reusable containers or aluminum cans.
- BBQs must be at least 15 ft. from all buildings, tents, and overhangs. After use, coals must be fully extinguished, cooled down, and placed in designated non-combustible cans.
- Tailgate activities cannot include any games involving alcohol or alcohol paraphernalia.
- Trash must be disposed of in proper receptacles, and tailgaters are responsible for returning their area to its original state before departing campus.
- For information on fire safety for safe tailgate BBQ cooking, please download and read “Gameday BBQ Safety” from the USC Fire Safety and Emergency Planning website.
Please visit our FAQ for further details.