Clear Bag Policy

INFOGRAPHICS

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WSU CLEAR BAG POLICY

This policy limits the type and size of bags permitted in the venue. However, guests are still allowed to bring personal items, but they must either be carried or fit into a permissible sized bag.  Approved bags include clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that do not exceed 14" x 8" x 14"; one-gallon clear re-sealable plastic storage bags; small clutch purses no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" with or without a handle or strap.

Why has the policy been adopted?

In an effort to improve fan safety, Washington State Athletics is implementing a Clear Bag policy for all football and basketball games at Gesa Field in the Fall of 2018 and at Beasley Coliseum in Winter of 2024.  This policy enhances safety at Gesa Field and Beasley Coliseum, and provides great game day experiences by making the stadium/arena access more efficient.  This policy limits the size and types of bags that are permitted inside the stadium/arena, but is not a restriction on many of the items that fans have brought into the stadium/arena in the past.  This proactive measure will enhance safety at our games and expedite the screening process for all guests.
 
Are other universities limiting bags or doing enhanced screening?
 
Yes.  All Pac-12 schools and a number of other college venues have adopted a clear bag policy.  In fact, some universities don't permit any bags.  Clear bags are an additional security measure that the Washington State Athletic Department is implementing to improve fan safety and provide our fans a more consistent and efficient entry process.
 
How does this make it more convenient for fans?
 
This policy will enable us to move guests through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective at checking bags that are brought into the stadium/arena.  Smaller lines equate to faster entry.  Fans will enjoy an improved sense of safety while spending less time in lines at stadium gates.
 
How does the Clear Bag Policy improve public safety?
 
The clear bag allows for easier and quicker searches.  It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
 
Will clear bags be available around Gesa Field?
 
Clear bags are available for purchase through The Bookie on game day. Alternatively, we suggest that you use a one-gallon Ziploc bag.
 
How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?
 
Each ticketed guest can carry one (1) large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or the 14" x 8" x 14" clear bag – plus a small clutch purse (4.5" x 6.5"). This small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is also easily searched.  Every member of your family may carry in a permissible bag.
 
Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or blankets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
 
Yes.  We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the stadium.arena, not items that you normally bring to a game. Guests can continue to carry permitted items in their pockets or hand such as keys, phones, wallets, makeup, blankets, etc., if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch purse.  In addition, you can carry a blanket over your arms, binoculars and/or camera round your neck or in your hands without the items case. You can use the clear bag and clutch purse to carry other items.  You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the stadium.
 
Have the Prohibited Item's changed as well, with this new bag policy?
 
No. All prohibited items remain the same as last season, other than the bags that don't meet the new Clear Bag Policy.   For a list of prohibited items, visit: http://wsucougars.com/sports/2013/4/18/208266329.aspx 
Guests are encouraged to bring only necessary items to games.  All guests and items are subject to search.
 
Gesa Field / Beasley Coliseum Permitted Items:

• Clear Bags that are vinyl, plastic or PV that do not exceed 14" x 8" x 14"
• Small clutch purse that is no larger than 4.5" x 6"
• Baby food (with child in arms)
• Binoculars
• Blankets
• Cameras without large lenses
• Cougar Game Day Cup
• Game Tickets
• Modest amounts of food for personal consumption (fruits and vegetables must be sliced)
• Empty, transparent plastic water bottles which are 1.5 liters or less in size
• Soft sided seat cushions with no pockets or zippers or solid, rigid, or metal frames.
• Strollers (strollers can’t accompany you to your seat and we don’t have don’t have storage areas for them).

 
Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the stadium?
 
Yes. Only soft, flexible seat cushions without pockets are permitted.  Large traditional cushions that have zippers, pockets, covers or compartments are not permitted. Seat cushions that have rigid or metal frames are not permitted. Seat cushions and chair backs must be 18" in width or less.
 
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
 
Guests carrying a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the venue.  Guests with prohibited bags will need to return their bags to their vehicle and transfer their belongings to an approved clear plastic bag before entering the venue. There will not be a bag check at Gesa Field to collect or store non-permissible bags during the game.
 
If I have certain items that I need to bring into the stadium for medical reasons and they don't fit into a clear bag, what do I do?
 
Guests with medically necessary items may enter at any gate but will be subject to additional screening. Supervisors at each entrance will assist.
 
Are all purses prohibited?
 
No. Small clutch pursues with or without a handle or strap are permitted along with the 14" x 8" x 14" clear bag or one-gallon freezer bag. This should enable guests to carry the same items they have in previous years and expedite entry into the venue.  We strongly encourage guests not to bring any bags, but have implemented a policy that balances the needs of our guests with our obligation to provide a safe environment. 
 
What about diaper bags?
 
Diaper bags are not allowed. All bags must be clear and meet our size specifications (within 14"x8"x14")
 
Will this policy affect the ability to tailgate?
 
No. Tailgating at Washington State University will not be affected by the new clear bag policy.  For details on game day tailgating visit: https://transportation.wsu.edu/GamedayTailgating.html
 
What types of bags are permitted?
 
Approved bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 14" x 8" x 14"; one gallon clear, re-sealable plastic storage bags; and small clutch purses no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand) with or without a handle or strap.
 
Are blankets in cold weather allowed?
 
Yes.  Guests can bring these items into the athletics venues by tossing them over a shoulder or arm. Items that are folded must be opened and inspected in order to gain access to the venue.