Section 900: Physical Plant

Effective: August 2021
Revised: February 2022
Last Review: March 2024
Next Review: March 2026
Responsible Party: Chancellor

Policy

For the purposes of this policy, “tailgating” is defined as a private, social gathering in designated parking areas on Montana State University-Northern property. “Tailgaters” are defined as individuals who attend, at any point during the designated time, one or more of these private, social gatherings.

Montana State University-Northern allows students, alumni, employees, and friends of Montana State University-Northern to tailgate in designated parking areas in conjunction with specifically identified Montana State University-Northern events and activities, under the rules set forth in this policy and in compliance with Montana State Law.

A fee will be assessed for tailgating permits and reservations will be offered for either Tier I or Tier II spaces, based on location of the designated tailgating area. Please call (406) 265-3761 to reserve a space and for fee schedule based on Tier level. Requests for single game spaces are taken beginning each year on June 1st. Orders are filled on a first come first served basis.

Individuals, groups, and organizations hosting or participating in tailgating are responsible for their own conduct and the conduct of their guests, and are expected to be courteous and respectful of others and University property at all times.

At its discretion, Montana State University-Northern may terminate tailgate gatherings, or take other appropriate action against individuals, groups, or organizations whose conduct is irresponsible, unreasonable, or inconsistent with Montana State University-Northern’s policies or Montana State Laws.

As tailgating typically occurs prior to and during Montana State University-Northern home football games, the following requirements will take effect for all home football games and any additional tailgating event, as designated by the Chancellor (or designee):

  • Tailgating is only allowed in designated areas by those who have appropriately obtained a permit.
  • Tailgating may begin no earlier than two hours before the scheduled start of the home football game.
  • Alcohol is only allowed at reserved tailgate gatherings where hosts have obtained a permit.
  • Tailgate hosts and attendees are responsible for ensuring appropriate and safe alcohol use by all in attendance at their gathering, to include adherence to the following specific requirements:
    • alcohol may not be provided to anyone under the age of 21;
    • hosts are responsible for the provision of designated drivers for their attendees;
    • alcohol is not permitted outside of designated tailgating areas and is not allowed in the stadium; and
    • unattended alcohol will be confiscated and disposed of immediately.

The Chancellor (or designee) retains the right to identify Montana State University-Northern events or activities as those that may permit tailgating. Specific requirements for each tailgating event, including additions or enhancements to those in place for home football games, are subject to the Chancellor’s (or designee’s) approval.

Tailgate permits may not be transferred or reassigned by permit holders.  This action may result in loss of permit.  All permits must be obtained through Montana State University-Northern Athletics Department (406) 265-3761.

Tailgate permit holders must have a signed “Acknowledgement of Policy” on file with the Montana State University-Northern Athletics Department.

All tailgate spots must be vacated within 60 minutes of the conclusion of the game; each spot holder is responsible for their trash. No glass containers are allowed.

References:

MUS Policy and Procedures Manual: Policy 503.1 Alcoholic Beverages
MSU-Northern Administrative Policy & Procedures Manual: Policy 1003.1 Alcoholic Beverages; Policy 903.1 University Property and Facilities Rental; Policy 901.2 Camping; Policy 901.1 Vehicle Regulations