Clear Bag Policy
SECURITY POLICY IN EFFECT FOR ALL EVENTS
In the interest of enhancing existing security measures, the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center enforces a clear bag security policy regulating the size and types of bags that may be carried into the venues.
“The safety and security of our guests and staff are a top priority. We believe this is a critical enhancement to our current procedures already in place,” said North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center General Manager Scott Keith. “We will be able to provide a safer environment and a quicker experience for guests as they enter the venues.”
Fans are strongly encouraged to not bring any types of bags to the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center, however, outlined below are types of bags that will be permitted:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 14” x 6” x 14”
- One-gallon plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
- Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, not to exceed 4.5” x 6.5”
- Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at designated entrance points.
- Diaper bags will be allowed for families with infants and toddlers. Child must be present.
Fans will continue to be able to carry items allowed into the venues such as non-professional cameras, binoculars, and smartphones as long as they are in their pockets or a clear bag.
Working personnel, including credentialed media, will enter the venues through designated entrances where they will be subject to screening and bag inspections.
PROHIBITED ITEMS
All guests entering this facility are subject to search as permissible by law. Refusal to consent is grounds to prohibit admission to the venue.
The Following Items Are Prohibited From Inside This Venue:
- Backpacks, Bags and Luggage, Parcels and Briefcases
- Bottles, Cans, Coolers and Liquid Containers Including Water Bottles
- Food and Beverages (Including Alcohol)
- Illegal Substances
- Fireworks and other projectiles
- Recording Devices and Video Equipment
- Electronic Tablets (Ex: IPAD, eReaders & laptops
- Handheld Video Games
- Weapons of Any Type (Including Pocketknives and Firearms)
- Laser Pointers, Aerosol Cans & Noisemakers
- Large Banners, Inflated Balloons, Signs & Stickers
- Pets (Except Service Dogs)
- Two-Wheeled Motorized Devices
- Other Items Designated By Event Promoter or the Facility
- Re-Entry is NOT Permitted
- NO Audio and Video Recording
- This Venue is a Smoke-Free Facility (This Includes Electronic Cigarette Devices)
- Designated Smoking Areas are provided in each building.
*Additional rules and regulations may be posted on the property, our website or may be communicated to our guests through our staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all purses prohibited?
No. Unlike some event venues, we are not banning all bags. Small clutch purses, no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with the 14" x 6" x 14" clear tote bag.
How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?
One clear bag, 14" by 6" by 14" plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be no larger than 14" by 6" by 14", made of clear PVC vinyl and easily searched. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is also easily searched.
What about diaper bags?
Diapers bags are allowed for families with infants and toddlers. Child must be present.
What about necessary medical items?
An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection and screening.
What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Fans carrying bags that do not meet the criteria will be turned away from the arena and sent to their vehicles to leave their impermissible bags.
Why did the North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center adopt this policy?
The North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center constantly reviews their public safety and arena security policies. We strongly believe that adjusting the policy enhances public safety and makes arena access more efficient, by limiting the size and style of bags carried into the arena.
This proactive measure will both enhance safety inside and outside the arena, and speed the security screening process for all fans. The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment. This is about safety and improving the overall fan experience.
Can I bring a seat cushion?
Yes. Seat cushions are permitted. If you bring a seat cushion, prepare to have it inspected/patted down prior to entry.
How does the new policy improve public safety?
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security's "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign.
How does this make the experience more convenient for fans?
This will enable us to move fans through our security checkpoints much faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the arena. There will be less time spent standing in lines at the arena entrances and fans will enjoy an improved sense of safety. Shorter lines mean fewer hassles.
Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?
Yes. Binoculars, phone and cameras can be carried into the arena so long as it is not in its own bag. This is not a restriction on items that fans have been able to bring into the arena. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry items. Some shows may prohibit cameras.
Do I have to put everything I'm carrying into the permissible bags?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the arena, not items that you normally bring to a game. You can carry keys, makeup, feminine products, a comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc., in your pockets or jacket if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. You can use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. You will continue to have the flexibility to bring a wide variety of approved items into the arena. Every member of your family may carry in a permissible bag. All items in pockets must be removed prior to search at each entrance of the arena.
Are the Stingrays selling clear bags?
Yes. They are being sold at the Reef (Stingrays merchandise area at Section 140) and online. They cost $12.