APS Department of Athletics

CLEAR BAG PROCEDURE FAQ

Why has this bag procedure been adopted?

Public safety and stadium security procedures are reviewed each year as we look for ways to improve them. These proactive measures are meant to enhance safety inside the stadium and speed the security screening process for all fans to ensure an enjoyable experience as we strive for a safe and secure environment.

Are other venues limiting bags or doing enhanced screening?

Yes. A clear bag procedure is in alignment with best practices in various school districts and has also been adopted by numerous college stadiums, the NFL and other venues that host other entertainment events. The limitations on bag size and style are a further enhancement for safety.

How does the new Clear Bag Procedure 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 it more convenient for fans?

This will enable us to move fans through our security check points much faster. A standard-sized bag eliminates the need for bag templates to check bag sizes. It will allow stadium staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the stadium. Fans will also enjoy an improved sense of safety.

How many bags can each person bring into the stadium?

Each ticket holder can bring in one large clear bag, either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or a 12” by 6″ by 12″ clear bag, plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 12″ by 6″ by 12″ bag made of clear PVC vinyl and is easily searched. The one-gallon Ziploc style bag is readily available, inexpensive, and easily searched for. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is easily searched.

Can fans carry cameras, binoculars, smart phones or tablets separately from what they put in a clear bag?

Yes. Binoculars, a phone, or approved cameras can be carried into the stadium so long as it is not in its own bag. This is not a further restriction on items that fans are able to bring into the stadium. It is only a restriction on the type of container used to carry approved items.

Is there a list of permitted and prohibited items?

The following ARE PERMITTED:

• Bags that comply with the Clear Bag Policy Procedure (see Bag Diagram)
• Binoculars shorter than 6 inches (case prohibited)
• Blankets
• Cameras with 3-inch lenses or shorter (no lights, tripods, selfie-sticks or monopods)
• Diapers and wipes may be carried in a permissible 12”x 6”x12” clear bag (diaper bags are not permitted)
• Flags smaller than 2’ x 3’ (No Poles)
• Seat cushions. (Except those non-approved chair backs/seat cushions include large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers)
• Strollers
• Sunscreen & hand-powered misters
• Umbrellas (no obstruction of other fans view)

The following ARE PROHIBITED:

• Aerosol cans
• Alcoholic beverages
• Backpacks
• Bags that violate the Bag Procedure (see Bag Procedure above)
• Cameras with lenses larger than 3-inches (lights, tripods, selfie-sticks and monopods are also prohibited)
• Cans, glass bottles or alcoholic beverages
• Drugs & Drug paraphernalia, marijuana & marijuana products
• Coolers (including soft-sided coolers)
• Water bottles
• Reusable water bottles
• Glow sticks, light-up costumes, light-up signs, battery packs
• Intoxication or signs of impairment related to alcohol or drugs
• Irresponsible drinking or behavior
• Klaxons, bullhorns, whistles, or any other noisemakers
• Laptops and Laptop Bags
• Laser pointers of any type
• Offensive clothing
• Projectiles (footballs, Frisbees, etc.)
• Selfie Sticks
• Signs, banners or poles
• UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)
• Weapons of any kind (including silverware).

Are seat cushions allowed to be carried into the stadium?

Yes. Soft, flexible seat cushions without pockets may be carried into the stadium. Large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers are not permitted. Seat cushions that have rigid frames are not permitted.

What happens if I show up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?

Fans carrying bags that do not comply with the Clear Bag Procedure will not be permitted to enter the venue. There will NOT be clear plastic bags or a bag check available at the gate.  All visitors are encouraged to have their items in an approved clear plastic bag when they arrive.     

If I have special medical equipment, I need to have with me at all times, where do I put that?

An exception will be made for bags containing medically necessary items after proper inspection at the point of entry.

Are all purses prohibited?

No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, are permitted along with either the 12″ by 6″ by 12″ clear tote bags or the one-gallon Ziploc-style bags. This should enable you to carry the same items that you have in previous visits.

What about diaper bags?

Diapers may be carried in a permissible 12″x6″x12″ clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, will be allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium.

What can guests expect at the gates or entrances to APS athletic venues?

Fans with approved clear bags will have their bags checked at the gates. All fans will be asked to remove cell phones, cameras, sunglasses cases and other large metal objects from their pockets.

Does this mean it’s going to take longer to enter the Athletic Venues?

Atlanta Public Schools is making every effort to ensure that this security enhancement doesn’t slow down the process of getting into the game.

Initially, as with any new process, fans may experience longer wait times.

We will have extra staff on duty to help facilitate the quickest entry possible. We encourage fans to arrive at the venue 30 minutes prior than normal to mitigate wait times.

What can I do to help get into the stadium quickly?

Arrive early, know which items are prohibited and avoid bringing a bag, if at all possible. Gates open one hour prior to kickoff.

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 venue, not items that you normally bring to a game. Therefore, you can carry items in your pockets or jacket (such as keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc.) if you choose not to put them in a clear bag or clutch. And you can carry a blanket over your arms, and binoculars and/or camera around your neck or in your hands without the case. 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 venue. Every member of your family may carry one permissible bag.