Thompson-Boling Arena Building Policies
Clear Bag Policy:
Thompson-Boling Arena operates with a clear bag policy and stadium security regulations limit patrons to one clear plastic bag no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches or a one-gallon, clear, resealable plastic storage bag per person.
Fans will also be allowed a small clutch purse not to exceed 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches. Wallets must also conform to this size requirement.
No other bags will be allowed inside. All items, including clear bags and clutch purses, are subject to search at the gates. No items can be left or stored at the gates.
Medically necessary items must be searched. Diaper bags are not a medically necessary item. All diaper bag supplies should be carried in a clear bag.
Metal Detectors:
Walk-through metal detectors are in place and operational at all arena entrances for all events. Patrons are encouraged to bring only necessary items with them in order to ensure a smooth and timely entry. Please allow additional time for entry.
The following items must be removed and placed in the bin prior to walking through the metal detectors: cellphone, camera, and other large metal objects.
The following items may remain on-person or in pockets: watch, jewelry, wallet, belt, jacket, shoes, and coins.
Alcohol Guidelines:
1) Beer will be sold throughout Thompson-Boling Arena at concession stands and kiosks.
2) Regardless of age, everyone will be required to produce a valid photo ID each time alcohol is purchased.
a. Valid photo IDs include: valid driver’s license, military ID card, passport, or government-issued photo ID card.
b. Individuals consuming alcohol must be able to present a valid photo ID at all times; patrons may be asked to show their ID away from the point of sale.
c. You don’t just need to be at least 21 years old – you need to be able to prove it.
3) A maximum of 2 alcoholic beverages may be sold per transaction.
4) All alcoholic beverages will be poured into a clear cup.
5) Alcohol Sales will be cut off at the following times:
a. Concerts and Special Events: Service concludes no later than 30 minutes prior to the end of the show
b. Men’s Basketball: Service concludes at the 12-minute mark of the 2nd half
c. Women’s Basketball: Service concludes at the end of the 3rd quarter
d. Other Sports: Service will conclude at a designated time no later than when 75% of the event’s regulation length is scheduled to be completed.
6) Individuals will be ejected from the Arena and are subject to prosecution if they pass off beer to a minor, attempt to use a fake ID, or if they are intoxicated.
Smoking & Vaping Policy:
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a smoke-free campus. Smoking is prohibited in the Arena and on all University Property. This includes inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted cigar, cigarette (including an electronic cigarette or similar device), pipe, or other lighted tobacco product, in any manner or in any form by any guest or employee. This prohibition includes smoking in private vehicles when parked or operated on University Property. There are no designated smoking or vaping areas at Thompson-Boling Arena.
Re-Entry Policy:
The Arena has a no re-entry policy.
Cameras and Audio/Video Equipment:
Video Equipment is prohibited for all Thompson-Boling Arena Events. Non-professional cameras are permitted for athletic events and for most graduation ceremonies. Camera polices vary on an event-by-event basis for concerts. Flash photography is not permitted.
First Aid:
If a guest requires first aid there are two First Aid Rooms located on the concourse behind Sections 115 and 127.
Lost and Found:
If you attended a Tennessee Athletics event and lost an item, please contact the Event Management office at 865-974-1205. If you attended a concert or special event and lost an item, please contact the Arena Management office at 865-974-0953.
Items NOT Permitted in the Thompson-Boling Arena:
no aerosol cans
no alcoholic beverages
no illegal drugs
no animals (except certified service dogs for disabled)
no beach balls or other inflatables
no bota bags
no wine skins
no bullhorns
no noise makers
no cameras*
no recording devices*
no confetti
no fireworks
no firearms
no weapons
no backpacks
no glass bottles
no aluminum cans
no coolers
no thermos containers
no laser pointers
no outside food or beverages (unless needed for medical purposes - must be checked at Gate D)
no skateboards
no roller blades
no sticks or clubs
no stools
no folding chairs
no water bottles/mugs
no baby strollers or carriers
no laptop computers
no open umbrellas
no knives or bladed devices of any length - this includes pocket knives
* Camera/Recording Device policy varies per event. Please contact us for more information at 865-974-0953.
Please note: any item such as knives or bladed devices will be confiscated. We will not hold these items to be picked up at a later time - they will be discarded.