Value City Arena Rules

Value City Arena maintains clear policies to ensure guest safety and comfort. Understanding these guidelines before arrival helps visitors avoid complications and maximize their event experience. While policies may vary slightly for specific events, venue staff consistently enforce these guidelines while providing excellent customer service.

The Bag Policy

Value City Arena implements a strict bag policy to enhance security and expedite entry procedures for all attendees. Here’s what you need to know:

• » Bags or purses of any size are not permitted inside the facility.
• » Wallets and wristlets measuring 5″ by 8″ by 1″ or less are allowed.
• » A dedicated screening lane is available for guests with medical, dietary, or childcare needs.
• » All items and persons are subject to inspection upon entry.
• » Clear plastic, empty water bottles are permitted for refilling at water stations.

Prohibited Items

For safety and security reasons, Value City Arena prohibits the following items from being brought into the venue:

• » Alcohol, illegal drugs, and marijuana (even if legally obtained under Ohio law)
• » Containers, including flasks, coolers, ice chests, cans, bottles, cups, and thermoses
• » Weapons of any kind, including firearms, knives, and martial arts items
• » Noise-making devices, such as horns, whistles, and bells
• » Inflatables, including balls, balloons, and beach balls
• » Sports equipment and recreational items like skateboards and roller skates
• » Selfie sticks, poles, and similar extended devices
• » Outside food and beverages
• » Wrapped gifts, packages, or suspicious items
• » Laptops and computers (tablets without keyboards permitted for sporting events)
• » Items deemed dangerous or inappropriate by venue management

Re-Entry Policy

Re-entry is not permitted during events. Personal emergency exceptions can be arranged through supervisors at rotunda entrances, and medical necessities requiring temporary exit are handled on a case-by-case basis. Weather-related accommodations are made during extreme conditions at management’s discretion. 

Smoking areas are not provided, as Ohio State maintains a smoke-free campus.

Photography and Recording Policies

Photography policies at Value City Arena vary by event type, with different guidelines for sporting events versus concerts. In general, you must abide by the following guidelines:

• » Small point-and-shoot cameras are permitted for most events, including Ohio State basketball and hockey games.
• » Professional cameras with detachable lenses exceeding 100 mm are prohibited without proper credentials.
• » Video recording is never permitted, regardless of event type.
• » Flash photography is prohibited during all performances and sporting events.
• » Concert tours may implement stricter policies determined by artists’ management.
• » Live streaming is prohibited without proper authorization.
• » Selfie sticks and monopods are not allowed, regardless of camera type.
• » Recording of video boards and scoreboards is generally permitted.
• » Commercial use of any photography is strictly prohibited.

Code of Conduct Policies

Value City Arena expects all guests to behave respectfully to ensure everyone’s enjoyment of events. Here’s what you should know:

• » Guests must act responsibly and remain considerate of others at all times.
• » Clothing or garments deemed offensive are prohibited at management’s discretion.
• » Profane or abusive language, intoxication, fighting, or throwing objects may result in ejection without a refund.
• » Standing in aisles or blocking others’ views is not permitted.
• » Guests must comply with arena staff, security, and law enforcement instructions.
• » Failure to follow health and safety protocols may result in removal from the venue.
• » Disruptive behavior affecting performers or athletes is addressed immediately by security.
• » Unauthorized vending, peddling, product sampling, or flyering are not permitted.
• » Violating any venue policies may result in ejection from the venue without a refund.