Aggie Game Day Zone
This policy framework establishes clear operational standards - including rules on amplified sound, signs and physical displays, and pedestrian access - to protect campus property, maintain the environment intended for each special event, and ensure large-scale events proceed safely without disruption.
While this framework applies to various special events, it is central to Aggie Game Day – a cherished tradition that brings over 100,000 students, alumni, and visitors together for home football weekends. From tailgating and Aggie Park festivities to the Corps Step Off, Spirit Walk, and Kids Yell Practice, these Game Day Activities and traditions foster deep Aggie pride while driving a significant economic impact for the Bryan-College Station community.
For home football weekends, the designated policy footprint is established as the Aggie Game Day Zone. These policy guidelines take effect 4 hours leading up to kickoff and remain in place until 1 hour following the conclusion of the game. Enforcing Section 6 parameters during this window protects time-honored traditions, official Game Day Activities, and overall campus operations. Outside of this geographical zone and active timeframe, ample opportunities for expressive activity remain available throughout most of campus.
Boundaries & Guidelines
Activities across the entire Aggie Game Day Zone are subject to operational rules designed to maintain campus safety and protect the game-day experience. These parameters ensure that space within Aggie Game Day Zone remains focused on Game Day Activities and long-standing Aggie traditions.
Boundaries
The Aggie Game Day Zone (see map below) spans Joe Routt Blvd to the north, Throckmorton St to the east, John David Crow E to the south, and Wellborn Rd to the west. Additional adjacent segments include Gene Stallings Blvd and Joe Routt Blvd between Throckmorton St and Coke St. Within this overall zone, key Game Day Activities include (but are not limited to) Fan Zone, game day-related activities/traditions, reserved tailgating, and game-day related operations.
Download the Map
Amplified Sound
Amplified sound is not permitted throughout the Aggie Game Day Zone unless specifically authorized within these guidelines:
- Official Events: Amplified sound is permitted for official university Game Day Activities, athletic programming, and designated fan zone events.
- Aggie Park Tailgating: Reserved tailgating groups inside Aggie Park may utilize amplified sound up to 80 dB, provided it does not disrupt neighboring tailgaters or Game Day Activities or operations. The university reserves the right to instruct groups to reduce or cease sound during special programming or for safety operations.
Amplified sound is permitted in common outdoor areas outside the Aggie Game Day Zone, except in areas designated university programming or otherwise reserved by third parties, and remains subject to reasonable limitations to preserve campus safety and university operations.
Signage & Displays
Signage and displays must not obstruct sightlines of Game Day Activities, impede pedestrian traffic, or block building access throughout the Aggie Game Day Zone. Signs and displays must remain attended at all times, cannot be permanently anchored or attached to university property.
Glossary of Terms
Aggie Game Day Zone: The designated geographic precinct bounded by Joe Routt Blvd, Throckmorton St, John David Crow E, and Wellborn Rd, active from 4 hours prior to kickoff through 1 hour post-game.
Game Day Activities: University-sponsored programming and traditions, including Spirit Walk, Kids Yell Practice, Corps Step Off, reservation-based tailgating and authorized Fan Zone activations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does section 6.2 of the Expressive Activity rule apply to the rest of campus during game days?
No. These specific time and place restrictions apply only within the Aggie Game Day Zone during its active operational window. Traditional outdoor spaces across the rest of campus remain open for expressive activity under standard university rules.
When exactly do these rules go into effect on a game day?
The Aggie Game Day Zone guidelines begin 4 hours prior to scheduled kickoff and conclude 1 hour after the game ends. Standard university policies apply outside of this window.
What qualifies as “amplified sound?”
Amplified sound includes any noise projected using electronic or mechanical amplification devices. This covers portable Bluetooth speakers, sound systems, megaphones, microphones, public address (PA) systems, musical instrument amplifiers, and powered instruments.
Can tailgaters in Aggie Park use speakers or sound systems?
Yes. Tailgaters inside Aggie Park may use amplified sound provided volume remains at or below 80 dB and does not disrupt surrounding tailgaters or university operations. Sound must be lowered or paused if instructed by university staff during official programming.
Can I set up signs or banners within the Aggie Game Day Zone?
Expressive signs and displays are permitted but must remain attended at all times and cannot block walkways, building entrances, or access/views of official activities or events. Signs may not be attached to trees, light poles, or campus structures.
Are commercial signs, advertisements, or corporate promotions allowed?
No. Unapproved commercial activity, advertising, solicitation, or corporate branding is strictly prohibited within the Aggie Game Day Zone. Only university-authorized sponsors and official event activities may display commercial materials.
Do I need a permit to hand out flyers or distribute materials in the Game Day Zone?
Individual distribution of non-commercial literature is generally permitted in open, unreserved common outdoor spaces, provided it does not block pedestrian traffic, building access, or official event operations. However, setting up tables, booths, or permanent distribution structures requires prior university approval.
What happens if I do not comply with these guidelines?
Failure to follow university operational standards or directions from university staff and campus safety personnel may result in a request to adjust your setup (e.g., turning down sound or repositioning signage). Continued non-compliance may result in removal from the Aggie Game Day Zone or campus, revocation of tailgating/event privileges, or formal university discipline or law enforcement action.
Who do I contact if I have questions on game day about policy compliance or space usage?
University event management staff and campus safety representatives will be present throughout the precinct to assist visitors, provide guidance on boundary lines, and ensure all operations run smoothly. Grievances can be filed at tellsomebody.tamu.edu.
How to File a Grievance
In accordance with Texas Education Code § 51.9315(f)(3), members of the university community and campus visitors may file a formal grievance if they believe their rights to free expression under state law or university policy have been violated or unduly restricted. Complaints regarding expressive activity compliance or administrative interference may be submitted through a Tell Somebody Report.
File a grievance