20 Aug 2020

Governor’s order limits college football stadium capacity to 25%

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An executive order issued by Governor Tate Reeves will allow for 25% capacity inside of Mississippi’s college football stadiums.

The governor’s order comes as Southern Miss is just two weeks away from hosting South Alabama for its season opener and a little over a month away from the beginning of the SEC’s 2020 football season.

The 25% capacity limitation will allow for around 16,000 fans inside of Ole Miss’ Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, 15,300 fans at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville and 9,000 fans at “The Rock” in Hattiesburg.

While the limit on capacity is not new, the governor also announced that tailgating will not be allowed. Masks must also be worn as fans enter and move throughout the stadium. Additionally, fans must remain six feet apart from anyone outside of their household.

A breakdown of the governor’s order can be seen below:

  • Bowl seating is limited to no more than 25% of seating capacity while maintaining six feet distance between households, with limits on club areas and suites as well.
  • Everyone over the age of 6 must wear masks as they enter/exit and throughout the stadium, unless they are seated. Masks are strongly encouraged while seated.
  • Gameday events such as tailgating and rallies outside the stadiums are prohibited.
  • Individuals allowed on the sidelines are limited to those essential for the game.
  • Concession stands are open, though grab-n-go food and drink options are strongly encouraged.
  • All transactions should be contactless and touchless, such as mobile ticketing and cashless concessions.
  • Elevator capacity shall be restricted to family units or a maximum of five (5) attendees based on manufacturer/service provider recommendations. The use of pedestrian ramps shall be encouraged.

Several of the guidelines mirror those set by the SEC earlier this week, including the mask mandate. Governor Reeves added that individual schools will determine who will be able to enter the stadium. 

High school football capacity was addressed last week when the governor stated that an executive order will allow “two spectators per participant at any K-12 extracurricular activity.”

The order, which could be extended, is set to expire on August 31st — before any college football game is set to place in Mississippi.

Watch today’s full briefing below:

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