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1590 North High Street - Suite 500
Columbus, OH 43201-2178
Phone: (614) 292-0611
Fax: (614) 292-8699
Legal Topics - Alcohol on Campus Sites: FAQ
Which facilities on campus are permanently licensed to serve alcohol?
The licensed facilities on the Columbus campus are: The Blackwell, Drake Union, Faculty Club, Fawcett Center for Tomorrow, French Field House, Jack Nicklaus Museum, Longaberger Alumni House, Ohio Stadium, The Ohio State University Golf Course, Value City Arena and Jerome Schottenstein Center, and The Wexner Center for the Arts. No prior authorization is needed from the Office of Legal Affairs or the Office of Business and Finance to serve alcohol at these locations.
Can alcohol be served on non-permanently licensed campus sites?
Yes, but the University department must receive approval from the dean or vice president in charge of the department and prior authorization from the Office of Business and Finance. Do not send requests directly to the Office of Business and Finance; the Office of Legal Affairs will coordinate all requests. A temporary alcohol permit, issued by the Ohio Department of Liquor Control, may also be required. Please see Procedure for Requesting Permission to Serve Alcohol for more information.
When is a temporary alcohol permit required for consumption on non-permanently licensed campus sites?
A temporary alcohol permit is necessary when there is a charge or cost of any kind to the attendee. The event must be confined to a clearly defined area to which only the attendees have access. Please contact the Office of Legal Affairs if you need assistance in determining whether a permit is needed or which type of permit to seek.
When is a temporary alcohol permit NOT required for consumption on non-permanently licensed campus sites?
The event must meet the following criteria:
1. The event is free of charge to the guests;
2. The event is not open to the public and is by invitation only; and
3. Alcohol is served and consumed in a clearly defined space to which only invited guests have access.
Please note that in addition to the three criteria listed above, the University department must receive approval from the dean or vice president in charge of the department and prior authorization from the Office of Business and Finance, facilitated by the Office of Legal Affairs.
Can non-University organizations use an unlicensed facility for an event at which alcohol will be served?
No. Non-University organizations must use a licensed facility if they do not have a direct connection or affiliation with OSU. Only University departments/units may submit approval requests for non-permanently licensed facilities.
Can the university sponsor an outside group for a temporary alcohol permit?
No.
Is alcohol permitted at student-sponsored events?
Yes, as long as the request is submitted by Student Affairs and/or a University unit on behalf of the organizers of a student-sponsored event.
Can individuals who host or serve at an event be vulnerable to personal liability?
Yes, there is always such a risk when alcohol is involved. However, you will most likely be insured for claims made against you or for any loss or damage resulting from your university-sponsored activities, except for any loss or damage resulting from any willful misconduct or illegal activities.
Are patrons allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages onto permanently licensed premises?
No.
Who do I contact for more information?
Call the Office of Legal Affairs at 292-0611 and ask to speak to the Alcohol Authorization Coordinator. Or, email your questions to ASArequests@admin.ohio-state.edu.
