Ground Rules
In order to maintain the public safety and security of State property, its occupants and visitors during OGS sponsored special events, as well as to enhance the efficient and orderly operation of the facilities, until further notice, we are establishing special ground rules for the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza (ESP), the Capitol, and all surrounding areas, including the Plaza Level of the ESP, West Capitol Park, East Capitol Park, and Lafayette Park.
The following special grounds rules will be in effect during special events at the Empire State Plaza:
- No tickets necessary
- No alcoholic beverages (other than those sold on site by authorized vendors)
- No coolers (defined as rigid insulated containers) or glass containers of any kind
- No animals or pets (excludes ADA-defined service animals)
- No personal fireworks or sparklers
- Audio and/or video recording of any artists’ performances is prohibited
- State Police or security personnel reserve the right to inspect any bag, container or package and confiscate any prohibited or illegal items
- Anyone intending to purchase, possess or consume alcohol should be prepared to present proof of age
- The use of commercial or recreational unmanned aircraft systems (drones) is prohibited
- Free parking in the East Parking Garage
For events moved Inside the Empire State Plaza Convention Center
The following bag policy is in effect:
- CLEAR plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" will be allowed.
- Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand) will be allowed and do NOT need to be clear.
- Larger and other types of bags will not be allowed in. There is no storage or check-in for prohibited bags.
For patrons with young children in attendance, diaper bags are allowed and subject to search.