State Farm Arena Rules
State Farm Arena Policies and Guidelines Guide State Farm Arena, located at One Philips Drive in Atlanta, Georgia, serves as the home of the Atlanta Hawks and hosts concerts, events, and other large-scale gatherings. To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and accessible experience for all attendees, the venue enforces a comprehensive set of rules and policies. These guidelines cover everything from entry procedures to prohibited items and are designed to prioritize security while accommodating diverse needs. Policies can vary slightly by event, so always verify details on the official State Farm Arena website or your specific event page.
Accessibility
State Farm Arena provides extensive support for guests with disabilities. Accessible parking is available in all parking decks on a first-come, first-served basis, including the Ruby Lot, Diamond Deck, Sapphire Deck, and State Farm Drive. Accessible seating options exist across all price ranges and can be purchased via Ticketmaster or at the box office on event days. Companion seats are offered alongside accessible seats within ticket limits. Assistive listening devices are available free of charge at the Guest Service Center inside Gate 1 (with a driver’s license or credit card held as deposit). Sign language interpreters can be arranged upon request with 30 days’ advance notice by calling (404) 878-3000, subject to artist approval. Guest Services representatives assist with seating and other needs throughout events. Contact the venue in advance for specific accommodations. Strollers may be checked at the Guest Service Center inside Gate 1.
Animals & Service Dogs
State Farm Arena welcomes certified, leashed service animals in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II and III. These animals must be individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. Emotional support animals, pets, or other non-service animals are not permitted. Guests requiring assistance with service animals should contact Guest Services at (404) 878-3000 ahead of the event. Service animals remain under the handler’s control at all times.
Age Requirements
Children under the age of two do not require a ticket if sitting on a parent or guardian’s lap. Any guest aged two or older must have a valid ticket for entry. Diaper bags accompanying a child are permitted (subject to search) and exempt from standard bag size limits. Parents may bring plastic bottles of formula or milk. These rules help maintain a family-friendly environment while ensuring proper ticketing.
Bag Policy
State Farm Arena does not enforce a clear bag policy. All bags must measure 14″ x 14″ x 6″ or smaller and are subject to screening. Approved bags include single-compartment drawstring bags, purses, or fashion backpacks within size limits. Medical bags and diaper bags accompanying a child are exempt from size requirements but subject to search. Backpacks and hard-sided bags of any size are prohibited (media exceptions apply with screening at the Media Entrance). Non-compliant bags can be checked for a fee at the Bag Valet near Gate 2 (available starting 1.5 hours before the event until one hour after). Strollers must be checked at Gate 1.
Entry and Security
All guests need a valid ticket for admission; re-entry is prohibited. Tickets should be retained for seat verification. Upon entry, expect security screening, including bag checks and metal detectors. State Farm Arena maintains the right to refuse entry or remove items posing safety risks. Arrive early, especially for high-attendance events, to allow time for these procedures. The box office opens one hour prior to door time on event days.
Food, Drink & Alcohol
Outside food and beverages (including reusable water bottles) are prohibited, except for medical needs or infant formula/milk in plastic bottles. Concessions are available inside. Alcohol sales follow strict responsible-consumption rules: the venue is cashless, requiring valid ID for those appearing under 30. There is a two-drink limit per transaction per ID. Sales cut off at the beginning of the fourth quarter for Hawks games or 30 minutes before other events end. No alcohol may be brought in, and guests must finish drinks before exiting. Impaired guests will not be served, and passing alcohol to minors results in ejection.
Payment Options
State Farm Arena operates as a completely cashless venue. Card payments (including contactless and tap-to-pay) are required for tickets, food, beverages, and merchandise. No cash is accepted. Chase ATMs are available at Gates 1 and 5 on the main concourse and other locations. Chase serves as the preferred payment partner.
Photography and Recording
Cell phone cameras, small point-and-shoot cameras, and tablets (at Hawks games only) are generally permitted for personal use, provided they do not disrupt others. Professional cameras with interchangeable/detachable lenses or fixed lenses larger than 3 inches are prohibited. Mono/tripods, selfie sticks, ring lights, and video/audio recording equipment are not allowed. Policies may vary by event – check specifics for concerts. Cover ticket barcodes when photographing to prevent misuse.
Prohibited Items
State Farm Arena bans numerous items for safety: weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray, etc.), aerosol cans, outside food/beverages, lighters/torch lighters, vapes, fireworks, laser pointers, drones, laptops (without prior approval), poles/selfie sticks/tripods, and projectiles like beach balls or frisbees. Flags, banners/signs larger than 11” x 17”, and items with explicit or obstructive content are prohibited. Clothing with derogatory language may be restricted. Management reserves the right to prohibit additional items. Non-compliant bags may be checked externally for a fee.
Smoking Policy
Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited anywhere on State Farm Arena property, including all tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and vaporizers. There are no designated smoking areas. Violators risk ejection. This policy promotes a healthy environment for all guests. For the most current information or event-specific variations, visit statefarmarena.com or call (404) 878-3000. Following these policies helps create a secure and memorable experience at State Farm Arena.