Festive chaos: Highlights from RSL's updated stadium policy

In preparation for the first match of the season at Rio Tinto Stadium, updated stadium guidelines have been released. We're taking a look at some of the more prominent changes and quoting them in full.

For those interested: Full rules

This should allow a little less confusion from interpretations of the guidelines.

There is one major thing to be aware of before tonight's match against Tigres: There's a new bag policy, which prohibits backpacks, computer bags, and other larger bags.

Recognized standing sections

Various areas of Rio Tinto Stadium feature festive chaos, including but not limited to, standing, singing, flags, drums and other activities. Section 26 (NW corner) is a recognized supporters group that does stand, chant, sing and have flags. Sections 9, 10, and 11 (South Goal) are part of the general admission seating area, portions of which are roped off to accommodate supporter groups in those areas. There is chanting, standing, singing, drums, banners, flags, and more in the South Goal; also, Section 35 is currently a non-recognized group that stands the entire game. For specific questions about potential seating areas, please contact Fan Relations at 801-727-2700.

Tifo

All TIFO at Rio Tinto Stadium MUST be checked to ensure that it is not: Commercial, Political, Offensive, or In Poor Taste (as judged by the Club). Supporter Groups or SG’s who repeatedly ignore the Venue Regulation and the Fan Code of Conduct, could have TIFO privileges removed. The provision for SG’s receiving exemptions (TIFO) is that: "SG’s are in good standing with both the club and the league"

Bags / bag search

For the start of the 2016 season, Major League Soccer now limits the types of bags (including back-packs) that can be allowed inside MLS-related event. Bags must conform to the new size guidelines, and will be the subject to a search. For bags to enter the venue, they must be no larger than 14" x 14" x 6." This continues to allow for small purses and bags to be brought to the venues/events. Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to: large purses, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, luggage of any kind, computer bags, camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size. The restriction does not apply to Credentialed Media, however it is recommended that all media bags are wrist-banded on entry, for easy identification during the event.

Disabled services update

Accessible/Disabled Parking — Accessible parking spaces are available in the West Lot #1 and South Lot #2 parking lots located to the West and South of Rio Tinto Stadium. There are a limited number of ADA stalls available and are on a first-come, first served basis. Please see map: http://riotintostadium.com/driving-directions-parking/

Gates — The West, South, and East gates are ADA accessible. The North Stairs gate is NOT ADA accessible.

Passenger Drop-Off Zone — Guests may use the passenger drop off zones located on Stadium Road on the West and North sides of Rio Tinto Stadium.

Restrooms — All public and family restrooms are accessible for our guests with disabilities. The family restroom is located on the southeast concourse near section 5.

Service Animals — Certified service dogs for guests with disabilities are welcome at Rio Tinto Stadium. All other animals are prohibited from entering. Only dogs recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the ADA are considered certified.

Wheelchairs — Rio Tinto Stadium has a limited number of wheelchairs that are primarily used for First Aid purposes. For use, please locate the nearest Guest Services staff member or visit the First Aid room located on the northeast concourse near section 33. Use is for transportation only. Wheelchairs are not available for the duration of events.

Wheelchair and Companion Seating — Rio Tinto Stadium provides wheelchair and companion seating. See Map for sections http://riotintostadium.com/seating-charts/. Sections 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 14, 28, 29, 32, 33, 35, 37, 202, 204, 235, 237, & Field have ADA seating. The "Field ADA" section is only accessible via the southwest elevator located on the main concourse near section 15. The 200 level ADA sections are only accessible via the east elevator located on the east side of main concourse. Please ask a Guest Services staff member for assistance in locating the elevators. For assistance, please call 801-727-2700 or visit RSL.com/tickets.