S.C. State Fair Policies
To protect everyone’s safety and security, we ask that all of our guests follow our rules and policies.
- The South Carolina State Fair is PRIVATE PROPERTY.
- Our visitors’ safety is our top concern. Surveillance cameras operate throughout the fairgrounds every day of the fair.
- The South Carolina State Fair reserves the right to search all packages, bags, strollers, clothing, cups, pocketbooks, briefcases, persons, and any other objects that may contain prohibited items, destructive devices or lethal devices.
- Weapons, including concealed carry and open carry weapons, are not allowed on the fairgrounds, even if you are a permit holder.
- The South Carolina State Fair is under the jurisdiction of the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department and the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
Clear Bag Policy
To provide a safe, enjoyable environment for all attendees, the South Carolina State Fair has a mandatory clear bag policy. This policy is similar to those implemented throughout Columbia, S.C. and the country, complying with a new level of security expected of large, heavily-attended events and festivals.
- All bags must be clear and not bigger in size than 12″x6″x12″.
- Medically necessary items may be approved after proper inspection.
- Diaper bags accompanied with a baby may be approved after proper inspection.
- Guests are permitted to bring one sealed bottle of water or one empty water bottle to refill at fountains inside the fairgrounds.
- Pre-approved exceptions may be allowed, such as for camera equipment or food allergies. 24-hours notice required.
- All bags will be subject to search upon arrival and any bags that exceed the permitted size will not be allowed in.
Youth Admission Policy
- Sunday through Thursday: After 5 p.m., anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent (age 21 or older) to enter.
- Friday and Saturday: From open to close, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent (age 21 or older) to enter.
Offensive Clothing Policy
Anyone wearing clothing or jewelry or other personal items that fair management deems offensive or gang-related will not be allowed on the fairgrounds. Exceptions and challenges will be answered at the discretion of fair management.
No Costumes or Cosplay Attire
For the safety and comfort of all guests, costumes, cosplay, character attire, full-face masks, and clothing or accessories that may obscure a person’s identity are not permitted on the fairgrounds unless specifically authorized by the South Carolina State Fair. Attire that could reasonably be mistaken for official staff, security, law enforcement, emergency personnel, mascots, or event performers is also prohibited. The South Carolina State Fair reserves the right to determine whether attire is appropriate and may deny admission or require modification of attire that is deemed disruptive, unsafe, offensive, or inconsistent with fair operations.
Items Not Permitted
- Selfie Sticks
- Non-clear bags*
- Any Weapon
- Outside Food and Beverages*
- Pets*
- Segways
- Tents (unless part of an authorized act or exhibit)
- Drones
Drones and unmanned aircraft systems
Out of concern for our guests’ safety drones and unmanned aircraft systems, not contracted by the S.C. State Fair, are strictly forbidden. Fairground events are close to Hamilton-Owens airport, Williams-Brice stadium, and other public gatherings where drones may pose a threat to safety and security. Law enforcement officials will be notified immediately if this policy is violated.
Soliciting
Soliciting, selling raffle tickets, and posting handbills is strictly prohibited, and is in violation of state statutes and city ordinances.
Smoking/Vaping
Smoking and vaping are not permitted in any buildings, kiddieland, viewing stands, tents, livestock barns and surrounding areas, or the horse arena.
Code of Conduct
- Use proper trash and recycling receptacles.
- No weapons
- Appropriate attire required at all times.
- No alcoholic beverages permitted.
- No activities or behavior that could endanger or cause panic to the public good.
- No exposed underwear or baggy pants below the waist.
- No gang-related clothes, colors, signs, jewelry, or activities.
- No loitering, blocking exhibit areas, or forming groups that impede pedestrian flow.
- No standing on chairs, picnic tables or benches.
- No picketing, distributing handbills, soliciting, or petitioning.
Ticket Sales Policies
- No resale or public promotion of South Carolina State Fair tickets is permitted.
- If we find a violation with our ticket sales policy, we reserve the right to void all tickets purchased.
- All tickets, wristbands and coupons become void after the last day of the fair.
- NO REFUNDS
- A ticket is a revocable license to the holder (“Holder”) to attend the event named on the front of the ticket and is subject to the full terms and policies found at scstatefair.org.
- THE HOLDER OF THIS TICKET VOLUNTARILY WAIVES ALL CLAIMS, RELEASES, AND HOLDS HARMLESS THE SOUTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR, its officers, agents, and employees. The Holder assumes all risk of personal injury (including death), property damage, and all hazards, known or unknown, arising from or related in any way to the event—whether occurring prior to, during, or after the event, and whether caused by the negligence of the South Carolina State Fair or otherwise.
Photo Policy (Attention Guests on the Fairgrounds)
Smile! Photo, video and audio may be taken for promotional purposes. By entering the S.C. State Fairgrounds, you consent, waive all rights to royalties and release the S.C. State Fair of any liability. You agree to your likeness used, published or reproduced in any and all media which can be used, now or in the future, for any purpose by or in connection with the SC State Fair, its sponsors, organizers and providers. For additional information or to opt out of this agreement, consent, waiver and release, please visit guest services or call 803-799-3387.
Guidelines for Photographers & Videographers
Please use the photography and video guidelines before gathering content at the South Carolina State Fair.