Benchmark International Arena Rules

As a premier venue hosting concerts, sports events, and entertainment spectacles, Benchmark International Arena prioritizes the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all guests. This in-depth guide outlines our key rules and policies, drawn from official venue guidelines, to help you prepare for your visit.

Accessibility

Benchmark International Arena is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all guests, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We offer wheelchair-accessible seating, entrances, and restrooms throughout the venue. Accessible parking is available in designated lots near the main entrances, with spaces allocated on a first-come, first-served basis – arrive early to secure one. Elevators and ramps provide easy navigation between levels. For hearing-impaired guests, assistive listening devices are available at guest services, and select events feature American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters upon request.

Animals & Service Dogs

To maintain a safe and hygienic environment, animals are generally prohibited inside Benchmark International Arena, with the exception of certified service animals as defined by the ADA. Service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, such as guiding the visually impaired or alerting for medical conditions.

Emotional support animals, therapy animals, or pets do not qualify and are not allowed. Upon entry, service animals must remain under the handler’s control at all times – leashed or harnessed unless it interferes with their duties. Handlers are responsible for the animal’s behavior and cleanup; any disruption may result in removal.

Arena staff may ask about the animal’s tasks but cannot request documentation or demonstrations. For events with pyrotechnics or loud noises, consider your animal’s comfort.

Age Requirements

Age policies at Benchmark International Arena vary by event, but general guidelines apply unless otherwise specified. Children under 24 months (2 years old) are typically admitted free of charge, provided they sit on a parent’s or guardian’s lap and do not occupy a separate seat. All individuals over 24 months must have a valid ticket, regardless of the event type – be it a family show, concert, or hockey game. For age-restricted events, such as those with mature content, guests under 18 may require adult accompaniment, and proof of age (e.g., government-issued ID) is mandatory. Events like rock concerts or comedy shows might enforce a minimum age of 18 or 21, especially if alcohol is served. Guardians are responsible for ensuring minors comply with all venue rules. This policy promotes family-friendly access while protecting younger attendees from inappropriate content, with event organizers often setting stricter limits to align with themes or legal requirements.

Bag Policy

Benchmark International Arena’s bag policy is designed to enhance security and expedite entry. Bags larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″ are strictly prohibited, except for medical or parenting bags, which are permitted after thorough inspection. Clear bags are highly recommended to speed up screening, but opaque small clutches (no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″) are allowed without x-ray. All large permissible bags must pass through an x-ray machine at designated entry points, while smaller items undergo visual or hand searches. Backpacks are banned unless they qualify as medical/parenting exceptions and meet size limits. If your bag is denied, storage options are available nearby (fees apply), or you can return it to your vehicle.

Entry and Security

Entry procedures prioritize safety through comprehensive security measures. All guests must pass through metal detectors and bag checks upon arrival; consent to these is implied by ticket purchase. Doors typically open 60-90 minutes before events, but arrive early to account for queues. Re-entry is not permitted – once you exit, you cannot return without a new ticket. Weapons, including pocket knives, are confiscated, and suspicious behavior may lead to denial or ejection. Security personnel are trained to handle threats discreetly, with law enforcement on-site for escalated issues. For efficiency, remove hats, belts, and large jewelry before screening. This policy, enhanced post-9/11, includes random pat-downs and uses advanced tech like AI-assisted cameras to detect anomalies, balancing thoroughness with guest convenience.

Food, Drink & Alcohol

Outside food and beverages are prohibited to maintain cleanliness and support our concessions, with exceptions for medical needs (e.g., dietary restrictions) or infant formula – declare these at entry for approval. Inside, a variety of options are available, including gluten-free, vegan, and kid-friendly items at stands throughout the arena. Water fountains and bottle-filling stations promote sustainability; empty reusable bottles under 32 oz are allowed. Alcohol sales require a valid photo ID proving age 21+, with a two-drink limit per transaction. Service may halt before event end to ensure safe exits. Over-intoxication leads to ejection without refund. This policy encourages responsible consumption, prevents litter, and generates revenue for venue upkeep, while accommodating diverse dietary preferences.

Payment Options

Benchmark International Arena is moving toward a cashless environment for faster transactions. We accept major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and contactless methods at all concessions, merchandise stands, and box offices. Cash is accepted but converted to a venue gift card (no change given) to streamline operations. ATMs are available on-site for withdrawals, though fees apply. For premium experiences like suites, invoicing or wire transfers may be options for groups. This policy reduces wait times, minimizes theft risks, and aligns with modern digital trends, ensuring seamless purchases.

Photography and Recording

Personal photography is permitted for most events using non-professional devices, such as smartphones. For hockey games, still cameras with lenses under 6 inches are allowed, but flash is prohibited during play to avoid distractions. Video recording, audio equipment, tripods, monopods, and professional cameras (lenses over 6 inches) are banned without prior media credentials. Drones and laser pointers are strictly forbidden. Event-specific rules may apply – concerts often prohibit all recording to protect artists’ rights. Violators risk equipment confiscation and ejection. This policy respects intellectual property while allowing fans to capture memories, with enforcement via ushers and security.

Prohibited Items

To safeguard all attendees, a wide range of items are prohibited. This includes weapons (firearms, knives, pepper spray), explosives, illegal substances, outside food/beverages (except as noted), large strollers, noisemakers (air horns, whistles), umbrellas, signs over shoulder height, laser pointers, and professional recording gear. Full list available on our website; items like these may be confiscated without return. Prohibitions extend to disruptive behaviors, such as throwing objects or unauthorized vending. Medical exceptions are reviewed case-by-case. This exhaustive policy, updated regularly, prevents hazards and ensures uninterrupted enjoyment.

Smoking Policy

Smoking, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping, chewing tobacco, and pipes, is prohibited inside the arena to promote health and comply with local laws. A designated outdoor smoking area is available near exits, but re-entry is not allowed after use. Cigar smoking is permitted only in the arena’s designated cigar lounge, subject to availability and event restrictions – check ahead. Violators face fines and ejection. This policy creates a smoke-free environment, reducing secondhand exposure and fire risks, while providing limited accommodations for smokers.