Raymond James Stadium Rolling Out Enhanced Security Measures

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area residents with plans to attend an event at Raymond James Stadium need to be prepared to encounter enhanced security. The Tampa Sports Authority announced Monday the same security measures employed at Buccaneer games will now extend to any event at the stadium.

“These enhanced measures are the same ones that have been in place since 2013 for the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneer home games,” the sports authority explained in an email. “A clear bag and metal detection screening policy will now be in effect for all events held at Raymond James Stadium, including USF football games, Outback Bowl and the Monster Jam Series.”

The policy restricts what fans may and may not bring inside the stadium. The sports authority has not said exactly what prompted the decision to enhance security at all events. Eric Hart, its president and CEO, did issue a statement:

The Tampa Sports Authority continues to provide a safe and secure environment for our fans at Raymond James Stadium. The enhanced security measures are being implemented in cooperation with all our partners and will continue to put public safety as our top priority.

The new policy limits fans to bringing in one clear bag to carry their belongings. The bag may not exceed 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches in size. One small, clutch-style bag, not to exceed 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches is also allowed.

“The policy only restricts the type and size of containers used to carry items, but the list of approved items has not changed,” the sports authority said.

That means fans can still bring in such items as keys, phones, wallets and makeup. They may also bring in approved containers and medically necessary items that must be screened at designated gates.

Fans will also find that all visitors are now subject to a metal wand search to screen for prohibited items. Some of those items include seat cushions, computer bags, camera bags, coolers, fanny packs and binocular cases.

To find out more about what’s allowed and what is off limits, visit raymondjamesstadium.com.

It is unclear what prompted the move. The sports authority has not responded to a request for further comment.

Photo via the Tampa Sports Authority’s Facebook page