Sudbury Arena Rules

Sudbury Arena is a vibrant community venue hosting hockey games, concerts, and various events. As part of the City of Greater Sudbury’s facilities, it prioritizes safety, accessibility, and enjoyment for all patrons. This in-depth guide outlines key rules and policies to help event goers prepare and comply, ensuring a smooth experience. Policies are subject to change based on provincial and municipal guidelines, so always check the official website (greatersudbury.ca) for updates. Remember, management reserves the right to refuse entry or eject guests for violations, with no refunds provided.

Accessibility

Sudbury Arena strives to be inclusive, though specific details on accessibility features are not extensively outlined in official policies. Based on typical Canadian venue standards and Ontario’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), expect wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating areas, and restrooms. Assistive listening devices may be available upon request at guest services. Patrons with disabilities should contact the venue in advance for accommodations, such as priority entry or companion seating. Service animals are permitted (see below), and staff can assist with navigation. If you require special arrangements, email or call the box office early to avoid issues on event day. This policy underscores the arena’s commitment to equal access, promoting an environment where everyone can enjoy events without barriers.

Animals & Service Dogs

Pets and emotional support animals are strictly prohibited inside Sudbury Arena to maintain hygiene and safety. However, registered service animals, trained to assist individuals with disabilities, are allowed entry. These must be clearly identifiable (e.g., via vests or certification) and remain under control at all times. Owners are responsible for the animal’s behavior and cleanup. If a service dog causes disruption, staff may ask for its removal. This policy aligns with Canadian human rights laws, ensuring support for those who rely on these animals while preventing allergies or disturbances for other guests.

Tip: Bring documentation for your service animal to expedite security checks.

Age Requirements

While Sudbury Arena does not explicitly state universal age restrictions, policies imply that minors (under 18) must adhere to alcohol prohibitions, and certain events like concerts may have promoter-specific age limits (e.g., 19+ for shows with alcohol service). Children under a certain age might require adult supervision, especially for high-energy events like hockey games. Always check event-specific details on the ticket or website. For family-oriented events, kids’ tickets are often available, but unaccompanied minors could be denied entry. This flexible approach allows for diverse programming but emphasizes parental responsibility to prevent underage exposure to restricted activities.

Bag Policy

To enhance security, Sudbury Arena enforces a strict bag policy: only small personal handbags or baby bags are permitted, with a maximum size of 12″ x 12″ x 6″. Larger bags, backpacks, or purses will be denied entry, and there’s no bag check service available. All bags are subject to thorough searches, including requests to empty pockets. This measure reduces the risk of prohibited items entering and speeds up entry lines. Guests are advised to travel light or leave valuables at home/hotels. For parents with infants, diaper bags are an exception but still subject to inspection. Compliance helps maintain a safe atmosphere for all.

Entry and Security

Entry procedures at Sudbury Arena prioritize safety through mandatory security screenings. Arrive early to account for bag checks, metal detector scans, and possible pat-downs by qualified personnel (which may vary by event). Refusal to comply results in denied entry without refund. All guests must wear shirts and shoes; disruptive attire is prohibited. Management can refuse admission for any reason, including intoxication or non-compliance. Health protocols may include temperature checks or mask requirements during outbreaks. This rigorous process, aligned with municipal guidelines, protects against threats while ensuring a welcoming environment.

Pro tip: Empty pockets beforehand and cooperate fully to minimize delays.

Food, Drink & Alcohol

Outside food and beverages are banned to support venue concessions and maintain a nut-free facility, reducing allergy risks. Prohibited items include coolers, bottles, cans, thermoses, and refillable mugs. Alcohol policies are stringent: no possession by minors, no distribution to underaged individuals, and only alcohol purchased on-site is allowed. Overconsumption leading to intoxication can result in ejection. Concessions offer a variety of snacks, meals, and drinks, including non-alcoholic options. This policy promotes responsible consumption and revenue for the arena, while safeguarding health. For special dietary needs, contact the venue ahead; exceptions are rare but possible for medical reasons.

Payment Options

Although not detailed explicitly, Sudbury Arena’s box office and concessions typically accept major credit/debit cards, cash, and possibly mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Wallet, based on common Canadian venue practices. Online ticket purchases through greatersudbury.ca/tickets support secure digital transactions. Avoid unauthorized sellers to prevent invalid tickets. For in-arena purchases, cashless options are increasingly preferred for speed and hygiene. This flexibility caters to diverse patrons, but always carry a backup payment method. Check the website for any event-specific updates, as some shows might be cash-only for merchandise.

Photography and Recording

Personal photography for non-commercial use is generally allowed with smartphones, but professional equipment – like detachable lenses, tripods, monopods, or commercial rigs – is prohibited. Video recording devices, selfie sticks, and audio equipment are banned to respect performers’ rights and prevent distractions. By entering, guests consent to their image being used in promotional materials without compensation. Event-specific rules (e.g., no flash during concerts) may apply. This policy balances fan enjoyment with intellectual property protection, ensuring unobstructed views. Violators risk equipment confiscation or ejection; always verify with staff for high-profile events.

Prohibited Items

Sudbury Arena maintains an extensive list of banned items to ensure safety: weapons (real or replicas), drugs/paraphernalia, electronic smoking devices, laser pointers, fireworks, noisemakers, drones, large bags, outside food/drinks, professional cameras, selfie sticks, banners with poles, skateboards, full-face masks, unsealed liquids, stuffed animals, and more. Clothing with offensive graphics or gang affiliations is also forbidden. All items are subject to inspection, and management can deem additional objects as risks. This comprehensive ban minimizes hazards like projectiles during games or disruptions at concerts, fostering a secure space. Leave questionable items at home to avoid delays or denial.

Smoking Policy

Sudbury Arena is entirely smoke-free, complying with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, which prohibits smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes in public spaces. This includes all indoor areas and extends to outdoor perimeters as of August 1, 2019. Electronic devices are listed under prohibited items. Designated smoking areas are not available; guests must exit the property entirely, though re-entry is restricted (see below). This policy protects public health, especially in a family-friendly venue, by reducing secondhand smoke exposure. Smokers should plan accordingly, and violations lead to ejection. It’s part of broader efforts across Greater Sudbury’s 13 arenas.

Re-Entry Policy

Once you exit Sudbury Arena during an event, re-entry is not permitted, except in medical emergencies or with staff assistance. This prevents ticket fraud and maintains crowd control. If you need to leave temporarily, inform a host for possible exceptions. Always keep your ticket stub handy. This strict rule ensures security but can inconvenience those needing fresh air or smoke breaks.

Ticket Policies and Waiver of Liability

Tickets must be purchased from official sources (greatersudbury.ca/tickets); duplicates or scalped tickets are invalid. No refunds or exchanges, and events may change without notice. Ticket holders assume all risks of injury from event-related hazards, waiving liability claims against the arena.

Code of Conduct

Patrons must avoid violence, harassment, disruptive behavior, intoxication, throwing objects, or entering restricted areas. Stay in assigned seats, report issues to staff, and comply with directives. Violations result in ejection, bans, or legal action, promoting a respectful atmosphere for all.