Golden 1 Center Rules

Before you head to the arena, familiarize yourself with Golden 1 Center’s policies to ensure smooth entry. The venue enforces strict security measures for everyone’s safety, and knowing the rules ahead of time saves you from frustration at the gates. 

The Bag Policy

Golden 1 Center enforces strict bag size restrictions for security and entry efficiency. Bags larger than 8″ by 6″ by 1″ are prohibited from entering the arena. This policy applies to all bag types, including backpacks, purses, camera bags, and suitcases.

Small clutches and wallets meeting the size requirement are permitted and subject to security inspection.

Medical bags necessary for health conditions are exempt from the size restriction, but must undergo thorough X-ray screening and inspection by security supervisors. Parental bags for infants, including diaper bags, are allowed with additional screening. Baby food and formula are permitted as exceptions to the outside food prohibition.

Security Screening Procedures

All guests enter through airport-style magnetometer screening. The process requires placing cell phones, keys, and metal objects in containers for direct viewing by security personnel. Guests who cannot clear magnetometer screening face secondary screening with hand-held detectors.

These security measures can create extended entry lines, especially for popular events. Arriving at least 30 to 60 minutes early before event start times helps avoid delays. The arena typically opens doors approximately 90 minutes before most events, giving guests time to pass through security, explore the venue, and purchase food and beverages before performances begin.

Photography and Video Policies

Personal photography using mobile phones or small cameras is generally permitted for most events. However, flash photography may be restricted, and some artists prohibit all photography during concerts. Video recording faces prohibition at virtually all events, regardless of device type.

NBA policy specifically prohibits commercial photography without written consent. Management reserves the right to confiscate cameras that could produce professionally-marketed images. Guests should check event-specific policies before assuming photography permissions.

Prohibited Items

The following items are not allowed inside the venue:

• » Aerosol cans
• » Drones
• » Strollers
• » Weapons
• » Signs or flags larger than 11″ by 7″
• » Outside food or beverages
• » Laser pointers
• » Balloons, frisbees, etc.
• » Alcohol, drugs, vapes, or e-cigarettes

Golden 1 Center is a smoke-free facility. Smoking, vaping, and the use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited throughout the arena and in the surrounding plaza areas. 

Cowbells are the only noisemakers permitted, and only for Sacramento Kings games. All other noisemaking devices face prohibition regardless of event type.

Age Requirements

Children aged two and older require tickets to enter Golden 1 Center. Infants under two may enter without tickets if sitting on an adult’s lap. Some events carry specific age restrictions; concerts may be 18+ or 21+, and late-night shows often restrict attendance to adults only.

The Dress Code

General admission areas have no dress code. However, premium lounges, including Rush by Sire Spirits, Assembly by Crown Royal, and certain rooftop areas, may recommend dress codes on weekends and for special events.  

The Re-Entry Policy

Re-entry is typically not permitted once guests exit the building during events. Guests should plan accordingly and avoid leaving the venue if they wish to return. Medical emergencies and exceptional circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis by Guest Services.

Signs

Signs/Flags/Banners/Posters may not be larger than 11″ x 17″ or attached to a pole/stick.

Any other items deemed unacceptable by Arena Management