Let's dive into the rules around smoking at MetLife Stadium! As a fan attending an event, it's crucial to be aware of the venue's policies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. So, can you smoke in MetLife Stadium? The simple answer is largely no, but there are nuances.
Step 1: Understand the Smoke-Free Mandate
First things first, let's address the overarching rule. MetLife Stadium, in accordance with New Jersey State law, is a SMOKE-FREE facility. This means that generally, smoking is prohibited inside the stadium walls. This policy is in place to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all guests.
Think of it this way: Just like you wouldn't light up a cigarette in a restaurant or an airplane, you can't do so in most areas of MetLife Stadium. This includes traditional cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and, importantly, vapes and e-cigarettes.
What Does "Smoke-Free" Really Mean?
It's not just about fire and ash. The smoke-free policy extends to:
Traditional Tobacco Products: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco (though not "smoking," it's often covered by similar health policies).
Vaping Devices: E-cigarettes, vape pens, mods, and any other electronic nicotine delivery systems. While they produce vapor rather than smoke, they are typically treated the same as traditional smoking due to health concerns and the potential for disturbance to other guests.
Cannabis/Marijuana Products: Even if legal in other contexts, smoking or vaping cannabis is prohibited within the stadium.
Step 2: Identify Designated Smoking Areas (Limited Exceptions) ➡️
While the stadium is largely smoke-free, there is a very specific and limited exception for smoking.
Plaza Level Fence Line
Smoking is permitted along the fence line on the Plaza Level. This is the only designated area where smoking is allowed. It's crucial to stick to this area if you wish to smoke.
Imagine you're on the ground level outside the main seating bowl, near the perimeter of the stadium. That's generally where the Plaza Level fence line is.
Important Considerations for Designated Areas:
Location: Be sure you are actually on the Plaza Level fence line. Smoking in any other area, including within the East Hall or MetLife West Hall, or near stairways, ramps, or escalators, is strictly prohibited.
Respect Others: Even in designated areas, be mindful of those around you. Smoke travels, and while it's permitted there, courteous behavior is always appreciated.
Enforcement: Stadium staff are trained to enforce these policies. Disregarding the rules can lead to consequences.
Step 3: Understand the Implications of Non-Compliance
Ignoring the stadium's smoking policy can lead to an unpleasant experience and potential repercussions.
What Happens if You Smoke Where You Shouldn't?
Warnings: Often, a stadium employee will first issue a verbal warning and ask you to extinguish your cigarette or put away your vape.
Ejection: If you continue to smoke after being warned, or if the violation is particularly egregious, you can be ejected from the stadium. This means your event experience ends abruptly, and you won't be refunded for your ticket.
Legal Consequences: In some cases, repeated or severe violations could lead to further legal action, as the policy is in accordance with New Jersey State law.
Remember, stadium staff are there to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. Cooperating with their instructions is key.
Step 4: Tailgating and Parking Lot Rules
The smoking rules within the stadium do not entirely extend to the parking lots and tailgating areas.
Smoking While Tailgating
Smoking is generally permitted in the open-air parking lots while tailgating.
However, even in parking lots, it's essential to practice common courtesy and dispose of cigarette butts responsibly. Do not litter or create fire hazards.
Open fires are not permitted, so ensure any grilling or cooking is done safely and responsibly.
Think of it as being in a public outdoor space, where smoking is typically allowed, but with the added responsibility of being in a high-traffic area with many other people.
Step 5: What About Re-Entry for Smoking?
Historically, some stadiums offered re-entry for guests who wanted to step outside to smoke. However, MetLife Stadium generally has a strict no re-entry policy for events.
This means if you leave the stadium, even to go to a designated smoking area outside the main gates, you may not be allowed back in. Therefore, if you are inside the stadium and need to smoke, your only option is the designated area on the Plaza Level fence line, if it's accessible from your current location within the stadium.
Always double-check the specific event's re-entry policy, as it can occasionally vary, but assume no re-entry for smoking purposes.
Step 6: Be Prepared and Plan Ahead
Knowing the rules beforehand can save you a lot of hassle.
Tips for a Smooth Experience:
If You Smoke: Locate the Plaza Level fence line designated smoking areas before you need them. Ask a stadium usher or check the stadium map.
If You Don't Smoke: Appreciate that the stadium is largely smoke-free, creating a more pleasant environment for you.
Alternative Nicotine Options: If you rely on nicotine, consider nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges as alternatives that won't violate stadium policy.
Check Event-Specific Rules: While the core smoking policy is consistent, some events might have slight variations. It's always a good idea to check the MetLife Stadium A-Z Guide or the specific event's website for any unique rules or updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find the designated smoking area at MetLife Stadium?
You can find the designated smoking area along the fence line on the Plaza Level. Look for signage or ask a stadium usher for directions.
How to dispose of cigarette butts at MetLife Stadium?
Please use designated ash receptacles located in the smoking areas. Do not litter by throwing cigarette butts on the ground.
How to avoid issues with stadium staff regarding smoking?
Simply adhere to the smoke-free policy inside the stadium and only smoke in the designated Plaza Level fence line area.
How to know if vaping is allowed at MetLife Stadium?
No, vaping is not allowed inside MetLife Stadium. E-cigarettes and vapes fall under the smoke-free policy.
How to deal with someone smoking near you outside the designated area?
You can discreetly report the issue to the nearest Guest or Safety Services Representative, or text "Alert MLS" to 848261.
How to check for updates to MetLife Stadium's smoking policy?
Always refer to the official MetLife Stadium website's A-Z Guide or Guest Policies section for the most current information.
How to smoke during tailgating at MetLife Stadium?
Smoking is generally permitted in the open-air parking lots while tailgating, but be considerate and dispose of waste properly.
How to re-enter MetLife Stadium if I leave to smoke?
Generally, MetLife Stadium has a strict no re-entry policy for events, so plan accordingly as you likely won't be able to re-enter if you leave.
How to use alternative nicotine products at MetLife Stadium?
Consider bringing nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges as they do not produce smoke or vapor and are therefore permitted inside the stadium.
How to ensure a smoke-free experience at MetLife Stadium?
The stadium's smoke-free policy in most areas helps ensure a pleasant environment for all. Report any violations to stadium staff.
