Food and Alcohol

Policy Details

Events with Alcohol

Members of the Stanford community are expected to abide by all federal, state and local laws and university policies - including those governing alcohol consumption and distribution. Under California law, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase alcohol or to possess alcohol in a public space. It is also illegal for anyone to furnish alcohol to an individual under the age of 21. Most student events involving alcohol are considered parties and must follow university party planning guidelines including obtaining prior university advising and approval. Additionally, according to California law, selling tickets for entry to events with alcohol requires the procurement of a temporary liquor license.

Food Booths (food and beverages for sale)

All sales or distribution of food and beverages must comply with Santa Clara County Health Requirements and the State of California tax law (e.g. sales tax must be collected and remitted to the State of California). Sale of food or beverage is only permitted as part of a larger student program, must meet all Santa Clara County Health Code Regulations, follow acceptable cash handling procedures, have funds deposited into an organization's ASSU account and approved in advance by Office of Student Engagement.

Food Trucks

Students, departments, and other campus organizations may invite outside mobile food and beverage vendors ("food trucks") to campus for events or other services. Food trucks require an invitation from a Stanford community member to be onsite. Payment to food trucks must adhere to Stanford’s requirements for preferred payment methods. For the complete food trucks guidelines and services, refer to 8.2.1.4 Food Trucks on Campus under Administrative Guide Memo 8.2.1 University Events.