The Michigan State University Department of Police and Public Safety has the sole responsibility for providing the police and security function on the campus. This means that groups or organizations may not contract with any off-campus agency for policing or security of events held on campus. Police and security needs must be discussed with this department and if it is determined that a need exists, our agency will provide such services. Most times this will mean a cost to your organization. Special dispensation has been granted by President McPherson to eliminate the University’s fringe load cost on overtime charges for police officers for student groups only. All other organizations must incur this expense. In addition, a total of up to four officers per night may be assigned to a student function(s) at no cost to the organization. These officers will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Therefore, it is best to begin the planning process as soon as possible.

Many factors determine the need for our services and we will work with the organization in an effort to make the event as safe and secure as possible at the lowest possible cost. Determining security needs is not an exact science and we consult with the venue managers prior to making the final decision on police and security staffing levels. Listed below are some of the factors used to determine security needs:

• Type of event
• Day and time of the event.
• Location of the event
• The number of other events occurring at the same time that require security.
• The expected size of the crowd.
• History of similar events.
• History of the sponsoring organization (past 3 years).
• Good financial standing with DPPS.
• Ticket sales at point of entry.
• History of the performer at other venues.
• Potential for alcohol or other illegal substances to be brought into the venue, requiring searches.
• Events held on weekends of home football games are limited to a reasonable size (500 persons).
  Two such events may be held if two (2) officers and two (2) green coats each can staff them.

NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Events requiring two (2) police officers require 14 days notice. Events requiring more than two (2) police officers (not including student security personnel) require twenty-one (21) days notice. This is to give us time to process your request and give adequate notice to our staff assigned to the event. For this reason; it is imperative that the activity planning process begins at the earliest possible time. It is important to us that your event is successful and takes place in a safe and secure environment

We look forward to working with you. Should you have additional questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Lt. Beckner at 353-5361.

NOTE: Please refer to guidelines outlined in the Student Life “Student Event Approval Process” for additional requirements.