Ohio Announces Spectator Limits For Sporting Events

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio officials clarified a new order allowing sports to proceed this fall and limited spectator attendance at sporting events.

"The main purpose of permitting spectators at school sports events is for officials and family and household members and loved ones of players, coaches, team staff members, other event participants (like marching band and honor guard) for both home and away teams to attend," Gov. Mike DeWine said.

At outdoor sports venues, up to 1,500 fans or 15-percent of the fixed, seating capacity is allowed to attend the event. At indoor sports venues, 300 fans or 15-percent of fixed, seated capacity may attend the game.

"Ideally, the spectator limit would enable at least two, and perhaps up to four, family members to attend a sports event, provided that the venue is large enough to allow at least six feet of social distancing between groups," the governor said.

Schools can request a variance in their spectator limit by submitting a health plan for their venue to the Ohio Department of Health. The plan must explain why an expanded capacity is needed and how social distancing will be achieved.

Prior to submitting the variance request, schools must answer:

• Is the variance so home and away family members may attend an event?
• Can spectators be socially distanced under the plan?
• Can the home school prevent the requested number of spectators from congregating?

"Please note that the variance cannot be to expand the number of fans beyond family members of both teams, the home band, and others who may perform during the event," DeWine said.

Schools and sporting venues will required to monitor and enforce social distancing policies, including prohibitions on fans congregating together.