Alcoholic beverages are not to be served at off-campus functions by officially recognized Cal Poly Clubs except when private service (i.e., for members and guests) is arranged by contract with a properly licensed third-party vendor. Club members may not serve or provide the alcohol themselves. Individuals at the club event must purchase their drinks directly from the third-party vendor, leaving the club completely out of the alcohol transaction. The facility or caterer must have a valid Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) license in order for the event to be approved. If a club is hosting an event at a location that does not already provide alcohol and an outside entity is hired to serve alcohol, the following is required:
- Contract with a licensed vendor
- E-Plan
- Proof that the vendor has an ABC license
- IRS Form W-9 for the vendor
In addition, each event must provide for the availability of popular non-alcoholic beverages for those persons less than 21 years of age. Students of legal age while attending an off-campus university-approved activity in the vicinity of a public bar may not have their rights denied except by representatives of the licensee or by civil law enforcement authorities for cause. If alcohol is available at an off-campus event, it must be noted on the E-Plan. In addition, any event involving alcohol at an off-campus location may require a meeting with The Dean of Students Office prior to the event taking place. If a meeting is necessary, a representative from The Dean of Students Office will contact a club officer to schedule the meeting.
Under no circumstances may club funds be used to purchase alcohol or to reimburse an individual for the purchase of alcohol (or purchase gift cards from companies that sell alcohol). For more information on alcohol at off-campus events, please refer to the Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities.
See Cal Poly’s Alcohol Policy regarding on- and off-campus use, service, sale, and consumption for more detailed information.
