Questions and Answers
Who handles the scheduling for various areas of the Capitol?
For the House Portico, 2nd & 3rd Floor Rotundas on respective sides of the Great Seal, call the House Sergeant's Office (850) 488-8224
For the Senate Portico, 2nd & 3rd Floor Rotundas on respective sides of the Great Seal, call the Senate Sergeant's Office (850) 487-5224
For the 22nd Floor, Rotunda (first floor only), Historic Capitol Front & Back Steps, Courtyard, & Waller Park, call the Department of Management Services (DMS) Areas (850) 488-5332
For Capitol Complex Events 2008/09
Applications for space during the 2009 Legislative Session will be accepted beginning Monday, May 5, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. Applications received prior to this time and date will not be processed. The Application for Use (msword 79.50 kB) form may be used to reserve the Historic Front Steps, Courtyard, Plaza Level Rotunda, Waller Park and the 22nd Floor (check “Other” and indicate 22nd Floor). Deposits for use of the 22nd floor do not have to be submitted at this time.
For Capitol Complex Events 2009/10
Applications for space during the 2010 Legislative Session will be accepted at the conclusion of the 2009 Legislative Session, in conjunction with the House and Senate Sergeant's Offices schedules.
What is the charge for utilizing Capitol space?
There is no charge. However, you may be charged if any damages are incurred or the space is not properly cleaned. Groups using the space are solely responsible for leaving the area in the original condition as prior to the event.
Is there water/electricity available to groups using the Capitol space?
There are water faucets and electrical receptacles located at each end of the Courtyard, and electrical receptacles in the Rotunda and Historic Front Steps.
How do groups obtain access to the Courtyard?
Prior to arriving at the Capitol, contact Capitol Police at (850) 488-1790 and an officer will drop the chain at Monroe Street, just south of the Historic Capitol.
What if it begins to rain during our function in the Courtyard?
If a group's event has been scheduled in the Courtyard and it begins to rain, you may be able secure space under the House (850) 488-8224 or Senate (850) 487-5224 Porticos. If space allows, you may be able to relocate to the Rotunda (850) 488-5332.
Where are displays/equipment unloaded for functions?
Capitol Police will instruct applicants where they may unload for their particular event, typically, unloading is available through the Courtyard, north loading zone near the House Office Building or the loading zone in the tunnel in the basement of the Capitol.
Can groups set up the night before their confirmed event?
Permission to set up the night before is given on a case-by-case basis by Capitol Police. It will depend on the display, availability of the space, and whether officers are available for monitoring.
If a podium, microphone, table, chairs, etc., is needed for an event at the Capitol, who is responsible for securing?
The Department only provides the area, water and power. The applicant is solely responsible for securing any other items through a local vendor and must arrange for delivery prior to and pickup of equipment immediately following the event.
Can we lose or be asked to relocate our confirmed space for any reason?
Yes. Official governmental functions take precedence. These include the Governor/Lt. Governor/First Lady's Office, House and Senate functions, cabinet functions, etc., and may require temporary relocation or disruption of a confirmed event.
Is security provided?
Capitol Police is on the premises 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. However, Capitol Police will not be responsible for ensuring continuous observation/security of displays or event unless prior approval has been made.
How are displays hung on the banisters, walls, staircase, etc?
Displays including banners, signs, paper, flags, artwork, may be hung with string. Tape or any other type of adhesive is prohibited. Displays may not be hung in such a manner that prohibits observation by security personnel or electronic security systems.
Are popcorn machines allowed in the Rotunda?
Yes. A protective covering is required under the machine.
How are tents secured in the Courtyard?
No stakes may be used, tents are secured with water barrels.
How are applications received?
Applications are received by email, fax, overnight services, US Postal Service or hand delivery.
What are the guidelines for the bus parking area?
The bus access lane on Duval Street west of the Capitol, is strictly for unloading of passengers and is not designed for permanent parking. After unloading passengers, drivers may park at the Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center, located at 505 West Pensacola Street. The cost to park at the Civic Center is $10 per day for each bus. Buses enter from Pensacola Street at the ticket booth. Individual car parking is also available for a cost of $5.00 per day for each vehicle.
