Restrictive New Tailgating Rules Shake Up 49ers Fans

SF 49er fans are outraged over the drastic changes in the tailgating rules.Photo byPhoto by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

The 49ers are implementing new rules for tailgating this year. Many of them are pretty severe changes. Season ticket holders especially are outraged by the changes, and this will greatly limit what a fan can do when they tailgate. The official statement from the 49ers is fairly long, and it pretty much eliminates most of what people do in tailgating.

First off, fans will have directed parking. That literally means that, just like at an amusement park, you are directed where to park. You cannot park where you want or near a group that you tailgate with.

Alcohol will still be allowed, but only in designated tailgating zones and only for those over the age of 21. That means if you park in a non-tailgating area, you can't tailgate.

• Glass bottles and kegs are prohibited.
• Open flames are not allowed. This includes grills, stoves, and any other open-flame devices.
• Tailgating must end one hour after the conclusion of the event.

Another rule is that if you are still tailgating when the game starts, it will be considered loitering, and you could be cited by police if you don't enter.

The 49ers say that they are doing it to allow for latecomers parking to be easier. Workers online and proponents say that due to the elaborate set-up for some that they take way too many parking spots. Some even reserve spots and won't let others park because they are saving it for their friends. They also complain about the binge drinking from so many people. It will be interesting to see how it works out but for now, tailgating as it was may be a thing of the past at Levi's Stadium.