Reserve Space

The right to freedom of speech and assembly is expansive but not unlimited. The University reserves the right to enforce reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on expressive activity as set forth in these below guidelines and its policies governing facilities use.

It is recommended to reserve space on campus for any activity to ensure priority use of that space.

Spontaneous Activity

Vital to the free and spirited exchange of ideas is that the exchange should be conducted in an appropriate forum. The outdoor areas of campus that are generally accessible to the public are available to be used for expressive activity on a first-come, first-served basis. The University does not limit demonstration activity taking place along its public roads and sidewalks, including leafleting and the dissemination of information, if the activity does not unreasonably restrict pedestrian traffic, cause damage to landscaping, disrupt the normal operations of the University, or otherwise violate law or University policy. 

Expressive Activity Guidlines

OU may charge facility use and additional services fees. It is the responsibility of the Reserving Party to ensure compliance with this requirement. A standard fee schedule may be requested of any venue that charges a fee for facility use or services provided. The Reserving Party is advised to be fully knowledgeable of those policies at the time of reservation. 

Outside groups must receive reservation approval before coming to campus. Below are details on how to begin your event process.

Registered student organizations or University departments may not serve as “fronts” for other groups in order to obtain free or reduced rates on meeting spaces for any outside organization or off-campus user. An outside organization event is one in which over 50% event attendees are comprised of off-campus people having no affiliation with the University. If fronting is discovered, non-university rental rates will apply.

University departments and student organizations may co-sponsor events with off-campus organizations in accordance with the following guidelines:

• The event or meeting must be planned and managed by an OU registered student organization or University department. Members of the organization or department must also be the point of contact in communication with the Union Business Office.
• A majority of those attending events scheduled by a student organization or University department are expected to be University of Oklahoma students, faculty or staff, or have a legitimate connection to the organization or University department.
• The mission of the outside group relates to the on-campus group.

The managing department of the venue hosting the event will make the determination as to on-campus vs. off-campus sponsorship by considering the nature of the event, past experience with respect to similar events, type and the nature of attendees.

Outside groups must receive reservation approval before coming to campus. Below are details on how to begin your event process.