MT Unions
ACCESS TO CAMPUS
MTSU is committed to upholding the First Amendment and provides ample opportunities for both students, student organizations, and external individuals access to campus to engage in speech activities. For registered student organizations, there are a variety of available meeting rooms, event spaces, and informational locations with a reservation. Please complete your reservation request using our Facilities Request Form.
For external users, the perimeter sidewalks adjoining public streets are available for use without a reservation. In addition, external users may use the Student Union Commons without payment of a rental fee. To facilitate adequate availability for other external users and spontaneous student use required by T.C.A. § 49-7-2401 et seq., however, a reservation is required and may be obtained using the process set forth below. Please use our “How to Request Access to Campus” guide below. Once you receive a confirmation, you will have all the details needed for the day of your visit. Keep your confirmation with you in case you are asked to verify your reservation or if any questions arise regarding space use.
Please note that external users’ access to campus is subject to limitations outlined in the Solicitation by Unaffiliated Groups and Off‑Campus Vendors procedures. For more information regarding how these groups may request access to campus, please visit our Solicitation by Unaffiliated Groups/Off‑Campus Vendors Procedures webpage.
MTSU processes all reservation requests in accordance with MTSU Policy 100 and MTSU Policy 103.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pertaining to the use of the Student Union Commons by External Users
Where is the space designated for external users?
This area is the Student Union Commons. It is the grassy space directly in front of the Student Union. The South Commons is the oval‑shaped lawn closest to the Honors College, and the North Commons is the section farther from the Honors College.
Individuals requesting outdoor space will be assigned to either the North or South Commons based on availability.
How long and how often can I come to campus?
Per MTSU Policy 100 Section IV.B.2, external users may access campus without rental, or contractual agreements in the following manner:
- No more than 4 times per semester
- No more than 4 hours within a calendar week
Policy excerpt: “The Student Union Commons is available during regular university business hours (except during the first two [2] weeks of each semester and final exam weeks) for use by an external client without payment of a rental or lease fee. To facilitate adequate availability for other external users and spontaneous student use required by T.C.A. § 49-7-2401 et seq., external clients can reserve the Student Union Commons for no more than four (4) hours in any calendar week without payment of a rental or lease fee. Reservations may not be confirmed until fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the event date or as specified by contractual terms.”
Additional restrictions: Reservations cannot occur during the first two weeks of classes or during exam week.
Can I bring amplified sound?
If you wish to use amplified sound, please note this in the comments section of your reservation. Amplified sound requires an additional approval step, which our office will obtain on your behalf.
Key guidelines:
- Maximum of 3 hours of amplified sound per day
- To minimize interference with the educational environment, amplified sound is only permitted on the North Commons
- Equipment must remain 10 feet back from sidewalks to maintain clear pedestrian pathways
For full details, please visit the to review the amplified sound guidelines.
Where can I park?
Individuals with an appropriate parking pass are welcome to park in any designated space on campus. Accessible spaces are reserved for individuals with the appropriate placard. Please visit website for more information.
Can I get a same‑day reservation to use the Student Union Commons?
No, per MTSU Policy 100, all reservations require a 5-business-day (one-week) notice to allow time for necessary approvals.
How far out can I reserve space?
You may submit a reservation request as far in advance as you wish. However:
- Confirmations can only be issued 14 days prior to the event date.
- Per MTSU Policy 100, students and on‑campus departments have priority for space use.
- If your requested date becomes unavailable, MT Unions staff will provide alternate options.
If you reserve more than 14 days in advance, you will receive a tentative confirmation. Unless otherwise notified, your reservation will automatically become confirmed at the 14‑day mark.
How to Request Access to Campus
Follow the link to the Facility Request Form.
Once there, please use the steps below to complete your reservation.
To make the process as simple as possible, follow this step‑by‑step guide:
• Under “Event Title,” enter the name of your organization.
• Under “Event Type,” select EXTERNAL from the drop‑down list.
• Under “Primary Organization or Department,” select EXTERNAL ORGANIZATION (you can type it into the box and it will appear).
• Under “Event Head Count,” enter the number of people who will be working the table.
• Under “Event Description,” write a brief sentence about what you will be doing (for example, collecting petition signatures or distributing information).
• Under “Event Date and Time,” select both from the available options. The calendar will only show dates at least five business days out.
• Under “Location Search,” type Commons and select SU Commons.
• Under “Event Attributes,” answer the required questions. To choose between “No” and “Yes,” click directly on the word “No” or “Yes.”
Quick Links
Building Hours
Monday - Friday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
*Closed Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, MLK Day
**We also may be closed or have alternative hours during University Holidays and Breaks