’Noles will not allow tailgating

Florida State University announced Friday it is reversing its policy and will not allow tailgating during the Seminoles’ home games due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in Leon County.

“Given what is going on throughout the country and the number of COVID cases in Leon County, we have determined that for the safety of all involved we will not allow tailgating for the Georgia Tech game,” FSU athletics director David Coburn said in a news release. “We will continue to monitor the situation, and if changes are warranted, we will adjust the policy accordingly.”

FSU officials announced Aug. 20 they would allow tailgating for the 2020 season, but they asked fans to limit tailgating to their own parking space area while maintaining a 6-foot social-distancing standard. Fans were also encouraged to wear face masks.

Less than three weeks later, tailgating will not be permitted.

The state has reported more

than 640,000 cases of COVID-19, with Leon County reporting 7,149 cases.

Under FSU’s new plan, tents, tables or use of outdoor grills and cooktops in the parking lots before the Georgia Tech game are strictly prohibited.

Parking lots will now open 2 1⁄ hours prior to the 3:30 p.m.

2 kickoff, with fans allowed to enter the stadium two hours before kickoff. Vehicles must exit within 2 1⁄ hours after the end of

2 the game.

The FSU Alumni Association also announced Friday that homecoming week, which was originally scheduled for Nov. 9-14, will be postponed. Events are being planned for a week to be announced in spring 2021.

“Homecoming is one of Florida State’s most cherished traditions,” FSU President John Thrasher said. “Although we won’t be able to gather this fall, we hope to welcome friends and alumni back to campus and celebrate everything we love about FSU with students, faculty and staff this spring — one of the most beautiful times of year in Tallahassee.”