Barbecue Events on Campus

Overview

Recognized Student Groups looking to hold a barbecue must receive prior authorization from their group's Advisor. Below is a brief overview of the procedural guidelines.

For complete details on barbecue setup, disposal, and fire safety, please read and adhere to the guidelines in this section, as well as the University Event and Outdoor Space Policy.

Requesting a Barbecue on Campus

Faculty, Staff & Guests:

Faculty, staff, or guests with a Columbia-affiliate sponsor who would like to coordinate a barbecue should submit a request to our team. Faculty & staff with existing Event Management System (EMS) accounts can submit a request through that system. All others, please submit a Request A Quote form, and we will respond as quickly as possible.

Recognized Student Groups:

Any Recognized Student Group wishing to hold a barbecue on campus must:

• Seek Advisor’s approval for the event.
• Submit a request to Event Management for an approved outdoor space location. 
• Schedule an event review with campus partners at least two weeks in advance of the event date.
• Contact Facilities to rent barbecue equipment; personal grills are not permitted.
• Choose between:
  • Hiring Columbia to cook
  • Hiring a licensed vendor to cook
  • Designating an event manager who must receive fire and safety training
• Ensure that the designated event manager completes the barbecue training and signs an acknowledgment of responsibilities.
• Coordinate with the advisor to purchase charcoal from a vendor of choice. (Suggested brand: Kingsford MatchLight Instant Charcoal Briquets)
• Use the disposal kit provided by Facilities at the end of the event.

BBQ Kit Contents

Recognized Student Groups are not permitted to bring their own grills or equipment. Barbecue kits ordered through Facilities contain the following:

• 1 Grill
• 1 Wagon
• 2 Galvanized Cans with Lids and Sand
• 2 ½ Gallon Pressurized Fire Extinguisher
• 1 Coal Shovel
• Set of BBQ Tools (spatula, fork, tongs)

NOTE: One kit services one grill.

Locations

Barbecues are permitted in the following approved outdoor campus locations:

• Revson Plaza
• Ancell Plaza
• Low Plaza
• Paved area between Butler Library and the Sundial
• Van Am Quad
• Wien Courtyard
• Pupin Courtyard

Fire Safety Training (Required for Student Events)

Recognized Student Groups conducting a barbecue must attend a fire safety training session led by our team and the University's Fire Safety team. 

• Fire Safety training sessions will be held regularly when classes are in session.
• Students must register for training at least 24 hours in advance to reserve a spot and must successfully complete the training to Event Management's satisfaction before their event.