Patron Code of Conduct
Rules of Conduct/Suspension of Privileges
For Patrons and Guests at San Francisco Symphony Performances and Events
To provide a safe concert experience and preserve the quiet enjoyment of performances and events, the San Francisco Symphony—together with the War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, San Francisco Ballet, and San Francisco Opera—has established a policy outlining Rules of Conduct for patrons and guests. The policy also details how violations will be addressed, including the circumstances under which privileges may be suspended.
Section I – Rules of Conduct
Patrons and guests at San Francisco Symphony performances and other Davies Symphony Hall events shall conduct themselves in an orderly and safe manner. Conduct of the nature described below shall not be permitted and may result in the San Francisco Symphony seeking the remedies described in Section II.
- Any act of violence including conduct, verbal or physical, which tends to cause another to reasonably fear for his or her own personal safety or that of his or her family, friends, associates, or property.
- Any threat of violence including direct or indirect, intentional, or unintentional words or actions targeted at another individual.
- Any physical harassment including assault, battery, or impeding, blocking, or interfering with the normal movement of another individual.
- Any verbal harassment including, but not limited to, hate speech or raising one’s voice to levels that disturb the individuals around them.
- Any sexual harassment—including comments, gestures, jokes, or innuendos.
- Any conduct that results from intoxication or otherwise impaired conduct that affects surrounding patrons’ experience, creates an unsafe environment, or inhibits staff’s ability to perform their duties.
- Unsafe conduct or conduct which creates a safety hazard to others.
- Vandalizing, damaging, or destroying property.
- Any illegal or criminal activity.
- Accessing or attempting to access any restricted area such as backstage or onstage without pre-approved permission.
- Any violation of San Francisco Symphony policies including, but not limited to, those regarding the use of camera and recording equipment.
- Disorderly or disruptive conduct or causing a nuisance or unreasonable annoyance.
- Failure to follow instructions given by authorized staff or interfering with staff’s performance of duties.
Section II – Violations of Rules of Conduct
Violations of the Rules of Conduct shall be cause for one or more of the following remedies:
- Verbal and/or written warning from ushering and/or management staff on duty.
- Refused admission to, or ejection from, the performance or event venue by management staff on duty.
- Suspension of privileges to enter and attend activities of the San Francisco Symphony.
- Civil action in consultation with the Office of the City Attorney.
The San Francisco Symphony takes the above issues seriously and will act in good faith to address concerns in a timely, respectful, and conscientious manner. If San Francisco Symphony management decides to impose a suspension of privileges, the patron, donor, or guest will be so advised in writing at the time of the incident. In the event the individual has left the premises before the notice is issued or if the individual refuses to receive the notice, the notice will be held at the location of the incident until the individual returns. The incident may be subject to further review, which could result in a suspension of privileges at additional War Memorial venues.
If you are subjected to or witness any behaviors that are listed as violations of the Patron Code of Conduct, or if you experience anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, please immediately report the incident to the nearest usher.
Thank you for helping make the San Francisco Symphony a welcoming and respectful place for the entire community to enjoy.
