Tabling in White Plaza

Stanford University supports the peaceful expression of free speech in White Plaza by groups representing a wide range of viewpoints and perspectives. The following tabling guidelines were developed to align with the university's rules regarding time, place, and manner. These guidelines aim to ensure equitable access, safety, and coordination with scheduled events and activities in White Plaza.

You can learn more about tabling in White Plaza by visiting our frequently asked questions section. Additionally, you can submit a tabling request using our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tabling?

Tabling is broadly described for the purposes of these guidelines as a method of sharing information by setting up a table or other physical structure such as a sign or canopy in White Plaza in order to distribute materials, display materials, or otherwise share information. Tabling activities must comply with all other relevant university policies and guidelines, which are described in detail below.

Who can table in White Plaza? 

Only currently enrolled Stanford students, Stanford student organizations, departments, schools, institutes, and programs are permitted to table. A Tabling Space Request Form must be submitted prior to engaging in tabling. 

All other groups not listed above are restricted from utilizing space in White Plaza and should contact Student Affairs Meeting Services to inquire about the process for requesting and booking available spaces. 

When is tabling permitted?

• Tabling hours are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
• Tabling reservations may be requested for up to five consecutive days.
• Tabling is not permitted at White Plaza during the following events: first day of New Student Orientation, the fall student activities fair, Stanford Career Education events, Reunion Homecoming, Family Weekend, Admit Weekend, Commencement, and other large university-wide events.

Where can students and student organizations secure tables, chairs, and canopies?

Student organizations may check out free tables, chairs, and canopies from ASSU. You may reserve these items in advance by completing this form. Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

• Checkout Location: The ASSU Office, Old Union, Room 103, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday

Tabling Requirements

1. A Tabling Space Request Form must be submitted prior to engaging in tabling activities in White Plaza.
2. Reservations for tabling in White Plaza may be requested in increments not to exceed 5 consecutive days. Tabling reservations are approved on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Only one Tabling Space Request Form will be for a group or organization at a time (i.e., the same student organization is not permitted to make multiple simultaneous reservations).
4. Specific tabling locations are at the discretion of Student Affairs Meeting Services. Priority will be given to registered events and activities scheduled in White Plaza.  All reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate specific location requests.
5. Additional Tabling Requirements:
   1. Each reservation is limited to one 10 ft x 10 ft pop-up canopy (no sides), up to two tables (not exceeding 3 ft x 8 ft), and a maximum of four chairs.
   2. Tabling is only permitted between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
   3. With prior approval, organizations may leave their tables and chairs overnight during the 5-day reservation period. However, canopies must be collapsed overnight.
   4. Tabling materials, such as posters or signs, must not extend beyond the sides of the table or more than 1 foot above the table, unless prior authorization has been granted by Student Affairs Meeting Services.
   5. No more than one standing sign, easel, or sandwich board is allowed per table. Requests for additional signage must be submitted in writing via the Tabling Space Request Form. Free-standing items must be removed and stored between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
   6. Any display materials not placed on or attached to the tabletop must be positioned behind and within 3 feet of the table. Displays may not exceed 7 feet in height or 3 feet in width. Free-standing items must be removed and stored between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
   7. Tabling display materials may not be placed against or attached to any campus structures or natural features. These include the ground or sidewalk, bollards, trees, sculptures, in fountains, lamp posts, bushes, building walls, doors, windows, campus signs, tables, chairs, stairs, trash cans and the walls surrounding the Claw fountain.
   8. The sponsoring organization's name must be displayed on each table and on all items on display.
6. All tabling activities must comply with Stanford Administrative Guide Section 1.5.1 Political, Campaign and Lobbying Activities including but not limited to posted policies and restrictions on camping and commercial activities.
7. Promotional materials may be put on top or in front of the table. Tabling activities and/or display materials (as described in #5 above) may not block any building entrances, fire lanes, or walkways, or restrict the free flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
8. Tables or other display materials must be staffed at all times by the reserving party, which must be currently enrolled Stanford students and recognized student organizations, departments, schools, institutes, or programs
9. Amplified sound is only allowable from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. Any request to have amplified sound outside these times must be submitted in advance via the Tabling Space Request Form.

Any request outside the activities listed above likely qualifies as a program or event and must be registered via Cardinal Engage.