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Special Event Insurance

When Is Event Insurance Required?  

Event insurance is required any time an external organization or individual rents a Santa Clara University facility for a non-SCU-sponsored event, such as a wedding, recital, conference, or community gathering. Proof of general liability coverage must be submitted to both the booking department and the Office of Risk Management before the event takes place.

This requirement exists to protect all parties involved. If an incident occurs during the event, the facility user's insurance serves as the primary financial backstop, covering potential bodily injury, property damage, or other liability claims. Without adequate coverage in place, neither the facility user nor their guests would have that critical layer of protection.

The certificate must show the following minimum insurance coverage:

Coverage Type  Minimum Limit
General Aggregate $1,000,000
Combined Single Limit (per occurrence) $1,000,000
Products/Completed Operations $1,000,000
Personal & Advertising Injury $1,000,000
Accidental Medical Coverage $50,000
Fire Damage (any one fire) $5,000
Liquor Liability $1,000,000
Abuse or Molestation $100,000

TULIP — This is a recommended insurance 

SCU participates in the TULIP program (Tenant User Liability Insurance Policy), a cost-effective option that allows external facility users to purchase the event liability coverage SCU requires—quickly and entirely online.

Coverage is event-specific and can extend to vendors, performers, and exhibitors as needed. Upon purchase, certificates of insurance are automatically emailed to both the facility user and the SCU Office of Risk Management.

How to purchase TULIP coverage:

  1. Navigate to the TULIP website
  2. Select Quick Quote (top right)
  3. Choose your state and entity (SCU)
  4. Enter your event date(s) and expected attendance
  5. Select your event type
  6. Choose coverage options and answer questions about vendors and alcohol service
  7. Review your premium quote
  8. Complete your purchase by credit card

Additional requirements:

  • Santa Clara University must be listed as an Additional Insured on all liability policies.
  • The certificate must include a description of the event, along with the anticipated dates and location on campus.

Note on alcohol: To serve or sell alcohol at your event, you must secure the appropriate license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). At SCU, alcoholic beverages may only be provided or served by University Dining Services or Adobe Lodge. For more information, refer to the Auxiliary Services Food and Dining Policies.