Catering Exception Request

Use of an External Caterer for an On-Campus Event

Updated 10/28/24

Campuses are permitted to use any licensed commercial external caterer; however, the University encourages consideration with using Penn State Housing and Food Services (HFS) or Metz Culinary Group due to their subsidy and investment in HFS.

Guidelines for Using External Caterers:

  • Compliance with University Policies: External caterers must adhere to all university policies including the Pouring rights contract with PepsiCo.
  • Responsibility for Clean-Up and Damage: The campus is responsible for clean-up and any damage caused by an external caterer. HFS and Metz Culinary Group will not handle clean-up for events hosted by external groups. The requester must ensure proper clean-up.
  • Compliance with Policies AD 18 & AD 26: Events must comply with policies AD 18 and AD 26.
  • Approval Process: External group requests to use campus facilities must be approved by the Chancellor’s Office, following policy AD 02.
  • Facility Use Restrictions: External caterers cannot use HFS or Metz facilities or request service ware, condiments, paper goods, or other materials from HFS or Metz.