Compliance & Fees
Rules & Policies
2027 Reservation requests can be submitted on November 1, 2026
Explore the essential guidelines and regulations that ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Madison County Fairground.
Alcohol & Controlled Substances
No Alcohol or Controlled Substances allowed at any time.
In accordance with county regulations Madison County Fairground is a dry facility. No beer, wine, or liquor is permitted at any time, including during setup or teardown.
Any evidence of alcohol consumption or possession by the renter, guests, or vendors will result in the immediate termination of the rental agreement, immediate removal from the property, and total forfeiture of the security deposit and rental fees.
Booking & Payments
Reservation and Payment Policies
Secure your event date with a 30% security deposit. Full payment is due one business day after event. Cancellations made at least 30 days in advance are eligible for a refund, minus the deposit.
2026 Official Fee Schedule
The rates listed below are introductory rates established for the 2026 season and are subject to change at the discretion of the Madison County Fairground Board for future booking cycles.
Reservation of dates is only finalized upon receipt of a 30% Security Deposit. Security Deposit will be refunded within 10 days after the event. Full payment due one business day after the event.
Standard Daily Rate
Non-Profit Daily Rate*
Covered Arena (Includes Concessions)
$600.00
$500.00
Livestock Building (Includes Concessions)
$400.00
$300.00
Full Facility (All Areas)
$900.00
$800.00
*Non-profit rates require proof of 501(c)(3) status at the time of application.
2026 Fee Policies
Early Setup/Late Teardown Fees
- Rate: 50% of the Daily Facility Rate.
- Application: This fee applies to any days requested for setup before the event or teardown after the event that are outside of the primary contracted event date.
Concession Stand & Kitchen Policy
- Included Use: Use of the Concession Stand/Kitchen is included with the rental of the Covered Arena, Livestock Building, or Outside Grounds.
- Kitchen Features: Includes stand refrigeration, a steam table, and select tables and chairs.
- First-Come, First-Served: The Fairground is a multi-use facility and may host multiple independent events simultaneously. Priority for the Concession Stand is given to the first renter to submit their security deposit. Subsequent renters must provide their own food service (e.g., licensed food trucks).
Deposits & Deadlines
- Security & Damage Deposit: 30% of the total rental cost. Due at booking to secure the date. Refundable post-event pending a successful facility inspection.
- Full Payment: Full payment is due one business day after the event.
- Cleaning Fee: $250.00 minimum. Assessed only if the facility (including the kitchen) is not returned to its original clean condition.
- Accepting cash, check made payable to Madison County Fairgrounds, Inc., or credit card/debit card (a 3% processing fee will added)
Mandatory Policies
- NO ALCOHOL POLICY: In accordance with county regulations The Madison County Fairground is a dry facility. Alcohol of any kind is strictly prohibited on the property. Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by the renter or their guests will result in immediate event termination and forfeiture of all deposits and fees.
- Insurance: In accordance with county regulations a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for $1,000,000 naming "Madison County Fairground" as Additional Insured must be submitted with the final payment.
- Conduct: Renters are responsible for the conduct of all guests. No narcotics or controlled substances are allowed on the property at any time.
Insurance Coverage Details
Insurance Requirements
All renters are required to secure a General Liability Insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000. This policy must name both the Madison County Fairground Board and Madison County Government as Additional Insured parties. The certificate of insurance should be submitted via email to info@madisoncofairgroundnc.org no later than 14 days before your event. Failure to provide this documentation will result in denied access to the venue.
Facility Care and Restrooms
Facility Maintenance Responsibilities
Renters are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and condition of all facilities used during their event.
Restrooms will be stocked with essential supplies such as soap and paper products, but any additional needs must be met by the renter. It is imperative that restrooms are left in their original, clean state.
The kitchen and concession areas must also be returned to their initial condition, with all surfaces and appliances thoroughly cleaned.
Renters must supply their own heavy-duty trash bags and ensure all waste is disposed of in the designated dumpsters.
Alterations to outdoor spaces, such as digging or staking, require prior approval from the board.
Operational Guidelines
Event Operational Rules
Security
Security measures are crucial for the safety of all guests and participants. Depending on the nature of the event, additional security personnel may be required to maintain order and safety. Renters must coordinate with local law enforcement or certified security firms to fulfill this requirement, bearing all related costs. This arrangement must be finalized at least two weeks before the event date. Adherence to these guidelines is mandatory to ensure a successful and secure event experience for everyone involved.
Right of Entry
Any Madison County Fairgrounds Board Member or authorized County
Liaison retains unrestricted, free access to all areas of the facility at all times before, during, and after any scheduled event.
Dogs
All dogs must remain on a leash at all times.
Arena Dragging
Any specific arena grooming or dragging requirements must be
coordinated with staff in advance.
Bleachers
Moving of bleachers is prohibited without express permission and supervision from Fairground staff.
Termination of Agreement
Conditions for Agreement Termination
The Madison County Fairground Board reserves the right to terminate the contract agreement at any time for policy violations. Upon notice of termination, the applicant and all guests shall vacate the premises immediately.