General Rules
Code of Conduct
Monticello is a family-friendly site that shares history with visitors of all ages. We have a zero-tolerance policy for verbally abusive, obscene, harassing, discriminatory, or threatening statements and behavior of any kind. Failure to comply may result in removal from Thomas Jefferson Foundation property.
- All guests must pass through a brief security screening upon arrival. Guests may be subject to other screening or security measures, such as examination of bags.
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Appropriate attire, including a shirt, is required. Shoes must be worn at all times.
Prohibited Items
- Bags and containers larger than 11” X 15” X 6” (28 X 38 X 15 cm) are prohibited beyond the visitor center and on the mountaintop. Please follow staff directions to prepare for bag checks and avoid delays.
- All weapons, including firearms, knives, or sharp objects are prohibited. A security officer will assist you in securing these items if you are observed with them anywhere on the property.
- Two-wheeled scooters, powered or unpowered, including Segways, are not permitted.
- Drones (of any type or size) are not permitted.
- Sporting equipment is not permitted.
- Outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Prohibited Activities
- Guests may not display or carry placards, signs, or banners, including flags on poles, that cannot be stowed in a small bag. Clothing that contains profanity or abusive language or symbols is not permitted.
- Guests may not engage in disruptive or disorderly conduct.
- Smoking is not permitted on Monticello property. This includes electronic smoking products.
- Solicitation, advertising, or campaigning is not permitted.
- Eating, drinking, chewing gum, and photography with flash are prohibited in the main house and all exhibit spaces.
Photography and Videography
- Personal-use photography is allowed except where otherwise posted.
- Monticello may not be used as a setting or backdrop for formal photography, including but not limited to engagement or graduation photos. Commercial photographers may not photograph clients at Monticello.
- Personal or professional video or audio recording of tours, programs, or films is not permitted without prior written authorization from the Thomas Jefferson Foundation.
- Equipment, including tripods and selfie sticks, is not allowed.
- For more information about professional and commercial photography, please see our Filming and Photography Guidelines.
Animals
- Only leashed dogs are allowed on the grounds of Monticello. No other pets are allowed. Individual events (i.e. Independence Day) may have additional restrictions. Please confirm details on our website.
- Service animals, in compliance with the U.S. Department of Justice’s ADA requirements, are welcome at Monticello, including indoors and on shuttles. Emotional support animals are not permitted inside the house, exhibitions, buildings, or on shuttle buses.
Severe Weather
In the event of severe weather, our security officers are authorized to suspend our regular operations until conditions allow for a safe resumption of tours and programs. If a tour or program is suspended due to severe weather, we will ensure that every ticketed guest will have the opportunity to experience the reserved tour or program or receive a full refund.
Additional Considerations
- Learn more about accessibility at Monticello
- Reservations and tickets are valid only on the date specified. There will be no refunds unless the tour is canceled by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation.
- Some wheelchairs may be too large for use in the main house. Approved-size wheelchairs are available from staff for use in the main house.
- Small strollers are allowed in, and may be borrowed for use while in, the main house.
- If you would like to apply to stage a musical performance at Monticello, please consult our Musical Performance Policy.