SGC Frequently Asked Questions

Touring, Holding, and Reserving

Yes! We would be happy to schedule you a tour and answer any questions. We are available by appointment Monday-Thursday, 10:30am - 5pm.

We do not require Day of Insurance; however, we do require that all vendors who are operating (paid or donated) at Seminole Garden Center must provide their proof of insurance with the City of Tampa listed as additional insured.

To reserve the space, you must put down a deposit for the minimum rental of four (4) hours, which will include the room rental rate of $100 per hour, attendant fee of $37.50 per hour and the damage deposit of $200, plus tax. Due to the demand, we cannot hold dates.

Cancellations and refund requests must be received ninety (90) days prior to the scheduled date of use. 25% of room rental payment and 100% of attendant fee and damage deposit will be refunded. Within 90 days of event: NO RENTAL PAYMENT WILL BE REFUNDED. 100% of the damage deposit will be refunded. If you need to change your date and we have the date available, we will be happy to move your date at no additional cost.

Venue Details

No, open flames are not allowed anywhere in the building.

Yes, ten (10) 66-inch round tables, ten (10) 6ft rectangle tables, and seventy (70) champagne Chiavari chairs are included in your rental fee. Please note, that if a table or chair has been damaged it may be unavailable until the replacement is delivered.

Yes, we do not allow attached decorations on the walls or windows, this includes tape, staples, 3M, pushpins, tacks, nails, screws, or penetrating items shall not be used in our building.

We have a projection screen. You will need to bring in your own projector.

Smoking and vaping are not permitted on SGC property in compliance with the Florida Clean Indoor Act.

Yes. Our venue and restrooms are all wheelchair accessible.

Parking is limited; we strongly encourage guests to use ride share services for large events. We do allow for valet, with a permit.

70 guests

We have Men’s and Women’s facilities with an extra-large restroom for changing purposes.

Deposits and Fees

We have fees for room rental, event attendant, security, ceremony space and a kitchen fee.

We do not.

Taxes are charged based on state/federal rates. We do not charge gratuity.

The room rental rate is $100 per hour and the attendant fee is $37.50 per hour. There could be additional hourly cost if security is required.

Yes, a Damage Deposit of $200 made by major credit card or check is required when booking event. If any cleaning or repairs deemed necessary beyond normal use (i.e. paint damage, floor damage) will be charged and deducted from the damage deposit. If the building or any part of the premises or its contents, including furniture and artwork, is damaged during the event, the Applicant is solely responsible for such damage. These costs shall include the personnel hours, materials, equipment required to clean up and/or complete necessary repairs. All repairs will be conducted by City of Tampa. If the event exceeds the event time permitted, the additional cost for personnel (attendant and security) and room rental fees will be deducted from the damage deposit.

We accept check and all major credit cards.

Pre, During, and Post Event

The outdoor space is available if we do not have an event booked at the time of rehearsal. The indoor space would need to be rented if you require access.

It is unlikely, but you can discuss this with your event attendant closer to the event date. Since we have limited storage, you will not be able to store items at the venue. However, if there is not an event booked the day prior to your event, we may be able to accommodate you. Seminole Garden Center is not responsible for items left unattended.

Yes, all events must conclude by 10pm, with the breakdown from 10pm - 11pm.

How long you have access to the venue is based on how many hours you rent the space for.

The only space we have is the restrooms.

The event attendant will work directly with you and your planner to make sure your vision is executed flawlessly the day/night of your event. They are responsible for all things venue related. They will be present during your event to make sure everything is running smoothly, and you enjoy your night!

Your setup time starts at the time of your permitted rental time.

All rentals, personal items, and anything else brought in for your event must be removed from the space at the end of your contracted rental time. If you exceed the contracted rental time, a minimum of $137.50 (plus tax) per hour fee will be charged from the Damage Deposit.

That is the responsibility of the client.

My Event

Yes, though it will cut down on space for your guests.

Absolutely! Ceremony Space is an ADDITIONAL fee and is not included in the Seminole Garden Center rental rate.

Yes! We prefer the use of an event/wedding planner/coordinator as it will allow for a more successful event because they are experienced and well-equipped for most situations.

No, we will never book two events on the same day. You have exclusive rights to the venue during your event.

Yes, based on availability and a permit.

Yes, overnight parking is ok. Safety is our top priority, and we would much rather have someone park overnight than feel unsafe! Please arrange to retrieve the vehicle the next day.

A Security Officer will be required at any event where alcohol is being served, event is after 6:00pm, or where there will be more than fifty (50) people in attendance.

Food/Catering and Alcohol

Yes, they will need to follow all vendor requirements. Please note, that due to lack of parking, this is not always an ideal option.

All alcohol must be brought in and leave with an approved vendor. We do not allow a client to bring in and serve their own alcohol.

Yes, you are permitted to bring in your own caterer or bartending service. Any events with food or beverage will be charged a Kitchen Fee of $100 unless you use one of the preferred caterers.


Updated: 08/25/2024