Groton — Superintendent Michael Graner on Monday outlined the rules and fees that will apply to commercial groups that rent classrooms, gymnasiums and athletic facilities from the Groton Public Schools.

The school board recently approved the policy allowing for-profit groups to use the schools; the regulations spell out exactly how this will be done.

The school department already allows nonprofit groups like the Boy Scouts to use school facilities, charging only the cost of custodial services and utilities.

Under the new regulations, commercial groups will need permission from the principal first to rent space, then from the central office business manager.

Groups will be required to provide proof of liability and other insurance, pay rental fees two weeks in advance and leave a $500 deposit before the use.

Organizers also will be responsible for supervising those taking part in the event or program.

The regulation prohibits smoking or use of alcohol in the schools, and forbids pet shows or other activities involving animals.

A school administrator or other staff member will have to be present when a school facility is being used.

School board member Pat Doyle said the board looked at rents charged by other school districts when considering fees. “These rates are kind of in the middle,” she said.

Rates include a daily charge of $1,000 for use of the Robert E. Fitch High School baseball field, $800 each for use of the high school auditorium or football field and track, $600 for the large gym and $400 each for the high school cafeteria, lobby or parking lot.

The small gym or a school kitchen could be rented for $300.

Other fees include $200 per day to use the high school tennis courts, a middle school cafeteria or gym, other athletic fields or a school parking lot.

Elementary school cafeterias, gyms or a high school classroom would carry a rental charge of $100 each.

Groups will have to pay separate, additional rates for custodial and utility fees.

The school district will place income from the rentals into a districtwide fund for student activities, under the regulations.

d.straszheim@theday.com

Twitter: @DStraszheim