Residence Handbook: Residence Life Policies

University Housing strives to keep you informed of all current residential life policies. Policies are changed from time to time, and new ones are sometimes added. If a policy changes during the academic year, notices will be sent to all residents.

Student Affairs Conduct Rules and Regulations

A. In addition to the Residence Life policies, residents must also abide by the Student Conduct Code.

B. Conduct Rules and Regulations

Any student found to have committed or to have attempted to commit the following misconduct is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in Article IV.

1. Acts of dishonesty Acts of dishonesty may include, but are not limited to, the following.

1. Cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty.
2. Furnishing false information to any University official, faculty member or office.
3. Forgery, alteration or misuse of any University document, record or instrument of identification.
4. Falsifying or participating in the falsification of any University record. (RUSO Student Policy 4.3.2a Students Obligations and Regulations)
5. Any other act of dishonesty which adversely affects the University or the pursuit of its objectives. (RUSO Student Policy 4.3.2a Students Obligations and Regulations)

2. Disruption or Obstruction Disruption or obstruction of teaching, administration, disciplinary proceedings, other University activities, including its public service functions on or off campus, or of other authorized non - University activities when the conduct occurs on University premises. ( RUSO Student Policy 4.3.2f Disturbing the Peace and Destruction of Property)

3. Abuse Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, coercion and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person. Methods of abuse may include, but are not limited to physical, verbal, written, electronic and/or visual displays. Abuse can include but is not limited to the following:

1. Assault: An intentional act or acts, that has caused, is intended to cause, or is perceived by the victim to cause bodily harm.
2. Harassment: Conduct that is sufficiently severe and/or pervasive and that adversely affects or interferes with the educational program and/or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment within the University community. Forms of harassment may include, but are not limited to, physical, mental, sexual, racial, ethnic, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation.
3. Hazing: Any act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of an individual for the purposes of initiation, admission into, affiliation with or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. The express or implied consent of the victim will not be a defense. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing is not considered a neutral act; they are violations of this rule (See the Student Handbook for more information).
4. Heckling: Oppositional behaviors that badger, embarrass, harass, disempower, or challenge people or processes in a manner that undermines their integrity.
5. Bullying: - Repeated behavior by a group or individual that is intended to harm, intimidate, offend, degrade or humiliate another person, possibly in front of others.
6. Stalking: Willfully, maliciously and/or repeatedly following or harassing another person in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to feel frightened, intimidated, threatened or harassed.
7. Sexual Misconduct: Sexual Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that expressly or implicitly imposes conditions upon, threatens, interferes with or creates an intimidating, hostile, or demeaning environment for an individual s:

1. academic pursuits
2. University employment
3. Participation in activities sponsored by the University or organizations or groups related to the University, or
4. Opportunities to benefit from other aspects of University life including but not limited to on campus residence.

4. Theft and/or Damage Theft includes, but is not limited to, theft of and/or damage to property of the University or property of a member of the University community or other personal or public property.

5. Failure to Comply Failure to comply with reasonable requests or directions of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties.

6. Identification- You are required to carry your NSU I.D. card while on University property or at University sponsored events and activities (including recognized student organization events). An I.D. may not be used by any person other than the person to whom it was issued. I.D. cards being used by someone other than the card owner will be confiscated by University officials. Students are required to present their I.D. upon request of any University employee. If an I.D. card becomes missing it is the responsibility of the card owner to promptly report the card lost or stolen to University police or I.D. services.

7. Unauthorized Entry Unauthorized entry includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys or any other such devices to any University premises or unauthorized entry to or use of University premises. This may also include locations situated off campus.

8. Controlled Substances The use, consumption, possession, manufacturing, distribution and/or being under the influence of any controlled substances except as expressly permitted by law and/or University policy. Possession of drug paraphernalia and the inappropriate use or abuse of prescription or over-the-counter medications is also forbidden.

9. Alcohol The use, possession, manufacturing, distribution and/or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by law and/or University policy. This includes, but is not limited to, having alcohol or being under the influence of alcohol in the residence halls. Being under the influence includes but is not limited to: acting noticeably out of character, impaired motor skills, or otherwise disorderly or belligerent conduct. Possession of alcohol paraphernalia (including but not limited to empty alcohol containers or decorated alcohol containers) is not permitted in the residence halls.

10. Firearms and Weapons The use, possession and/or distribution of firearms, explosives, other weapons, imitation of weapons or dangerous chemicals on University premises is prohibited except as expressly permitted by law and/or University policy. This includes, but is not limited to, bows, knives, lasers or laser sights, guns, paintball guns or air-soft weapons.

11. Disturbing the Peace Disturbing the peace includes, but is not limited to, participating in an on-campus or off-campus demonstration, riot or activity that disrupts the normal operations of the University and/or infringes on the rights of other members of the University community; and/or leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities within any campus building or area. See appendix IV for expressive activity guidelines.

12. Traffic Obstruction Traffic obstruction includes, but is not limited to, obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on University premises or at University-sponsored or -supervised functions.

13. Disorderly Conduct Conduct that is disorderly, lewd or indecent; breach of peace; or aiding, abetting or procuring another person to breach the peace on University premises or at functions sponsored by, or participated in by, the University or members of the academic community.

14. Technology Theft and/or Abuse Technology theft or other abuse of computer facilities and resources includes, but is not limited to, the following: (RUSO Student Policy 4.3.2d)

1. unauthorized entry into, transfer of or use of a file;
2. use of another individual's identification and/or password or allowing the use of yours;
3. use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member or University Official;
4. use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene or abusive messages;
5. use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with normal operation of the University computing system;
6. use of computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws;
7. attempts to circumvent established security procedures or to obtain access privileges to which the user is not entitled; and/or
8. any violation of the University Computer Use Policy.

Abuse of Student Conduct Process:

  Abuse of the Student Conduct Process includes, but is not limited to:

1. failure to obey the notice from a Student Conduct Administrator(s) or University official to appear for a meeting or conference as part of the Student Conduct Process;
2. falsification, distortion or misrepresentation of information before a Student Conduct Administrator(s);
3. disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a Student Conduct meeting or conference;
4. attempting to discourage an individual's proper participation in, or use of, the student conduct process;
5. attempting to influence the impartiality of a Student Conduct Administrator(s) prior to and/or during the course of the Student Conduct meeting or conference;
6. harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of Student Conduct Administrator(s) prior to, during and/or after a student conduct meeting or conference;
7. failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Conduct Code; and/or
8. influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the student conduct code process.

16. Passive Participation Passive participation includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. encouraging or enticing any behavior or activity prohibited by law and/or University policy; and/or
2. knowingly witnessing or observing any behavior or activity expressly prohibited by law and/or University policy.

17. Violation of any University Policy Violation of University Policy shall include any university policy, rule or regulation published in hard copy or available electronically on the University web site (i.e. residence hall policies, NCAA policies).

18. Violation of Law Violation of Law shall include violation(s) of any federal, state or local law.

Residence Life Policies

University Housing strives to keep you informed of all current residential life policies. Policies are changed from time to time, and new ones are sometimes added. If a policy changes during the academic year, notices will be sent to all residents. Residents must also abide by the Student Code of Conduct.

Abandoned Room & Unclaimed Belongings

If hall staff ascertains that you are no longer living in your room, an attempt will be made to contact you. After five (5) working days, your belongings will be packed and placed in storage at your expense. You will be charged for the cost of packing ($25/bag/large item) and storing your belongings ($10 per day), key charges, forfeiture of deposit and any other charges that result from an improper check out ($50). If your belongings are not claimed within 30 days, they will be donated to charity. This policy is truncated on Closing Day. The staff will attempt to contact the student. If contact is not made, the above policy will be instated immediately.

Additional Locks

Supplemental locks (chains, bolts, etc.) are not allowed on the doors in residential facilities since these devices can be a safety hazard if emergency entry or exit is needed.

Assignments

Priority for room assignments is based on the date that the contract is received with a $75 deposit. If you have a deposit on file, you only need to fill out a housing contract for the upcoming year or summer session. The contract reserves space, not specific halls or rooms. Room requests cannot be guaranteed. An early contract is the best security for a specific space. All rooms are assigned as double occupancy. Requests for private rooms will be assigned according to available space. Requests for room changes are accepted at any time but are not fulfilled until space permits. Contact University Housing to fill out a room change request. University Housing reserves the right to alter room assignments and/or special interest floors at any time. If the semester has begun, Housing will give five (5) days written notice. The University will make a reasonable attempt to accommodate room requests for double occupancy, but it reserves the right to assess additional fees for single room occupancy. Failure to occupy the assigned room does not nullify the contract. If you do not occupy your assigned room on or before the first day of classes, the space may be assigned to another student, and your charges will continue until University withdrawal from the University or until the contract is canceled.

Banners/Posters

Recognized student groups and organizations may submit posters, flyers, and/or banners to the Housing office to be distributed and hung by residential life staff with approval from the Office of Student Affairs and University Housing. Posters placed in residential facilities cannot advertise alcohol, drugs or illicit material. Posters not submitted to the Housing Office are subject to removal.

Barbeque Grills

The grill at Seminary Suites is for use by Seminary Suites residents only. Contact the Associate Hall Manager/front desk for Seminary Suites for reserving the grill. South Leoser, Courtside, and the Highrises all have charcoal grills available for resident use. Residents may NOT store any type of grill or flammable materials in their room or suite.

Bicycles & Motorbikes

Register your bike with Campus Police. Bike racks are available near most halls. You are encouraged to keep your bike securely locked. Bicycles may be stored in bike racks, or in your room (with the consent of your roommate). Bicycles parked in inappropriate areas (sidewalks, stairwells, hallways, public areas) will be removed and turned over to Campus Police. Riding bicycles in the residence halls is prohibited. No motorcycles, mopeds, or devices with a gasoline engine are allowed in the residence halls. NSU is not responsible for stolen property. If your bicycle is left over summer break, it will be removed, logged by Campus police and donated.

Breaks/Vacations

University Housing realizes that not every student can go home over the holidays. Interim Housing is available for such a situation. Since room and board is not included in the University Housing contract for Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, between semesters and Spring Break, there is a charge for staying in your room during these periods. Seminary Suite residents are exempt from this policy. Break charges will be billed to your housing account. You must be enrolled for the upcoming semester in order to be eligible to stay in the halls during breaks. To stay in the halls over a break, you must register with your Associate Hall Manager prior to the beginning of break. Residents will have their card access to their buildings shut off during days they are not going to be in the building over break. Dining services are extremely limited and sometimes not available during breaks. Break students may need to make preparations for paying cash and/or eating off-campus during breaks and vacations. Signs indicating available food services will be posted prior to each break.

Break residents are to follow all regular hall policies and break policies. Break policies include:
1. For security reasons, no visitors are to enter any of residential facilities during break without Hall Manager authorization.
2. Any student found staying in the halls without authorization will be charged accordingly and other disciplinary action.

Building Access

Keys

You will be issued (a) key(s) when you check into your residence facility. This key will work in your room door (and your mailbox). Residents in some areas may be issued a second key which will open the floor door or the front door. Residents living in Haskell, Seminary Suites, and Wyly will receive a separate mail box key. Only residents of your hall will have key access to the building. For your safety and security and the security of your neighbors, report a lost or stolen key to your Hall Manager immediately. The charge for a lost key/lock change ranges from $50-$125. University Housing encourages you to keep your room locked at all times and to always carry your keys. DO NOT loan out your keys to ANYONE.

Card Access

All traditional residence halls are equipped with electronic card access. Entering the front building entry door is with use of the Student ID card, which is passed through the card reader. Residence access is limited to the students residing in that residence hall only. A 48-hour access period is provided when a resident relocates from one hall to another. At the end of that period, access to the original hall ends.

Children & Babysitting

Non-students under the age of 18 are not allowed in residential facilities unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visits from young children are to be short even when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Babysitting is not allowed in residential facilities. All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times while in and around residential facilities.

Rationale: Based on liability and study concerns, the residence halls are an inappropriate venue for children.

Cleanliness Standards

With a signed contract, the University agrees to provide, and the resident agrees to main tain, the assigned space and all public areas on the immediate floor, suite or quad in a clean, safe and sanitary condition; this also applies to personal hygiene. Failure to do so could result in individual fines or collective fines if the responsible party cannot be identified. Since we have community bathrooms in some halls, you will need shower shoes, a robe and something to carry toiletries into the bathroom. All public areas on a floor, suite or quad will be kept in a clean and sanitary condition by University Housing. You are responsible for keeping your room in a clean and sanitary condition after you move in. Failure to maintain a reasonable level of cleanliness in your room and your person will result in failure to comply charges, cleaning charges, possible disciplinary conduct, and/or possible termination of your housing contract.

Cleaning/Food Disposal

Leftover food should be disposed of in the trash cans or dumpsters where provided. Disposal of food items in sinks or toilets is not permitted as it may cause clogged plumbing, flooding or facility damage. Any items left in the bathrooms or sink areas are subject to removal. Dirty dishes will be disposed of in the trash if left in public areas. Students who fail to uphold the cleanliness standards of community living will be subject to disciplinary action and/or monetary fines. All student rooms are subject to random Health and Safety inspections.

Rational: Cleanliness standards in group living communities are essential to a safe and sanitary environment. Inspections are conducted to ensure that unhygienic activities are not being practiced and will not harm the standard of living of the community.

Computing Services

Each room in residential facilities has an Ethernet connection which allows the resident to access the Internet and NSU's Library On-Line Catalog. The connection requires a NSU USER ID, an Ethernet cable and Ethernet card (most new PCs come with a card). The cable and card may be purchased from the NSU Bookstore. Internet start-up and log-in instructions will be available at Freshman and Transfer Connections in August. There are University Housing computer labs located in Wyly Hall, Leoser Center, and in the Seminary Suites clubhouse available to hall residents and family housing residents only. There are also some computers in the ChatterBox in Leoser Center. Most labs are equipped with IBM PCs equipped with Microsoft Office 2007 and Adobe Reader 2007, HP LaserJet and DeskJet printers. All stations in the computer labs are connected to NSUnet. Residents will need to bring their own multi media storage devices and paper to the computer labs. Supplies may be purchased at the University Bookstore.

Computer Lab Policies

• Housing Computer lab Hours are generally 8am-midnight.
• Users who need to do homework or research papers have priority over users who want to surf the Web, play games or burn a CD.
• There is a one hour time limit to burn a CD.
• Users may occupy only one station at a time.
• The computer labs are reserved for the exclusive use of campus residents.
• Items downloaded to the C: drive are subject to removal.
• Use headsets only-not speakers. Keep headset volume down to a reasonable level.
• Do not remove staplers, hole punchers, pens and other office items from the lab.
• Pornography may not be viewed at any station at any time.
• Food and drink are not allowed in the labs.
• Do not lean back in chairs or put your feet on the counter.
• Be considerate of other users: no foul language, noise, harassment, etc.
• Please help keep the computer labs clean (pick up after yourself).
• Labs will open and close according to the posted hours (no exceptions).
• Guests are not allowed. Only campus residents may sign themselves in and out.
• Repeated violations of these policies will result in suspension of your privileges.

Electrical Appliances

The only appliances allowed in residential facilities are low-wattage microwave ovens (1000 watts or less), compact refrigerators (2.5 cu.ft or less.), appliances with self-contained heating elements (coffee makers, crock pots, rice cookers) and other appliances such as irons and hair styling tools. Seminary Suites residents are provided with a microwave and compact refrigerator. All appliances must be UL-approved. Appliances not allowed in the residence halls include, but not limited to, space heaters, lava lamps, halogen lamps, toasters, George Foreman Grills, or any appliance with an open heating element. If you have a question about an appliance please contact your Associate Hall Manager. Any appliance that causes a false fire alarm will be subject to removal as well as the resident facing disciplinary action and/or monetary fines.

Rationale: Appliances with exposed heating elements, overloading outlets, and appliances with large wattage can pose a threat of fire. Limiting this potential danger can help keep residents safe.

Equipment

Equipment is available for personal use and can be checked out at the front desk in each hall. The equipment may vary from hall to hall. DVD players, games, and vacuums are the items most often available. Suggestions for equipment and cleaning needs are welcomed by the Hall Managers. You must leave your ID at the front desk while using the equipment. All equipment must be returned before the desk closes. Vacuum cleaners will not be loaned out after 10:00 p.m. due to quiet hours. Any replacement costs of damaged equipment due to mishandling will be charged to the student. Failure to return equipment will result in failure to comply charges and/or replacement cost charges. Hall equipment may be checked out by residents only and may not be removed from the building.

Fire Alarms & Equipment

The halls are equipped with a fire alarm system consisting of alarm pull stations, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and/or sprinkler pipes. Tampering with safety equipment (including AED stations) is a violation of State law. In compliance with Oklahoma state fire code, smoke detectors are mounted in each resident room. These detectors will be inspected periodically by residence life staff. All smoke detectors must ALWAYS have a functioning battery. Removal of unit batteries or the unit itself or tampering with the detector in any way, include covering, relocation, etc will result in disciplinary action. If your detector needs battery replacement, contact your hall staff.

Fire Drills

In compliance with state fire laws and for your own safety, fire drills will be conducted each semester. You will be given instructions on fire safety before drills are performed. It is mandatory that all residents participate in a fire drill. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action. Refer to the Emergency Procedures section for information on evacuation locations.

Fire Safety

The following items are prohibited because of a potential risk of fire and life-threatening injury to others.

Fire Hazards

No materials, liquid or otherwise, of an explosive or combustible nature shall be kept in the residence halls. Candles, Oil Lamps, Incense or other substances is not permitted in residential facilities. Fireworks/firecrackers are not permitted on campus in any form. Halogen, Neon, and Lava lamps are not permitted in the halls. They have been determined to be the cause of several residential facility fires throughout the U.S. Only artificial, flame-retardant Christmas trees are permitted. Electric Christmas lights must be UL-approved.

Ground Regulations

In accordance with fire safety regulations, stairwells, and hallways must be kept free of furniture, bicycles, trashcans, debris or other obstructions at all times. Keep breezeways and entries uncluttered at all times. Do not store personal property in the breeze ways or entries at any time. The path of egress (from any residence hall door to the emergency exit) must be kept clear AT ALL TIMES.

Furniture

While additional pieces of furniture may be brought into residential facilities as space allows, university furniture may not be removed from the room, lounge, or suite. If the furniture is lost, you will be charged the cost of replacement. If the furniture is damaged, you will be charged for the cost of repair or replacement. Cinder blocks are not allowed in the halls due to potential for damage and injury, only bed risers may be used. Because of their extreme weight and the potential for water damage, waterbeds are not allowed in residential facilities. Community furniture must remain in the community area and should never be in residents rooms. Residents found with community furniture in their room will have disciplinary action taken and be charged with the furniture relocation and/or replacement.

Guest/Visitation Policy

A guest is defined as a person who does not live in the residence hall room, quad, wing, suite, or residence hall they are visiting. This includes other students/residents, friends, parents, siblings, or other relatives of the residents of that room. Residence hall students are allowed to host guests in their residence hall rooms according to the policies outlined below. However, violating a roommate's or suitemate's right of entry into the room, or hindering a roommate s/suitemate's ability to study and/or sleep in their room, or feel safe in their room (because of a guest's presence) is considered a violation of guest privileges. Residents are expected to respect each other's reasonable request for privacy and must have the expressed permission of their roommates before presenting their case for an overnight guest to their Hall Manager.

Host Responsibility

Hosts are responsible for the activities and behavior of their guest(s) at all times and are obligated to inform the guest(s) of all University and residence hall rules and regulations. Any violation of any rule or regulation by a guest may result in disciplinary action being taken against both the host and guest. Visitors under the age of 18 will only be allowed under limited circumstances (see the Children and Babysitting clause).

Escorting Guests

For safety and security purposes, guests in a residence hall must be escorted at all times by a resident of the building (host). The following guidelines apply to escorting guests:

1. Residents must escort all guests into and out of the building.
2. Residents must remain with all guests at all times. Guests left unattended or found to be unescorted may be documented and escorted out of the building. Residents should never agree to escort a person they do not know personally. This includes opening the door to allow unknown visitors to enter a residence hall.

Overnight Guests/Co-Habitation Policy

Arrangement for all non-resident overnight guests must be approved by the Hall Manager. You are limited to nine (9) guest nights per contract period (academic year). Guests are limited to no longer than a three-day stay. Guests may not room hop throughout the semester. If you allow an unregistered person to occupy your room disciplinary action will be taken. There is a no co-habitation policy in the residence halls. Any guest found staying in a resident's room for longer than the designated time may be banned from visiting that hall and the resident may lose guest privileges. Anyone found to be squatting will face disciplinary and/or legal action.

Improper Check-Out

Proper check out is defined as removing all possessions, cleaning the room, returning room key(s), completing a forwarding address form and a survey, and signing the assignment card. Failure to check out of your room properly will result in forfeiture of the room deposit or a fine of $50 with an additional charge for a lock change ($75-$125). Room damages or exceptionally dirty rooms will result in additional charges to your account.

Lasers

Laser sights and laser pointers are prohibited in or around residential facilities.

Laundry

Laundry services are included in the cost of Housing. Please report any maintenance issues to the hall front desk. Use by non-residents is strictly prohibited. NSU is not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged, or otherwise unattended items. Laundry left after 15 minutes will be dealt with by staff. Seminary Suites residents must use their key to enter the laundry facility.

Lock Outs

If you are locked out of your room, contact an RA or the Housing Office. You will need to show identification, and your residency will have to be verified. If you accumulate repeated documented lock-outs per semester, disciplinary action and/or key/core will follow.

Loitering

Loitering is not permitted around entrances and other public areas, including the front desk area, or under residential facility windows. This disturbs other residents and hinders hall staff from carrying out their duties. Call the RA on duty or UPD if loitering around residence halls becomes a noise violation or security concern.

Lounges

Each residential facility has a main lounge area which can be used for hall activities or just visiting with friends. Most lounges are equipped with cable television, study areas, and lounge furniture. Check with your hall staff for lounge hours. All housing policies are in effect in lounge areas and conference rooms. The hall lounges are reserved for residents of that hall and their guests. Residents may reserve a hall lounge for meetings, social gatherings, or activities when approved by the Associate Hall Manager. They are not rented for sales promotions, religious services or events that are contrary to University policy. Housing reserves the right to deny the use of the lounge to individuals who have not followed these guidelines.

Misuse of Residential Facilities

Public restrooms and other residential facilities (such as computer labs, laundry room machines, swimming pool & volleyball court in Seminary Suites) must be used in the fashion for which it was intended and residents are expected to follow the rules for these facilities. Removal of university property (lounge furniture, door mats, trash cans, window screens, etc.) from designated areas is not permitted.

Offensive Odors

An offensive odor is any odor or aroma of such intensity that it becomes apparent and is offensive to others. Any odor can become offensive when it is too strong. Some examples are: perfume, air freshening spray, poor hygiene, smoke, or large amounts of dirty laundry. Hall staff will address offensive odors when complaints are received. Residents identified as being responsible for the offensive odor will be asked to eliminate the cause of the odor.

Pest Control

Residential facilities are sprayed periodically to control pests. Residents will be notified in advance of the spraying. You are to prepare your room by storing food in air-tight containers or in refrigerators, picking up everything off the floor, and moving items away from walls. If you are allergic to insecticides and do not wish to have your room sprayed, you must have a doctor's statement on file with your Hall Manager. They will post a note on your door instructing that your room not be sprayed. We ask for complete cooperation with this service so that the halls will be clean, healthy and pleasant places to live. Failure to prepare your room for pest control or failure to allow entry without a doctor's statement on file will result in disciplinary action and/or fines to compensate loss of services.

Pets

No pets, except fish, are permitted in residential facilities (no animals that can survive unaided outside of an entirely aquatic environment). Aquariums may not exceed 10 gallons. Anyone found with a pet that is not a fish will face disciplinary action which may include charges for damages caused by the pet. The animal may also be confiscated and turned over to animal control or the animal shelter.

Rational: Due to noise, damage, allergy, escape and infestation, and time management concerns, the residence halls are an inappropriate venue for most pets.

Pregnancy

Students who are more than three months pregnant at the beginning of either semester or summer sessions must contact the Director of Housing for information on appropriate accommodations.

Quiet Hours/24 Hour-Consideration Policy

Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. and apply to all residence life public areas and rooms, including outdoor public areas outside of residence facilities as well as Seminary Suites and Courtside courtyards, parking lots, and barbecue pavilions. During quiet hours, noise should not be heard outside of your room. Hours are extended to 24 hours a day during finals week. Guests who are disturbing others by violating this policy may be asked to vacate the residence halls immediately during this period. The residence halls have courtesy hours 24 hours a day. Courtesy Hours refers to those times when residents are to be considerate of the needs of those students who are studying or sleeping regardless of the time of day/night. Noise should be kept at a level that does not infringe on these rights.

Rationale: The residence hall serves as a place where a variety of functions occur for students. These guidelines and expectations are established to protect the rights of all while allowing a normal level of social or personal activity.

Running/Roughhousing

Running, roughhousing, scuffling, wrestling, spitting, and throwing, bouncing, or kicking of objects in the residence halls, stairwells, and other common areas are not allowed for safety reasons. This is not an exclusive list.

Seminary Suites Clubhouse & Courtyard

Seminary Suites clubhouse includes a laundry facility, public restrooms, a computer lab, commons area equipped with indoor/outdoor fireplace, multi-media center, and a food service store and grill. There is an outdoor covered patio, sand volleyball court, and a swimming pool. The pool and volleyball court are reserved for Seminary Suites residents only.

Soliciting

Door-to-door solicitation is not permitted in the halls, public areas within the halls or areas immediately outside the halls. Fliers, coupons or any other type of advertisement may not be placed in residents mailboxes, in brochure racks, on bulletin boards, or at front desk areas (See Banner/Poster Policy). Off-campus businesses or organizations wishing to advertise to the hall students should contact The Drop Zone, Ext. 2610, to have flyers sent to the Housing office or the individual hall mailboxes. Student Organizations wishing to hang flyers must get them approved with Student Affairs and submit them to the Housing Office to be posted.

Sports and Recreation Equipment

Metal tipped darts and dart boards, weight and exercise equipment, and other items typically used in an outdoor setting are not allowed in the halls because of the damage they can cause. As a resident you have an automatic membership to the Fitness Center, which you are encouraged to use, as it has a variety of free weights and Nautilus equipment. Use of other items such as jump ropes, kiddie pools, rollerblades, skateboards, go karts and/or scooters are not permitted in residential facilities. Note: this is not an exhaustive list.

Room Changes

If you need to change rooms or halls, contact the University Housing Office. Room changes are granted on Fridays only. Room changes will not be acted upon until space is available. If available, you will be notified and given over the weekend (2 days) to complete the move to your new room. After Sunday, you will be charged rent for both rooms until you complete your move and turn in the keys from the old room to your R.A. Any resident who demonstrates consistent inability to get along with their assigned roommate will be subject to disciplinary action and/or paying for a private room.

Room Consolidation

In order to reduce the number of rooms or suites that are not at full occupancy, assignments will be consolidated when vacancies occur in any room or suite. This may require a student moving from an originally assigned space. This policy will be in effect through the first two (2) weeks of classes and may take place at anytime during the semester as deemed necessary by University Housing. The University reserves the right to consolidate residents onto different floors of a building, if it is in the best interest of building occupancy and safety considerations. The University will make a reasonable attempt to accommodate room requests for double occupancy, but reserves the right to assess additional fees for single room occupancy if you refuse to accept a new room or new roommate. University Housing also reserves the right to deny double occupancy to you if, after repeated attempts, you cannot be placed with a roommate. If you are denied double occupancy status, you will be charged private room rates. Depending on the demand for space during each semester, you may be given an opportunity to switch to private occupancy if you are without a roommate. After the designated time, the room cannot be switched to private until the end of the current semester (if available). The private room rate will be pro-rated and charged to your account. If you do not want to pay private rates, a list of residents in each hall who need roommates will be made available to you. If you do not find a roommate on your own by the deadline given, you will be placed in a lottery to determine who will be roommates and who will be required to move. University Housing does not require your permission to assign a roommate to you.

Room Entry

NSU understands a student's desire for privacy and takes reasonable steps to protect this privacy. It is, however, occasionally necessary for the University to exercise its contractual right to room entry. A preventative safety inspection for each resident's room will take place at least once each month. The emphasis of these inspections is the verification that students are not actively contributing to any condition that would put their health or safety at risk. Residents will, to the extent practicable under the circumstances, be given advance notice that Health and Safety Inspections will be conducted during the semester. (Under no circumstances shall a resident enter another room without proper authorization). The established procedures are designed to ensure reasonable, restrained use of the right of entry. Rooms may be entered by staff for the following reasons:

• When a known emergency exists
• When there is evidence that a possible emergency or violation of University regulations exists
• For non-routine or routine maintenance
• For routine health and safety inspections performed at least once per month
• For fire equipment checks and health and safety concerns
• When a resident vacates a room for a break period for maintenance inspections, repairs, safety inspections, or pest control.
• To turn off an alarm, stereo, television, or other item that has been left unattended and is causing a disturbance.

If a staff member enters a student's room under any of the above circumstances, the staff member is expected to leave a room entry notice, advising the student of the entry, reason, date, and names of the staff member(s) that entered. Additional information may also be provided. Staff is required to show ID if requested. The exception to this procedure will be those occasions when a large number of rooms will be entered for a pre-advertised purpose.

Room Personalization

We encourage you to make your room as comfortable as possible and to decorate it so that it reflects your personality while keeping your roommate's taste in mind. To avoid damages to the room and/or furniture, there are guidelines to be followed when personalizing a room. ANY damage, even minor paint damage, will be charged to the student for repair.

• Check with your RA for guidelines on how to hang posters, pictures and wall decorations.
• Because of the extreme weight and the potential for water damage, waterbeds are not allowed in residential facilities.
• Beds may not be placed on cinder blocks; cinderblocks are not allowed in the halls.
• You must use existing furniture; you may NOT use University provided lounge furniture in your room; however you can bring in personally owned furniture such as a coffee table, small entertainment center, etc.
• For fire safety reasons, please leave a clear path to the door. Safety policies do not allow residents to hang flags, nets, banners, etc from the ceiling.
• Due to the difficulty in removal, wallpaper and contact paper are not allowed.
• If your room is in need of painting, put in a work order. Students who paint their rooms without authorization will be charged for the cost of restoring the room to its original color.

Tobacco

All NSU Residential Facilities are tobacco free. You may NOT smoke/chew tobacco in your room! Smoke free areas include porches, and building entrances. All NSU Grounds and Facilities became tobacco free. Tobacco use will not be tolerated on any University Properties, including in a resident's room or in a person's vehicle.

Trashing

• Trashing includes but is not limited to, the following offenses and will result in disciplinary action:
• Throwing anything out of a window.
• Leaving trash anywhere in or outside residential facilities (except in a trash receptacle).
• In Seminary Suites, trash should not be left outside of your front door or gazebos. ALL trash MUST be taken to the dumpsters provided at the North end of each building.
• Sweeping out a room and leaving the debris in the hallway.
• Water and shaving cream fights/throwing of water balloons.
• Leaving messes in restrooms and lounges.
• Inhibiting custodial staff from cleaning the public areas.

Unauthorized Moves

Changing rooms with another resident without going through proper channels, moving into another room without authorization or subletting a room to a non-resident will result in disciplinary action, routine charges and additional room charges. If the unauthorized move is not approved, you will be required to move back to the original room assignment.

Violation of Hall Security

The State Fire Code stipulates that quad doors, suite doors and floor doors must remain closed at all times. Anyone who props open a floor door, suite door, exterior door, fire escape door, unlocks an entrance or floor door without authorization, who allows someone to gain entrance to the building through a window, who purposely leaves a window or door open for exit or entry, or who gives their key or ID card to another is violating hall security. Use of fire escapes, except under emergency conditions, is prohibited.

Rationale: The State Fire Code stipulates that quad doors, suite doors, and floor doors must remain closed at all times.

Window Air Conditioners/Water Coolers

Window A/C units or water coolers may not be installed in any room. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action including removal of the appliance.

Withdrawal from the University

If you withdraw from the University, you must vacate the halls within two (2) days or 48 hours of the official withdrawal. You must turn in your room keys and check out properly. Otherwise, room charges will continue and disciplinary fines may be assessed until these requirements have been met. It is imperative that room keys be turned in before you leave the halls. Failure to vacate within 48 hours will result in a daily fine and other disciplinary action for failure to comply.