Portland State Dean of Students | PSU Housing Code of Conduct

Student Conduct

Introduction to the PSU Housing Student Conduct System

Portland State University seeks excellence in instruction, research, and public service. The University supports the right of all people to live and learn in a safe and respectful environment that also promotes the free and vigorous expression of ideas. Policies and procedures are designed to protect these freedoms and fundamental rights of members of this community. Fundamental to the protection of freedom and rights is the University’s nondiscrimination policy, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected classes under law. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with these principles. The Standards for Residence outline the policies that apply to the conduct of all people who reside within the housing offered by Portland State University (taken from “Preparing for the Student Conduct Process”, Office of Student Affairs). It is important that students living in University Housing understand that their behavior in housing can be reviewed under both the

Standards of Residence (with potential impact on a students housing status) AND the PSU Student Code of Conduct (with potential impact on student status).

Guiding Philosophy

Portland State University believes that the people who live in university housing form democratic communities of responsible citizens. Just as the Constitution of the United States provides for the protection of individuals rights it also delineates the rights of the state in providing for the welfare of the community as a whole. PSU’s goal is to teach the rationale for society’s boundaries on individual behavior as well as the values of understanding and the need for open communication.

In this spirit, we choose to focus on the individual rights and responsibilities of residents in university housing as well as the four compelling community interests that protect the rights of the community and this state-funded institution. Portland State University’s residence halls are living and learning environments. The residence halls are intended to be communities where the individuality of all residents and their rights to make personal choices are respected, so long as those choices do not interfere with the rights of others. To live in a residence hall at PSU means you are responsible to one another and to the community as a whole. We ask you to exhibit an awareness and respect for human dignity and individual differences.

Students and residents have the right to know the rationale for the rules and decisions affecting them, a right to an equal educational opportunity, and the opportunity to participate in the procedures which ensure or could potentially limit these rights.

Individual Rights and Responsibilities

The following is a listing of what we feel you are entitled to as a resident living in one of Portland State University’s buildings. Each right is followed by a corresponding expectation for members of our residence hall communities. These rights and responsibilities are not legally binding, but are meant to complement the formal residence hall policies.

You have the right to a safe and secure residence hall space.

You have the responsibility to keep your room door and hall doors locked, not prop doors open, or allow strangers into the building.

You have the right to a reasonably peaceful and quiet space in which you can sleep and study.

You have the responsibility to observe quiet hours, keep your stereo and your voice at a reasonable volume in the residence halls, and to remind others that you expect the same of them.

You have the right to privacy and the proportionate use of your room both in terms of space and time as well as the right to be free of unwanted guests in your room.

You have the responsibility to let your roommate know of your wishes and preferences for hours of sleep, study, and visitation as well as to work through any differences you may have in a peaceful manner.

You have the right to participate directly or through representation in the creation and enforcement of policies that shape the community in which you live.

You have the responsibility to share concerns about your living situation or about the residence hall with people in your community and the Residence Life staff.

You have the right to a safe, clean, well maintained living and community space that supports the goals of a healthy living and learning environment.

You have the responsibility to be a good steward of the building by keeping common areas clean and free of damage while reporting maintenance concerns in a timely fashion.

You have the right to choose your means of recreation and relaxation.

You have the responsibility to know and abide by the laws of the state of Oregon including those that pertain to alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs. You have the responsibility to follow the rules and regulations established to support the educational purposes of the University and to sustain a safe and comfortable living environment in the residence halls.

You have the right to confront another’s behavior which infringes on your rights.

You have the responsibility to examine your own behavior when confronted by another and work toward resolving conflicts.

You have the right to the assistance of your RA or other Residence Life or University staff when you need help with a problem.

You have the responsibility to notify a staff person of a problem you’re experiencing in a timely manner and to cooperate with them as they work with you to solve the problem.

Rights of the Community and University

As a public institution, we believe there are four compelling interests that should be met through the clear and consistent enforcement of the Standards of Residence at Portland State University. The staff of the University has a professional responsibility to prohibit student behavior when the exercising of individual rights seriously affects the welfare of the community and/or the University.

Our rights as citizens do not allow us to do whatever we please. In our residence halls, individual rights are quickly denied when individual actions infringe on the property and well-being of others, or become a serious disruption of the educational living environment. Residence life staff have the responsibility to carefully weigh student’s individual rights with the rights of the community and the University. The following discussion of the four compelling interests is not intended to cover every aspect but to provide examples and an understanding of the philosophy that guides both our daily interactions with students and the formal University Housing policies.

Compelling Community Interests

The rationale for the housing policies at Portland State University is based on four Compelling Community Interest principles as taken from Judicious Leadership for Residence Hall Living by Forrest Gathercoal (Caddo Gap Press, 1991). These principles will be applied to all individuals with regard to their rights and responsibilities in the Residence Life Student Conduct System.

These Compelling Community Interests are:

1. Ensure the health and safety of staff and students.

Policies and procedures have been developed to protect students against incidents or behavior that may jeopardize the physical, mental, emotional health and/or safety of either the group or the individual. As such, there is a need established to limit certain rights of the individual for the common good of the community.

Examples include:

Skateboarding and playing sports should happen outside of the building

Halogen lamps are not permitted in the halls

2. Prevent property loss or damage.

While the campus has a relatively low incidence of crime, it is important to remember that no community can be totally risk-free from incidents that cause property loss and damage. Care and protection of both community and personal property are a shared responsibility of all its members.

Examples include:

Lounge furniture should remain in the lounge

Respect the property of others

Return borrowed equipment when you are finished

3. Prevent serious disruption of the living environment.

In order for a large number of people to live together successfully, it is the responsibility of each member of the community to respect the needs and rights of the other members. The establishment and enforcement of rules that foster and encourage a proper educational living environment are necessary to the efficient and successful operation of every residence hall. Please remember that residents are responsible for their own behavior and the behavior of their guests. Residents and guest must abide by the community standards to protect their rights, as well as the rights of others, in order to make residential living a positive aspect of their college experience.

Examples include:

Keep the noise level down in your room

Gatherings should remain small and quiet

4. Maintain the legitimate educational purpose of student housing .

Generally, students attend Portland State to achieve academically. With this as a basic and fundamental premise, it can then be understood that anything that does not contribute to the accomplishment of this goal goes against the legitimate educational purpose of the University.

Therefore, University Housing has established policies, procedures and programs that support the legitimate educational purpose of the student housing.

Examples include:

Courtesy should be extended to all residents 24 hours a day to ensure that others are not disrupted while sleeping or studying

Quiet hours will begin each evening at 10pm

Standards of Residence:

Formal Housing Policies Governing Conduct within University Housing Definitions

1. The term “University” means Portland State University.

2. The term “student” includes all persons taking courses at Portland State University, either fulltime or part-time, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies. Persons who withdraw after allegedly violating the PSU Student Code of Conduct, who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have continuing relationship with the University or who have been notified of their acceptance for admission are considered “students” .

3. The term “resident” includes all students and any persons who are living in University housing even if not enrolled in this institution.

4. The term “University official” includes any person employed by the University, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.

5. The term “member of the University community” includes any person who is a student, faculty member, University official or any other person employed by the University.

6. The term “University premises” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the University including adjacent streets and sidewalks.

7. The term “University Housing” includes all areas public, private, and near the Parkway,

Blackstone, Stratford, Montgomery, West Hall, King Albert, St. Helen’s Court, Epler, Ondine, and Broadway buildings. The determination of the location of an incident occurring in

“University Housing” shall be made by the Director of Residence Life or their designee.

8. The term “Hearing Officer” means a University official authorized to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and/or Housing Handbook and to impose sanctions upon any student(s) found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct and/or Housing Handbook.

9. The term “shall” is used in the imperative sense.

10. The term “may” is used in the permissive sense.

11. The term “policy” means the written regulations of the University as found in, but not limited to, the Student Code of Conduct, the Housing Handbook, the University web page and Acceptable Use Policy, and Graduate/Undergraduate catalogs.

12. The term “Complainant” means any person who submits a charge alleging that a student or resident has violated the Student Code of Conduct and/or Housing Handbook.

13. The term “Accused Student” means any student accused of violating the Student Code of Conduct and/or Housing Handbook.

14. The term “Accused Resident” means any resident accused of violating the Housing Handbook.

15. The term “information” is used in replace of the word evidence to frame the educational nature of the process.

16. The term “meeting” is used in replace of the word hearing to frame the educational nature of the process.

17. The term “conduct” is used in replace of the word judicial to frame the educational nature of the process.

Preamble

Policies, rules, and regulations have been established for residence halls to help in maintaining an optimal living environment for students. It is necessary that you be familiar with the information in this document and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as other published materials of the University, to thoroughly understand your rights and responsibilities within the residence hall community as a whole.

A full discussion of the student conduct review process that occurs when a resident of University Housing possibly violates a policy can be found below. Students found to be in violation of policies may be accountable to both civil and criminal authorities and to the University for acts of misconduct which constitute violations of the Standards of Residence. Disciplinary action at the University may proceed during the pendency of other proceedings at the discretion of University officials. Sanctions may be imposed for acts of misconduct. Sanctions range from an admonition of conduct to recommended Contract Termination from University housing as well as possible dismissal from the University for violation of the Student Code of Conduct.

Individual halls and areas may establish regulations or policies specific to their situation, within the constraints of the University Housing Contract. Students are encouraged to critically examine the policies that govern behavior in the residence halls. Constructive challenges to these policies are welcome through recognized and appropriate channels. Examples of this include talking with your resident assistant or area coordinator, holding community meetings, participating in the Residence Hall Association, or completing a form with the student conduct coordinator for Residence Life. Student behavior that violates these policies and is defended as being a statement of opposition against them will not be excused on these grounds.

Controlled Substances

1.01 Alcohol

Portland State Universityacknowledges the use of alcohol by students of legal age as a personal choice. The university is committed to maintaining an environment conducive to intellectual and personal development of students and to the safety and welfare of all members of the university community. This includes expecting and encouraging responsible drinking behaviors by those individuals who are of legal age and who consume alcoholic beverages and respecting the rights of those individuals who otherwise choose not to use alcohol. The university will continue to sponsor and support educational programs related to alcohol awareness and prevention, as well as support alternative activities for students which do not involve the use of alcohol. Please refer to PSU’s Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy and Procedures for additional information.

1. Students under the legal age of 21 are not permitted to possess, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol within the residence halls.

2. Possession of alcoholic beverages of those of legal age, twenty-one, will be allowed only in residence hall rooms of those who are of legal age.

a. The use/possession of excessive quantities and/or common containers of alcohol is prohibited (The definition of excessive includes kegs, party bowls, or other large receptacles).

b. Possession, consumption or under the influence of alcoholic beverages in areas other than the above is prohibited.

3. Personal consumption of alcoholic beverages by residents of legal drinking age or their invited guests (also of legal drinking age), in private living quarters shall not unduly interfere with the rights of others, nor cause the normal operation of the residence halls or campus living unit to be disrupted.

4. The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

5. It is illegal for those of legal drinking age to provide alcohol to any person under 21 years of age.

6. The use or possession of alcoholic beverages or alcohol beverage containers in substance free/alcohol free floors or buildings is prohibited.

7. Students who are knowingly in the presence of underage drinking are subject to disciplinary actions.

1.02 Drugs

Drug violations at Portland State University will be enforced by direct notification of university police in addition to any residence hall sanction given.

1. The possession, use, sale, manufacture/cultivation or provision of any type of illegal drug (Barbiturates, opiates, marijuana, amphetamines, hallucinogens, etc.), possession of paraphernalia, or aiding in the use of such are not permitted in residence halls and are violations of the statutes of the State of Oregon. Detectable intoxication of any kind of drug within the residence halls is prohibited.

a. PSU Housing is unable to accommodate Medical Marijuana usage in our facilities regardless of the possession of appropriate medical marijuana authorization.

2. Students who are present during the use of any illegal substances in an area of a University building or property are subject to disciplinary actions.

3. The misuse of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs (oxycontin, vicodin, acetaminophen, etc.) is strictly prohibited.

1.03 Smoking

1. The use of all tobacco products (cigarettes, chewing tobacco, etc.) is prohibited in all common areas (hallways, lobby, stairwells, etc.) or in areas within 20 feet of the exterior of the building not labeled expressly for the use of tobacco.

2. Smoking is permitted in designated areas only. University Housing Reserves the right to prohibit smoking in all housing buildings. At the time of this publication smoking is permitted in private rooms, with the door closed in Parkway, Blackstone, Montgomery 3rd and 4th Floors, West Hall Floors 6-9, King Albert, St. Helen’s Court, Ondine Floors 10, 11, and 12.

Safety and Security

Residents are viewed as adults who are responsible for their actions. Regulations are not designed to control behavior as each individual has the sole capacity for controlling his/her own behavior. Regulations do provide, however, the parameters of acceptable behavior in and around the residence halls. The following policies are put in place to protect the members of the residence hall community.

2.03 Appliances

1. The only cooking appliances permitted, with the exception of apartment-style units and community kitchens, are blenders (not food processors), microwaves (only 700 watts), electric popcorn poppers, coffee makers, and water warmers. These are to be used only for their intended purposes.

2. Abuse of the use of these appliances with respect to sanitation, odor, or safety, may result in loss of the privilege.

3. Appliances with open heat sources (i.e. halogen lamps, toaster ovens) and/or no thermostat control (i.e. hot plates, grills, etc.) are prohibited.

4. Space heaters are prohibited, unless provided by PSU Housing.

5. The use of extension cords or multi-receptacle outlets with the exception of UL listed power strips with surge protectors is prohibited.

6. A student is permitted to have a refrigerator, where they are not already provided, if it meets the following conditions:

a. Size: Maximum of four (4) cubic feet capacity

b. Electrical: Pulls not more than 1.5 amps

All refrigerators may be subject to a safety inspection by maintenance staff. Refrigerators are to be empty and unplugged if left unattended for more than 10 consecutive days.

7. The use of private charcoal grills is not permitted in or around the residence halls. Certain areas are designated for outdoor use and at no time can a grill be left unattended.

8. Washers, dryers, dishwashers, or other major appliances are not permitted in individual apartments where they are not already installed.

9. Lamps of any type, including lava and disco lamps, cannot be covered with hats, towels, or any other fabric. Halogen lamps are prohibited.

10. Laser pointers used in a way other than the manufacturers recommended use is prohibited.

11. Personal air conditioners are not permitted.

2.04 Fire Alarms, Drills, and Emergency Equipment

Fire safety is very important in the residence halls. Smoking, open flame cooking equipment, candles, or overtaxed electrical systems are the causes most residence hall fires. Toxic gases in smoke, usually caused by burning plastic, can render a person unconscious in a few seconds. For these reasons, Residence Life has the following policies. Of course, in the event of fire, sound the nearest fire alarm and contact a hall staff member.

1. Anyone found tampering with fire equipment or damaging fire equipment, intentionally or accidentally (including but not limited to: sprinkler heads, smoke detectors, alarms/strobe lights, exit signs, pull stations, sprinkler systems, and extinguishers) will face disciplinary action, a monetary fine, or both. Students may not hang items from sprinkler heads or pipes associated with sprinkler heads.

2. Intentionally delaying, obstructing, or resisting any university officer, including residence hall staff, or fire person in the performance or attempted performance of his/her duty is prohibited.

3. A student must promptly vacate the building when a fire alarm is sounded. Exceptions to evacuation will be in case of fire alarm testing or repair. Notices of testing or repair will be posted in general common spaces of the building at least 24 hours prior to the sounding of an alarm.

4. Purposely setting fire to university or private property is prohibited.

5. Opening the exterior room door to allow smoke to enter the hallway and cause a general alarm which evacuates the residence hall is prohibited. Residents are encouraged to open the window within the room to allow smoke to escape.

6. It is prohibited to open the fire escape window inside the hallway and or access the fire escape except in the case of an emergency.

2.05 Firearms and Weapons

1. a. Possession, use, or sale of any incendiary, explosive, firearm, or destructive device is not permitted. At no time will live ammunition of any type be permitted in or on university premises.

b. Any weapons, including but not limited to firearms, BB guns, bows and arrows, martial arts weapons, paint guns, and any items that are a reasonable facsimile of such a weapon are prohibited within the halls.

c. Possession of a weapon used for instructional programs is not permitted. This regulation does not apply to law enforcement officials acting in performance of their duties or to regular equipment used in the university's maintenance or instruction programs.

2. Exploding or possessing fireworks is prohibited.

3. Any dirk, dagger, ice pick, slingshot, metal knuckles or similar instrument or a knife with a blade longer than 4 inches, the use of which could inflict injury upon a person or property are prohibited. Kitchen knives will be treated as exceptions to this policy when used as food preparation tools.

4. Failure to report to campus security and/or residence hall personnel the presence of an unlawful weapon, explosive or incendiary device, when the presence of such weapon or device is known or reasonably suspected is a violation of the rules and regulations of the University.

5. Reporting the false presence of an unlawful weapon, explosive or incendiary device with the intent to mislead or deceive is prohibited.

2.06 Furniture

1. Furniture provided by the University may not be transferred from one room to another or exchanged between rooms. Room furniture may not be removed or stored elsewhere in the building or off-campus without knowledge and consent of university staff.

2. Removal of furniture from public or semi-public areas is prohibited.

3. Disposing of furniture by abandoning the goods in common areas is prohibited.

4. Placing furniture in any public areas (hallways, stairwells, blocking emergency exits, fire escapes) is prohibited.

5. Residents may arrange room furniture that is not permanently affixed, in any reasonable manner, as long as damage does not occur.

6. If a resident chooses to build a loft, the following guidelines must be followed:

a. No furniture may be within three feet of the ceiling or any fire sprinkler, smoke detector or other fire detection or suppressing equipment

b. Lofts may not cover more than 60% of the floor space of the apartment unit

c. Student-built lofts must be free-standing and may not be affixed to any wall or other permanent structure in the unit

d. No cinderblocks, PVC or metal pipes may be used in the construction of any loft

e. Any loft must include a safe means of getting into or out of the loft, i.e. ladders or steps

f. Lofts must be sturdy enough to hold the occupant without any give or stress on the legs of the loft

g. In units of Epler and Montgomery or any other unit where lofted furnishings are provided by PSU Housing, lofts may not be altered, dismantled or otherwise changed

2.07 Guest Policy

Only residents and their guests are permitted in the residence halls. You are expected to accompany guests at all times while they are in the building. To verify that you are a resident, you may be required to show your student ID at any time. Your cooperation will help protect the security of your building. You will be held responsible for the behavior of your guests. Every member of a community has obligations to others in the community which outsiders may not have. Consequently, the people who bring a nonresident into their living environment must be willing to assume responsibility for that person’s behavior. This encourages residents to give greater consideration to those whom they bring into the residence hall and also to make greater efforts at encouraging responsible behavior by their guests. While you cannot control another person’s behavior, you can control whom you choose to have as a guest. The fact that you are responsible for those people you allow to visit should foster more judicious decision-making on you part. It is your responsibility to inform guests of residence hall policies and to encourage compliance.

1. Guests are permitted for a maximum stay of up to 5 consecutive days or 10 days in any month with the permission of the roommate(s). If a longer stay is desired, a written request to University

Housing is required and must be approved prior to the guest(s) visit.

a. The guest should not be in the host’s room without the resident present.

b. The guest should not be in possession or use resident’s key and or key card for entry into the residence hall and or room without the host.

2. The host is responsible for seeing that their guest(s) follow all University and residence hall regulations and procedures. Each resident is personally responsible for the conduct of his/her guest. A guest may be defined as any person present in the room of the host resident.

a. Residents may not host anyone who is known to be persona non grata – someone unwelcome or unapproved to be in University Housing.

3. The University reserves the right to request guests to leave at any time.

4. Building code for university housing limits guest occupancy to 50 square feet per person. For example, a Broadway studio with a square footage of 330 would allow a maximum of six people to be physically present in the apartment, this includes the resident.

5. It is prohibited to give possession of your keys to anyone for access to the residence hall, room or building common area(s). Any misuse or loss of university keys by guests is the responsibility of the host.

2.08 Pets

1. The only pets permitted in University housing are hamsters, guinea pigs, fish and or turtles in 10-gallon tank or less. No other animals are permitted on a temporary or permanent basis without the written approval of the Office of Residence Life. Pets mentioned above and whose welfare is not jeopardized by living in apartment style housing and does not create noise or odors that would disrupt members of a community may be permitted. Dogs are not permitted at anytime for any reason.

a. Grandfather Clause: Only residents with pre-approved (as of September 15, 2007) companion animals are the exception.

2. Cats are allowed only in uncarpeted apartments (no cats are allowed in Broadway) and only in apartments of 300 square feet and larger. Two cats are allowed only in apartments of 500 square feet and larger. No more than two cats will ever be allowed in a non-carpeted unit. All cats need to be registered with the University Housing Office and the owners must pay an additional pet fee and a security deposit.

a. Disposal of cat litter by flushing it down the toilet or any other plumbing fixture is prohibited. Even litter marketed as “flushable” has caused significant problems in our buildings. Please dispose of cat litter in the trash dumpsters around your building.

3. Residents are expected to keep pets secured and properly cared for.

4. Assistance animals may be allowed in the residence halls. Residents who would like to utilize this service need to work with the Disability Resource Center to obtain documentation supporting their need. This documentation should be forwarded to the Office of Residence Life and the Housing Office with the resident receiving written approval prior to their first day of residency.

2.09 Sales and Solicitation

1. No soliciting is permitted within the University Housing by an off-campus salesperson. A student may invite a salesperson to visit him/her.

2. Unless special written permission has been requested and obtained from the Office of Residence Life for both on and off campus groups, canvassing or solicitation of funds, sales, membership, and subscription, or distribution of literature in residence halls is prohibited. Residential communities will determine time, place, and manner of approved solicitations with their respective communities.

3. Approval for fund-raising events by approved residence hall organizations may be obtained through the Office of Residence Life.

4. Announcements and publicity items for hall desks, lobby, and/or floor bulletin boards must be submitted to the Residence Life Office for approval prior to posting. Non-PSU publicity items must have an educational purpose in order to be approved.

5. No group or individual may act as a vendor, sales agent, or in any way establish a business enterprise in University Housing which interferes with the normal use of the facility or is not congruent with the educational purpose of the university.

2.10 Technology and Telecommunications

1. As a resident of Portland State University Housing, you are responsible to abide by all conditions of the University’s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). (You may view this policy at the website of the PSU Office of Information Technologies at www.oit.pdx.edu.)

2. You are responsible and liable for any and all ResNet traffic originating from the ResNet connection assigned to you.

2.11 Housing Services

Services including but not limited to the front desks, dining facility, 24-hour on-call phone, and the

University Housing Office are privileged resources that residents are offered. Behaviors that subject the staff who provide these services to unnecessary interactions and/or make them uncomfortable may result in a loss of the privilege to access these services.

1. Obstruction or disruption of housing services is not permitted.

2. No food, dishes or utensils shall be taken from dining centers.

3. Shirt and Shoes must be worn in the dining center at all times.

4. Disorderly conduct in the food court or in dining areas is not permitted and may result in a disciplinary action.

5. Disruption or misuse of Residence Life on-call phones, including prank calls, is prohibited.

Personal Responsibility

3.01 Gambling

1. Gambling as defined by Oregon Law is prohibited in University Housing. Residents are encouraged to abide by all Oregon and Federal laws.

3.02 Quiet and Courtesy Hours

During quiet hours, particular courtesy should be shown to enable others to concentrate on their studies and get sufficient sleep. Courtesy hours are always in effect. This means that residents should always honor the requests of their community concerning noise levels, even when it is not scheduled quiet hours. If you experience a problem with noise, you are encouraged to first speak directly with responsible individual(s); then, if you are not satisfied, seek the assistance of your RA.

1. Excessive noise or behavior that disturbs others or endangers the personal safety of others is not permitted.

2. Using, playing, or operating any sound-amplifying equipment that violates a standard of quiet conducive to study or sleep is not permitted.

3. Minimum university "quiet hours" are established from 10 p.m. - 8 a.m. Portland State University houses a diverse student population and these quiet hours are intentionally set to cater to the needs of sleeping and studying. All other hours are courtesy hours where students are expected to demonstrate consideration for their neighbors at all times.

a. During “quiet hours” radios, televisions, and stereos should be turned down so they are not heard out side of your room.

4. Stereos may not be played through open windows; they may disrupt other resident students and faculty in academic buildings.

5. Beginning the Sunday before dead week at 10pm and extending through the Sunday after finals week at 8am, quiet hours are in effect 22 hours a day. Non-quiet hours are from 5pm-7pm.

3.03 Property Use and Damage

1. Waterbeds and other water furnishings are prohibited.

2. Maliciously damaging or tampering with any coin-operated machine is prohibited.

3. Throwing items, including but not limited to water balloons and snowballs, into or at any residence hall building is prohibited.

4. Students may decorate their apartment/rooms with posters and other similar decorations as long as they do not cause damage.

5. Doors and walls of hallways may not be excessively covered with combustible materials.

6. Altering the physical structure of your room through the use of large nails, hooks, screws, or bolts into the walls, ceiling, floor, or furniture is prohibited.

7. Students are financially responsible for all damage or loss in designated rooms.

8. All repairs to the facilities must be performed by university personnel or their designated contractor.

a. The acoustical textured "popcorn" ceiling material in the Ondine building has been tested and is known to contain 2% chrysotile asbestos. Undisturbed, this material presents no significant risk to building occupants. Tenants/residents should avoid drilling into or abrading any part of the textured acoustic material including the use of tape to affix items directly to the ceiling. Questions about asbestos may be directed to the University Occupational Health and Safety Officer at 5-3738.

9. It is the responsibility of all residents to keep their room clean. A resident’s room must be left in a clean and orderly condition at all times. Residents should dispose of all trash and garbage in the dumpsters. Keep stairwells and landing clean and free of clutter.

10. Painting rooms is prohibited.

11. Altering or removing window screens is not permitted.

12. Installing additional locks on doors is prohibited.

13. Adding showers or shower attachments in any building which does not already have a shower is not permitted because of the water damage caused to walls and ceilings. (Please see

Maintenance and Facilities for more details)

14. Hallways are thoroughfares. Gatherings/physical objects (furniture personal belongings) in hallways are a disruption to the community and impede effective evacuation. Residents are encouraged to meet in student rooms, public/common areas.

3.04 Responsibility to the University

1. Students are not allowed in restricted areas, which include but are not limited to, any place that is officially closed, restricted only to designated people, an opposite gendered bathroom, or any place where the safety and welfare of the resident is endangered. This includes the roofs of any university housing buildings.

2. Furnishing false or misleading information to university officials, including residence hall personnel, is prohibited. Tampering or altering university records is not permitted.

3. Attempted theft, actual theft, misappropriation, or vandalism of personal or University property is prohibited.

4. All trash, debris, and recycling must be placed in appropriate hall containers or University dumpsters in or adjacent to the residence hall. It is prohibited to place bag(s) of trash on the fire escape at any time. A facilities charge may be assessed outside of the conduct process when identifiable information can be found in trash that was not disposed of properly.

5. Knowingly or purposefully violating residence hall or University policies, or violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed for an earlier violation may result in removal from University housing, while remaining liable for the remaining academic year housing charges.

6. Use of common areas is contingent on adherence to applicable noise policy and building/area regulations (prohibition of alcohol, etc.). Space may be reserved by contacting residence life staff. Any individual or group requesting the use of a common area shall take responsibility for assuring the cleanliness of the area upon completion of the activity. Common area space may not be used for any commercial purpose (i.e. Amway, Mary Kay).

3.05 Responsibility to Community

1. The residence halls are intended to be communities where the individuality of all residents and their rights to make personal choices are respected, so long as those choices do not interfere with the rights of others. To live in a residence hall at PSU means you are responsible to one another and to the community as a whole.

2. To protect individual and community rights and responsibilities, residents may not engage in personal abuse threats, or harassment, written or oral, directed at residents, guests or members of the staff.

3.06 Failure to Comply

1. Residents and their guests are required to comply with official requests or directives of University Staff while in performance of their duties. Failing to provide information to staff, interfering with staff while they are performing their duties, failing to provide identification or open one’s apartment door at a staff member’s request, or being verbally abusive to staff is a violation of community standards.

Personal Safety

4.01 Endangering Self or Others

1. Behavior that endangers or disturbs others' or one's own personal safety is prohibited. This includes intentionally, recklessly, or negligently causing physical harm. Creating undue mental or emotional harm to any person such that it limits their ability to access the essential services of University Housing is prohibited.

a. Sexual offenses including (but not limited to) contact/intrusion/penetration without consent, public sexual indecency and indecent exposure are prohibited. Examples include but are not limited to: a) touching another’s genitals/breasts without their consent (through clothing or skin to skin contact), b) having sexual contact/intrusion/penetration with someone who is incapacitated (one who is incapable of making a rational decision; e.g. from alcohol/drug use), c) continued sexual activity after either party has made it clear, either verbally or by conduct, that they do not wish to have physical contact. To reduce the possibility of miscommunication or misunderstanding, the university strongly encourages all parties engaging in sexual activity to obtain verbal consent before any such activity occurs.

b. Sexual harassment, which includes but is not limited to non-consensual verbal or physical conduct related to sex which reasonably alters an individual’s work, educational, or social performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work, education, or social environment; or is in violation of an individual’s privacy, at the University, on University owned or controlled property, at University-sponsored or supervised activities, or at functions of recognized student organizations is prohibited.

c. Any action taken by residents that has the potential to cause harm, injury, or damage to another person, their room or their possessions is not permitted. This includes acts perceived as “pranks” against members of the residential community.

2. The placing of annoying or harassing telephone calls or e-mails, rewiring, or the placing of attachments, or attaching unauthorized devices on a telephone or computer is prohibited.

3. Dropping, throwing, or in any manner permitting objects, either liquid or solid, to be ejected into or out of windows is prohibited. Residents are responsible for objects ejected from their window(s).

4. Storing flammable liquids of Class I or II and no combustible liquids of Class III is prohibited.

These classifications of liquids include ether, alcohol, gasoline, kerosene and most cleaning solvents containing petroleum distillates. These limitations are not intended to preclude the possession of hair spray, rubbing alcohol, cigarette lighter fluid, cosmetics and medicines when they are maintained in original containers.

5. Possession and or burning candles in all University housing units is prohibited.

6. Possession and or burning incense in all University housing units is prohibited.

7. Maliciously damaging or tampering with elevators is prohibited.

8. Failure to seek appropriate assistance for health-related concerns, including mental health, which causes the student to be disoriented and/or a risk to themselves or the community may result in disciplinary action.

9. The playing of sports inside any area of the residence hall is prohibited to avoid the property damage and potential personal injury that can ensue from these activities occurring in close quarters. Such activities include but are not limited to: water fights, Frisbee, darts, wrestling, tossing balls, bouncing balls, use of skateboards, bicycles, roller blades, roller skates, or scooters.

10. Unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of University Housing keys is prohibited. This includes the loaning out of keys and using key cards in an elevator to allow unescorted guests onto a floor of a building.

11. Entry, occupation, seizure, or detention in any manner, of a residence hall facility or portion thereof for a use which is inconsistent with the customary and normal use of such premises is prohibited. This includes placing any object in, near or around the exterior door of a building in an effort to prevent the door from closing or being able to close or lock the door upon closing.

12. Hazing, any action taken or situation created to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule to another person or group of people by any group or individual, is prohibited.

13. Intentional infliction or threatened physical injury and/or verbal harassment to/of any person where it is reasonable that: such a threat was intended for the complainant, there was an opportunity present for the threat to be acted upon, and the accused person had the desire to act on the threat is prohibited.

Violations of a Special Nature

Violations of any additional university policies or violation of any local, state or federal laws can result in disciplinary action within the Residence Halls. It is the wish of the university to create policies for the protection and well being of the individual and community. However, at certain times, situations arise of a special nature not otherwise addressed that may require investigation and administrative action. It is not the intent of this summary to address or include all such possible situations. Depending on the nature of the incident, the investigation and hearing may be handled using normal disciplinary procedure or other appropriate review procedures as determined by the University.

Notice of Changes in Residence Life Policies

Students will be notified of all changes in, additions to, and deletions from existing University Housing policies through email, campus mail, postings in University Housing buildings, and information provided to the residents by their Resident Assistant (RA). All changes are applicable to all students thirty days after they are announced.

Damages and Liability

Damages

- Residents will be individually responsible for damages they cause to residence hall property.

Charges for damages will be based on repair or replacement costs to restore the room or building to approximate original condition.

- In public or semi-public areas of the halls, damages occurring are charged to groups or individuals when the responsibility is established.

- Residents will also be responsible for any damages caused by their guests.

Liability

- The University and hall staff assumes no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings in or on residence hall properties. This policy extends to student rooms, storage areas, auto and bicycle lots, and all other residence hall areas. Students are advised to carry homeowner's or renter's insurance coverage on their personal belongings.

The Student Conduct Review Process

Rules serve the purpose for providing boundaries and are effective only until they are broken. Once a possible violation has occurred students have the right to the essential elements of due process. Due process, as defined within University Housing, means that students have the right to:

1. Notification of their possible violation of applicable policies

2. A student conduct meeting that is conducted in an impartial and competent manner

3. An opportunity to hear the evidence against them

4. The opportunity to present information on their behalf in an orderly way

The university intends to resolve situations where a possible violation of the Standards of Residence and/or the Student Code of Conduct occurs within a Portland State University residence hall as quickly as possible with a desire to assist students in immediately resolving situations. Any person may submit a written complaint to the Office of Residence Life alleging that a student(s) has engaged in conduct that may violate the Standards of Residence and/or the Student Code of Conduct. Any alleged violation should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within fourteen days of the event. The writing of an Information Report notifying University staff of policy violations will be used when dealing with disorderly students, where authorities require record of the incident, and/or when a situation is considered serious. Once University staff receives notification of this kind the following process will occur:

1. Students shall receive clear written notification of their possible violation of applicable university policies. This notification will include a request for a meeting to investigate the matter to determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that the complaint is well-founded.

2. Students shall be given an opportunity to explain the behavior and will be informed of the evidence supporting the charge.

3. The student may bring any third party of their choice to the hearing as long as the availability of the advisor does not interfere with the timeliness of the hearing. The student will be expected to speak for themselves at all times and may only use the advisor for consultation or support.

4. The student conduct officer may involve relevant additional persons in the hearing process.

5. The student conduct officer may make a voice recording of the meeting which will be kept in the student conduct file of the accused resident/student.

6. The student conduct officer shall determine, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, whether a violation of the Standards of Residence and/or Student Code of Conduct exists.

7. Once that determination is made, the student shall receive a clear follow-up letter from the meeting explaining whether or not they were found in violation of any university policies and any sanctions applied, as well as the right to appeal.

8. If the student fails to meet with the student conduct officer, the officer may take disciplinary action in the student’s absence.

9. If reasonable grounds are not found, the student conduct officer, in his/her sole discretion, will refer the issue to mediation, dismiss the case, or dismiss the case with administrative counsel when warranted.

10. Pending resolution of a complaint, the student is entitled to all rights and privileges of a resident in good standing. However, the Director of Residence Life, or their designee, may terminate the contract of a student pending resolution of a complaint upon a finding by clear and convincing evidence that the individual’s presence within University Housing constitutes a substantial threat to health, personal safety, or property.

The hearing process will make an effort to consider the rights and needs of the complainant, if there is one, in decisions related to restitution or other sanctions.

11. Although disciplinary matters are generally confidential, in cases involving sexual assault:

a. The complainant and the student are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the disciplinary meeting; and

b. Both the complainant and the student shall be informed in writing of the outcome of the any disciplinary proceeding; and

c. The complainant may appeal the decision using the appeal process as described below.

Appeals

A student has the right to appeal any housing decision resulting in a sanction. The student shall file a written notice of appeal to the Director of Residence Life. A written notice must be filed within 72 hours of the notice of sanction, and shall specify in detail the grounds upon which the appeal is based. The request for an appeal must include specific allegations of improper conduct or process that denied the student a fair hearing. There is only one opportunity for appeal. Failure to file the above mentioned notice within the prescribed 72 hours shall constitute a waiver of the right to appeal. The appeal process is an administrative meeting and designed to be informal in nature, no formal rules of evidence or procedure shall apply. At the time an appeal is provided, the sanctions incurred will not be in effect until the outcome of the appeal is determined. It is important to note that this will not be the case where a serious threat to self or others or significant immediate impact to the university can be determined if the sanctions were not incurred while the outcome of the appeal is determined.

Sanctions

A sanction is an administrative and/or educational consequence that is imposed by the university on a student as a result of the violation of one or more university policies. Any given violation may result in more than one sanction. However, a student can only be sanctioned once for a given violation of the published rules. Repetition of misconduct can result in more severe disciplinary action. Sanctions include:

1. Letter of Warning

2. Referral to University Office

3. Restitution

4. Educational Assignment

5. Community Service

6. Loss of Privileges

7. Denial of Access

8. Reassignment within Residence Hall

9. Contract Probation

10. Contract Termination (Eviction)

11. Refusal of Entry

Description of Sanctions

1. Letter of Warning: A letter of warning to a resident that their conduct is in violation of published rules. Admonition often takes the form of a letter summarizing the infraction and corrective measure and warns the resident about possible future consequences should that behavior continue. The fact that the resident is warned should be clearly stated in the body of the letter which the resident receives. A copy of the letter is placed in a confidential disciplinary file.

2. Referral to University Office: Referral is used when the sanction requires the resident to gain assistance from another office who may offer services that would assist the resident with preventing a reoccurrence of the behavioral violation (e.g. Drug and Alcohol Assessment through the Center for Student Health and Counseling).

3. Restitution: Restitution is reimbursement for damages to, destruction of, or misappropriation of university property or property of any person while on university premises or university-related premises. If restitution is the determined sanction, the individual or individuals who impose the corrective measure must specify, in writing, the amount due, the time and /or manner by which restitution is to be made, and the individual or office to be reimbursed.

4. Educational Assignment: Educational assignments are tasks which are creatively applied with the education of the violator in mind. It is essential that the assignments imposed have some meaningful relationship to the violation. Assignment of research to be done in a certain area is one of many creative possibilities. A duty, work assignment, or referrals for alcohol or drug education classes are other examples. Again, the aim of such a task is the education by the individual of the infraction and the potential consequences of such. Failure to complete or perform an educational sanction is subject to further administrative sanctions, including but not limited to a registration hold on your university account.

5. Community Service: Similar in nature to educational assignments, this is the specific sanction to do community service work within the community, the University, or the City of Portland.

Community service work that requires transportation will not be assigned by the University unless it is the direct choice of the resident to do so.

6. Loss of Privileges: Loss of privileges restricts the resident from designated privileges within his/her particular residence hall. The loss of privileges must exist for a specified period of time, as defined by the individual(s) who impose the sanction. The resident will be notified in writing of those privileges which will be forfeited and for what period of time.

7. Denial of Access: Denial of access to and/or use of all or part of a facility or facilities that again must be implemented for a specified period of time, as defined by the individual(s) who impose the sanction. The resident must be notified in writing of those areas to which s/he will be denied access and for what period of time. This includes the possibility that, after Contract Termination has been imposed, the Assistant Director of Residence Life, Area Coordinator or Graduate for Student Conduct may determine that an individual must not reenter the residence hall after their personal belongings have been removed.

8. Reassignment: A resident may be reassigned within their place of residence or to another building within University Housing if it is determined that his/her conduct is in violation of rules and regulations and such a measure would be productive for both the individual and others in the residence hall environment. The resident is to receive written notification of the sanction and is required to move within a prescribed period of time, as defined by the Area Coordinator or the individual who imposes this sanction.

9. Contract Probation: Contract probation is a written notice to the resident that his/her conduct was found to be in violation of the published rules and regulations and that more serious disciplinary action may result from further infractions. Contract Probation is imposed for a specified length of time. No further conditions exist with this sanction, although additional sanction(s) may be imposed in conjunction with Contract Probation.

10. Contract Termination: The Director or the Assistant Director of Residence Life, Area Coordinator or Graduate Assistant for Student Conduct may determine that an individual's behavior warrants the termination of the residence hall contract. If such a sanction is imposed, the resident must move out of the residence hall within the prescribed period of time.

11. Refusal of Entry: A resident may be refused entry into residential housing facilities if it is determined that his/her conduct is in violation of the rules and regulations and such a measure would be productive for both the individual and others in the residence hall environment.

General Guidelines for PSU’s Response to Violations of Alcohol and Marijuana Policies

This information is provided as means of sharing with residents the types of consequences that may be imposed if violations of University Housing policy have occurred. No one situation is alike and no formula is used in determining sanctions for residents. At the same time, residents deserve to understand the process and the possible consequences of choices they make. This guide is intended to inform students so they can make educated choices.

First-time Alcohol violation: (Possession or consumption)

Letter of Warning from Residence Life

Reprimand under the PSU Student Code of Conduct

Possible Educational Sanction and/or On Campus CSHAC Decision Making class

First-time major Alcohol violation: (host of party; passed-out individual from alcohol; any alcohol transports from major alcohol consumption; major amounts of alcohol in room including cases or kegs; alcohol involved with fight, destructive or aggressive behavior, etc.)

Contract Probation

University Disciplinary Probation

Possible Mandated Assessment Process through CSHAC

Community Service

First-time Marijuana violation & Second-time Alcohol violation: (possession or consumption)

Contract Probation

University Disciplinary Probation

Possible CSHAC Decision Making class and/or Mandated Assessment

Educational Sanction

Second-time major Alcohol violation: (see list above for examples)

For someone already on Contract Probation consequences may include

Lengthening the timeline of probation