Policies and Student Conduct Process

Residence Hall Policies

Student Conduct Process

RESIDENCE HALL POLICIES

Below are some of the most frequently referenced residence hall policies. For a complete list of policies, please refer to the Residence Hall Handbook (PDF).

Live-In Requirement for First Year Students
All newly admitted first year students without previous college experience who are under 21 years of age, and not living with their parents in the Fort Collins area must live in the University residence halls for the first two consecutive terms of their attendance. Credits taken concurrent with high school and/or credits attained through Advanced Placement (AP) do not apply towards living experience.

Live-In Requirement Exemption
First-year students wishing to reside off campus with their parents, in Fort Collins, must request a "Special Exemption Form" from the Residence Hall Office, Room 111, Palmer Center or by calling (970) 491-4720.

Advertising Policy
Student organizations, businesses and individuals may advertise events and/or products on designated residence hall bulletin boards in the Residence Halls. For information regarding our posting policies contact Residence Life at (970) 491-4719.

Alcohol Policy
No fermented malt beverages, intoxicating liquors, and illegal drugs are allowed in any of the residence halls. All Residence Halls are now NON-Smoking!

Bicycles
Bicycles are the most common form of student transportation because campus parking is limited. If you bring a bike, you will be required to register and license it. Licenses may be purchased at the University Police Department. Please call the Colorado State University Police Department at 491-6427 for more information.

Because of the large number of bicycles and the fact that they are subject to theft, a sturdy, case-hardened chain and lock are necessary. Bicycle racks are provided at each residence hall and throughout the campus. With your roommate's approval, you may keep your bicycle in your room, but it may not be left in corridors, stairwells, or lounges. Space consideration must be made before deciding to keep your bicycle in your room. All bicycles should be equipped with a light.

Building Access
Do not prop or otherwise obstruct the normal operation of any security door in the residence halls. This includes exterior doors and doors on your residence hall floor or throughout your hall.

Convenient Rentals Available
Both Microfridge Units, which are a combination refrigerator-freezer and microwave oven, and lofts are available for rental. Detailed information will accompany your residence hall assignment. For more information and rental agreements for loft rentals, visit http://www.loftconcepts.com/csu

Disabled Student Accessibility Information
If you have a chronic illness or physical limitation that requires a particular floor level or room assignment, inform us of your need in the space provided on the Residence Hall Housing Application. Braiden Hall and Summit Hall have modified bathroom accommodations to provide accessibility for students using wheelchairs. Housing accommodations for students with visual or hearing impairments including trained assistance and guide dogs are provided as needed.

Fire and Safety Standards
The Department of Housing and Dining Services is committed to maintaining strict fire and life safety standards. In order to avoid bringing something unacceptable for your room, be sure to read theResidence Hall Handbook pages 39-43. Due to fire safety concerns, halogen lamps are not allowed in the residence halls. For more safety and security information, please visit the safety and security page.

Long-Distance Telephone Service
Each residence hall room is provided with one active voice line. You will need to provide your own telephone.

Colorado State University provides long-distance service for student calling. This is an optional service. You will receive an account and a Personal Security Code (PSC). You will receive discounted rates on all long distance calls made with your PSC. You and your roommate(s) will receive individual monthly bills. There are no sign-up fees, no monthly service fees, and no per call surcharges. As an alternative to the above service you may use a credit card to place long-distance calls with the carrier of your choice. Collect calls can be made from your room, but not received.

Pets
Except for fish in aquariums, pets are not allowed. There is a 25 gallon limit for aquariums.

Pranks and Practical Jokes
Individual or group behavior that may lead to any of the following is not permitted: actual or perceived harassment, accident, injury, damage to University property, damage to personal property, damage which requires abnormal and/or otherwise unnecessary cleaning of residence hall buildings and facilities.

Renter's Insurance
All students living in the Residence Halls should consider insurance to cover personal items brought to campus (bikes, books, computers, etc.) that are damaged by natural disasters or are stolen. The University's insurance does not cover items brought to campus by students (in residence hall rooms, classrooms, vehicles. etc). Parents' homeowner policies may provide coverage or renter's insurance can be purchased. Renter's insurance can be a purchased for a nominal fee from most insurance providers.

Quiet Hours
Quiet hours exist on all floors from 10pm to 7am Sunday through Thursday evenings and from 11pm to 10am. Friday and Saturday. There also are 24-hour quiet hours during finals week. The dining room is available as a study hall, and most halls have additional study rooms or lounges. Since most students prefer to study in their rooms, a good study atmosphere on your floor is important. Your Resident Assistant will help you and the students on your floor develop the rules. It will be up to you to make them work.

Room Painting Policy
We have a 5 year Paint Program that rotates throughout the halls, but rooms badly in need of paint are painted as needed. Students are not allowed to paint their own rooms.

Storage
Storage area for trunks, suitcases, etc., is provided in each residence hall. Space is limited, and the University assumes no responsibility for lost or damaged articles left in storage. If possible, you should plan to bring only items that will fit in your room or car. Large bulky items such as tires, furniture, and bicycles may not be stored. Skis may be stored. Your hall staff will announce how and when you may obtain access to the storage room. Gasoline may not be stored.

Studying Policies
Studying is hard work, and a good study environment is expected. Quiet study time is a priority that occurs only when students work together to establish and observe community rules. You are expected to stand up for your rights and to respect others' needs for rest and study time. Research has shown that on an average, it is the students living in residence halls who obtain higher grade-point averages.

Television Service
Each room is equipped with a cable TV hookup (25+ channels). If you have a cable-ready TV, there is no extra charge. If your TV is not cable- ready, you may obtain a converter from the local cable company for a small deposit. There is no monthly charge for this basic service. For an additional charge, premium Service Channels are available (HBO, Cinemax, etc.).

Theft, Stolen Property
Theft, or unauthorized use of University or others' personal property is prohibited. The Colorado State University Police Department (CSUPD) will be informed of all cases of stolen property. The police may also choose to refer the student to the student conduct system or file charges.

Threats
Threats of any kind - real, implied, or perceived - against a person or property will not be tolerated. Jokes related to a threat in any form will not be tolerated. Residence hall staff is expected always to be cautious and respond to any knowledge of threat or injury to residents. A student who makes threats to others or to her/himself can be assured the staff and possibly CSUPD will respond.

Visitation - Guests
You may entertain your friends in your room and visit friends in theirs at any time. It is expected, however, that you will regulate visitation of guests according to the following guidelines. The first priority is the rights of roommates, suitemates, and other floor residents. Rights to sleep and study take precedence over social uses of your room. Your nonresident guests are welcome in the residence halls provided they adhere to University policy during their visit. You are responsible for the conduct or misconduct of any guests in your room, resident or nonresident. Overnight guests are permitted as long as that is acceptable to your roommate and they stay no longer than two consecutive nights. Overnight guests are not permitted before classes officially begin each semester or during finals week.

Waterbeds
Waterbeds and water-filled furniture of any kind are not allowed in the residence halls at CSU. For tips on what to bring to your residence hall room, please see our What to Bring section .

Weapons
Students may not bring firearms or other weapons (hunting knives, archery, fencing, paintball guns, pellet guns, taser guns, martial arts equipment, slingshots, etc.) into the residence halls.

STUDENT CONDUCT PROCESS

An important facet of living in the Residence Halls at Colorado State University is being part of a community. Students quickly learn the rights and responsibilities of becoming a roommate and community member. It is the responsibility of each student to abide by the Housing contract and follow University policy and procedures. Student choices and behaviors that violate community standards and University policy will be subject to the student conduct process. University responses to violations could range from staff conversations, conduct hearings, sanctions, to removal from living environment or the University. Due to safety concerns, acts of violence against self or others may result in immediate removal from the Residence Hall until a University hearing can be held..

Student Conduct Code

The Student Conduct Code can be accessed online at the following website: www.conflictresolution.colostate.edu, under the policies bullet.

Proscribed Conduct

Students also have an obligation to know and follow the regulations of the university. Violations will form the basis for University intervention or disciplinary action in accordance with this University Judicial (Discipline) Policy. The following actions are prohibited.

Any student or student organization found to have committed or to have attempted to commit the following misconduct is subject to disciplinary sanction.

 1.  Academic dishonesty including but not limited to: cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized possession or disposition of academic materials, falsification, or facilitation of acts of dishonesty. Specific procedures for cases of academic dishonesty are also described in the Academic Integrity Policy in the General Catalog, the Graduate Student Bulletin, the Faculty Manual, or the Honor Code of the Professional Veterinary School as applicable.

 2.  Knowingly furnishing false information to any University official, faculty member, office, or organization or intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat of fire, explosion, or other emergency.

 3.  Forgery, alteration, misuse, mutilation, or unauthorized removal of any University document, record, identification, educational material, or property.

 4.  Disruption or obstruction of teaching, classroom or other educational interactions, research, administration or disciplinary proceedings, or participation in an activity that disrupts normal University activities, and/or threatens property or bodily harm or intentionally interferes with the right of access to University facilities or freedom of movement of any person on campus.

5.   Engaging in behavior or activities that obstruct the right of free speech or expression of any person on campus.  (For more information, refer to the CSU policy on Freedom of Expression and Inquiry, which addresses student rights and responsibilities related to political expression. and contact the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services if you believe you have been treated differently because of your political, or other, perspectives.)

 6.  Abusive conduct, including physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, stalking, coercion, and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the physical or psychological health, safety, or welfare of one’s self, another individual or a group of individuals.

 7.  Harassment of any member of the University community, meaning verbal or physical harassment on the basis of gender, race, sexual orientation, age, religion, or physical disability.(Refer to the CSU Sexual Harassment policy and contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity for more information on these issues.)

 8.  Sexual misconduct including but not limited to: obscene, lewd, or indecent behavior; deliberate observation of others for sexual purposes without their consent; taking or posting of photographs/images of a sexual nature without consent; possession or distribution of illegal pornography; viewing or posting pornography in public venues; non-consensual sexual contact or penetration; engaging in coercion or constraint; or engaging in sexual activity with a person who is incapacitated or otherwise unable to give consent.

 9.  Rioting: aiding, abetting, encouraging, participating in or inciting a riot. Failing to disperse at the direct request of police or University officials. 

10.  Failure to comply with the verbal or written directions of any University officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties and in the scope of their employment, or resisting police officers while acting in the performance of their duties, including failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so. 

11.  Attempted or actual theft of, damage to, use of, or possession of other persons' or University property or identity or unauthorized use of such; unauthorized entry, use, or occupation of University facilities, property, or vehicles; or unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of University keys or access devices.

12.  Use or possession on University property of firearms or simulated weapons; other weapons such as blades larger than pocket knives; ammunition or explosives; dangerous chemicals, substances, or materials; or bombs, or incendiary devices prohibited by law.  Use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens, or causes fear to others. Weapons for sporting purposes shall be stored with the University Police. 

13.  Violations of any rules, contracts, or agreements governing residence in or use of University owned or controlled property, and athletic, or other authorized special events.  Violation of any University policy, rule, or regulation, which is published in hard copy or available electronically on the University Website.

14.  Unauthorized soliciting or selling in violation of the University solicitation policy. 

15.  Violation or conviction of any federal or state law or local ordinance.

16.  Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by law or University policy.  Alcoholic beverages may not be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person under twenty one (21) years of age.  Public intoxication is not permitted on University property.

17.  Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of illegal drugs including but not limited to marijuana, narcotics, methamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, LSD, mushrooms, heroin, designer drugs such as Ecstasy and GHB, or other controlled substances. Use or possession of prescription drugs other than for the person prescribed, or for use other than the prescribed purpose.  Possession or use of drug paraphernalia including but not limited to equipment, products, and materials used to cultivate, manufacture, distribute, or use illegal drugs.

18.  Abuse of computer facilities or technological resources including but not limited to:   unauthorized entry to, or use of computers, access codes, telephones and identifications belonging to the University or other members of the University community; unauthorized entry to a file to use, read, transfer, or change the contents, or for any other purpose; interfering or disrupting  the work of any University member; sending abusive or obscene  messages or images; disrupting the normal operation of the University computing systems; violating copyright laws;  or any other violation of the University computer use policy.

19.  Abuse of the Student Conduct System including: failure to obey the notice to appear for a meeting or hearing; falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information; disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a hearing; failure to comply with any requirements involving no contact with Complainants or witnesses or limitations related to access to specific facilities; harassment or intimidation of any person involved in a conduct proceeding; failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions or requirements.

20.  Assisting, conspiring, or inciting others to commit any act of misconduct set forth in 1 through 19 above.

Due Process

Additionally for student’s living in residence halls, the University has a commitment to protect the student’s right to Due Process.

This means that the student’s have a right to:

• Be notified of the charges, and to review and/or possess a copy of all documentation.
• Have a hearing with the opportunity to tell their side of the story.
• Question witnesses.
• Have an advisor attend the hearing. This advisor serves a supportive role and may not speak for the student.
• Be notified in writing of the decision.
• Have all items and discussions pertaining to the hearing kept confidential.
• Seek an appeal

Please contact Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services, 200 Lory Student Center, 491-7165, for more information.

Residence Hall Staff Response

• Residence Hall staff are expected to clarify policies and community standards.
• It is the student’s responsibility to read the information provided by the University and the Department of Housing and Dining Services.
• Residence Hall staff, as employees of the University, must respond when there are violations of University leave policies. Staff response to violations of policy will depend on the following factors:
• The seriousness of the violation.
• The student’s attitude and willingness to modify his/her behavior.
• Whether or not the violation is an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern of problematic behavior.
• In many cases, particularly an initial violation, Residence Hall staff may document and resolve the situation with a conversation. This option is exercised if the student is willing to take responsibility for the action and agrees not to be involved again in a similar incident.
• If the violation is more serious, a repeat offense, or the student is uncooperative with the staff, the student will be referred to a Senior Staff member.
• During a hearing the standard of proof used is a preponderance of the evidence, which means it is more likely than not that a violation of policy occurred.

Disciplinary Outcomes

• Clear the Record – No Action.
• Warning or Written Reprimand – A student may be given a warning or written reprimand for minor infractions. These actions are cumulative and are considered official University discipline.
• General Discipline – A probationary status that does not affect a student’s good standing at the University.
• Disciplinary Probation – A student on disciplinary probation is not in good standing with the University. Good standing shall include but not be limited to a requirement for eligibility to be appointed as a student representative, to serve on a University committee, to participate in intercollegiate athletics, and for recognition by the University of an office held in a student organization.
• Suspension, Dismissal, or Expulsion – These all involve removal from the University, ranging from a designated time period, with specific conditions placed on return, or to permanent expulsion.
• Educational Sanctions – in addition to any sanction listed above, additional sanctions related to the behavior may be required. These could include referral to campus or community agencies, such as the Counseling Center or Alcohol/Drug treatment.