Policies and Rules
All students should review the Guide to Living on Campus [PDF] prior to moving onto campus.
These rules represent expectations for living in on-campus housing. All students and guests are responsible for abiding by these as specified. In addition, the EMU Code of Community Responsibility and local, state and federal laws should be abided by at all times.
If a student is present during a violation, they may be held accountable. Students are encouraged to alert staff members when they know of a rule violation taking place especially when the health and safety of others are at risk.
University Limits of Liability
Students shall not hold Eastern Michigan University or Housing & Residence Life liable, financially or otherwise, for any expense, loss, or damage resulting from, or in connection with, a violation of these rules,regulations, or standards, or because of the negligence of any student.
EMU Code of Community Responsibility: Section V.2: Misuse of Alcohol
1.Possession, creation, distribution, or consumption of alcoholic beverages, in violation of local, state, or federal law, or university policies and procedures.
2. Violation of any sections of the Code of Community Responsibility while under the influence of alcohol.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) allow the university to notify parents if students are involved in alcohol-related incidents
Alcohol Rules specific to HRL
Housing & Residence Life is particularly concerned with behaviors or decisions that may lead to a dangerous misuse of alcohol. Persons who host parties involving alcohol, provide alcohol to underage persons, supply alcohol to persons already intoxicated, or jeopardize the safety of others through a violation of these rules are subject to immediate suspension or dismissal from the halls or apartments, as well as campus, criminal or civil charges.
HRL staff have been instructed to apply the alcohol regulations in the following manner and will involve the EMU Department of Public Safety (DPS) in doing so:
A. Persons under the age of 21 may not possess or consume alcohol anywhere in the residence halls or apartments. Alcohol and empty alcohol containers are absolutely prohibited in the first-year residential areas (Putnam and Phelps) and in any room occupied entirely by persons under the age of 21. Putnam and Phelps are considered “dry” because they are predominantly occupied by residents under the age of 21.
B. In rooms or apartments where all residents are under 21, no alcohol may be possessed or consumed. This includes possession by guests or visitors who are of legal drinking age. Anyone present in an underage room or apartment where the consumption of alcoholic beverages is occurring will be in violation of this section.
C. Open alcoholic beverage containers are not permitted outside student rooms or apartments, including, but not limited to, student rooms and public areas, such as lounges, hallways, stairwells, laundry rooms, entry ways or surrounding areas, complex grounds, parking lots, etc., regardless of whether a student is of legal drinking age.
D. A student living in the residence halls or apartments is responsible for informing guests of rules and regulations regarding the consumption of alcohol and can also be held responsible for any violations of these rules and regulations by their guests.
E. Use or possession of kegs, beer balls, beer bongs, beer pong tables, tap devices, or funnel devices used for the consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited in the residence halls and apartments. Any device used for the rapid consumption of alcohol is prohibited.
F. An underage student who is present in a student room or apartment where some or all of the residents of that room are of legal drinking age may be in violation of this section if there is reasonable evidence that the underage student is or was in the act of consuming alcohol.
Specific considerations for those 21 and over:
G. A student of legal drinking age may not possess more than one case (12 count) of beer, or two liters of wine, or one liter of distilled spirits.
H. If all the residents of a student room or apartment are not of legal drinking age, those residents over 21 may keep alcohol in the room; however, these students are prohibited from drinking it with or in the presence of, serving, or in any way providing alcohol to, those residents who are not of legal drinking age.
I. Students who are 21 or older and who reside in a room or apartment with students who are not yet 21 may be held responsible for violating this section if they do not take reasonable steps to ensure the underage residents do not gain access to the alcohol they possess.
EMU Student Conduct Code: Section V. 3: Misuse of Drugs
- Possession, creation, distribution or use of illegal drugs, prescription drugs or other controlled substances, in violation of local, state or federal laws. Distribution, delivery or sale of narcotics, prescription drugs or other controlled substances in violation of local, state or federal drug or narcotic laws.
- Possession or use of drug paraphernalia.
- Misuse or distribution of over the counter drugs, or substances used as drugs.
- Violation of any section of the Student Code of Community Responsibility while under the influence of legal or illegal drugs, or other controlled substances.
Drugs Rules specific to HRL
The use, possession, sale, distribution, or attempted use, possession, sale, or distribution, of illegal drugs, hallucinogens or controlled substances, or the evidence of such, including odor, smoke, residue, paraphernalia or illegal substances, is prohibited in all Residence Halls and Apartment buildings. Use of prescription drugs by persons other than the person named on the bottle’s label notes is prohibited. Persons in a room or apartment where there is evidence of such drug use may be held responsible for the use. Drug paraphernalia will be confiscated by DPS.
Paraphernalia includes but is not limited to tools for inhalation or injection, bongs, devices created for drug ingestion, pipes, scales, etc. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) allows the university to notify parents if students are involved in drug-related incidents.
While recreational cannabis is legal in Michigan, Federal law has not changed, and marijuana still remains classified as a Schedule I drug. As a result, Eastern Michigan must continue to abide by the Drug Free Schools and Campuses Act by maintaining policies which prohibit marijuana possession, use, or distribution including medicinal use. EMU is subject to the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act amendment of 1989, which prohibit controlled substances on campus.
EMU Student Conduct Code: Section V.16: Weapons/Firearms/Explosives
The following acts violate the EMU Student Code of Conduct:
1. Possession, storage or use of firearms and other weapons, including non-lethal weapons. Examples of such weapons may include, but are not limited to pellet guns, air-soft guns and paintball guns.2. Possession, storage, or use of firecrackers, gunpowder, ammunition, explosives or incendiary devices, or other articles or substances which could endanger health or safety.
Weapons Rules specific to HRL
Weapons, ammunition, explosive materials, fireworks, gasoline or any other flammable liquids such as propane or butane are not permitted in the residence halls or apartments.
This includes electroshock weapons (tasers, stun guns, etc.) and projectiles. In addition, air guns, spring guns, paint-ball guns, BB/pellet guns, or other instruments in which the propelling force is a spring, compressed air, or CO2, are prohibited.
Toy guns, gun look-alikes, and non-functioning replicas of guns are also prohibited. These include NERF, water guns, and Super Soakers.
Knives, except for those expressly used in food preparation, are prohibited.
Decorative or martial arts weapons are prohibited. Possession of bows, arrows and crossbows are also prohibited.
All prohibited weapons and explosive materials will be confiscated by the Department of Public Safety.
Violation of this section may result in immediate dismissal from housing.
1.0 General Responsibilities
Residents and their guests are expected to abide by the rules, regulations, and standards of Eastern Michigan University now in effect, including the EMU Code of Community Responsibility, rules regarding underage possession and consumption of alcohol, and those regarding public intoxication. Residents must also comply with the terms and conditions of occupancy as stated here and in the housing contract and as posted in on campus living areas. In addition, all Michigan State and Federal laws are in affect at all times on campus.
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a safe and orderly fashion while residing in the Residence Hall and Apartment community. Any behaviors deemed as disruptive to sleeping, studying or harmonious community living are prohibited. Any behavior deemed threatening to the general health or safety of residence hall or apartment occupants is prohibited. Students and guests who are present when violations occur may be held responsible for contributing to those violations if they knowingly had the opportunity to stop the violation and did not, or if they made the conscious decision to not remove themselves from the situation and/or report it to a staff member.
Residents must engage in self-care, including appropriate personal hygiene and management of medical conditions, so as not to unduly compromise the health and safety of the residence hall community. Residents who are unable to engage in self-care without assistance should collaborate with the appropriate office including Disability Resource Center, Counseling and Psychological Service or University Health Services.
Residence Hall and Apartment residents and their guests are expected to be tolerant and respectful of the diversity within our community. No person(s) should be discriminated against or harassed due to his or her age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, ability/disability and/or socioeconomic status.
1.10 Campus Living Policies
Listed in the Guide to Campus Living are a series of policies and other recommendations related to living on campus. The policies explain how to proceed in certain cases. Students who do not abide by them may be subject to action by OWCR. 1.20 Cancellation of Agreement and Dismissal from Housing
Housing & Residence Life may temporarily remove a student from housing or terminate a resident’s Housing Contract immediately for breach of the contract’s terms by the resident, or for any of the following reasons or conditions (including but not limited to):
- The resident ceases to be enrolled as a student and is not involved in a documented legitimate academic
- Violation of EMU Code of Community Responsibility Probation, repeat violations of the EMU Code, any campus policies, the Guide to Campus Living, or a single serious violation.
- Items stated in 1.45 Emergency Actions.
1.30 Care and Use of Facilities
(Also see EMU Code of Community Responsibility Section Property/Facilities/Services)
The University requires proper care and use of campus facilities at all times. Assigned residents of each living unit are financially responsible for keeping its contents in good order and free from damage by themselves and others. Students may not engage in any activity that can damage residence hall or apartment facilities or property. Any such action is cause for financial liability for any damages and the possibility of other sanctions in accordance with these rules.
Specifically:
- Beds may not be raised using personally built lofts. Residence hall beds can be put in a “raised” position (only utilizing the provided notches in the bed posts). For safety reasons, only Physical Plant staff may loft beds. Apartment beds must be used as is. Use of cinder blocks or commercially available bed risers is prohibited.
- Recreational equipment such pool tables, ping pong tables, Foosball tables, pools, etc. are not allowed in student rooms or apartments. Sports or similar activities (including Frisbee, rollerblading, skateboarding, bicycling, bouncing balls, or water sports) are not allowed in any residence hall or apartment building. Students may not add equipment to any lounge.
- University-owned furniture and equipment (such as furniture, stereos, televisions, microwaves, and recreational equipment) may not be taken from, or moved within, the building without written permission from HRL.
- No one may tamper with (or alter) the electrical system or any other cables or wiring in the building. This includes circuit breakers, switches, wiring, and any data/telecommunication cables.
- Screens, windows, and window railings must remain in place at all times. Students are prohibited from hanging out of their windows or throwing or handing any items out of their windows. Students are prohibited from entering or exiting the residence halls or apartments through windows.
- No one may enter restricted areas. Restricted areas include but are not limited to: Residence hall or apartment roofs, mechanical rooms, janitor closets and internet closets, etc. No one may tamper with roof doors or roof locks or climb sides of buildings.
- Students are not allowed to enter residence halls that are closed over breaks unless they have been given permission.
- No one may improperly access or use fire escapes or fire ladders.
- No one may paint, wallpaper, write on room walls and doors, or remove any door within their room or apartment.
- In the Residence Halls, no one may make holes of any kind in their room walls, doors, or ceilings. In the apartments, a few well-placed picture hangers in walls are acceptable. Excessive damage or holes in the apartments will be charged. No holes or nails in ceilings or doors.
- No one may damage, vandalize or deface common areas, including hallways, bathrooms, lounges, laundry rooms, elevators, and stairwells.
- No one may damage, vandalize, alter or deface their room/apartment or furniture provided.
- No one may interfere with the operation of smoke detectors or any other life safety systems or devices. Dismantling smoke detectors is prohibited.
- Lounges may not be used as a place to sleep.
- Stove tops and ovens cannot be used for room heating purposes.
- Residents may not complete or hire someone to do repairs or improvements to campus property or equipment.
- All outdoor grills are prohibited (except University-owed equipment).
- Falsifying Work Orders - The Physical Plant prioritizes the order in which work orders are completed. Exaggerating the severity of a facilities issue in an attempt to expedite the process is prohibited. Residents should not misrepresent the source of a facilities issue in an attempt to avoid being assessed replacement/maintenance costs.
- Cleanliness – Residents and their guests are required to maintain an appropriate level of cleanliness and orderliness within their room. Unsanitary conditions such as excessive trash, dirty or improperly stored dishes, spoiled perishable food items, dirty clothes, or other clutter must be corrected. Residents found in violation of this policy may be required to follow a cleaning schedule with periodic follow-up inspections from HRL Staff.
- Each room must have clearly defined passage areas to be used in case of emergency.
- Residents are expected to remove and dispose of all trash and recyclables by placing them in designated locations. Residents of Phelps, Sellers, Walton, Best, Downing, Wise, Buell, Hoyt, and Pittman Halls are required to place their trash in their floor trash room. Residents of University Apartments and The Village are required to place their trash in their complex dumpster. Dumping trash in stairwells, hallways, common areas, community bathrooms, outside of buildings, or adjacent to dumpsters is not permitted. Residents that dump trash in prohibited areas or in a manner other than those permitted may be billed for trash removal. Speak with your Complex Director or Graduate Hall Director if you have questions about trash removal for your area. Violation of this section will result in financial liability for all custodial or maintenance charges as well as damages that may result. Criminal charges may also be incurred. Since violation of this section may create a clear danger to members of the Residence Hall and Apartment community, dismissal from housing is a possible sanction for creation of such a hazard.
1.40 Entry Into Student Rooms and Apartments by University Officials
The University reserves the right to enter any assigned room. Students’ privacy rights are given important consideration before entering a room or apartment. When practical, university officials will give 24-hour advance notice to occupants before such entry.
HRL staff may enter rooms for the following:
- During any fire alarm, building evacuation, or other emergency situations.
- To make a repair or check on immediate facilities issues, including work orders put in by a student. Such entries can also be made in anticipation of a problem such as a leak or flood.
- When an alarm clock or device is left on and unattended, disrupting the community.
- To prepare for new occupants or to determine if vacant space is prepared—in the apartments during turnover and in the halls throughout the year, if there is a vacancy.
- Health and Safety inspections are an opportunity for staff to ensure your safety, notify residents of potentially hazardous conditions, and allow residents the opportunity to correct any infractions or advise them in advance of any potential financial costs you may incur.
- If there is an immediate concern for a student’s safety. In such cases, the staff member is required to announce their need to enter and clearly identify themselves. Refusal to cooperate may lead to referral to the student conduct process.
- At the start of Thanksgiving, December and Winter recess, to assure completion of vacation checklists.
1.45 Emergency Action
Housing & Residence may need to take immediate emergency action by removing a student from their room or apartment. This action may include temporary relocation, or immediate removal from campus housing. When this happens, the student will be alerted of the next steps but may not be allowed to return to their room or apartment without permission.
Such temporary Emergency Action may be in effort for up to ten days.
Emergency Action may take place in addition to other University action (such as through the Community Responsibility process or through the EMU Police Department) that results from a student’s conduct.
1.50 Failure to Comply
(Also see EMU Student Conduct Code Section Failure to Comply)
A person is responsible for failure to comply when they, know, or have reason to know, that the requesting person is a Housing & Residence Life official, and fail to comply with a reasonable request, including attending a conduct meeting or providing ID when required. Housing & Residence Life officials include, but are not limited to Resident Advisors, Community Programmers, Office Managers, Desk Assistants, Graduate Hall Directors, Graduate Assistants and Complex Directors.1.60 Fire Alarms and Fire-Safety Equipment
All students are required to follow fire evacuation procedures. EMU expects that all residents exit the building within 3 minutes of an alarm sounding. If a fire alarm is set off by a resident’s actions they may be dismissed from housing. Department of Public Safety, Fire Department, and HRL staff are authorized to enter rooms to ensure that they have been evacuated properly. Failure to evacuate is a violation of Ypsilanti city ordinance and subjects a resident to arrest and/or disciplinary action. State fire laws prohibit the use of elevators for fire evacuation. Individuals must remain outside of the building until the CD or DPS makes an “all clear” determination.
- All students are required to follow fire evacuation procedures. EMU expects that all residents exit the building within 3 minutes of an alarm sounding. If a fire alarm is set off by a resident’s actions they may be dismissed from housing. Department of Public Safety, Fire Department, and HRL staff are authorized to enter rooms to ensure that they have been evacuated properly. Failure to evacuate is a violation of Ypsilanti city ordinance and subjects a resident to arrest and/or disciplinary action. State fire laws prohibit the use of elevators for fire evacuation. Individuals must remain outside of the building until the CD or DPS makes an “all clear” determination.
- Any tampering with smoke and fire detection systems, fire alarms or fire-safety equipment is prohibited. This includes alarms, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, heat and smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, fire escapes, emergency or exit lighting, and fire doors. It is against state law and University policy to use this equipment for any purpose other than their intended purpose. Pulling false fire alarms, causing a fire, interfering with firefighters, or removing firefighting equipment (smoke sensors, fire extinguishers, etc.) is prohibited. Offenders may be removed from on-campus housing, prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and referred to student conduct and community standards for disciplinary action.
- Fire Egress: Students residing at 600 and 601 W. Forest are responsible for keeping fire egresses clear and accessible.
- It is prohibited to hang items from or disturb heat and smoke detectors or sprinkler systems.
1.70 Guests
(Also see EMU Student Conduct Code Section Guests)
Guests can be any adult (18 years of age or older). Exceptions for youth under 18 are only allowed during Lil Sibs weekend or at the discretion of the director (approved in advance). Students are permitted to have up to three guests in their room and only one overnight guest at a time. Overnight guests are limited to weekends or holidays and only four nights per month. Guest overnight stay must have approval by the roommates beforehand.
Guests are expected to abide by all of the EMU and housing policies. If guests of a resident are found in violation of policies, the resident may be held responsible for their guest’s actions. If a resident opens the door for someone, that person becomes the resident’s guest and the resident is to escort them at all times while the guest is in the building. If a resident opens the door for others and leaves them alone in the building, the resident is still responsible for the behavior of that person.
Guests must carry identification and present it to University staff when requested. Acceptable identification include a state ID card, driver’s license, military ID, or passport with intact pictures and birthdate. Library cards, high school or other University IDs (i.e. an ID from U of M) are not acceptable IDs for guests. On-campus students who are visiting another hall must be escorted by a resident of the visited building.
In the apartments, non-student residents that are permanent guests such as dependents and spouses must be registered with HRL and appear on the contract. These guests are only allowed at the discretion of HRL and the hosting student. Should the student no longer be registered for classes, permanent guests must move out.
In apartment family housing, where youth residents are registered with HRL, child care providers are permitted to stay in the apartment without the resident present. The child care provider is still responsible to follow all campus and housing rules. It is the responsibility of the parent to alert the child care provider of these rules and be available by phone in case of an emergency. A child care provider may stay in an apartment for up to 8 hours without the presence of the resident.
It is the responsibility of the resident to make sure access to the apartment is made available for the caregiver. If a lockout occurs, the caregiver will not be granted access by HRL staff. Caregivers are only allowed in the apartment while the child being cared for is present. Children not listed on the contract should not be receiving care if they are not the dependent of the caregiver. The resident and caregiver are responsible for following all parking regulations as it relates to parking permits and guest passes.
In Wise, residents are expected to escort their guests to the bathroom. Bathrooms are assigned by gender on upper floors. A gender neutral bathroom is available on the ground floor near the lobby.
1.80 Lounges & Meeting Spaces
Residential lounges are for the use of residential students. Student organizations and university departments may only use these lounges when invited to do so by an HRL staff member or Community Council/RHA member. Should an outside group be collaborating on a program, a member of the HRL staff or Community Council member sponsoring the event must be present during the event and for set up/clean up times. Student organizations and university departments will be charged for any costs incurred or damages that occur during the program. Hall lounges are not open to the public.
1.90 Medical Amnesty
The purpose of a medical amnesty policy is to remove barriers and increase the likelihood that students who require emergency medical assistance because of high-risk alcohol consumption will seek and receive the medical attention they need.
The Michigan medical amnesty law is designed to promote responsible decisions and protects minors from receiving a minor in possession charge if they seek medical help for themselves or another person.
For more information on the medical amnesty policy, contact the office of Wellness and Community Responsibility or visit https://www.emich.edu/responsibility/documents/amnesty.pdf?v=2020-09-03T17:02:08Z
2.00 Non-renewal of Housing Agreement
Students found in violation of University policies, Code of Community Responsibility or Residence Hall and Apartment Rules, at the discretion of the Director of Housing & Residence Life, or a designee, may have their housing agreement deemed nonrenewable. Living on campus is not a requirement after the first year; therefore, any student who is continually disruptive to the community may be considered for nonrenewal. This includes, but is not limited to, students who commit acts of vandalism, students found responsible for multiple violations of the rules, students on probation for any violation, students who hinder the studying or sleeping of other members of the community, and students who are found to have endangered the health and safety of themselves or others. 2.10 Pets
Only fresh-water, non-flesh eating, fish are allowed in the residence halls including The Village and Brown/Munson Halls. Fish tanks cannot exceed 10 gallons.
This does not apply to residents who need a service animal or emotional support animal as defined on the Disability Resource Center webpage. Emotional Support Animal approval process and guidelines are handled by the Disability Resource Center (see policies section). Residents found in violation of this policy will be instructed to remove their animal and are subject to referral to the University conduct process.
HRL reserves the right to immediately remove a pet from a University residence hall or apartment, when it is determined that the pet is abandoned and/or abused, and turn it over to an appropriate animal care agency.
2.20 Prohibited Activities
Actions that endanger the health, safety, or welfare of a person or group are prohibited within the halls and apartments.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Sports, running, riding of bicycles, rollerblading or roller skating, skateboarding or other similar behavior including hover boards within the hallways or rooms.
- Gambling is not allowed (Also see EMU Code of Community Responsibility Section V.8)
- EMU’s Tobacco-Free Policy prohibits all smoking and use of tobacco in or on all university owned buildings and property.
- Use of hookahs, vapor or electronic cigarettes and other smoking devices is not allowed. Students may possess cigarettes or electronic smoking devices for use off campus. Students may NOT possess hookahs.
- Aiding or abetting another person in committing an act that violates the WCR, Guide to Campus Living Policies and Rules or State of Michigan law is prohibited.
Residents and guests should make an effort to discourage another person from engaging in prohibited behavior and/or to report a violation of which one has knowledge. Guests must follow any reasonable request of EMU PD and HRL staff acting in the performance of their duties.
2.30 Prohibited Items
These items are prohibited in Residence Halls and Apartments but not outlined in other policies:
- Routers: for residents of Best, Brown, Buell, Downing, Munson, Phelps, Putnam, Sellers, Walton, Wise and the Towers (Hoyt & Pittman).
- Pools of any type
- Waterbeds
- 3D Printers
- Candles, candle warmers, incense, and wax/oil melting devices
- Bunsen burners, alcohol burners
- George Foreman grills, induction cook tops, hot plates, electric woks, and other direct heat source appliances (Microwaves, toasters, and coffee pots are allowed)
- Drapes, curtains, and other window treatments
- Space heaters
- Air conditioning units *
- Hookahs
- Hover boards, self-balancing scooters, battery operated scooters, hands-free Segways and similar devices
- Live trees, live/plant wreaths and/or roping
*Excluding Cornell Courts and 601 W. Forest apartments. This does not apply to residents who have an accommodation approved by the Disability Resource Center. In this case, the unit may not be window mounted, but must be portable and self-contained (see Campus Policies section regarding AC installation).
2.40 Property Insurance/Renter’s Insurance and Liability
The University does not assume responsibility for, or carry insurance covering the personal property of students. Although HRL places a high priority on security in our residence halls and apartments, there are a number of incidents each year involving theft or damage to personal property. The University does not provide insurance covering the loss and damage (due to water leak, fire, etc.) to residents’ personal effects and will not assume responsibility for personal property losses (including items lost in the mail) in residence hall rooms or apartments. We encourage residents to make sure that their belongings are covered by either their parents’ homeowner’s policy or an individual insurance plan/renters insurance. 2.50 Quiet/Courtesy Hours
(Also see EMU Student Conduct Code Section Disruptive Conduct)
Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Reasonable requests by fellow residents or staff to lower noise levels within a room, public area, or areas surrounding the buildings should be honored at all times. Regular quiet hours on campus are: Sunday-Thursday 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. and Friday-Saturday midnight-noon. During final exam week, 24-hour quiet hours take effect. Residents who interfere with the rights of others to sleep and study may face immediate suspension from the residence halls and apartments.
2.60 Removal from Campus Housing
Students residing on campus are required to follow all University policies and must comply with requests or instructions provided by HRL staff members or other University Officials.
In the instances in which a resident’s continued presence in on-campus housing jeopardizes the health, safety, welfare, or poses a significant disruption to the on-campus housing community, the Director of HRL or their designee reserves the right to remove the resident or guest from the halls or apartments on a temporary or permanent basis.
The Director may also move the student to another location on a temporary or permanent basis. The student will be notified via EMU email address to check out. Should the student not move out, their locks will be changed and they will be unable to enter the residence.
2.70 Room and Apartment Modifications & Decorations
(Also see 1.30 Care and Use of Facilities, 2.30 Prohibited Items)
Rooms and apartments may be decorated to assist in the personalization of the rooms. Students are responsible for the removal, cleanup and any damage to the university property related to their decorations.
Restrictions do apply:
- Prohibited Decorations – Decorations may be used but must not interfere with fire safety equipment and may not be placed in an area creating a health/safety hazard. Use of lights and other electrical decorations must be UL approved and may not interfere with the electrical circuitry of the facility. Decorations may not be hung out of windows. Students may be required by staff to take down any decoration. Students may be held financially liable for any damage or cost for decorations improperly placed or disposed of.
- Holiday or string lights may only be used for their intended purpose of decorative, seasonal use; not as an alternative light source or year-round use. String lights must be in working condition, not modified from the manufacturer’s original design and must be UL certified and FM approved. Incandescent holiday lights are prohibited. Only LED string lights may be used. Residents are permitted to use holiday lights during the period starting the Monday after the Thanksgiving through the first Sunday after the first full week of the Winter Semester. Live trees, wreaths and/or roping are strictly prohibited. This section is in accordance with the DPS and Environmental Health and Safety policy titled “Holiday Safety Guideline” (EMUDPS-EHS-PO39).
- Room/Apartment Doors, Walls and Ceilings – Doors of student rooms or apartments may be decorated but are considered public areas. Door decorations may not damage door surfaces or create health/safety hazards. Room numbers on doors or door frames must not be covered. Residents are not allowed to tape doors, or stuff towels or sheets under doors. Doors and door closers are not to be removed. Decorations or furnishings may not obstruct or obscure the visibility of an exit door. Nothing is permitted to be hung from the ceiling, sprinkler piping or sprinkler heads.
- Bottles and Cans – Bottle or can collections are prohibited. Alcohol bottles, even empty, are prohibited from being used as decoration. For recycling purposes, bottles or cans may be collected but limited to 25 cans or bottles. The recyclables must not constitute a fire or safety hazard.
- Halogen and Upward-Facing Lamps – Any lamp requiring or utilizing a halogen or halogen-type bulb is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, torchiere and desk lamps. Also prohibited are all types of “upward-facing” bowl lamps.
- Extension Cords and Power Strips – Extension cords are not permitted. If additional outlets are necessary, surge protected outlet adapters and power strips with circuit breakers may be used. These must be UL certified and the cord must be 6 ft. or less in length. Each power strip must be individually plugged into a wall outlet; they may not be daisy chained (plugged into another power strip). Electrical power cords may not be placed under carpets or rugs. No electrical cords can be run outdoors
- Based on fire and safety regulations, door decorations can only cover an 11 x 17 area of the door and only 20% of a wall can be covered (20% area excludes doors and windows).
2.80 Room Assignments and Room Changes
In accordance with the Housing Agreement, only a license is granted with respect to room accommodations, and no tenancy is created. Only the registered occupant(s) of a room are permitted to maintain residence therein. Students may not “sublet” rooms, nor may a student permit any other unauthorized occupancy of residence hall or apartment space. HRL reserves all rights with respect to the assignment and reassignment of room accommodations and may, at its sole discretion, terminate such accommodations, making an appropriate financial adjustment of the charges. Voluntary room changes must be approved by HRL Staff (CD, Assignments Staff or designee). RAs cannot approve room changes. Impeding a room change into a vacant space is prohibited.
Residents in under-assigned rooms and suites need to keep the room or suite ready to accept a new roommate and may not refuse such an assignment or request. Residents may be charged the single-room rate if they continue to impede a newly assigned student from moving into their room.
Residents may only occupy the bed space to which they are assigned. Moving to another space either within or outside the apartment or suite without written consent from the Complex Director (or designee) is considered an unauthorized room change. Engaging in an unauthorized room change is considered an improper check out, subjecting the resident to an administrative fee plus the cost of any damages and room cleaning. Additionally, the resident will have to move back to their assigned space.
2.90 Security Procedures
Housing & Residence Life has taken many steps to provide a safe and secure environment; however, the ultimate responsibility lies with those who live in the community. Residents and their guests will be subject to disciplinary action if they attempt to bypass the security system in the following manner: failure to respond to requests by Housing & Residence Life staff or EMU Police, propping doors, entering a secured area behind someone (“tailgating“), allowing access to someone the resident does not know, and forcing open locked doors.
- Students are not permitted to copy or loan to any other person any key or access card that has been issued by a university official.
- For security purposes, a lock change will be completed for any room door where a copy of the key was made. The resident will be billed for the cost of the lock change.
- Residents must identify themselves when asked by HRL staff members (including RAs & Nightwatch) acting in the performance of their duties. The form of identification used shall be a current, valid, and intact University identification card with hall specific sticker, or another state ID or federally issued identification.
- For the safety and security of all residents, altering door locks in any way is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to changing locks, adding locks, and altering locking mechanisms. Any work performed on locks must be completed by the Physical Plant Staff.
- Every residence hall door opening onto a hallway or the outside is fitted with an automatic door closer. Door closers are mandated by the State Fire Marshall. Tampering with or removing a door closer is prohibited.
3.00 Solicitation and Posting
(Also see EMU Board Policy Manual 8.4.4. Student Organization Fundraising, Sales and Solicitation)
Any information that is to be posted in more than one residence hall must be approved by either the Director of HRL or a member of the central office staff. Any materials posted without approval or posted in an inappropriate location will be removed. Postings for events at bars and nightclubs or without student organization/departmental sponsorship will not be approved.
Solicitation in residential buildings or on the grounds is prohibited. Students may not use any rooms or apartments, or permit rooms to be used, for any commercial purpose whatsoever. Door-to-door solicitation is regarded as an invasion of privacy and is therefore prohibited. This restriction applies to both commercial and non-commercial solicitation, and to distribution or posting of written materials as well as personal contact, which includes “Dorm storming.”
Tabling by a student organization or department may be approved by the CD of a building, but must not be solely for recruitment and must not interrupt traffic flow or day-to-day operations. On a limited basis, HRL will authorize door-to-door contact as it relates to specific housing issues or programs. Any non-resident found soliciting in the halls or apartments is subject to arrest for criminal trespass.
Air Conditioner Unit Policy
Residents of Cornell Courts and the West Forest properties may have air conditioning units (AC). Residents must purchase the appropriate unit themselves but it must be installed by EMU Physical Plant staff. To maintain a safe environment, a few specific regulations must be followed: - One installation and one removal will be performed free of charge. Any further services regarding the unit (including installation, removal, and repair) will be done at the expense of the resident who owns the unit.
- Residents are encouraged to confirm their apartment location, window measurements, and BTU restrictions below before purchasing an air conditioning unit.
- 601 West Forest residents may have units installed only in approved locations.
- Apartments are only permitted one air conditioner per unit.
- Cornell Courts residents must use the small window under the living room picture window or the kitchen window. Residents in Cornell Courts are responsible for keeping the walkways/sidewalks in front of their apartments clear of moss/mold that forms as a result of their air conditioner usage. Only window units are allowed
- Residents are encouraged to winterize their AC unit by covering it with plastic or AC unit covers available at a hardware store.
- Please consult the Disability Resources Center for approval of an AC unit due to a medical condition in other on-campus locations.
Air conditioning units may not exceed 10,000 BTUs.
If an AC unit is removed for storage, it should be stored in the apartment and/or in your storage unit where applicable. Areas such as walkways, balconies, and/or laundry room common areas are not approved locations for storing AC units. Units should be plugged directly into the wall sockets or in a surge protector with no other electrical devices plugged into them.
Bed Bug Protocol
Bed bug infestations are serious situations that are easily spread from room to room, vehicles, classrooms, and homes. At the start of each academic year, all vacant residence hall rooms and apartments are certified bed-bug-free through the use of careful inspection and professional pest control service animal. Eastern Michigan University provides aggressive treatment when alerted to the potential of bed bugs in an apartment or room. All residents affected are required to follow prescribed preparation checklists and minimize risk of re-infestation.
In the event of a bedbug infestation during the term of the resident’s contract, EMU will undertake eradication to the apartment or room, including the appliances and fixtures. The resident shall be solely responsible for all bed bug eradication with respect to his/her personal property. Failure by the resident to comply with preparation instructions or a re-infestation of a room by resident or guest will result in conduct charges and billing for cost of eradication services. Housing & Residence Life highly discourages bringing furniture of unknown origins or furniture which has been out of the possession of the resident. Secondhand furniture can be a contributor to bed bug infestation. If bed bugs are suspected or discovered, please contact the HRL staff immediately. Students will be given an Instruction Sheet that must be adhered to for proper eradication.
Bicycles and Bike Registration
Each complex has bicycle racks for securing bicycles. We recommend you use a high quality U-style lock through the frame and wheel to make theft as difficult as possible. Bicycles (non-motorized) may be brought into your living space, but cannot be left on balconies or stairwells for any period of time; they are considered a safety hazard in these locations.
Bicycles that are improperly stored or chained to something other than a bicycle rack (such as a tree or post) may be removed and put into 30-day storage. In the event that bicycles are abandoned, they may be removed during periodic maintenance of the bicycle racks. Bicycles removed by the University will be held for 30 days and disposed of if not claimed. HRL is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen bicycles.
At the end of the academic year (in early May), bikes that are found on campus and not registered, are assumed to be abandoned and will be removed from bike racks or other areas.
Bike Registration
You are encouraged to register your bike on-campus. The EMU Police Department registers bicycles through Bike Guard. When bicycles are registered, they are assigned a unique ID number for identification. When a registered bicycle is found or recovered by law enforcement, officers are able to identify and match the bicycle to the owner by using the registered bicycle tags and/or serial numbers. Registering is free and easy:
- Bring your bike to the station anytime and an officer can assist You can also contact the Community Relations Officer at 734.487.0987 or [email protected] or see your Area Police Officer and schedule a time that works for you.
- Complete the registration form and an Officer will affix the bicycle tags and record pertinent bicycle
- The Officer will enter the bicycle information in to the BikeGuard database.
If you have questions, please contact the Community Relations Officer at 734.487.0987, [email protected], or go online at https://www.myassettag.com/bike/
Children’s Toys -Apartments
Large toys should be stored under the staircases in Cornell Courts and not be chained to balconies and guardrails. Westview residents may store items directly outside their apartment. In all complexes, the items stored outdoors should be labeled with both the resident’s last name and apartment number. Items must not impede accessibility to the apartment or passage around the building. Housing & Residence Life is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen toys. Community Bathroom Policy
No personal property maybe left in the restrooms. Any and all unattended property will be removed by custodial staff. No individual may use the restrooms while custodial staff is cleaning. The trashcans in the bathroom are for bathroom trash only. All other trash should be disposed of properly in one of the trash rooms on each floor. Charges for excessive cleaning of the bathroom may be billed to the resident(s) responsible or the entire floor or building at any time. Residents should report any concerns or problems with a public or community bathroom to a residence hall staff member or the front desk immediately. Disability Resource Center and Housing Accommodations
Housing & Residence Life collaborates with the Disability Resource Center (DRC) to coordinate housing accommodations for students with disabilities that impact one’s living situation. Prior to completing a housing application, students must schedule an appointment with a DRC Case Manager about the need for housing accommodations. Students must schedule an in-person or over the phone appointment with a DRC Case Manager to initiate the accommodation process. Please contact the DRC at 734.487.2470, 246 Student Center or email [email protected] Please note the housing accommodation process can take up to 5 business days once the DRC receives all necessary information and/or documentation.
Requests for on-campus housing accommodations should be made with the DRC as soon as possible. Students are encouraged to complete the Housing Accommodations Request Form prior to scheduling an appointment with the DRC (available at www.emich.edu/drc). The DRC Case Manager will meet with the student, review appropriate documentation, and collaborate with Housing & Residence Life regarding approved accommodations. If a student is assigned a room through the typical housing application process before notifying the DRC of their request for housing accommodations, it will lead to a delay in the implementation of appropriate accommodations. Requests for Emotional Support Animals should be made to the DRC directly, as separate forms are required in these cases.
Reasonable and appropriate housing accommodations depend upon the students documented disability, the housing environment and the steps necessary to create equal access for one’s living situation. Requested accommodations will not be granted if it is deemed unreasonable, if alternative accommodations are available, and/or if the student has already received desired placement through normal assignment processes.
Please be advised that single rooms are reserved for individuals with specific living needs and for whom living with a roommate is not viable.
The DRC and Housing & Residence Life are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible campus environment and welcome the chance to coordinate accommodations with students as appropriate.
Service Animals Policy
Students who are bringing service animals to campus do not need to contact the Disability Resource Center (DRC) or Housing & Residence Life, but it is highly recommended to ease everyone’s transition.
Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog or miniature horse that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the animal must be directly related to the person’s disability. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the purposes of this definition. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the handler’s disability.Emotional Support Animals (ESA)
EMU defines an Emotional Support Animal (“ESA”) as an animal, which is not a Service Animal, that provides emotional support or alleviates one or more identified disability-related symptom or effect for an individual with a disability.
A student who lives in EMU housing and who wishes to use an ESA while living there is required to follow EMU’s Emotional Support Animals Residential Policy.
Determinations regarding whether a student will be permitted to use an ESA in EMU housing will be based on the necessity of providing accommodation(s) for individuals to enjoy equal access to EMU housing and the reasonableness of the presence of the ESA in EMU housing. Such determinations will be made on a case by case basis.
EMU Tobacco Free
Eastern Michigan University is committed to the health and well-being of its students, employees and campus visitors. In an effort to achieve a healthy learning, living, and work environment for every student, employee and visitor, smoking and the use of tobacco are prohibited in or on all university owned, operated or leased buildings, facilities, and grounds, including vehicles. The grounds of the EMU campus will be tobacco free, as will the grounds of any off-campus facilities owned or leased in total by the university. The ban includes any
sidewalk that cuts through the campus or between buildings, and extends up to the perimeter sidewalks of the EMU campus.Tobacco is defined as all tobacco-derived or containing products, including but not limited to; cigarettes (e.g., bidis, kreteks), electronic cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos, hookah smoked products, pipes and oral tobacco (e.g., spit and spitless, smokeless, chew, snuff) and nasal tobacco. It also includes any product intended to mimic tobacco products, contain tobacco favoring or deliver nicotine other than for the purpose of cessation.