Residence Hall Policies and Expectations

The following policies are designed to maximize the positive aspects of residence hall living by stating behavioral standards for all. Residents are expected to comply with all federal and state laws, city ordinances and University policies, including said laws, ordinances or policies regarding the possession or use of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs, and to agree that your room will not be used for any purpose contrary to such laws, ordinances or policies. The University reserves the right to institute, delete, or modify such other regulations as it may deem necessary for the maximum comfort, convenience and safety of all concerned. It is agreed that such regulations, whether existing or hereafter created, shall be part of the contractual agreement and of the same force and effect as if repeated here verbatim. Residents are expected to comply with any Residential Life staff member, acting in the performance of their duties. Violations of University regulations and/or policies may result in disciplinary action by the University according to the Student Conduct Code. In addition, violation of federal and state laws and/or city ordinances, on or off campus, may subject the student to state and federal action as well as University discipline. Each conduct case is looked at individually and each policy violation is sanctioned on a case by case basis.

Abuse

Verbal or physical abuse, or the threat of physical abuse against any person in the residence halls or at any authorized event, or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any such person(s), is not allowed.

Alcoholic Beverages

U.S.M. recognizes that the role of alcohol in University life is a potential obstacle for the personal and professional growth of the entire community. As a member of this community, it is likely that alcohol may have some impact on your life, whether it is in the classroom, residence halls, office or home. Therefore, U.S.M. strives to create a campus climate that promotes social interactions that do not rely on alcohol, but rather seeks to encourage responsible choices made with all members of the U.S.M. community in mind.

To assist us in creating a safer, more secure community that encourages responsible choices and positive social interactions, U.S.M. has created a "Three Strikes Policy" regarding alcohol violations for residential students. An accumulation of three strikes while residing in a residence hall may result in the termination of the student's residence hall contract. Due to the nature of certain violations, some students may lose their housing for a single violation. One example is when a student permits other people to violate the alcohol policy in his/her room or suite. Whether evidence exists that a student has provided the alcohol for underage people or merely provided a place for the underage people to consume alcoholic beverages, that student will receive a minimum sanction of two strikes.

All students and their guests are required to adhere to federal, state and University policy regarding alcholic beverages. Maine State Law requires that people be 21 years of age before purchasing, using and/or possessing alcoholic beverages. To help students clearly understand the University policy and make responsible choices, the following list delineates the behaviors that are considered violations.

A. For students UNDER THE AGE OF 21 the following behaviors are considered violations (This list is not all inclusive):

* Possession of any alcoholic beverage anywhere on campus.

* Exhibiting signs of alcoholic beverage consumption or intoxication (such as alcohol on breath, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, vomiting, difficulty standing, etc.) anywhere on or off campus or admitting to being intoxicated on or off campus.

* Possession of any empty alcoholic beverage container, including carrying to recycling or possessing any empty container in a room for decoration anywhere on campus.

* Possession of tapping equipment and any other item whose purpose is deemed to be the consumption of large amounts of alcoholic beverages, such as "funnels".

* Selling, serving, giving away, or making alcoholic beverages available to underage people and/or people who are exhibiting signs of consumption or intoxication (such as slurred speech, alcohol on breath, blood-shot eyes, vomiting, difficulty standing, etc.) anywhere on campus.

* Permitting any person to violate the alcoholic beverage policy in your room.

* Supporting a violation of the alcoholic beverage policy (defined as being present when other people are violating the policy).

B. For students 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER the following behaviors are considered violations (This list is not all inclusive):

* Possession of open alcoholic beverages in public places on campus, including hallways, stairways, lounges and lobbies of all residence halls (except at events where alcohol is available/served in compliance with the University Alcoholic Beverage Policy).

* Possession of open alcoholic beverages in any student's room in Philippi, Robie Andrews, Upperclass Hall or Portland Hall where all occupants of that room are under 21 years of age or the occupant(s) who are 21 years of age are not present.

* Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages or possession of empty alcoholic beverage containers in Anderson, Dickey Wood, Upton Hastings, and Woodward Halls.

* Selling, serving, giving away or making alcohol beverages available to, or transporting alcohol for underage people anywhere on campus.

* Permitting any person to violate the alcoholic beverage policy in your room.

* Possession of common sources of alcoholic beverages such as, but not limited to, kegs and beer balls, tapping equipment, and any other items whose purpose is deemed to be the consumption of large amounts of alcoholic beverages such as "funnels".

* Supporting a violation of the alcoholic beverage policy (defined as being present when other people are violating the policy).

* Exhibiting signs of alcoholic beverage intoxication (such as alcohol on breath, slurred speech, blood-shot eyes, vomiting, difficulty standing, etc.) anywhere on campus or off campus or admitting to being intoxicated on or off campus.

* Alcoholic beverages from any person who is deemed to be in violation of the alcoholic beverage policy will be destroyed by that person, in the presence of a U.S.M. Residential Life and Resident Education staff member. The returnable cans and bottles, drained kegs, and rented tapping equipment will not be returned to the person who violated policy.

* Students on the Substance Free Floor must abide by policies outlined in the Substance Free supplemental housing contract.

Failure to comply with the alcoholic beverage policy will result in disciplinary action and may also result in the University of Southern Maine Police Department conducting a criminal investigation, with the possibility of arrest.

Campus Communication and E-mail Policy- IMPORTANT

In order to meet the academic and administrative needs of the University community, the University of Southern Maine has established email as an official and primary means of communication to all of its students, accepted and/or enrolled. In some cases, email may be the only form of communication. Official University assigned email accounts are created for all accepted and/or enrolled students usually in the form of FirstName.LastName@maine.edu. Students are responsible to read all information sent to them via their University assigned email account. The University has the right to expect that such communications will be received and read in a timely fashion. It is imperative that students understand that a majority of University information will be communicated to them via their University assigned email account. Confidential information will not be sent via email. If the University needs to convey sensitive information to the student and the information cannot be conveyed using the password protected Student Self-Service venue, the University will send the information via United States Postal Service (USPS). The University reserves the right to notify students via email when any action on the students part may be necessary. Some actions can be accomplished using the University's Student Information Systems that are made available through special links that are password protected.

Any timely notification that will positively or negatively impact a student, such as the following, are designated as "Official":

~ Student Record (including Financial Aid Status)
~ Academic Program/Completion of degree-sought
~ Attendance, conduct, safety or status within the University community
~ Knowledge of information mandated by federal, state or local laws

Student Responsibilities and Expectations

~Students are responsible for activating their assigned University email account. The Account Activation web site https://mail.maine.edu has been designed for this purpose.
~ Students are expected to check their email on a frequent (daily) basis, as they do their USPS mail, in order to stay current with University-related communications.
~ Students have the responsibility to recognize that certain communications may be time-critical.
~ Students should not assume that email is private and confidential. Students should never use email to communicate confidential or sensitive information. To minimize risk, confidential information may be made available through special links that are password protected. The University will never ask for student passwords.
~ While the University strongly advises that students not redirect email that is sent to their University email account, students may have their University email redirected from their official @maine.edu address to another email address, such as @hotmail.com or @aol.com, but at their own risk. Having email redirected does not release a student from the responsibilities associated with the official communication sent to their @maine.edu account.

~ Students are asked to check and read email daily. Error due to forwarding or redirecting mail, insufficient mailbox space, or email returned to the University for any reason may result in missing notifications or deadlines that have been distributed via email. Students are responsible for acting upon all email sent to their University-provided email address just as they would respond if the information were sent through the USPS.
~ The University provides generic departmental email addresses to its Academic and Administrative offices. Students should use the "REPLY" command when corresponding with the University unless otherwise specified. This allows the department control in routing the students needs to either an appropriate staff person or to ANYONE in that department that can be of service to the student.
~ Students are expected to check departmental web sites on a regular basis to get up-to-date University information. Pamphlets, brochures, and federally mandated materials/notifications will be readily available for students to access frequently, at their convenience and without notification. The University is not responsible for the student's failure to access such materials.

Students with disabilities should work with the Office of Support for Students with Disabilities so that the University can accommodate both the students' and the University's needs in regards to this policy.

University Responsibilities and Expectations

~ The University has an Account Activation web site specially designed for the student to activate their email account.
~ The University's Academic and Administrative offices will not use email to communicate confidential or sensitive information. To minimize risk, confidential information may be made available through special links that are password protected or sent via USPS. Only "Official" University business that does not contain personal or sensitive information will be communicated via email.
~ The University reserves the right to use email as the only form of communicating "Official" University business to students. ~ ~ The originating Academic or Administrative department will select the form of communication best suited to a particular announcement and targeted group(s).
~ The originating Academic or Administrative department is responsible for getting time-sensitive materials to students via their University email address using the University approved software application.
~ The originating Academic or Administrative department is responsible for the content of "Official" communication to students.
~ The Office of Admission is responsible for contacting accepted undergraduate students.
~ The Office of Graduate Admission is responsible for contacting accepted graduate students.
~ Departments other than the Office of Admission wishing to contact accepted undergraduate students should coordinate with the Office of Admission.
~ Departments other than the Office of Graduate Admission wishing to contact accepted graduate students should coordinate with the Office of Graduate Admission.

The University will work with the Office of Support for Student with Disabilities if necessary to ensure that the University accommodates both the students' and the University's needs in regards to this policy.

Common Area Damages

On occasion, damages occur in areas that are not directly associated with a residence hall room, such as lounges, lobbies, hallways, bathrooms, and elevators. If this should occur, the Department of Residential Life will bill the cost of the repair of the damages to the student or students involved in the situation. In the event that staff members are unable to determine who damaged university property, the cost of the damage will be split between the residents on the residence hall floor or building in question. Thus, it is to your benefit to report the cause of any damages to a residence hall staff member.

Conduct Code

The Student Conduct Code appears on the website of the Office of Community Standards at www.usm.maine.edu/ocs, or you may request a hard copy from that office, located at 125 Upton Hall. The Code clearly outlines the procedures for dealing with violations of acceptable behavioral standards on campus. It is expected that all residents of campus housing will abide by the Student Conduct Code.

Discrimination

It is the policy of the University of Maine System to comply with applicable laws prohibiting discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, including transgender status or gender expression, national origin or citizenship status, age, disability, or veterans status in employment, education and all other areas of the University System. The policy shall include, but shall not be limited to, the requirements of Executive order 11246 and 11375, as amended in Department of Labor, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, 41 CFR, Part 60-2, October 20, 1978; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; and Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974.

Drugs

Illegal drugs are not allowed in any residence hall or elsewhere on campus at any time. The following behaviors are violations of the law, as well as University policy, and will not be tolerated. These include, but are not limited to:

* The possession and/or use of illegal drugs or illegal drug paraphernalia (w/illegal drug residue) on or off campus.

* The possession and/or use of another person's prescription medicine.

* Exhibiting signs of/being under the influence of illegal drugs (such as blood-shot eyes, vomiting, difficulty standing, agitation, etc.) anywhere on campus, regardless of where the consumption occurred.

* Selling, serving, giving away, making available, or sharing illegal drugs or prescription medicine with any person anywhere on campus.

* Permitting any person to violate the drug policy in your room.

* Supporting a violation of the drug policy by being present when other people are violating the policy.

* Admitting to using drugs anywhere on or off campus.

Failure to comply with the drug policy will result in disciplinary action and may also result in the University of Southern Maine Police Department conducting a criminal investigation with the possibility of arrest.

Electrical Appliances

The following electrical appliances are permitted, as long as they draw less than 800 watts:

* Computers

* Low Power Stereos and radios

* Televisions, VCRs, DVD players, X-Box, Sega, etc.

This list is not all inclusive, so if there are any questions, please ask your Resident Director or the Department of Residential Life.

One University owned Microfridge unit will be provided for each designed double or single. A second University owned Microfridge unit will be provided for designed triples or four person suites without kitchens. Only one University owned Microfridge will be provided for over-assigned rooms, but an additional Microfridge may be requested from the Resident Director. No other refrigerator or microwave units will be allowed. Any damage to or parts missing from a Microfridge unit will be assessed to the appropriate occupant(s) of the room. Microfridge units must be left clean, unplugged and with the refrigerator and freezer doors open when all occupants check out of the room at the end of the fall and spring semesters. Any Microfridge unit that requires cleaning by custodial staff will cause the occupant(s) of that room to be billed a $30.00 cleaning fee in addition to any other damage charges that might apply.

The use or possession of high wattage and/or dangerous electrical appliances such as high-powered stereo systems, subwoofers, air conditioners, coffee makers, hot-pots, electric skillets, grills (including Foreman grills, quesadilla makers, and sandwich makers) hot plates, heaters, popcorn poppers, toasters, waffle makers, is strictly prohibited. The discovery of any of these items may lead to disciplinary action and you will be requested to remove the item from the residence hall.

Electric Extension Cords

A UL-rated power strip (available at U.S.M. Bookstores) that has a switch, 15 amp circuit breaker, ground fault protection and surge protection must be used, and may not be plugged in to another power strip. For fire and safety reasons, extension cords are not allowed in residence hall rooms as a substitute for permanent wiring.

Energy Conservation

With the cost of electricity and natural gas at an all-time high, it is the policy of the Department of Residential Life that all students work to conserve energy through methods such as turning off lights, computers and other video equipment when not in use. Further, students are asked to use appliances which are environmentally friendly. Recycling is mandatory. Ask your RA about appropriate disposal of recyclable items. Information will be provided about recycling stations in your residence hall.

Fire Safety

For your safety and protection, fire drills and inspections will be conducted periodically throughout the academic year. The sole purpose of fire drills is to ensure the operation of the fire safety system and to practice evacuation procedures.

All residents must vacate the building by following emergency procedures and go to designated areas when the alarm sounds. Everyone must stand clear of entrances and walkways to permit passage of the Fire Department personnel and equipment.

After the building has been vacated, the Fire Department will communicate with residents of the building through staff members regarding the status of the fire call. Students will be permitted back into the building only when the Fire Department issues an approval for reoccupation. Should there be a lengthy period of time when remaining outside is probable, students will be temporarily relocated.

* The fire fighting equipment, the fire alarm system, and appropriate procedures are provided for the protection of life and property of residents. Tampering with or the misuse of fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and/or failure to comply with related procedures is a serious infraction of University policy and is a federal offense, and will be dealt with appropriately.

* Because of the sensitive nature of fire protection equipment, items may not be hung from, nor cover, sprinklers, pipes, or smoke/heat detectors in residence hall rooms. For timely and safe evacuation, all hallways should be free from obstructions (sports equipment, shoes, trash bags, etc.)

All residence halls have heat/smoke detectors in the hallways and heat/smoke detectors mounted on the ceilings of individual student rooms. Each hall and all buildings on campus are equipped with fire extinguishers and pull boxes. Fire equipment is not to be used for any reason other than putting out fires. Tampering with fire equipment may be grounds for dismissal from the University.

To avoid fire hazards, smoking cigarettes, burning candles or incense or other similar open flame devices, and using space heaters, electric heaters and halogen lamps is not permitted in the residence halls. Ceiling hangings of any kind, including flags, drapes, tapestries, sheets, etc. are also prohibited. The storage of BBQ grills, charcoal, lighter fluid and propane is prohibited on university grounds and facilities. Use of BBQ grills is allowed outside ONLY with permission from the USM Police Department.

Furniture

Furnishings in student rooms vary from hall to hall; however, general items include a bed, desk, bureau, desk chair and closets (or wardrobes). Portland Hall has wall-to-wall carpeting. Gorham apartments have kitchen table and chairs, sofa and living room chair. Students in over-assigned rooms initially are supplied with a bed per student and desks, bureaus and chairs to share. Additional furniture may be requested from Residential Life after move-in is complete. Please do not remove furniture from rooms, or you will be billed, and/or subject to accountability through the Student Conduct Code. Talk to your Resident Assistant or Resident Director if there are problems with your furniture. Residential Life provides and maintains lounge furniture for the residence halls. Due to the fact that lounge furniture is purchased for all students to use, the furniture must remain in the lounges ONLY, at all times. Any lounge furniture found in student rooms will be removed, the student will be billed for removal charges, and disciplinary action may occur.

1. Guests (defined as anyone who does not live in that room)

The presence in residence halls of persons who do not reside in that room is permitted under the following conditions:

1. The host will be held responsible for their guests's behavior.
2. At no time is a guest allowed to be in possession of a host's keys and/or U.S.M. I.D. card, for any reason, and may not be let into the host's room without the host present.
3. Residents may have overnight guests. They may not stay, however, for more than three nights in a 14 day period.

4. Guests are expected to observe and adhere to University rules and regulations

5. If more than one person resides in a room, all residents must agree to and feel comfortable with a guest(s) in order for the guest to be allowed to visit the room (in this case, guest refers to anyone who is not a resident of that particular room).

6. Overnight guests who are minors are generally prohibited. Exceptions must be discussed with the Resident Director of the building in advance of the guest's arrival date.
7. Guests may be asked to leave at any time by University staff.

8. Family Housing students may sign guests in and out by calling the Portland Hall front desk and asking the desk attendant to sign in/out their guest and send them up to their suite. Family Housing residents must call the desk attendant from their room phone/extension.

2. Non-Resident Guests (defined as anyone who does not live in that hall)

The presence in residence halls of persons who do not reside in that hall is permitted under the following conditions:

1. The non-resident(s) must be accompanied by the resident host at all times.
2. The non-resident guest must show a picture I.D.
3. All non-resident guests must be signed into the residence halls by the host (either through the security desk or residence hall staff).
4. Non-resident guests are expected to observe and adhere to University rules and regulations for that hall.
5. If more than one person resides in a room, all residents must agree to and feel comfortable with a guest(s) in order for the guest to be allowed to visit the room (in this case, guest refers to anyone who is not a resident of that particular hall).

6. Overnight non-resident guests who are minors are generally prohibited. Exceptions must be discussed with the Resident Director of the building in advance of the non-resident guest's arrival date.
7. Non-resident guests may be asked to leave at any time by University staff.
8.At no time is a guest allowed to be in possession of a host's keys and/or U.S.M. I.D. card, for any reason, and may not be let into the host's room without the host present.
9. Residents may have overnight guests. They may not stay, however, for more than three nights in a 14 day period.

10. Family Housing students may sign non-resident guests in and out by calling the Portland Hall front desk and asking the desk attendant to sign in/out their non-resident guest and send them up to their suite. Family Housing residents must call the desk attendant from their room phone/extension.

Hall Sports

Running and athletic activities of any kind are prohibited in the residence hall rooms, hallways and public lounges of all residence halls for general safety reasons. The only exceptions are pool tables, foosball machines, and ping pong tables in designated areas, with proper use.

Harassment

Harassment of any nature, (physical, verbal or sexual, intentional or not) will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Violations will be dealt with accordingly.

Sexual harassment of either employees or students is a violation of federal and state laws. It is the policy of the University of Maine System that no member of the University community may sexually harass another person. In accordance with its policy of complying with non-discrimination laws, the University will regard freedom from sexual harassment as an individual employee and student right that will be safeguarded. Any employee or student will be subject to disciplinary action for violation of this policy.

Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:

1. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or education

2. submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting that individual; or

3. such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual's academic or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment, educational or living environment

Consenting relationships may constitute sexual harassment under this policy. When a professional power differential exists between members of the University of Maine System and a romantic or sexual relationship develops, there is a potential for abuse of power, even in relationships of apparent mutual consent. A faculty or staff member should not engage in such relationships. Further, the University prohibits the abuse of power in romantic or sexual relationships.

To assure that power is not abused and to maintain an environment free of sexual harassment, a faculty or staff member must eliminate any current or potential conflict of interest by removing himself or herself from decisions affecting the other person in the relationship. Decisions affecting the other person include grading, evaluating, supervising, or otherwise influencing that person's education, employment, housing or participation in athletics or any other University activity. It is the policy of the University of Maine System to ensure fair and impartial investigations that will protect the rights of the person(s) filing sexual harassment complaints, the person(s) complained against, and the University as a whole.

If you have any questions regarding the policy, please contact Ms. Kathleen Roberts, Executive Director, Campus Diversity and Equity, 222 Deering Avenue, Portland, Maine 04101, (207) 780-5094.

Health and Safety Inspections

During all major breaks (Thanksgiving, semester, Winter and Spring, and at other times throughout the year), Residential Life and Resident Education staff conduct room inspections to check for any health and safety violations. You will be notified if there is a violation in your room. If you leave for break, we encourage you to:

1. Lock windows and leave curtains/blinds open (for passive heating and security reasons).

2. Remove ALL trash and recyclables from the room. Please ensure that the room is easily accessible in case maintenance staff must enter to make repairs or to perform routine maintenance work.

3. Turn off all lights.

4. Lock door(s).

5. Unplug ALL appliances (clocks, microwaves, televisions, VCRs, etc.) except for fish tanks. Microfridges may be left plugged in over short breaks, but must be unplugged during semester breaks and at the end of the academic year.

Holiday Decorations

Due to potential fire hazards, the use of holiday decorations MUST adhere to the University guidelines. No live trees, treated or untreated, are permitted. It is against policy to leave electrical lights on when no one is present in the room to attend them. Holiday lights may not be hung from ceilings, nor may they obstruct doors or windows.

Internet

No person firewalls/routers allowed. Please contact ResNet for more information at 780-5650 or resnet@usm.maine.edu. See University Computers and Computer Network for more policy information.

Keys and Lockouts DO NOT PROP YOUR DOOR OR LEAVE IT UNSECURE!

Each resident student (except those in Philippi and Upperclass Hall) is given a room key at the time of check in. The U.S.M. I.D. Card acts as a front door key, giving the resident student access to their front door (see the U.S.M. Card section for more info.). Each resident is responsible for returning keys to a staff member at the time of check-out. If a key is not returned, a fee will be charged for parts and labor for the lock to be changed.

Other important information about keys:

* Each resident is responsible for possession of his/her University-issued keys; the only person who may possess these keys is the person to whom they are issued! The same policy pertains to the U.S.M. ID card, whether for access or form meals!

* Giving your keys to anyone to get into your building and/or room is a direct violation of University policy!

* Gorham residents - if you are locked out of your room, first try to find your RA or another RA in the building. If you cannot locate any RA, try the RD of your building. Failing that, call the Residential Life office at 780-5240 during business hours. Portland Hall residents should go to the Residential Life office on the 2nd floor during office hours. After hours, call the RA on duty, who is available 7pm-7am. Please note that response times may vary - please have patience. Frequent lockouts could lead to sanctioning through the Student Conduct Code.

Kitchen Facilities

There is absolutely no cooking (as opposed to warming pre-cooked foods in a microwave) in any residence hall rooms due to fire regulations, with the exception of apartments and suites with FULL kitchens. You are welcome to cook in the common kitchens in the halls (Woodward does not have a common kitchen). Pots and utensils are generally not available in the Gorham halls, so be sure to bring your own. Portland Hall does provide some pots and utensils at the front desk.

Lounges

Although each student has his/her room available for studying, Residential Life recognizes the need for lounges as alternative study and social areas. All halls have lounges available for studying and socializing which are open to all residents of each residence hall; however, priority is always given to their use as study areas.

Motor Vehicles

The University of Southern Maine Parking and Transportation Office in Gorham issues parking decals from their office from 7:30am-4:30pm, M-F, or by mail. Parking and Transportation in Portland is located in the parking garage on the Portland campus. They will tell you where and when to park while on the Gorham and Portland campuses. Under no circumstances are vehicles allowed to be driven on any of the walkways. Anyone who violates this policy with their vehicle may be required to pay a fine.

Musical Instruments and Stereos

Students are responsible for maintaining reasonable noise levels in their rooms, and must avoid disturbing or disrupting other students. The use of amplified musical instruments and/or stereos that are disturbing to the community and that can not be turned down or used with headphones to prevent unnecessary noise issues are prohibited. (Also see Noise Issues.) Therefore, musical instruments of any type generally should not to be played in the residence halls. Practice rooms are available in Corthell Hall and Upperclass Hall on the Gorham campus.

Needle Disposal

All resident students who have needles, syringes and/or fingerstick apparatus for blood testing should have an approved, rigid plastic biohazard container in their room. These containers can be obtained from University Health Services and should be exchanged for a new container when full.

Noise Issues

Priority in the residence halls at U.S.M. are always as follows:

1. Sleep     2. Study     3. Other

In order to respect the needs for all students, there are established quiet hours in all of the residence halls. Quiet hours start at 9:00pm and end at 9:00am, Sunday through Thursday, and start at 12:00 midnight and end at 9:00am Friday and Saturday. It is important to remember that there are always 24 hour consideration hours in effect. In order to create the best living environment for everyone, please be considerate of your fellow residents. An environment conducive to normal living and studying is expected 24 hours a day in the residence halls. Residents responsible for excessive noise may be subject to disciplinary action. Please remember that noise heard beyond the confines of an individual's room can be considered excessive, regardless of the posted quiet hours.

Not Allowed

This section gives a brief overview of some things you should not bring to campus. This list is not all inclusive, so if you have questions about any item, please contact your Resident Director. We reserve the right to determine if an item constitutes a health, safety, or environmental hazard.

PETS of any kind - except non-walking, non-poisonous fish in an aquarium, seeing eye dogs, guide dogs and simian aids

WEAPONS - including guns, rifles, hunting knives, BB guns, paint ball, Aerosoft guns, handheld Tazers, etc.

HIGH-WATTAGE (OVER 800 WATTS) ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES - air conditioners, skillets, heaters, etc.

FIRE HAZARDS - Candles and incense, including decorative candles and oil burning lamps, hot pots, toasters, popcorn poppers, BBQ's, coffee makers, sunlamps, halogen lamps, George Forman grills, extension cords, water pipes, bongs, hookahs, etc.

DANGEROUS DECORATIONS - live Christmas trees, non UL rated holiday lights

CEILING HANGINGS of any kind - please note wall hangings may only cover 25% of available wall space, and must not leave holes or damage

CINDER BLOCKS for raising furniture or for any other purpose

DANGEROUS GAMES - Paint ball guns, metal-tipped darts

WEIGHTLIFTING EQUIPMENT due to damage and noise that may occur

WADING POOLS - (Kiddie pools)

WATERBEDS

Pets

No pets or animals of any kind may be kept in the residence halls, with the exception of non-poisonous, non-walking fish in aquariums, seeing eye dogs, guide dogs and simian aids. The University is not responsible for the loss or harm to any fish due to interruptions in power services.

Posting Policy

With a large number of individuals and groups wanting to advertise to the students living in the residence halls, it would be easy for lobbies and common areas to become cluttered with advertisements. It is for this reason that we ask that all posters get date stamped through the Office of Early Student Success in Gorham or the Dean of Student Life office in Portland and that the number of posters in the common areas be kept to two (2) per organization.* All posters and flyers must be hung in designated areas, such as informational bulletin boards. All posters need to list contact details on them as a way for students to follow up for more information. Please do not hang flyers over decorative bulletin boards or in windows. Residential Life reserves the right to remove posters that aren't consistent with posting policy or that are in undesignated areas.

*except for RA and Residential Life posters and advertisements

Practical Jokes

Individual or group behavior that leads to actual or potential harassment or injury, or damage to University property or personal possessions, is not permitted. Individual or group behavior that leads to abnormal or unnecessary cleaning of the halls is not permitted. Residents will be held accountable for and assessed costs for damages in participating in any act of misuse of, or violence toward University property, or violence toward another individual, and may face disciplinary action under the Student Conduct Code.

Privacy Considerations

Out of concern for the privacy of students and guests, the use of cell phones, video cameras, recording equipment and cameras in bathrooms is prohibited.

Replacement Costs

When a resident or his/her guest(s) cause damage in a residence hall, he/she will be charged to replace the damaged item or to repair the item. When the person who causes damage cannot be identified, all residents of that living space may be charged. Therefore, it is always important if you see someone causing damage to a residence hall to notify a staff member to deal with the situation as soon as possible.This will help keep replacement costs as low as possible.

Roofs, Balconies and Ledges

Under no circumstances are residents or their guests permitted on residence hall roofs, balconies or ledges of any kind. Persons violating this policy will be subject to immediate disciplinary action, the termination of their housing contract and/or other disciplinary action.

Room Assignments

Room assignments are made for new students based on the date Residential Life receives the housing application and room deposit. "New student" is defined as any student who is new to the University of Southern Maine, specifically first year and transfer students. Students coming to U.S.M. for the International Exchange Program or the National Student Exchange Program are guaranteed housing on campus as long as space is available. Returning residential students are also currently guaranteed accommodations for the next year, as long as they participate in the Spring Room Selection Process. Commuter students may request a residence hall application from the Residential Life office. In all cases, room assignments will be made based on the date of application, the roommate matching questionnaire, and available space in the requested hall(s). A specific room, hall and roommate cannot be guaranteed when assignment occurs.

Room Changes

There is a Room Freeze for the first two weeks of the semester during which time room changes will occur for room consolidation and emergency purposes only. This time may be extended if necessary. Student initiated room changes other than those mentioned will be considered after this Room Freeze has expired. While Residential Life strongly encourages roommates to work out their difficulties through negotiation and compromise, we realize that in some cases, when differences in lifestyle or personality prove to be irreconcilable, a room change is the best option . No resident may change rooms without completing proper paperwork authorizing the move by their Resident Director. Any questions regarding room changes should be directed to your Resident Director or the Department of Residential Life office in 100 Upton Hall.

The University reserves the right to change residence hall or room assignments and to make reassignments for the benefit of the individual resident, or the University. Students who are in an under occupied double room MAY be given the option to keep the room as a single if space is available, as determined by the Department of Residential Life. There is an additional charge for this privilege. Students who do not wish to pay the additional charge must either select an eligible replacement roommate and have that person move in to fill the empty space, or move to another half-empty double room for consolidation purposes. The University reserves the right to consolidate vacancies by requiring residents to move from a single occupancy of a double room to double accommodations in the same or a different residence hall.

Room Damages

Each resident must sign a Residence Hall Room Inventory Form (R.I.F.) to confirm the condition of their room before moving into the residence hall. If you do not agree with the condition as noted on the RIF, it is important to note any discrepancies on it before signing! When the resident moves out of a room, they must also sign this form to confirm the condition of their room according to the staff member who signed them out. If damage occurs in the room during the time a resident resided there, s/he will be billed for the appropriate damages. Resident Directors assess damage charges for their own hall(s) after the student has checked out. Resident Assistants cannot assess charges for cleaning or damages, only the Resident Director. Resident Assistants only document changes in condition.

The University, its officers, and employees are not responsible for the loss or damage of residents' personal property caused by theft, water, smoke, or fire damage, or any other uncontrollable circumstances. The University encourages all residents to maintain personal property and/or renter's insurance.

Room Selection

During annual room selection in April, rooms are randomly reserved for new students in all halls on all floors. For more information regarding room selection, contact Residential Life at 780-5240 or the Portland Hall office at 228-8600.

Sales, Solicitation and Campaigning

To insure that the privacy of all students is maintained, salespeople, solicitors and/or political campaigners of any type, from recognized University organizations or from outside agencies, are not allowed to go door to door in the residence halls. Solicitation and political campaigning is allowed in pre-approved common areas and lounges only. Please contact the Resident Director for building specific locations. Those who violate this policy should be reported to a Residential Life staff member who will take the appropriate actions.

Screens

Window screens should remain installed and closed at all times.

Security

All residents are responsible for security in their building and should not prop any door open at any time. All exterior doors are locked 24 hours a day. Residents should not permit non-residents who are not their personal guests into the buildings. Personal guests must be signed in during security desk operating hours. Your cooperation improves the security for all residents. Further, as leaving your keys in your residence hall door may allow other people access to your room, we ask that you remove your keys from your door after unlocking it and keep your keys with you at all times. In addition, all bags/backpacks brought into a hall may be checked and/or refused admittance at any time by a university staff member.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted within any area of a residence hall, or any area outside any residence hall, with the exception of yellow designated smoking areas. Please dispose of waste in the smoking outposts. You can be sanctioned for smoking within 50 feet of buildings.

Snow Days

If classes are cancelled due to weather, announcements will be made on local radio and television stations. The U.S.M. Storm Line is 780-4800.

Storage

There is no student storage in any residence hall. This also includes bike storage. All University-issued furniture must remain in residence hall rooms. The storage of any motorized vehicle in the halls is also prohibited.

Theft and Possession of Stolen Property

Theft or possession of stolen goods, including illegal possession of any property, is prohibited, as is inappropriate use of University equipment and facilities. The inappropriate possession or acquisition of property of another resident student is also prohibited. Stolen property includes but is not limited to street signs, construction equipment, lounge furniture, traffic cones, etc.

Trash Removal

Trash removal and recycling services from common areas are provided in each residence hall in Gorham; residence hall staff members can tell you where they are located. If the materials are recyclable, and not contaminated, they must be brought to the recycling area(s) located in the building. Please help maintain a healthy and pleasant living environment by disposing of all items appropriately. Disposing trash in inappropriate areas may result in a removal charge, assessed to the responsible party. Please don't put any trash from your room in the trash bins in the bathrooms. Portland Hall residents are responsible for their own trash removal and recycling. There is a recycling room in the basement of A-wing and a dumpster in the parking lot.

University Computers and Computer Network

The University of Southern Maine provides students, faculty and staff with access to its networks and off-campus resources via the internet. This access is a privilege and comes with some responsibilities and, if inappropriate behavior is discovered, consequences. A major concern is with the downloading or sharing of copyrighted materials, which is prohibited, unless it is done under the terms specified by the holder of the copyright. For further information on copyright, please refer to http://usm.maine.edu/resnet/doc/copyright.html. To view the USM Acceptable Use of Information Resources Policy, please see http://www.usm.maine.edu/uct/policies/USMaup.htm.

The following behaviors as cited in the Student Conduct Code are considered a violation and will be responded to by Computing Services and the Office of Community Standards.

Misuse of the University computer network or computers including, but not limited to, theft of computer files, or data, e-mail, or other electronically stored information, probing or hacking into other computers or computer systems, spamming, sending out computer viruses, or uploading or downloading copyrighted material for personal use or distribution without authorization.

In particular, the downloading or uploading of music, movies, or software is considered a violation of copyright unless it is done under the terms specified by the holder of the copyright. Students who are found to have music, movies, or software on their personal computers without authorization will lose their network access privileges, including wireless privileges for at least two (2) weeks. Repeat violators may lose their network access privileges permanently.

Wall Hangings

Residents are encouraged to make themselves feel at home by personalizing their rooms. Due to fire regulations, no more than 25% of wall space should be covered at any one time, and there must never be any items hanging from the ceiling. Residents are asked to leave the room in similar condition when they check out. Therefore, any damage done by hanging items on the walls using items such as nails and tacks will result in charges.

Waterbeds

Waterbeds are not permitted in the residence halls. This is due to the structure of the buildings, as well as to the difficulties related to filling and emptying the beds.

Weapons

Dangerous weapons, including, but not limited to, firearms, ammunition, paintball guns, paintballs, BB guns, knives, bows, arrows, rockets, sling shots, air-guns, martial arts weapons and explosives of all types, including fireworks, are not permitted on the property owned by or under control of the University of Southern Maine. These items are dangerous and have no place in the residence halls. Any exception must be approved by the Chief of the U.S.M. Police Department. If any exception is made, the weapon must be registered with and left at the U.S.M. Police Department and the person shall be subject to such terms and conditions the Chief deems appropriate. Any member of the University community who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the University.

Windows

Residents and their guests are absolutely prohibited from throwing objects out of, passing anything in or out through, sitting directly in, or exiting/entering through, any window. No TV antennas, citizen band antennas, or speakers are to be hung or placed in or on any windows. Disciplinary action and/or charges will be assessed to residents if screens are removed. Residents should make sure their room windows are closed and locked when their rooms are unoccupied. Window stops are safety features, and their removal is a violation of residence hall policy, and constitutes a life safety concern.