Residence Hall and Apartment Policies
 

Abandoned Property

Personal property of any kind that remains in a room after the student has checked out or after the halls have been closed will be considered abandoned property. Housing and Residential Life assumes no responsibility for abandoned property and will dispose of such items. Items considered to be of substantial value may be held for up to 30 days. Any applicable cleaning, packing, or storage charges will be assessed to the student’s account.

In the event a student resident (1) withdraws from classes at the University, (2) has his/her license agreement terminated, or (3) is otherwise relocated (from building to building, from room to room, from side to side, or within the designated area assigned), the University shall have the right to remove the student resident’s personal property and store the belongings. Notice will be given to the student resident and shall be deemed appropriate when delivered by hand or sent to the student’s University address (campus box or email) and/or permanent address (postal). This notice will take effect three (3) days after any hand delivery or six (6) days after the date of mailing. Packing and storage shall be at the expense of the student resident, and the University shall not be responsible for any personal property that is lost, stolen, or damaged during packing or storage. Stored items may be held up to thirty (30) days before disposal.

Alcohol and Drugs

No alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia are permitted on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University. Empty alcohol containers (including but not limited to bottles, cans, and kegs) may not be used for display purposes in any residence hall room or apartment. Students found responsible for drug violations WILL be removed from the residence hall.

Automobiles and Motorcycles

Speed limits on housing streets shall be observed as posted. Cars and motorcycles shall be parked only in such a manner and in such areas as may be designated by the University. There shall be no parking on sidewalks, lawn areas, or breezeways. Motorcycles may not be stored in any apartment at any time.

Bicycles

Parking bicycles, mopeds, and motorcycles is not permitted in hallways, stairways, outside walkways, fire escapes, or lobbies of the residence halls. Bicycles may be kept in residence hall rooms providing they do not block entrances or exits. Bicycles found improperly parked or secured may be removed by University staff and impounded by the Public Safety Department.

Business

Students shall not pursue any business on the premises.

Cable

Every room in the residence halls is equipped with basic cable service free of charge. Expanded basic and premium channels may be available at an additional cost and, if available, can be purchased directly from Comcast cable company. A cable-ready television is all that is required to activate cable. Cable reception problems should be reported to the hall staff. The cable company reserves the right to discontinue services to residents who fall behind in payment for premium services or who tamper with cable equipment.

Theft of cable services is prohibited. Cable theft is the receipt of cable services without the express authorization of a cable television operator. Theft includes splitting cable wires or attaching a black box that can alter the cable equipment owned by the operator. Such action is prohibited in all residential facilities.

Card Access Systems

All students are expected to carry and swipe their own student identification (ID) cards to enter residence hall buildings with an installed card access system. Students who experience difficulty using their ID cards to gain entry to a building should contact the residence hall front desk. As a security precaution, students who lose their ID cards should report the loss to the residence hall front desk and the ID Office. Residents are not permitted to share or loan their ID cards to other persons.

Computer Labs

Computer labs are provided in selected areas for the use of on-campus residents. Users will be required to show appropriate identification and are also expected to comply with all computer lab guidelines.

Computer and Network Acceptable Use

The Information Technology Resources Policy is intended to prevent abuses of equipment and services and to ensure that the use of computers and networks honors the public trust and supports the University’s mission to educate students, conduct research, and provide public service. Using MTSU and state resources for unauthorized copying and/or distribution of copyright-protected information, music, video, and software is prohibited. Please refer to the Information Technology Resources Policy. 

Construction

No construction of any kind is allowed without prior written consent of the University.

Cooking

Students living in single or family student housing apartment dwellings are encouraged to make full use of the cooking facilities that are provided. Students living in residence halls are permitted to use approved microwave ovens, popcorn makers, and electric coffee pots. As mandated by the University Safety Manual, all other electrical cooking appliances may not be operated in residence hall rooms.

Data Service

All residence halls have direct data network access via Ethernet jacks. All residents using the MTSU data network must adhere to all provisions of the MTSU Information Technology Resources Policy, which can be referenced here.

1. Access is provided to enhance the learning environment and experience. Entertainment type applications such as games are lower in priority than applications used or research such as HTTP.
2. Servers of any type are not allowed in the residence halls. This includes but is not limited to Web, FTP, telnet, game,peer-to- peer, and file servers. Servers discovered in operation are subject to disconnection. Distributing copyrighted material without permission is not permitted and may result in suspension of network access as well as other sanctions.
3. Internet Protocol (IP) addresses are centrally assigned and may not be changed. To receive this address and other necessary configuration information, the network card must be set to obtain address information automatically via Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). Computers attempting to circumvent this registration and assignment process are subject to disconnection.
4. Data network problems should be reported to Housing and Residential Life staff.
    

Disease

Students will report immediately to the University any infectious or contagious disease occurring within the residence halls or apartments. This is to insure the safety of all residents.

Disturbances

Students shall not conduct or permit in their rooms or apartments loud parties or activities or in any manner create disturbances which would cause annoyance or discomfort to other residents. Students will not permit the premises to be used for illegal purposes.

Firearms, Explosives, Fireworks, and Inflammables

The possession or use of firearms, slingshots, paint ball guns, “super soakers,” explosives, fireworks inflammable fluids, dangerous chemical mixtures, pellet guns, B.B. guns, propelled missiles, or ammunition (which includes but is not limited to bullets, paint balls, pellets, and B.B.s) is prohibited.

Fire Hazards

Students shall permit no combustible material to be kept on the premises and shall take every precaution to prevent fires. Fire escapes shall be kept clear of all items and shall be used in case of emergency only. Students will not store or lock anything on or immediately adjacent (within two [2] feet) to electrical meters or conduits from these meters leading into the apartments.

Fire Safety

The sounding of false fire alarms and tampering with firefighting or safety equipment, including extinguishers, hoses, EXIT signs, and the alarm system is prohibited. Residents are responsible for safely evacuating the building immediately upon the sounding of the alarm or as otherwise directed by residence hall staff. Students failing to appropriately evacuate the building may be subject to disciplinary action.

Heating

Students shall not use any facilities for heating except those provided without prior written consent of the University.

Incident Reports

Incident reports are issued to students as written notification concerning infractions of residence hall policies. These reports are issued by other hall staff or members of the University community. Infractions of residence hall policies may be dealt with administratively, or residence violations may be turned over to the Student Judicial System for use as evidence in disciplinary proceedings.

Insubordination

Any act of insubordination or failure to cooperate with the housing staff is grounds for the immediate termination of the housing agreement.

Keys

Room or apartment keys are the property of the University, and a student may not have duplicate keys made. Students who misplace their keys and need access to their rooms should contact their residence hall front desk to be issued a temporary key. As a security precaution, students who lose their keys will have their locks changed and the core replaced and will be charged the appropriate fee. Residents are not permitted to share or loan their keys to other persons.

Laundry and Dishwashing Machines

Laundry and dishwashing machines shall not be installed, stored, or used in apartments of the University’s complex.

Miscellaneous

Students shall not shake, clean, or hang any bedclothes, rugs, mops, dust cloths, etc., from windows or on roofs and shall not climb on roofs.

Missing Student

Most missing student reports in the University environment are a result of students changing their normal routine and failing to inform roommates, families, or friends. In compliance with Section 488 of the Higher Education Act of 2008, residential students have the option to identify the telephone number of a confidential contact person who will be notified within 24 hours by the University if the student is determined to be missing. Additionally, the University is required to notify students that their custodial parent or guardian will be notified if the student is less than 18 years of age, is not emancipated, and is determined to be missing. Residential students will be expected to enter and update emergency contact information in PipelineMT using RaiderNet. The student will be responsible for entering confidential emergency contact information and ensuring that it is up-to-date and accurate. The University will notify the appropriate law enforcement agency within 24 hours after the time that the residential student is determined to be missing. The full policy is available here. 

Noise and Quiet Hours

The primary aim of Housing and Residential Life is to maintain an atmosphere conducive to the pursuit of residents’ academic goals and to provide an opportunity for uninterrupted study and rest. Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Unnecessary noise, from whatever the source, must be discontinued upon request. Quiet hours are in effect from 9:00 p.m. until 9:00 a.m. every day. Students who show a disregard for quiet hours may have their license agreement canceled and/or be restricted from living or visiting in the residence halls. Strict quiet hours will be in effect 24 hours a day for the three days prior to the beginning of final exams and will continue through the end of the exam period.

Overnight Guests

Overnight guests of the same sex are permitted if the following conditions are met:

1. The guest is registered with the area coordinator prior to staying overnight.
2. The resident host informs the guest of residence hall regulations and accepts responsibility for the guest’s conduct.
3. Permission for a guest to stay more than two (2) consecutive nights must be obtained from the director of Housing and Residential Life.
    

Pets

No pets or animals of any kind are allowed in the residence halls or University apartments, with the exception of fish contained in aquariums no larger than 10 gallons. Residents must make appropriate arrangements for the care of fish during holiday or other break periods. Housing and Residential Life will not assume responsibility for feeding, cleaning, or otherwise maintaining aquariums.

Pianos and Waterbeds

No pianos or waterbeds or other heavy objects will be permitted in the premises. Any exceptions to this policy to allow waterbeds will be made only after the student has submitted documents verifying a medical condition which requires such. Under no circumstances shall waterbeds be allowed in second floor apartments or residence halls.

Premises

Students shall maintain premises, including their yards, in a neat and orderly condition. No refuse, loose paper, cans, bottles, etc., shall be permitted to accumulate outside or underneath dwelling units.

Prohibited Items

The following items are prohibited in residence hall rooms or single student apartments: personal air conditioners, ice boxes, unauthorized refrigerators, exterior aerials or antennas, heavy electrical appliances, personal stoves, extension cords, halogen lamps, candles, incense, firearms, explosives, fireworks, flammable fluids, slingshots, paint ball guns, “super soakers,” dangerous chemical mixtures, pellet guns, B.B. guns, ammunition (which includes but is not limited to bullets, paint balls, pellets, and B.B.s) propelled missiles, alcoholic beverages, and illegal drugs or paraphernalia.

Radios, Televisions, and Musical Instruments

Radios, televisions, and musical instruments may be used in residence halls. However, if the noise disturbs other residents, the volume must be reduced upon request, or the use of the items mentioned must be discontinued.

Refrigerator Guidelines

Small refrigerators are permitted in residence hall rooms provided they are no larger than 3.7 cubic feet and do not exceed 3.0 amps.

Representations and Waivers

Neither the University nor its agents or employees have made any representations or promises with respect to any part of the premises or dwelling units other than as set forth herein. The failure of the University to insist, in any one or more instances, upon the observance of any of the terms shall not be considered as a waiver or relinquishment of such terms in any other instances, but the same shall continue in full force and effect. The University reserves the right to make such other rules as may be deemed appropriate or necessary for the safety, care, and cleanliness of the premises and for securing the comfort and convenience of all students.

Residence Hall Lobbies

Residence hall lobbies are intended for use by occupants of the hall and their guests. Persons not using the lobby for the intended purpose or those students creating a disruption will be asked to leave. Some lobbies may be specifically designated a quiet study area.

Residence Hall Staff

All residence hall staff members are considered institutional officials and as such are empowered to issue directions to any student, guest, or visitor. Failure to comply with the legitimate directions of a staff member in any residence hall or at any residence- hall-sponsored event will result in appropriate disciplinary action.

Right of Entry

The University reserves the right of entry into a student’s assigned living space for inspection, improvement, repairs, or housekeeping during reasonable hours or at any time in the case of epidemic or other circumstances of any emergency nature posing a threat to life, limb, health, or property.

Roofs and Ledges

Roofs and ledges of residence halls are off limits. Students must not access these areas.

Room Changes

Students may submit requests for room changes with the Housing Office. Students moving out of or into a residence hall without having written authorization from Housing and Residential Life will be in violation of the housing contract. Changes within the building may be authorized by the area coordinator or designee. All changes are authorized on a space-available basis.

Safety and Maintenance Inspections

Residents’ rooms may be inspected periodically by residence hall staff to determine compliance with safety, health, and maintenance standards. Notice will be given prior to these inspections. Residents who fail to comply with the safety, health, and maintenance standards may be subject to disciplinary action.

Screens

Window screens are installed for your safety and protection. Students are not permitted to remove or tamper with the screens at any time. Individuals who damage, remove, or tamper with window screens in any way will be assessed an appropriate replacement cost.

Security

Residents must share responsibility for maintaining a safe and secure residential community. Residents should keep their doors and windows locked any time they are out of the room, even for short periods of time. Residents who prop open wing or building doors may be subject to disciplinary action. All visitors to residence halls must enter/exit only from the main entrance/door of the building, unless special permission has been secured from the area coordinator. Residents leaving the building through locked security doors are responsible for ensuring that the doors close to the locked position.

During holiday periods, doors and windows should be securely locked, and window shades should be opened. Items of value should not be left in a room over a holiday period. Any theft or losses should be reported to the Department of Public Safety. Housing and Residential Life is not responsible for loss, damage, or theft of personal property. Residents and/or their parents are strongly encouraged to carry appropriate insurance to cover the potential theft, loss, or damage of personal property.

Signs

Students shall display no signs, placards, or banners of any type in or about the premises.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all public areas, (lobbies, hallways, community baths, classrooms, etc.) residence hall rooms, and apartments. Students wishing to consume tobacco products must do so in the privacy of a personal vehicle. Tobacco products can only be stored in the private vehicle.

Soliciting Sales

Soliciting, canvassing, or the use of residence halls or apartments as a location for selling is prohibited unless written permission is granted by the dean of Student Life. Since solicitors or other salespersons are not allowed access to the premises except with permission from the University, students are requested to notify the front desk of violations of this rule.

Television Antennas and Radio Aerials

Students shall not erect television antennas or radio aerials in University housing.

Use of Security Doors

Some halls are equipped with security doors which may be used to exit from the residence hall between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. At no time should they be propped open. The safety and security of residents is compromised if these doors are used after 10:00 p.m.

Violators Subject to Discipline

All violators of these rules and regulations shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Additionally, any occupant of a residence unit who fails to comply with the terms or conditions of the Residence Hall Agreement or any rule, regulation, policy, or procedure incorporated herein by reference could have this agreement terminated by the institution and possession of the premises taken after the occupant has been given notice to vacate the premises within twenty-four (24) hours.

Water-Filled Furniture

Waterbeds or other pieces of water-filled furniture are not permitted.