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Please read and familiarize yourself with the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations for the current academic year.

Subject to revision at any time.

The University strives to provide a residence environment that is comfortable and conducive to learning and personal growth. The University assigns housing accommodations without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by University policy, or by state or federal authorities. The University does not discriminate against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. All students should familiarize themselves with the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations found in this section before completing the Housing and Food Service Contract Card.

• On-Campus Residence Eligibility
• Apartments Eligibility
• General Conditions of the Contract
• Obligation of Students
• Registration Status
• Contract Submission
• Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Accommodations
• Housing Deposit
• Housing and Food Services Charges
• Housing Contract Periods
• Meningococcal Disease Immunization
• Occupancy
• Changing Rooms
• Consolidation of Vacancies
• Change in Room Assignment
• Termination of Residence Area Occupancy
• Vacating Residence
• Rights Reserved by the University
• General Maintenance
• Maintenance Inspection
• Maintenance Repairs
• Damages
• Financial Account Charges
• Insurance
• Room Search
• Amenities
• Security
• Safety
• Miscellaneous Regulations
• Violations
• Food Services

On-Campus Residence Eligibility
Registered full-time (12 or more credits) degree-seeking students at Penn State may live in the residence areas and are assigned using the following priorities, or until all spaces are filled:

1. Upperclass students who lived in University housing during the previous semester and have submitted a Housing Contract using the eLiving Housing Contract System;
2. First-year students who are offered admission to Penn State;
3. Other students who have requested space in residence areas (if vacancies exist after all requests from 1 and 2 have been satisfied), based on a Waitlist.

Students with less than full-time status may be considered for a Housing Contract if space is available after all other requests have been accommodated. Once a non-degree student receives a Housing Contract, he/she must actively attend classes while living on campus and make academic progress towards becoming a degree-seeking student. A non-degree conditional student whose cumulative grade-point average falls below 2.0 and/or has not completed his/her attempted credits each semester will be placed on Contract Review status. A decision regarding the student’s Housing Contract status will be reviewed each semester by a committee comprising of a representative from Housing and Food Services, Division of Undergraduate Studies, and Student Affairs/Residence Life. Housing and Food Services reserves the right to make modifications to the assignment priorities as necessary to ensure full occupancy of residential facilities. Housing is not guaranteed for any student group.

Apartments Eligibility
Students interested in living in the on-campus apartments at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, must meet one of the following requirements:

1. Completed 60 credits prior to receiving a Housing Contract;
2. Have fifth-semester standing or higher;
3. Be 21 years of age or older by September 1.

General Conditions of the Contract
THIS IS A LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT
Residence accommodations are available only on a combined room-and- board basis. A Housing and Food Service Contract and A-La Board meal plan may not be transferred or assigned to another student. The meal plan account may be used only by the student to whom it is issued. Contract Cards must be signed and dated as evidence of acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract. This is a legally binding contract. Failure to pick up a room key does not release a student from the Contract.

The University reserves the right to deny or cancel a Housing and Food Service Contract or lease for University-provided housing to an individual whose conduct and/or proven criminal record indicates a potential threat or danger to the University community, including students, faculty, and staff.

Semester and Holiday Breaks – During holiday breaks (Thanksgiving and Spring Break) and between semesters, residence areas and dining facilities are officially closed. Closing and opening dates and times will be posted on all bulletin boards. Students are to vacate buildings accordingly. The University reserves the right to revise published calendar dates. Room and board rates do not include food service or accommodations during official University holiday or semester breaks.

Obligation of Students
Students are obligated to abide by the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract Card they have acknowledged and submitted. This includes assuming financial responsibility and meeting financial obligations for the entire contract period through the end of spring semester. Submitting the Housing Contract means acknowledgment of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations.

Registration Status
Students must be in registered status to live in University-owned housing. Completing the registration process includes enrolling in specific courses and making full payment of tuition, fees, and room and board charges. Students arriving for fall semester that have an incomplete registration will be given a timeframe to complete the process, or will be required to vacate on-campus housing. Housing will then cancel the student’s current Housing Contract and place a financial hold on the student's records until such time as the student pays all charges incurred. Additional information about the registration process is available at www.registrar.psu.edu/registration.

Contract Submission
First-Year Students – Prospective students will receive the Living On Campus brochure, included in the admission offer packet, that details the amenities of living on campus and an overview of the Housing Contract process. Prospective students offered admission to Penn State will be eligible to request a Housing Contract online provided that housing is available when the offer is accepted. Students who accept a Housing Contract will be required to pay a non-refundable $100 housing reservation fee. Not all students that request housing will be eligible to receive a Housing Contract.

Upperclass Students
Upperclass students interested in requesting on-campus housing for the next academic year must submit a Contract Request through the University’s eLiving Housing Contract System. Contract Requests must be submitted during a specific time period each year. Students will be notified of this time period in advance. Students who are selected to receive an offer for a Housing Contract will be notified, and must accept the offer online within the established timeframe. Students who accept Housing Contracts and did not live on campus the previous academic year will have the $100 housing reservation fee applied to their student accounts. Additional information is available at www.eLiving.psu.edu.

Housing and Food Services Charges
Housing and Food Services charges are payable by the prepayment deadline date as announced for all University student billings. After the prepayment deadline date, each assigned student whose charge is not paid may be transferred from the assigned room to space reserved. This does not relieve the student from the obligation to accept other available accommodations. All Housing and Food Services charges are subject to change by action of the University.

If a Contract begins or a room transfer is made before the end of the first week of classes (seventh consecutive calendar day from the first day of classes), full rates for Housing and Food Services options will be charged.

When a transfer from one room to another occurs during the first week of classes, the full rate, if there is a rate differential, will be charged for the room to which the student is transferred.

If a Contract begins or room transfer is made after the first week of classes, charges will be prorated.

If a vacancy occurs in a double room, and there is no Waitlist, the remaining student may opt to pay a higher rate for a double-as-single room. The additional charge will be applied to the student’s account.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations
A reasonable housing accommodation is a housing facility modification or adjustment that minimizes or eliminates the impact of a disability, allowing the individual to gain equal access and have an equal opportunity to reside in the University's on-campus housing environment.

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 dictate that an institution must make reasonable academic adjustments and provide auxiliary aids and/or services for individuals who identify themselves as having a qualified disability. To determine reasonable adjustments, auxiliary aids, and/or services, the Disability Contact Liaison at the Penn State campus will seek current documentation of the student’s disorder/impairment, as well as information from appropriate University personnel regarding essential standards for courses, programs, services, activities, and facilities. A reasonable housing facility adjustment is one that does not require a substantial change in the facility or the alteration of any essential elements or functions of the facility, living environment, activities, or interference with other residents. Housing facility adjustments, auxiliary aids, and/or services are determined on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the campus Disability Contact Liaison.

Housing Deposit
All students applying for a University Housing Contract must agree that Housing and Food Services can charge the required $100 Housing Deposit to their student account. This deposit is nonrefundable if for any reason the student fails to fulfill his/her Housing Contract obligation. The housing deposit shall be retained by the University throughout the contract period and until such time as a student does not file a Housing Contract for the subsequent year, indicating to the University that he/she will not be living in on-campus housing during the subsequent session or academic year. The deposit will be credited against the student's account within 30 days after the final contract period ends.

A student who needs to cancel a Housing Contract due to not attending or withdrawal from the University, or who is granted a Contract Release, needs to contact Housing and Food Services in writing.

A student who is granted a change of campus to another Penn State campus that provides University housing and is offered a Housing Contract will not be required to submit another housing deposit. The initial housing deposit will be transferred.

Housing Contract Periods
Rental contract periods for assignments in residence areas are based on the semester the student intends to begin using housing facilities as specified by the University. Students entering housing in the fall semester are obligated for fall and spring semesters. Students entering housing in the spring semester are obligated for spring semester. Students using housing facilities in the summer session are required to submit a separate Contract for use of housing facilities in subsequent semesters.

Contracts are legally binding and include financial responsibility for the entire contract period.

Housing and Food Services is not obligated to hold a specific room assignment after 5:00 p.m. the day the student is assigned to check-in, unless the student has made a request in advance to the Housing and Food Services Office. If a student fails to check-in, the student remains obligated to pay housing charges in full. If the student checks in after the assigned time, the student is obligated to accept other available accommodations provided by Housing and Food Services.

Meningococcal Disease Immunization
The Pennsylvania State Legislature passed the College and University Student Vaccination Act on June 26, 2002, and Governor Mark Schweiker signed the Act into law effective June 28. This Act directly affects all students who reside in on-campus housing accommodations in Pennsylvania. This Act requires all students living on campus are required to submit a Meningococcal Vaccination Certification form. This form either verifies that the student has received the vaccination or that the student is waiving the vaccination, but has been informed regarding the disease. The form must be submitted prior to check-in. Students who submitted a form during a prior semester do not need to submit a new form. If the student is under age 18, the student' s parent must sign the waiver. Vaccinations are available from the student' s local health care provider or at University Health Services (depending upon availability). More information is available at www.hfs.psu.edu/vaccine and www.cdc.gov/ncidod/ dbmd/diseaseinfo/ meningococcal_g.htm.

Occupancy
First-year students attending orientation will be permitted to take occupancy on the date indicated in their room assignment information. First-year students will be provided with food service no later than the evening meal on the first day of arrival. Continuing students may occupy rooms no earlier than the date announced for each semester. Food service for continuing students will be available no later than the meal served immediately prior to the announced check-in day, start of registration, or start of classes at the campus. Penn State reserves the right to establish and revise the University calendar and arrival dates.

A student who arrives earlier than the date established will not be permitted to move into the room. Students who have been requested or permitted to arrive before the official opening date may be assessed an additional daily charge. Housing and Food Services charges must be paid or arrangements made for payment to the Bursar before a student is issued a key and id+ card (only new students receive new id+ cards).

Keys – When a student checks into the residence area, keys to the room and residence area building (if applicable) will be issued. A receipt for the keys must be signed by the student. All precautions should be taken by the student to prevent loss of keys. If a student misplaces a key, a second key will be issued by Housing and Food Services for a seven-day period (a deposit may be required). If the original key is not found at the end of the seven days, the lock to the room and/or suite door will be replaced and a new key will be issued. The student’s account will be charged the actual cost per door lock change. If a building door lock replacement is necessary, the student’s account will be charged the actual replacement costs for keys and lock.

Check-In Form – When a student checks into a room, he/she should complete the check-in form. Any damages or missing items should be indicated to prevent being charged at check-out time. The completed form must be returned to Housing and Food Services by the date specified. Failure to return the check-in form may result in unnecessary damage charges at the end of the year. The student will be held responsible for the condition of his/her residence room and furnishings, and for any damages or losses that may occur during occupancy.

Changing Rooms
Room Change Request – No room changes will be processed during orientation week or the first two weeks of any semester. No room changes may occur without following the prescribed procedure:

1. A designated period for room changes will be announced.
2. Housing and Food Services or Residence Life will provide the student with a Request for Change in Residence Assignment form. All sections of the form must be completed in full by the student before being approved by Residence Life.
3. The student must take the approved form to the Housing and Food Services Office to obtain a Change in Residence Assignment form. No moves are to be made until the student has completed this form.
4. The student must complete the room change within four days from the effective date on the Change in Residence Assignment form. Keys must be exchanged through the Housing and Food Services Office. Keys may not be directly exchanged between students.

Failure to follow room change procedures may result in disciplinary action or denial of the room change request.

Emergency Room Change Request – Residence Life staff may approve emergency room changes. The student will discuss his/her need for a change in room or residence assignment with a Residence Life staff member, who will notify Housing and Food Services to discuss availability of space and place a hold on the selected space.

Direct Room Exchange – A direct room exchange is a change of assignment with another student of the same gender. This can be done only if both students involved come together to the Housing and Food Services Office to complete the necessary forms. A direct room exchange cannot be processed for special areas if a Waitlist exists. Direct room exchanges can be processed only during the announced room change periods

Consolidation of Vacancies
A student who does not have a roommate may:

1. Remain in the room with a new roommate (if one is available).
2. Arrange to be reassigned through the Housing and Food Services Office with another student of his/her choice who is occupying a similar room (same capacity) with a vacancy.
3. Move in with another student occupying a similar room (same capacity) with a vacancy. Housing and Food Services will select the roommate and indicate which student will be assigned—the one with the latest filing date.
4. Remain in the room at an increased rate for the rest of the semester, provided all students have been accommodated. Housing and Food Services reserves the right to assign another student to this room immediately or at the beginning of the next semester, if space is needed for additional students. The additional charge for a double-as-single room will be applied to the student account. The student will be required to sign an authorization form agreeing to the additional charge for a double-as-single room.

Housing and Food Services has final authority for vacancy consolidation.

Note: RAs with roommates have first priority for single accommodation.

Change in Room Assignment
Housing and Food Services reserves the right to change the assignment of a resident in a specific location. This may occur if the location is a designated ADA room or is needed for other programs or purposes, or conditions in a specific location require such reassignment to ensure a proper educational environment.

Termination of Residence Area Occupancy
Contract Termination – Housing and Food Services, in consultation with Residence Life staff, reserves the right to terminate, cancel, or deny a Contract to a student, or to change the assignment of a student, if that student engages in any of the following conduct:

1. Disregards the rights of other residents.
2. Jeopardizes the safety and/or well-being of other residents.
3. Disrupts the residential environment or food service program.
4. Is destructive to University property or is responsible for excessive damages.
5. Is in violation of University rules and policies, including the Student Code of Conduct and/or the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract.
6. Is in violation of state or federal laws.

In the event of a disciplinary termination of the Housing and Food Service Contract, the University is not required to refund the housing deposit. The student will receive written notification declaring the termination of the Housing and Food Service Contract.

The student has the right to appeal the termination of the Housing and Food Service Contract to the director of Student Affairs, who, in consultation with the general manager of Housing and Food Services, will make the final decision. A resident whose Contract is terminated due to disciplinary reasons will receive credit of room and base cost portion of the board charges based on a prorated weekly refund schedule. Unused A La Board points will be refunded.

Contract Release – The Housing and Food Service Contract is legally binding. When a student signs the Contract for the regular academic year, the student is obligated for both fall and spring semesters. Contract releases are granted only under rare and extenuating circumstances. All requests for Contract release should first be directed to the Office of Student Affairs and Residence Life, who will consult with Housing and Food Services before making a final decision. Contract releases are granted within the following guidelines:

1. Financial Release – If a student has experienced a severe financial hardship since signing the Contract, a Contract release may be recommended upon verification of the student’s financial situation. An alternative and more economical living option may be required. The student will be responsible for providing documentation supporting the financial hardship.
2. Medical Release – For a student suffering from a severe medical condition that requires that he/she live off campus, verification of the condition must be submitted to the medical vice-president/director of Student Affairs to receive a recommended medical release.
3. Marriage Release – A student planning to marry during a semester may be released at the beginning of the semester to reside off campus with his/her spouse. The student is still obligated to pay room and board charges for the entire semester, and must comply with the established refund schedule. A copy of the marriage license must be provided within two weeks of the marriage date, or the Contract will continue to be binding and the student will be billed accordingly.
4. Personal Release – A student may have an extenuating personal circumstance that necessitates a Contract release. Each request for release for personal reasons will be considered on an individual basis. The student may be required to participate in interviews and/or counseling sessions with a University representative, with a final consultation with Housing and Food Services.

Note: If a Contract release is approved prior to arrival day of the semester (date residence areas are available for occupancy), the student may be assessed a charge equaling 20 percent of the total room and board charges for the semester. The University shall retain the total charges assessed as liquidated damages. Students released after occupancy will have refunds processed according to the established refund policy.

Withdrawal and Approved Release after Taking Occupancy – Students who took occupancy of a residence room and then withdrew from the University or were granted a Contract release will receive a credit based on a refund schedule upon check-out. Before the end of the first week of the semester (seventh consecutive calendar day from the first day of classes) a credit of 80 percent of the room and the base portion of the board charges will be applied. This credit will decrease by 10 percent for each week thereafter, up to and including the eighth consecutive calendar week. No room and board base cost refunds are granted after the eighth week of the semester. Refunds are based on full weeks only. All unused A-La Board points in excess of 500 ($5) remaining at time of withdrawal or approved Contract release will be refunded at face value of one cent each. However, at the end of the spring semester, any unused points are forfeited. No refund will be given for the base cost.

Refunds are based upon the date belongings are removed from the room, and the room key and meal account are deactivated, or the effective date of withdrawal from classes, whichever is later. Students leaving the University should confirm plans with Housing and Food Services and must vacate their rooms not more than 24 hours after the date of withdrawal or approved contract release.

Students will be entitled to a full refund for room and board paid in advance if they are denied permission to register. Persons returning to the campus after receiving such notification will be subject to a charge for actual housing and/or food service participation.

Vacating Residence
All students are required to check-out of their rooms not more than 24 hours after their last final or by the posted closing date of their residence area, whichever comes first. Students withdrawing from the University or released from their Contracts must vacate their rooms not more than 24 hours after the date of withdrawal or release.

Students who will continue to reside in the same room from fall to spring semester are not required to remove belongings from the room for the semester break except as a personal security precaution.

At the end of spring semester—or when a student withdraws from the University, is released from the Contract, or is granted a room change request—all personal belongings must be removed from the room and Housing staff must be contacted for an inspection. All trash, posters, personal items, and decorations must be removed from the room before Housing staff will inspect for damage, etc. All trash is to be removed to the dumpsters located outside the residence area. A charge will be made for rooms left in an unsatisfactory condition (the room should be in approximately the same condition of cleanliness as when first occupied).

In addition, the check-in form with forwarding address, as well as building (if applicable) and room keys, must be turned in to the Housing and Food Services Office. A student who fails to return key(s) at the time of check-out will be billed actual costs for room door lock replacement and actual costs for building door lock replacement (if applicable), plus a charge for replacements in excess of four keys, in order to protect the security of subsequent occupants. The charges will be applied to the student’s account.

A request for refund of fees or deposit will be held until all check-out procedures are completed.

The University reserves the right to cancel Contracts or change assignments for the next academic year if the contracting student’s room is left in an unsatisfactory condition, or the student has excessive damage charges. Students will be notified if the Contract has been canceled, and any advance payment will be applied to the student’s account.

If a student leaves any items other than University property in the room after vacating it, the items will be considered a general gift from the student to the University.

Rights Reserved by the University
The University unconditionally reserves the right to inspect rooms at times convenient to its staff, terminate rental contracts, repossess or reassign rooms, and to effect any other steps necessary or advisable for the safety, maintenance, security, and conduct of its residence program. The University may deny eligibility for future occupancy and/or assess charges for costs accrued due to the resident’s failure to adhere to the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract.

General Maintenance
Each student is expected to maintain his/her room in an orderly and sanitary condition, empty trash into the dumpsters outside the residence area, and to participate in the recycling program established at the campus. If Housing and Food Services becomes aware of unsanitary conditions resulting from failure of a student to maintain his/her room, Housing staff will clean the room and the resident(s) will be charged accordingly.

If disorderly and unsanitary conditions exist in a student room, the University reserves the right to cancel the student’s Contract and/or to refuse a future assignment. Bathrooms in residence area suites will be cleaned by Housing staff on a predetermined schedule.

Maintenance Inspection
A maintenance inspection is not considered a search. Inspections made by the University are to protect the students and assess the nature of maintenance requirements. In all cases in which a room is entered by University officials, a Notice of Inspection form will be placed in the room.

Inspections are made of students’ rooms during each semester and at time of check-out. Routine inspections will be announced in advance, and students may choose to be present during the inspection. These inspections are conducted: (1) to evaluate the condition of the room and furnishings; (2) to identify required maintenance and repairs; and (3) to check for fire or safety hazards. If damages are noted, the cost for repairs or replacement will be charged to the resident(s) of the room. Should Housing and Food Services observe the presence of unapproved appliances or objects in the room or notice objects attached to the facilities in an unapproved manner, this will be recorded on the Notice of Inspection form. Unapproved appliances and objects may be confiscated. A copy of the form will be left for the student, who will be expected to correct the situation. In the case of noncompliance, Housing and Food Services reserves the right to make corrections and bill the occupant(s) for costs.

Maintenance Repairs
Maintenance needs, problems, or questions regarding a room or residence area should be discussed with Housing and Food Services. Maintenance problems should be directed to the Housing and Food Services Office.

A student who has requested repair of an item in his/her room can expect this repair to be completed during the hours and days listed in the arrival day check-in packet. For the safety and security of the occupants, it may be necessary to reassign rooms in order to perform some types of maintenance. Maintenance employees may enter a student’s room to perform preventive maintenance, needed repairs identified during room inspection, or emergency repairs. If an employee enters a student’s room when the student is not present, the employee will leave a form stating the date, time, and reason for entering the room.

Damages
All students will be held responsible for the condition of the residence room, furnishings, and for any other damages or loss that may occur during occupancy. For the purpose of damage, theft, or loss assessment, occupancy shall be inclusive from the date of check-in to the date the student properly checks out of the room and returns his/her keys.

Students are solely responsible for removing personal garbage from the residence room and putting it in the dumpster. Students are not permitted to put personal garbage in common area receptacles located in the residence area, including lobbies, lounges, hallways, corridors, or bathrooms. Students’ personal garbage placed in these areas will result in a fee applied to all students in that room if the individual is not identified.

Each resident student is responsible for damage caused by his/her guests. Individuals identified as being responsible for damage, theft, or losses in residence rooms or common areas of the buildings (corridors, stairwells, recreation rooms, dining halls, study rooms, bathrooms, laundry rooms, work rooms, and lounges) will be billed for the cost of repair or replacement. Amounts billed to a student’s account for damages are listed as additional charges under the Housing and Food Service Contract.

All residents will be held collectively responsible for damages, theft, or losses in common areas of the building that may occur during occupancy when the individual(s) responsible cannot be identified. A maximum amount of $10,000 per incident per building, up to a maximum personal liability of $120 each semester of occupancy, will be assessed to residents for non attributable damages to common areas of the building. Residents must pay damage assessments when billed. End-of-semester damages and unpaid charges will be applied to the student’s account. Residents are not permitted to make damage repairs or to arrange for them to be made. In an emergency, Housing and Food Services, Residence Life, or University Police should be contacted.

Due to the costly cumulative deterioration of physical facilities, the following items may not be used in the residence room: tape; masking tape; adhesive; putty; glue; paste; nails; tacks; dartboards; staples; or screws on walls, furniture, doors, or other woodwork. Pictures, personal bulletin boards, and decorations may be hung from picture molding with picture hooks. Wire, rope, string, or decorations are not permitted to be strung across the room or hung from the ceiling. Painting or papering of rooms or furnishings is not permitted.

Financial Account Charges
Any student who fails to pay for damages or incurs further damage, leaves a room in need of major cleaning, or does not return keys, will have the charges placed on his/her University financial account. The minimum deduction is 50 cents.

Insurance
The University does not assume liability for the loss, damage, or theft of any personal property. Therefore, each individual is advised to carry personal property insurance.

Room Search
There are no routine room searches. A room search is conducted only when there is strong reason to believe that the occupants of the room are in serious physical or psychological distress, or that the room contains items that are contrary to University regulations (which include federal, state, and local laws).

Room searches are typically conducted by Residence Life, after a decision on the potential search is obtained through the area’s Residence Life staff or from Student Affairs. Approval is given only after the reason for search, the person(s) to search the room, and the object(s) being sought are clarified. Searches usually are conducted in the presence of the student occupants, and only in unusual cases would the room be searched in their absence.

When it is necessary for a member of campus police to search a room, the search will be performed according to constitutional and criminal procedure. If time and circumstances permit, a member of the Residence Life staff will be notified of the impending search. The staff member can provide guidance to the student against whom any warrant is issued and can act as a witness. Items seized will be taken, as authorized by law, and inventoried, and a receipt listing each article will be given to the owner or left in the room. If an officer observes articles in plain view from a location where the officer has a right to be, this would not be considered a search.

Amenities
Furnishings – Rooms are furnished to meet resident living arrangements. Students are prohibited from using furniture other than what has been provided, including water beds, recliners and futons, or anything that would result in a fire or safety hazard. Bean bags are acceptable. Radios, televisions (due to size of rooms, 13-19” televisions are recommended), stereos, clocks, additional lamps (excluding halogen lamps), and personal computers are permitted. Residence rooms are equipped with cable TV connectors.

Furniture and furnishings are not to be removed from rooms, lounges, or other Housing and Food Services areas for individual room use. Furniture is not to be taken outside the buildings. All room furniture must be kept in the residence room. The use of study and lounge furniture within student rooms is an infringement upon the rights of other residents, and therefore is not permitted. Students who violate this policy may be assessed a damage charge. University-provided mattress pads are not to be used for sunbathing or other outdoor activities. Mattresses must be used on the frames provided and not on the floor. Removal of furniture may result in cancellation of the student’s Contract.

Dismantling furniture or removing it from a fixed position is prohibited due to the wear and tear on furnishings and securing devices, which may become a hazardous obstruction. Blocking the flow of air into and out of heat radiators will cause an imbalance of heat in the room, as well as excessive energy use, and is therefore prohibited. The dismantling, stacking, lofting, or hanging of beds is not acceptable. Beds may not be raised up using blocks or other items. Homemade lofts are not permitted.

Linens and Window Treatments – Drapes and mini-blinds are furnished and laundered by the University; however, a student may use his/her own drapes. The University does not provide bed linens, blankets, pillows, towels, or washcloths. Extra-long twin beds are utilized in all residence areas. Some campuses may provide a mattress pad upon request.

Telephone Connections/Service – Each residence room is equipped with a telephone outlet as part of the Housing and Food Service Contract. Local telephone calls, subject to restrictions imposed by the service provider, may be made and received on telephone lines. The cost of local and campus telephone service is included in the room and board fee. Long-distance telephone calls can be made by calling collect (certain restrictions may apply) or using prepaid calling cards. Telephones are available upon request.

Violation of Pennsylvania Criminal Law – The following acts can result in fine, cost, and imprisonment:

1. Placing telephone calls to annoy, molest, or harass another person, or using indecent language while on a call;
2. Giving information to an operator so that charges for telephone calls or service are made to an account, person, firm, or institution without authorization, or to a fictitious or nonexistent number;
3. Installing anything to rearrange or tamper with any telephone company facility, wires, or equipment to avoid payment.

Electrical Appliances – The following electrical appliances are authorized for use in student rooms if an Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., label (UL label) is on the appliance: televisions; stereo component systems; answering machines; coffee makers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off); clocks; fans; sun lamps (with enclosed lamp); hair dryers; hair setters; curling irons (with automatic shut-off); University-owned refrigerator/microwaves; corn poppers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off); and personal computers.

Cooking is prohibited in residence areas. The following appliances are also prohibited: ironing boards; potpourri burners; cooking appliances (hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens, rice cookers, steamers, blenders, indoor/outdoor grills, etc.); lava lamps; halogen lamps and lights; immersion heaters; heating coils; torchere-style halogen lamps; personal microwave ovens; and personal refrigerators. Irons may be stored in student rooms, but are to be used only in designated ironing areas. If the use of multiple outlets is needed, a grounded 15 amp surge-protected plug-in strip with built-in circuit breaker should be used.

Vending and Laundry – Vending machines and laundry rooms are provided in residence areas. Problems (malfunctions, refund needs) with vending machines, washers, or dryers should be reported to Housing and Food Services. The University is not liable for damage to personal property.

Penn State Network Connection – Students can access the Penn State Internet system in residence hall rooms using a personal computer and Ethernet connection. The software/hardware required for this connection, and information on how to have the data connection activated, is available online at www.rescom.psu.edu/pages/connectionagreement.htm. Specific information regarding illegal activity, bandwidth limitations, inappropriate content, servers, and personal responsibilities are also provided on the ResCom Web site. Use of the residence hall network connection also subjects the user to adhere to Penn State policy AD20 Computer and Network Security, which is available online at http://guru.psu.edu/policies/AD20.html.

Security
Residence halls have an electronic card access security and CCTV system to protect the security of resident students. The id+ card is used to gain access to only the student’s assigned residence area. The id+ card is the only means a student can gain access to the building, which is secured 24 hours a day. It is the responsibility of residents to help ensure that adequate security is maintained in the residence areas. Residents must refrain from behavior that compromises building and room security, such as leaving room doors unlocked, propping open building doors, or tampering with exit alarms. Students should report unauthorized persons to proper authorities and be constantly aware of the importance of maintaining security in the areas. Each student should keep room doors and windows locked when not in the room.

Safety
Elevators – Elevators are available in certain residence halls, and are available for student use during check-in and check-out. During the academic year, elevators are only available for staff use. Students who require the use of an elevator for medical purposes can contact Housing and Food Services and request access to the elevator.

Elevators should never be used in the event of a fire. When in an elevator, passengers are expected to refrain from the following behaviors:

1. Tampering with or abusing any of the elevator equipment or controls
2. Prying open doors or holding them open by the safety edges
3. Attempting to exit an elevator that is stuck between floors without receiving official directions from appropriate staff or emergency staff
4. Jumping up and down in elevator

Engaging in any of the above behaviors may result in a referral to the Community Standards process or the Office of Judicial Affairs.

Fire Drills – To comply with state and local fire regulations, fire drills will be conducted monthly in all residence areas. Every person present in the building during the emergency drills must participate by vacating the building according to instruction. Rooms may be checked during the fire drill to ensure compliance. Failure to vacate the building during any fire drill will result in disciplinary action.

Fire Precautions – It is the responsibility of all students to take precautions to prevent fires. Candles, incense, potpourri, or other flame-emitting articles are prohibited. Papering walls and/or ceilings with posters and flammable decorations or putting paper in light fixtures is a fire safety hazard and is prohibited.

The following may cause a hazardous situation and are prohibited under State Labor and Industry regulations: wood paneling and/or tiles; papering of ceilings, interior and exterior doors, or walls; disguising of doors or exits; and posting of papers, signs, and other combustible materials in hallways or on doors (except bulletin boards).

Multiple-outlet adapters present a fire hazard and should only be used with low-wattage devices. A grounded device wattage adapter should be limited to 400 watts total. A grounded 15-amp surge-protected plug-in with built-in breaker is required, and total amperage should not exceed five amps. Residence rooms have limited circuit capacity (one 20-amp circuit for up to four rooms). Electric cords should not be hung around the room or placed under furniture or carpeting. Repositioning of outlets by the use of extension cords or splicing is prohibited.

Fire Equipment – Fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and exit signs are located on every floor in each building. Residence halls are equipped with sprinkler systems. Objects may not be hung from or attached to sprinkler heads. Students should familiarize themselves with the location of the fire equipment on their floors. In some areas, smoke detectors are provided. Tampering with this equipment is a serious matter that could jeopardize the safety of others. Such tampering can result in severe disciplinary and/or criminal action. Federal and state laws apply. Smoking – In compliance with University policy, smoking is prohibited in all parts of the residence areas.

Miscellaneous Regulations
Advertising – Advertising of merchandise or services for sale or rent is not permitted in residence or food service buildings unless it is for the personal property of students living in the residence area. Special bulletin board space is designated for such advertising. Items posted elsewhere will be removed.

Alcoholic Beverages – State laws prohibit the purchase, use, or possession of alcoholic beverages by anyone under 21 years of age. University and campus regulations concerning alcoholic beverages are published and are on file at the Office of Student Affairs.

Bicycles, Skateboards, and Other Conveyances – Bicycles are to be locked in the bicycle racks outside the residence areas. Bicycles may not be taken into student rooms. Bicycles, skateboards, and in-line skates are not permitted to be used in residence hallways or dining facilities, including stairwells. Skateboards, homemade carts, or other conveyances, contraptions, vehicles, or devices of any type, no matter how supported or what manner of propulsion, are not to be used to transport people or things anywhere in the residence area. Wheelchairs or similar equipment required by an individual with a disability are approved for that individual’s use only.

Canvassing – Canvassing in residence areas is defined as any effort to influence opinions, gain support, or promote a particular cause or interest, specifically excluding any solicitation or fund-raising as defined by current University policy. Surveys are not considered to be canvassing for purposes of this policy. Canvassing has been approved by the University subject to the following provisions: 1) canvassing may not occur in individual residence areas unless approved by the majority vote of the residents of that area; 2) students and student organizations are eligible to canvass in the residence areas upon approval by the residence area government. Non-University interests must be sponsored by a registered student organization or University department; 3) any canvasser must register with the Residence Life coordinator no less than twenty-four hours prior to the canvass; 4) when contacting students in their rooms, canvassers must knock before entering, identify themselves, announce their specific purpose, enter an individual room only with the expressed consent of the resident, and leave immediately if the resident requests; 5) canvassers must abide by all University rules and regulations. Violators will be subject to loss of canvassing privileges, and/or civil or criminal prosecution; and 6) additional provisions may be established at each campus through procedures regularly used for the formation of local policies.

Commercial Enterprises – The conducting of any business enterprises for personal profit is prohibited in and around University-operated facilities. Such enterprises may be conducted only by recognized student organizations and student government in the residence area, subject to the prior approval of Housing and Food Services and Residence Life. Sale of food by any person or organization is prohibited.

Fund-Raising Activities in Residence and Dining Facilities – To protect the privacy of residents, solicitations, sales, canvassing, fund-raising, and contributions are restricted.

Guests – Each student may have a guest in his/her room, in accordance with the campus visitation policy established by Residence Life. Keys will not be provided for the guest. The student sponsoring the guest will be responsible for the conduct and actions of that guest, including the use of respective bathrooms.

Motorbikes, Motor Scooters, and Motorcycles – Motorbikes, scooters, and motorcycles are to be parked in designated areas of student parking lots. Fines will be levied for parking in any other areas, including residence area patios, walks, porches, covered walkways, driveways, and loading dock areas.

Pets – Pet animals, with the exception of tropical fish and goldfish (in tanks that do not exceed 10 gallons), are prohibited in residence areas for sanitary and safety reasons.

Quiet Policy – One of the goals of Housing and Food Services and Residence Life is to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to study and rest. In order to meet this goal, all students must understand that the right of students to study and sleep takes precedence over the right to make noise that disturbs others. Quiet hours have been established and are posted in all residence areas.

Recreational Areas – There are designated areas for baseball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, catch, etc. For the safety of others and for the preservation of windows, shrubs, and lawns, the lawns and seeded areas adjacent to the residence areas, and the hallways, lounges, and recreation rooms in the residence areas should not be used for sports activities.

Storage Areas – There is limited storage space in student rooms for trunks and suitcases. Due to fire safety precautions, boxes, rugs, and cartons of any kind may not be stored. Storage is not allowed or available between the end of spring semester and the next fall semester. The University is not responsible for loss of items left in rooms during absences.

Traffic and Parking Regulations – Student use of vehicles on campus is governed by campus parking regulations (available from University Police) and the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code. Vehicles used on campus must be registered and display a sticker as evidence of registration.

Parking is prohibited on lawns and in front of fire hydrants. Students must park their cars or other vehicles in designated parking areas and abide by University policies outlined in the parking regulations.

Weapons and Fireworks – Possessing, carrying, or using any weapon is prohibited in all University buildings, on University-owned or-controlled property, and at University-sponsored and/or University-supervised activities, except by authorized law officers and other persons specifically authorized by the University.

Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: firearms (such as pistols, rifles, shotguns, BB guns, paintball guns, or ammunition), bows and arrows, sling shots, hand-billies, dirk knives, razors, switchblades and other dangerous knives, explosives, chemicals, and martial arts equipment. Pennsylvania law prohibits the possession or use of fireworks.

Windows and Screens – Students are responsible for ensuring that windows in their rooms are closed when no one is in the room. Closing windows will help protect draperies, sills, and floors from rain, snow, or dampness and conserve heating fuel. Antennas are not permitted to be strung out of the windows. Removal of window screens is prohibited. Damaged screens will be repaired, and any charges assessed will be posted to the student’s account.

Other Regulations – The use or possession of the following items is not permitted in or around the residence areas:

1. Nonprescribed drugs (state and federal laws, policies and rules for students) not to include over-the- counter medications.
2. Gambling (state laws).
3. Aerials, masts, satellite dishes, and other short-wave radio transmitting/receiving equipment (FCC Interference and Safety Regulations).
4. Weight-lifting equipment in individual rooms due to potential damage to floors and furniture.
5. Power tools and implements (safety regulations).
6. Decorated live or fresh-cut holiday trees.

Violations
Resident students who engage in behavior that violates the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing Contract and/or the Student Code of Conduct will be required to work with Residence Life, Housing and Food Services, and/or Judicial Affairs to resolve the issue. A number of administrative and educational interventions have been identified to address inappropriate behavior. If a student is found to be responsible for the behavior(s) documented in the Incident Report, he/she may be assigned either or both types of the following interventions.

Administrative Interventions impact a student’s status within the residence halls. This list includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Verbal Warning: A verbal acknowledgment that community standards and/or expectations have been disregarded.
2. Letter of Concern: A written acknowledgment that community standards have been disregarded.
3. Contract Review: Implemented for either a serious breach of community standards or repeated inappropriate behavior. Contract review is for a specified period of time (semester, year, etc.) with the understanding that further disregard for community standards may result in the termination of a student’s Housing Contract.
4. Contract Termination: The cancellation of a student’s residence hall Contract.
5. Change of Room Assignment: The student is moved either temporarily or permanently to another residence hall location.
6. Restitution: The student must pay for damages for misappropriation of University property. This may be required through financial payment, community service, or both.

Educational Interventions require a student to become actively engaged in a process that will challenge the student to learn how his/her behavior impacts the community, and how he/she can make positive contributions to the community. This list includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Community Service: Assignments or tasks to be completed within a specified time frame.
2. Educational Projects: May include writing an essay, attending and/or presenting a workshop, creating a bulletin board, etc.

Appeals may only be heard in the case of contract termination. Judicial Affairs has identified sanctions relating to University Code of Conduct violations. More information is available in the Student Guide to General University Policies and Rules, found on the Web at www.sa.psu.edu/ja/pdf/PoliciesRules.pdf.

Food Services
Semester and Holiday Breaks – During holiday breaks (Thanksgiving and Spring Break) and between semesters, residence areas and dining facilities are officially closed. Closing and opening dates and times will be posted on all bulletin boards. Students are to vacate buildings accordingly. The University reserves the right to revise published calendar dates. Room and board rates do not include food service or accommodations during official University holiday or semester breaks.

Meal Access/id+ card – The id+ card provides access to meal plans and may be used only by the student to whom it is issued. Misuse of a meal plan or id+ card may lead to disciplinary action. Each student must present his/her id+ card to the cashier for each meal purchased, and will not be permitted to use the meal plan for purchases without the id+ card or temporary meal pass (see “Loss of id+ card,” below). The cashier is prohibited from making exceptions to this policy.

Loss of id+ card

1. Students should check with the Housing and Food Services and/or id+ offices to see if the id+ card has been turned in.
2. If the id+ card has not been turned in, the student must obtain a replacement id+ card at the current replacement fee.
3. The student should visit www.idcard.psu.edu to report the card lost and suspend meal plan privileges.

Dining Policies – Napkins, silverware, chinaware, trays, paper products, condiments, and other supplies may not be removed from the dining facility, unless provided for grab-and-go service. Consumption of food in the food court area, or removal of food items without paying, is strictly prohibited. Individuals violating these policies will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including prosecution.

Due to safety and health regulations, all students are required to wear shirts and shoes while in the dining facilities. Acts of horseplay and food fights are prohibited. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

Special Diets – Housing and Food Services is unable to provide specific menus for special diets under any circumstances. A student with special requirements (religious, medical, personal, dietary preference, etc.) that cannot be fulfilled by individual selection from the multiple menu choices should not submit a Housing and Food Service Contract. Students with questions concerning special diets should contact the Housing and Food Services Office prior to submitting the Contract.

If the student has submitted the Housing and Food Service Contract and subsequently develops a medical condition that requires a special diet, the student should provide documentation to Housing and Food Services that describes the medical justification for any special dietary requirement. Housing and Food Services may consult with University Health Services on the matter. If the special dietary requirements are confirmed, the Housing and Food Service Contract will be canceled for the remainder of the semester. A prorated credit will be processed, and the student will be required to make alternative housing and food services arrangements.

Meals During Illness – If a student is ill and unable to take a meal in the dining facility, a meal may be obtained by contacting Housing and Food Services.