Effective academic year 2007-2008. Subject to revision.

Penn State Harrisburg strives to provide a residence environment that is comfortable and conducive to learning and personal growth. The University assigns housing accommodations without regard to race or national origin. All students should familiarize themselves with the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations found in this section before completing the Housing Contract Card.

. On-Campus Residence Eligibility   . Rights Reserved by the University  
. General Conditions of the Contract   . General Maintenance  
. Obligation of Students   . Maintenance Inspection  
. Contract Submission   . Maintenance Repairs  
. Housing Deposit and Refund Schedule   . Damages  
. Housing Charges   . Financial Account Charges  
. Rental Contract Periods   . Insurance  
. Meningococcal Disease Immunization   . Room / Apartment Search  
. Substitutions   . Amenities  
. Occupancy   . Security  
. Changing Rooms / Apartments   . Safety  
. Consolidation of Vacancies   . Miscellaneous Regulations  
. Change in Room Assignment   . Violations  
. Termination of Residence Occupancy      
. Vacating Residence      

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

1. Upperclass students who lived in Penn State Harrisburg housing during the previous semester;
2. Upperclass students who lived in University housing at another Penn State campus during the previous semester;
3. Students transferring from another Penn State campus who did not live in University housing during the previous semester;
4. First-year students who are offered admission to Penn State.

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.

General Conditions of the Contract
THIS IS A LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT

A Housing Contract may not be transferred or assigned to another student. Contract Cards must be signed and dated as evidence of acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing Contract. This is a legally binding contract. Failure to pick up a room key does not release a student from this Contract.

The University reserves the right to deny or cancel a Housing Contract 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.

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

Contract Submission
First-year Students
– Applicants offered admission to Penn State Harrisburg who have requested resident status from the Office of Admissions will receive a Contract packet.

The Housing Contract Card, enclosed in the packet, must be returned by the date indicated. A check or money order in the amount of $100, made payable to The Pennsylvania State University, must accompany the Contract Card. Due to the high demand for on-campus accommodations, residence space is not guaranteed to all students who submit a Contract Card.

Upperclass Students – Upperclass students interested in requesting on-campus housing for the next academic year must utilize eLiving to submit a request. Students are notified in advance when the system will be available to submit a request for a Housing Contract. Students who are selected to receive an offer for a Housing Contract will be notified, and they must accept the offer online within the established timeframe. Students who accept a Housing  Contract and did not live on campus the previous academic year will have the $100 Housing Deposit applied to their student account. Additional information is available on the eLiving website.

Housing Deposit and Refund Schedule
Each student who applies for University housing who did not reside in University housing during the previous academic year must submit a $100 housing deposit with the Contract Card. This deposit is nonrefundable unless the student’s offer of contract is rejected by Housing and Food Services. The housing deposit shall be retained by the University until such time as a student indicates that he/she will not be residing in University housing during the subsequent year. At that time, the deposit will be credited against the student’s account within 30 days after the final contract period ends.

A student that needs to cancel a Housing Contract due to not attending or withdrawal from the University, or is granted a Contract release, needs to contact Housing and Food Services in writing. The Housing Deposit will be refunded based on the following schedule for fall semester:

Notification in Writing Refund Credit
by May 1 $50
between May 1 - July 1 $25
after July 1 $0

Housing Deposit refunds are not granted for spring semester Housing Contract cancellations.

A student who is granted a Change of Assignment to Penn State Harrisburg from another Penn State campus must sign a new Penn State Harrisburg Housing Contract. The initial housing deposit will be retained.

Housing Charges
Housing charges are payable by the prepayment deadline date as announced for all University student billings. All Housing 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 options will be charged. When a transfer from one room to another is effected during the first week of classes, the full rate 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.

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Rental Contract Periods
Rental contract periods for apartment assignments are based on the semester the student intends to begin using housing facilities. Students entering housing in fall semester are obligated for fall and spring semesters. Students entering housing in 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 Legislature passed the College and University Student Vaccination Act on June 26, 2002, and then Governor Mark Schweiker signed the Act into law effective June 28, 2002. This Act directly affects all students who reside in on-campus housing accommodations in Pennsylvania.

The Act has the following key elements:

1. Institutions of higher education are required to provide to students residing in on-campus housing accommodations information on the risks associated with meningococcal disease (meningitis is just one form of this disease), and the availability and effectiveness of the vaccine.

2. Students who have not received the immunization are prohibited from living in University-owned housing accommodations.

3. A student, or parent or guardian of a student under the age of 18, can sign an exception waiver stating that the information was received and reviewed, and that the vaccination was declined for religious or other reasons. The University may permit the student to then reside in on-campus housing accommodations once the waiver is received.

In order for Penn State to comply with this law, all on-campus students are required to submit the certification form prior to moving into an on-campus residence. The form is required to be submitted during the first year of on-campus occupancy and stays on file with Housing and Food Services during the time a student has an on-campus Housing Contract. Students who fail to submit a completed form will not be permitted to move into on-campus housing.

Students have three options:

1. Receive the vaccination from a health care provider prior to arriving on campus.

2. Receive the vaccination from University Health Services prior to check-in. (Based on campus demand.)

3. Request an exception from the immunization requirement.

Further information and the procedure for submitting forms is available at www.hfs.psu.edu/vaccine.

Substitutions
For students who wish to move off campus but are living in University housing and committed to a Housing Contract, a substitution of another student may be permitted only if a bona fide replacement is provided and no vacancies exist in University housing. The substitute cannot be a student who is already committed to a Housing Contract, and may not be assigned to the vacated space by the Contract-released student. The substitute is required to complete a Contract Card, which is legally binding until the end of the spring semester.

Occupancy
First-year students will be permitted to take occupancy on the date announced by the University. Upperclass 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, the start of registration, or the start of classes at the campus. Penn State Harrisburg 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 charges must be paid or arrangements made for payment to the Bursar before a student is issued a key and Penn State id+ Card. (Only new students receive id+ cards.)

Keys – When a student checks-in, keys to the apartment and mailbox will be issued. The student must sign a receipt for the keys and students should take all precautions 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 core of the lock to the apartment will be replaced and a new key will be issued to all residents of the apartment. The student’s account will be charged the actual cost per core change.

Check-In Form – When a student checks into an apartment, he/she should complete the check-in form. Any damages or missing items should be indicated to prevent being charged for damages or missing items at check-out time. The form is to be returned to Housing and Food Services. Each student will be held responsible for the condition of his/her room and apartment furnishings, and for any damages or losses that may occur during occupancy.

Changing Rooms/Apartments
Change Requests
– No room/apartment changes will be processed during the first two weeks of any semester. No changes may be made without following the prescribed procedure:

1. A designated period for 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 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.

Emergency Room/Apartment Change Request – Residence Life staff may approve emergency room/apartment changes. The student will discuss the need for a change in room 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.

Consolidation of Vacancies
If all four rooms in an apartment are not occupied, consolidation of apartments may occur. Students living on campus during summer session may be reassigned to another apartment to consolidate the number of occupied apartments. In consideration of consolidating vacancies, students have the option of either remaining in the current apartment with new roommates being assigned, or being reassigned to another apartment that has a vacancy. Housing and Food Services has final authority for the consolidation of vacancies.

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 an ADA room, needed for other programs or purposes, or conditions in a specific location require such reassignment to ensure a proper educational environment.

Termination of Residence Occupancy
Contract Termination –
Housing and Food Services, in consultation with Residence Life, 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 Contract

6. Is in violation of state or federal laws

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

The student has a right to appeal termination of the Housing Contract to the director of Student Affairs who, in consultation with the general manager of Housing and Food Services, will make the final decision.

Request for Contract Release by the Student – The Housing 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 Residence Life, who will consult with Housing and Food Services. 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 – If a student suffers from a severe medical condition requiring that he/she live off campus, verification of the condition must be submitted to the vice president/director of Student Affairs for the student to receive a 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 available for occupancy), the student will be assessed a charge equaling 20 percent of the total room 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 their residence rooms and then withdrew from the University or were granted a contract release will receive a credit based on a prorated weekly 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 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 cost refunds are granted after the eighth week of the semester. Refunds are based on full weeks only.

Refunds are based upon the date belongings are removed from the room, and the apartment key is returned to the Housing and Food Services Office, or the effective date of withdrawal from classes, whichever is later. Students leaving the University apartment complex should confirm plans with the Housing and Food Services Office 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 charges 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
Students are required to check out of their rooms not more than 24 hours after the last final or by the posted closing date of the apartment complex, whichever comes first. Students withdrawing from the University or released from Contracts must vacate 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 except as a personal security precaution, or unless an apartment consolidation or a room change occurs.

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 apartment complex dumpsters. 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).

During the check-out process, the check-in form that was completed during check-in will be reviewed for damages. The student will be responsible for obtaining the check-in form from Housing and Food Services and scheduling a check-out time. The completed check-in form, and room, apartment, and mailbox keys, must be submitted to Housing and Food Services prior to leaving campus. Failure to return keys at the time of check-out will result in the student being billed for actual room and apartment core replacement costs, plus a charge for key replacement. 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 accomplished.

The University reserves the right to cancel Contracts or change assignments for the next academic year if the contracting student’s room or apartment 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 posted 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 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 the 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 Contract.

General Maintenance
Each student is expected to maintain his/her room and the common areas of the apartment in an orderly and sanitary condition, empty trash into the dumpsters in the apartment complex, 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 the room or apartment, Housing staff will clean the room or the apartment and the resident(s) will be charged accordingly. Students are responsible for removing trash from apartments and placing it in the provided dumpster. Trash that is placed in the apartment landing or doorway will be removed by Housing, and a fee will be assessed to the apartment’s occupants. Recycling containers must be kept inside the apartment, and are not permitted outside of the apartment or on landings.

The University reserves the right to cancel the student’s Contract and/or to refuse an assignment for future periods, depending upon the inconvenience to Housing and Food Services and other students caused by the persistence of disorderly and unsanitary conditions in a student’s room or apartment.

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 an apartment is entered by University officials, a Notice of Inspection form will be placed in the apartment.

Student apartments are inspected during each semester and at time of check-out. Routine inspections will be announced in advance, and the student may choose to be present during the inspection. These inspections are conducted: (1) to evaluate the condition of the apartment 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 apartment. Should Housing and Food Services observe the presence of unapproved appliances or objects in the apartment, 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 resident(s), 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 student’s room/apartment should be discussed with Housing and Food Services. Maintenance problems may be noted on the Request for Service sheet, located in the Housing and Food Services Office and in the Community Center, or an e-mail can be sent to housingcl@psu.edu.

If a student has requested repair of an item in his/her room/apartment, the repair should 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 room/apartment to perform preventive maintenance, needed repairs identified during room inspection, or emergency repairs. If an employee enters a student’s room/apartment when the student is not present, the employee will leave a form stating the date, time, and reason for entering the room/apartment.

Damages
All students will be held responsible for the condition of the apartment, room, furnishings, and for any other damages or losses 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.

Each resident student is responsible for damage caused by his/her guests. Individuals identified as being responsible for damage, theft, or losses in an apartment 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 Contract.

All residents will be held collectively responsible for damages, theft, or losses in common areas of the apartment that may occur during occupancy when the individual(s) responsible cannot be identified. A maximum amount of $10,000 per incident per apartment, up to a maximum personal liability of $120 each semester of occupancy, will be assessed to residents for nonattributable damages to common areas. 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 apartments: 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 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/Apartment Search
There are no routine room/apartment searches. Room/apartment searches are conducted only when there is strong reason to believe that an occupant of a room/apartment is 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/apartment searches are typically conducted by Residence Life staff, after obtaining approval on the potential search from Residence Life staff or Student Affairs. Approval is given only after the reason for the search and the object(s) being sought are clarified. Searches are usually conducted in the presence of the student occupant, and only in unusual cases would the room be searched in the student’s absence.

When it is necessary for a member of the Department of University Safety to search a room/apartment, 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/apartment. 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
Electrical Appliances – The following electrical appliances are authorized for use if an Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., label (UL label) is on the appliance: answering machines; televisions; stereo component systems; coffee makers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off); clocks; fans; sun lamps (with enclosed bulb); curling irons (with automatic shut-off); hair dryers; hair setters; corn poppers (with enclosed heating element and automatic shut-off); and personal computers.

The following appliances are prohibited: hot plates; toasters; indoor/outdoor grills; halogen lamps and lights; lava lamps; potpourri burners; immersion heaters; heating coils; ovens; grills; fog/smoke machines; microwaves; and personal refrigerators. 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.

Furnishings – Apartments are furnished to meet resident living arrangements. Students are not permitted to use furniture other than what has been provided, including water beds. Bean bags are acceptable. Radios, televisions, stereos, clocks, additional lamps (excluding halogen lamps), and personal computers are permitted.

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, or hanging of beds is not acceptable.

Linens and Window Treatments – Mini-blinds are furnished by the University. The University does not provide bed linens, blankets, pillows, towels, or washcloths.

Penn State Network Connection – Students can access the Penn State Internet system in the apartment complex 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 at www.rescom.psu.edu. By registering for or using the connection, the student agrees to be bound by the Penn State Residence Hall Network Connection Agreement, which is available online at www.rescom.psu.edu/pages/connectionagreement.htm. Specific information regarding illegal activity, bandwidth limitations, inappropriate content, servers, and personal responsibilities is also provided on the ResCom Web site. The use of the 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.

Telephone Connections/Service – Each room is equipped with a telephone outlet as part of the Housing Contract. Local and nontoll long-distance calls, subject to restrictions imposed by the long-distance carrier, may be made and received on telephone lines. The cost of local and campus telephone service is included in the room and board fee. Toll long-distance calls cannot be made on the telephone; students are advised to purchase a phone card to place such calls.

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 services 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

Vending and Laundry – 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.

Security
It is the responsibility of residents to help ensure that adequate security is maintained in the apartment. Students should report unauthorized persons to proper authorities and be constantly aware of the importance of maintaining security in the apartment complex. Each student should keep room doors and windows locked when not in the apartment.

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Safety
Elevators – Elevators should never be used in the event of a fire. When using 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 directions and assistance from elevator technicians or emergency personnel

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

The following may cause hazardous situations and are prohibited under State Labor and Industry regulations: papering of ceilings, 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-protective 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 outlets by the use of extension cords or splicing is prohibited.

Fire Equipment – Fire extinguishers are located in the hallway of each apartment. All apartments are equipped with modern sprinkler equipment. Battery back-up smoke detectors are provided. Tampering with fire extinguishers and smoke detectors is a serious matter that could jeopardize the safety of a number of people and could 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 apartment complex.

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 apartment complex. 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 may be stored in student bedrooms. With the mutual consent of the other roommates, bicycles may be stored in the common apartment area. Bicycles, skateboards, and in-line skates are not permitted in the Community Center or dining facilities. Wheelchairs and similar equipment required by an individual with a disability are approved for that individual’s use only.

Canvassing – Canvassing is defined as any effort to influence student opinions, gain support, or promote a particular cause or interest, specifically excluding any solicitation or fund-raising as defined by current University regulations. Surveys are not considered to be canvassing for purposes of this policy.

Students, student organizations, residence community governments, and outside interests are eligible to canvass in the apartment complex. Canvassing is prohibited in the dining commons, but can occur in the Community Center and door-to-door in individual apartments, unless restricted by a majority vote of the residents of the apartment complex. Canvassing is restricted to the hours of 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. All canvassers must register with the Residence Life Office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled canvass.

When contacting students in their apartments, canvassers must knock before entering, identify themselves, announce their specific purpose, enter the apartment or an individual room only with the expressed consent of the resident, and leave immediately if the resident so requests. A canvasser who is not a resident of the apartment building in which door-to-door canvassing is taking place must be escorted by a resident of the building at all times. Canvassers must abide by all University rules and regulations. All violators will be subject to referral to the Office of Judicial Affairs and/or civil or criminal prosecution.

Commercial Enterprises – Conducting any business enterprise for personal profit is prohibited in and around University-operated facilities. Such enterprises may be conducted only by recognized student organizations and student governments within the apartment complex, 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.

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, and driveways.

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

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 and 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

Pets – Pets of any kind are NOT permitted to be fed, housed, or harbored in or around any apartment or area owned or operated by Penn State Harrisburg Housing and Food Services. This includes amphibious creatures, reptiles, birds, dogs, cats, etc.—with the exception of tropical fish and goldfish in a fish tank, not to exceed 10 gallons. This policy also pertains to pets of guests. The University reserves the right to inspect the premises and will do so when pets are suspected.

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.

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, lawns, and shrubs, students should not use the lawns and seeded areas adjacent to the apartment complex, nor rooms within the apartments.

Storage – There is limited storage in apartments 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 apartments during absences.

Traffic and Parking Regulations – Student use of vehicles on campus is governed by campus parking regulations (available at the office of 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 their 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 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, paint ball 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 mini-blinds, sills, and floors from rain, snow, and 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.

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 and/or Judicial Affairs to resolve the issue. Outcomes could include, but are not limited to, the following actions: educational interventions; Contract review; change of housing assignment; Contract cancellation; Contract termination; and disciplinary action. Guidelines and procedures related to this process are available from Residence Life.

Residence Life has identified a number of administrative and educational interventions to address inappropriate behavior. If a student is found to be responsible for the behavior(s) documented in the Incident Report, the student may be assigned either or both types of the following interventions.

Administrative Interventions impact a student’s status within the apartment complex. 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 Housing Contract.

5. Change of Housing Assignment - The student is moved either temporarily or permanently to another apartment 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 students to become actively engaged in a process that will challenge them to learn how their behavior impacts the community, and how they 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 contact termination. Judicial Affairs has identified sanctions relating to the University Code of Conduct violations. For more information, please refer to the Student Guide to General University Policies and Rules, found on the Web at www.sa.psu.edu/ja/PDF/PoliciesRules.pdf

Food Services - Meal Access/id+ Card: The id+ Card provides access to an optional meal plan and may be used only by the student to whom it is issued. Misuse of the 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. Students will not be permitted to use the meal plan for purchases without the id+ Card. The cashier is prohibited from making exceptions to this policy.

Loss of id+ Card
1. Students should check with the Housing and Food Services office 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.

Dining Policies - Napkins, silverware, chinaware, trays, paper products, condiments, and other supplies may not be removed from the dining facility. 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 facility. Acts of horseplay and food fights are prohibited. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

Postal Service and Mail - Students will receive their apartment assignments and mailing address in the semester bill, which is available one month before the semester begins. Only mail addressed to the occupant of the room will be processed. The mailbox key is issued with the room key.

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Comments or concerns pertaining to the dining operation?
Contact foodservicecl@psu.edu or 717-948-6241.

Comments or concerns pertaining to the housing operation?
Contact housingcl@psu.edu or 717-948-6244.

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This page was last updated on Thursday, January 06, 2005.