Zero Tolerance Noise Policy
(University Apartments Handbook)
Noise is a serious concern to residents who wish to study in their apartment, or have young children with early bedtimes, or daytime naps. Residents are requested to observe the academic purpose of University Apartments housing and consider the close physical proximity of their neighbors within the community, by not causing any unusual nuisance or annoyance to the neighborhood (other than normal daily family and children noise). All residents are asked to be considerate of the noise levels emanating from their apartment, especially when cooperation is requested by a neighbor. Residents should refrain from playing radios, televisions, stereos, musical instruments, etc. at volume levels which will disturb their neighbors and/or the community. Residents are responsible for the actions of their visitors and guests. Loud or noisy parties, which disturb the neighborhood, will not be permitted. Michigan State University has established a Zero Tolerance Policy, which is in effect 24 hours per day, seven days per week against noise. If any resident (or their visitors) who engages in any unreasonable noise, could be in violation of Michigan State University ordinances regarding noise (15.10), will be subject to citation, University Judicial Affairs proceedings and possible eviction.
UARL Community Standards
As residents of University Apartments we all must try to maintain basic community standards. The first of those standards is the Zero Tolerance policy for noise disturbances in or around University Apartments. Each year, as we receive new residents, it becomes obvious that each of us are at different life stages. Some of us are undergraduates without children while others of us may be working on a dissertation. Because there is such a wide spectrum in how we all live our lives, it was essential to create a policy that would allow each of us to live in communal harmony. Below is an outline of that policy.
What is it?
Zero Tolerance is a practice that reflects that there is no tolerance for the presence of noise above an acceptable level in University apartments, at any time of day.
What hours does it apply to?
Zero Tolerance in effect 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A noise violation can occur during daytime or nighttime hours. Residents' privacy rights include studying and sleeping in a quiet environment at all times.
Zero Tolerance was a set of guidelines formed out of community concern. In 1996 a group of residents formed the University Apartments Coalition. These residents, in conjunction with DPPS, U-Housing and Residence Life, set in place their wishes for a learning environment which was free of excessive noise.
To whom does it apply?
The Zero Tolerance noise guidelines apply to all residents of University Apartments, as well as their friends and family; basically anyone on UA property. It also applies to residents who violate noise regulations in UA facilities (the Community Centers as well as community and study rooms).
Who can enforce Zero Tolerance?
If you ever have a problem with excessive noise in your bay or building, DPPS is responsible for verifying noise complaints. But, keep in mind that those individuals are made aware of noise related situations via other residents. In other words, ALL RESIDENTS have a role in the enforcement of Zero Tolerance. Residents can also file a judicial complaint against alleged noise perpetrators.
What are possible sanctions to violating Zero Tolerance?
When a noise situation is verified, allegations will be made against the alleged perpetrator(s) and a letter will be sent or a meeting will be set up with the Community Director or a Community Peer in the University Apartments Residence Life office. If the police issue a citation, eviction procedures will be started. Eviction may also be a possible outcome after multiple verifications of noise.