2.2.1 Dormitory Regulations

A student resident in a University dormitory agrees to the terms and conditions outlined in the University room contract. In general, dormitory residents themselves have authority to make their own social rules, so long as those rules conform to the general guidelines defined in the following paragraphs, as well as to the University’s general conduct regulations. Note: there are a companion set of regulations available for graduate student apartments.

Undergraduate students who choose gender inclusive housing may be assigned to the same room regardless of gender. In graduate dormitory housing, students of different genders generally may not share the same room or suite, but they may share the same bathroom. However, specifically designated rooms, bathrooms, or suites in graduate dormitories may be made available for shared occupancy or use as gender-neutral housing.

Space in University dormitories is made available to regularly enrolled students of Princeton for their personal use, and use of such space cannot be transferred to any other individual. While students are permitted to have guests (including Princeton students staying in a room for which they do not have a housing contract) for short periods of time, extended visits are not permitted. Where applicable, the privilege of having overnight guests is subject to the approval of all roommates.

Students are responsible for ensuring that they and their guests abide by all University conduct regulations within their assigned room or suite. Generally, students will be subject to disciplinary action for any violation of University policy that takes place within their assigned room or suite, unless they neither knew about nor consented to the behavior or activity in question, or could not reasonably have been expected to foresee that a violation would ensue. Members of the dormitory community are expected to act with a considerate regard for the rights, privileges, and sensibilities of others. Dormitory residents should respect the desire of all members of the community for a reasonable degree of privacy.

It is expected that residents will show consideration for the property of their peers and of the University. The student is responsible for loss or damage to University property (including the furniture, life safety and security devices, and the accommodations) provided for the use of the student. In the event of loss or damage, the student using the accommodations will be charged for necessary repairs or replacements. In addition, students who damage private property or University property will be subject to University disciplinary action. Students may be held liable for all losses or damages resulting from negligent and/or purposeful acts and may also be liable for any loss or damage incurred by their guests who are non-University members.

Students may not appropriate University furniture from common spaces for use in a dorm room, nor remove from a dorm room the University furniture assigned to that room except as noted on the Housing and Real Estate Services website. Additionally, students may not remove furniture from furnished apartments.

Failure to fully vacate a dormitory room by the date required in the dormitory contract is considered an unauthorized occupancy of a residential unit (see section 1.4.7).

The faculty retains general oversight of undergraduate dormitories. The University Student Life Committee is responsible for making policy recommendations to the vice president for campus life and the executive director of housing. Violations of dormitory regulations are adjudicated by the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students, the Faculty-Student Committee on Discipline, the Residential College Disciplinary Board, the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School, or the Housing and Real Estate Services Office. Housing policies, regulations, and services are outlined on the Housing and Real Estate Services website.

Undergraduate students and graduate students living in the undergraduate dormitories, Graduate College and Annexes or in University rentals should consult: https://hres.princeton.edu/policies

Noise

Every Princeton student residing on campus has the right to a reasonably quiet environment in which to study and to pursue other interests. The University expects all students to respect this right and to be aware of the impact of their activities on their neighbors. Audio speakers, for example, should be placed in such a way as not to interfere with the activities of others. Normally, audio equipment should be placed away from doors and open windows. While social gatherings are an essential part of campus life, students responsible for hosting parties are urged to be considerate of their neighbors. Throughout the academic year, including reading period and exam times, if the Department of Public Safety receives complaints about a loud party or other noisemaking activity prior to midnight on weeknights or 2 a.m. on weekends (Friday–Saturday and Saturday–Sunday nights only), the public safety officers will ask the hosts to reduce the noise level. After the curfew hour, or at any time after a second call for a noise violation at the same location, the public safety officers are authorized to end the activity in question. Dormitory residents concerned about excessive noise should feel free, at any time, to call the public safety officers for assistance. All noise complaints are noted by the Department of Public Safety. Violations of this noise policy may result in disciplinary action by the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School or the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students.

Animals in Housing

The only pets that may be kept in dormitory rooms are fish contained in tanks that do not exceed 10 gallons. Students requesting an assistance animal due to a documented disability may do so at any time, but should plan to submit a request by July 1st for requests to bring the assistance animal to campus at the start of the academic year. Any student wishing to bring an assistance animal to campus must submit a request for accommodation to the Office of Disability Services. Information on the University’s Service and Assistance Animals policy can be found at: https://inclusive.princeton.edu/addressing-concerns/policies/service-and-assistance-animals-policy. Requests for Assistance Animals will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students seeking to have a service or guide dog in housing should contact the Office of Disability Services.

Smoking

Princeton University is committed to providing a healthy, smoke-free living environment for all its students. Further, New Jersey law prohibits smoking in all dormitories/annexes, including private student rooms and common areas. In accordance with the University’s smoking policy, smoking is not permitted anywhere within Princeton University dormitories/annexes or graduate student apartment buildings or units. More information on the University’s smoking policy can be found at: https://ehs.princeton.edu/health-safety-the-campus-community/smoking-campus.

Fire Safety Policy

Students are required to comply with all policies governing fire safety. These policies are intended to create a safe environment for members of the University community and to minimize potential fire and life safety hazards. Students are expected to evacuate dormitories and all other University buildings when a fire alarm activates or when instructed to do so by public safety or other University staff. For more information, students should consult the Fire Safety Policies on the Housing and Real Estate Services website at: https://hres.princeton.edu/policies/fire-safety.

Candle/Flammable Liquid/Incense/Fireworks Policy

The University candle/incense ban is a total ban in all dormitories and annexes. Candles/incense do not have to show signs of use and/or be out of manufacturer’s wrapping. All candles/incense will be confiscated and immediately disposed of. A $100 fine will be issued along with possible disciplinary action by the dean’s office for lit or unlit candles/incense. If damage occurs to a room due to candles/incense, the student will be held liable for charges to restore the room to its original condition. Fireworks are also prohibited in University dormitories. See section 1.2.5.

Storage

Storage space is extremely limited in the dormitories. During the academic year, therefore, students may store their possessions only in their suites or in designated storage areas. Possessions found in other areas will be treated as abandoned goods, and will be disposed of by the University at its sole discretion. During the summer vacation, all personal possessions must be removed from dormitory rooms.

Lofts

Lofts which conform to University standards and that incorporate the bed frames and mattress are permitted in dormitory rooms. Please consult the Housing Office for information regarding appropriate specifications.

Privacy and Right of Re-entry

The University respects the privacy of the student but reserves the right to re-enter and take possession of the accommodations upon breach of any term of this agreement. The University may enter the accommodations during reasonable hours to provide efficient service and maintenance. The University may enter the accommodations without notice for the purposes of emergency service, safety and room condition inspections, or if there is reason to believe that any term or condition of this agreement or any University policy is being violated. When entering accommodations, the University may be accompanied by an outside party, such as a municipal fire inspector.

Search of Dormitory Rooms

An administrative search of dormitory rooms (excluding safety inspections) will be carried out only with adequate cause, and with the explicit authorization of the dean of undergraduate students, the dean of the Graduate School, or some other senior administrative officer. Such a search may be conducted, for example, where there is reason to believe that the health and safety of an individual (or the campus community) is at stake or a term or condition of this agreement or a University policy is being violated. Should such a search be necessary, every effort will be made to have the resident present at the time of the search. If it is impossible to arrange to have the resident present, the resident will be informed of the action as soon as possible following the search.

2.2.2 Other Building Policies

Posting of Notices

Posters or notices of any kind may be affixed only to bulletin boards in dormitory entryways, food service units, academic and administration buildings, and outdoor kiosks, lampposts, and bulletin boards. Individuals are encouraged to remove outdated material from kiosks and bulletin boards rather than postering over existing notices. (See also section 1.2.4.)

Safety Regulations

Entering mechanical areas (rooms, steam, and utility tunnels, etc.), construction sites, or other restricted areas is prohibited. Entering upon exterior elevated surfaces of campus buildings (roofs, fire escapes, terraces, balconies, parapets, or ledges above the first floor) is prohibited except in emergencies or in the circumstances described below:

1. Authorized persons may, for purposes of research, enter upon the following elevated areas constructed especially for such research: the roof of Jadwin Laboratory, the terrace of the Engineering Research Laboratory, the Butler College rooftop garden, Sherrerd Hall rooftop, and the Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment rooftop garden and Lewis Center for the Arts rooftop terrace. Prox access is required. Entrance upon these areas may be authorized at the discretion of the responsible administrators or faculty departmental chairs.
2. The New College West and Yeh rooftop spaces are available to students with residential college approval only. Prox access is required. Entrance to these areas is authorized at the discretion of the residential colleges.
3. In addition, members of the faculty and staff may, for purposes of research, request authorization to enter upon elevated surfaces other than those specified above. Such requests will be reviewed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety in conjunction with the Department of Facilities. Student requests must be sponsored by a faculty or staff member.
4. Any persons may enter upon the following terraces and on-grade plazas clearly designed for foot traffic and gatherings: Jadwin Plaza, New College West and Yeh College plaza, Simpson International Building balcony, and the Lewis Center for the Arts plaza.
5. University employees or contractor personnel are authorized to enter upon any elevated surfaces in the performance of official functions.

These regulations are intended to prevent injuries to members of the University community, and to prevent physical damage to surfaces, areas, or equipment not designed for traffic or public use.

This policy specifically prohibits buildering on any elevated surface on the campus. The policy also prohibits entering upon any dormitory exterior areas above the first floor. (While some exterior elevated areas of the dormitories may appear to have been designed for foot traffic or gatherings, all such spaces are to be used only as a second means of egress in case of fire.)

No items, including antennas and wire, lights, flags, banners, etc., may be placed on or affixed to the outside of any building. No items may be placed on fire escapes at any time, under any circumstances.

Because of the seriousness of the regulations regarding fire safety and use of steam and utility tunnels and exterior elevated surfaces of campus buildings, the University will take disciplinary action on a first offense. Such action may include the imposition of a fine by the Housing Office. Undergraduate students and graduate students should refer to the applicable fire safety policies on the Housing and Real Estate Services website for specific information regarding such fines at: https://hres.princeton.edu/policies/fire-safety-policies. Graduate students and undergraduate students living in rental units should consult: https://hres.princeton.edu/policies/apartment-living.

The University has the right, moreover, to require students who have violated these safety rules (or any other dormitory regulations) to vacate their accommodations with no financial credit for the remainder of the semester.

In order to ensure the safety of students engaged in certain academic, research, and extracurricular activities, the University has established policies governing safety practices in research facilities and machine shops. These regulations are explained during safety training required of all participants and students are expected to adhere to all regulations and lab and shop safety postings. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

For clarification of the above safety regulations, please consult the Housing Office, Office of Environmental Health and Safety, the University Fire Marshal’s Office, or the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students.

2.2.3 Campus Dining Regulations

All first-year and sophomores are required to sign a Campus Dining meal contract for the unlimited plan. Juniors and seniors have the option of the unlimited plan, Block 105 or no Campus Dining meal plan. Students requesting accommodations for medical reasons should contact the Office of Disability Services. Detailed terms of dining contracts are available at https://dining.princeton.edu/meal-plans.

2.2.4 Health Regulations

Health Services offerings and services are outlined on the University Health Services website at uhs.princeton.edu. University Health Services has policies and procedures governing the confidentiality of student health records and the extent to which information may or may not be released consistent with state and federal law. Specific immunizations are required for enrolled students by the University and the state of New Jersey. An up-to-date list of immunizations that are required can be found at uhs.princeton.edu/medical-services/immunizations-allergy-shots/required-recommended-immunizations. For further information, contact University Health Services.

2.2.5 Disorderly and Disrespectful Conduct

Students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the law and commonly accepted standards of behavior. Unauthorized entry into restricted spaces, combative or disruptive conduct with local or University medical, law enforcement, fire, emergency or other personnel, excessive noise, public nudity, public urination, disrespect for spaces that requires cleanup by University staff members, or other behaviors that clearly disrupt and disrespect the working and/or living conditions of others, may be met with disciplinary sanctions.

2.2.6 University Ban on the Nude Olympics

For a number of years undergraduates, predominantly members of the sophomore class, gathered as a group in Holder Courtyard on the night of the first snowfall, virtually naked, and in an environment that included student alcohol abuse, underage drinking, lack of concern for the welfare of fellow students, and risk of harm to themselves, to other people, and to property. This gathering came to be known as the “Nude Olympics.”

In the spring of 1999, the president of the University and the Board of Trustees accepted the recommendation of the Committee on the Nude Olympics that this activity be banned, effective immediately, because of the severe health and safety risks posed by the event. The undergraduate student body is advised that they may not attempt to organize or engage in any activity that is perceived to perpetuate gatherings or events that contain or encourage some or all of the behaviors that have been associated with past Nude Olympics. These prohibitions apply to the campus, as well as to public and private property in the surrounding communities.

Any undergraduate engaging in activity that, in the judgment of the dean of undergraduate students or a designee, could reasonably appear to others to perpetuate gatherings or events that contain or encourage such behaviors is subject to suspension from the University for a period of at least one year. The penalty will be increased for aggravating behaviors, such as committing acts of vandalism, harassment, or avoiding apprehension by campus public safety officers or municipal police. Normal disciplinary procedures will apply, except that (1) the dean of undergraduate students, or a designee, will hear the case and assign the penalty, and (2) appeals will be brought to a subcommittee of the Faculty-Student Committee on Discipline.

The president and board ask members of the University community to report information they have regarding possible violations of this policy to the Department of Public Safety or the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students.

2.2.7 Hazing

Hazing can be a violation of New Jersey law as well as a violation of University policy. A student may be found responsible for violating University policy even if not charged or found guilty of a crime under New Jersey law.

New Jersey Law

Included below is a summary of New Jersey's hazing law; for a complete copy of the law, consult N.J.S.A. Title 2C, Sections 40-3 through 40-5. Under New Jersey law:

a) A person is guilty of hazing, if, in connection with initiation of applicants to or members of a student or fraternal organization, whose membership is primarily students or alumni of the organization or an institution of higher education, the person knowingly or recklessly:

1. causes, coerces, or otherwise induces another person to commit an act that violates federal or State criminal law;
2. causes, coerces, or otherwise induces another person to consume any food, liquid, alcoholic liquid, drug or other substance which subjects the person to a risk of emotional or physical harm or is otherwise deleterious to the person’s health;
3. subjects another person to abuse, mistreatment, harassment, or degradation of a physical nature, including, but not limited to, whipping, beating, branding, excessive calisthenics, or exposure to the elements;
4. subjects another person to abuse, mistreatment, harassment, or degradation of a mental or emotional nature, including, but not limited to, activity adversely affecting the mental or emotional health or dignity of the individual, sleep deprivation, exclusion from social contact, or conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment;
5. subjects another person to abuse, mistreatment, harassment, or degradation of a sexual nature; or
6. subjects another person to any other activity that creates a reasonable likelihood of bodily injury to the person.

Hazing shall not include any reasonable and customary athletic, law enforcement, or military training; contests; competitions; or events.

b) Hazing is a crime of the third degree if an actor commits an act of hazing which results in death or serious bodily injury to another person and is a crime of the fourth degree if the actor commits an act of hazing which results in bodily injury to another person. Otherwise, hazing is a disorderly persons offense.

c) In addition to any other sanctions or penalties that may be imposed under law, knowingly or recklessly promoting or facilitating a person to commit an act of hazing shall be subject to a fine under law of not less than $1,000 or more than $5,000 for an initial violation, and a fine of not less than $5,000 or more than $15,000 for each subsequent violation.

d) A person, student or fraternal organization, or institution of higher education, and another person acting in concert with the person, organization, or institution, shall be immune from prosecution under this section if the person, or an employee, officer, or other agent acting on behalf of the organization or institution, as the case may be.

1. called 9-1-1, or otherwise contacted campus security, police, or emergency services, and reported that a person was in need of medical assistance due to an act of hazing as described in this section;
2. the caller provided the caller’s name and, if applicable, the name of the person acting in concert with the caller to the 9-1-1 operator or other recipient of the emergency contact;
3. the caller was the first to make the 9-1-1 report or other emergency report; and the caller and, if applicable, the person acting in concert with the caller remained on the scene with the person in need of medical assistance until assistance arrived and cooperated with the emergency services on the scene.

Consent shall not be available as a defense to a prosecution under law, and it shall not be an affirmative defense to a prosecution under law that the conduct in which the actor engaged was sanctioned or approved.

Conduct constituting an offense under the law may be prosecuted under any applicable provision of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice.

University Policy Prohibiting Hazing

All students shall have the right to be free of all activities which might constitute hazing, while attempting to become a member of, or maintain membership in, a fraternity, sorority, athletic team, student organization, eating club, or other organization. Organizations, their members, and their prospective members are prohibited from engaging in or encouraging others to engage in activities that are defined as hazing.

Hazing encompasses a broad range of behaviors that (a) may place another person in danger of bodily injury, or (b) that demonstrates indifference or disregard for another person’s dignity or well-being.

Examples of hazing include but are not limited to the following:

• Ingestion of alcohol, food, drugs, or any undesirable substance.
• Participation in sexual rituals or assaults.
• Emotionally or psychologically abusive or demeaning behavior.
• Acts that could result in physical, psychological, or emotional deprivation or harm.
• Physical abuse, e.g., whipping, paddling, beating, tattooing, branding, and exposure to the elements, or the threat of such behaviors.
• Participation in illegal activities or activities prohibited by University policy.
• Requiring nudity.
• Requiring the completion of errands.

Where an activity amounts to hazing, a person’s consent to the activity is not a defense. In order to encourage students who may hesitate to report incidents of hazing for fear of revealing other policy violations, the University may offer leniency to a reporting student with respect to the behavior reported, depending on the circumstances involved.

See also section 1.4, providing that members of the University community are expected to act in accordance with applicable law.

Acceptable Behavior

Any new member initiation process should be conducted in a manner that respects the dignity of new members and protects their mental and physical well-being. Examples of acceptable behavior include the promotion of scholarship or service, the development of leadership or social skills or of career goals, involvement with alumni, building an awareness of organizational history, development of a sense of solidarity with other organization members, or activities that otherwise promote the mission of the organization or of the University.

For additional information, see https://odus.princeton.edu/community-standards/hazing.

2.2.8 Fraternities and Sororities

The University does not recognize fraternities and sororities because, in general, they do not add in positive ways to the overall residential experience on the campus. These organizations can contribute to a sense of social exclusiveness and often place an excessive emphasis on alcohol. Students are discouraged from participating in these organizations.

Sororities and fraternities are not permitted to use any University resources or participate in University-sponsored events (e.g., Student Activities Fair, Princeton Preview Program, etc.).

Prohibited Activities

First-year students may not affiliate with a fraternity or sorority. Affiliation includes but is not limited to: membership; “pledging” (i.e., participating in new member programming); participating in “rush” (i.e., formal recruitment); attending or participating in any activity sponsored by a fraternity or sorority; or contributing funds to a fraternity or sorority.

Students may not solicit the participation of any first-year students in a fraternity or sorority, including by electronic means. Solicitation includes but is not limited to: conferring membership on a first-year student; inviting a first-year student to pledge or participate in new member programming; including a first-year student in rush or formal recruitment; inviting a first-year student to attend or participate in any activity sponsored by a fraternity or sorority; organizing a sponsored event to which first-year students are invited; or soliciting or accepting funds from a first-year student on behalf of a fraternity or sorority.

Indications that an activity is “sponsored” by a fraternity or sorority may include but are not limited to: an invitation to participants on behalf of a fraternity or sorority; the use of fraternity or sorority funds to support the activity; or an announcement or other explicit identification of fraternity or sorority sponsorship. The presence of individuals who are members of the fraternity or sorority is not, alone, evidence of sponsorship.

This policy applies to activities that occur both on and off campus.

Students Covered by This Policy

A student will only be held responsible for actions which a reasonable person in that student’s position would have known were contrary to this policy. A student who is not a member of a fraternity or sorority will not be held responsible for solicitation unless there is clear and persuasive evidence that the student acted on behalf of or actively and intentionally enabled members of a fraternity/sorority in violating the policy. For the purposes of this policy, Bridge Year Program participants and students who have been admitted to Princeton but who have not yet matriculated are considered first-year students. Students are considered first-year students until the end of the final examination period of their second semester at Princeton.

Definition of a Fraternity or Sorority

For the purposes of this policy, a fraternity or sorority

• is a student organization (i.e., an entity with a leadership or financial structure that has or intends to have a persisting identity over time),
• is not recognized by the University, and
• either has Greek letters in its name and an affiliation with a national organization or has a primarily social purpose and an exclusive membership.

This policy does not apply to the eating clubs or to any organization whose membership is not open to any Princeton student.

Consequences

Any violation of this policy will be regarded as a serious matter. A student who engages in solicitation, as defined above, should expect to be suspended. A first-year student who joins, pledges, or rushes a fraternity or sorority should expect to be suspended. A first-year student who attends or participates in any other activity or event sponsored by a fraternity or sorority may be subject to a lesser penalty (e.g., disciplinary probation). All relevant facts and circumstances will be taken into account in determining the appropriate penalty.

The University may offer leniency to a student who has been extraordinarily forthcoming during an investigation under this policy where that student might otherwise have been implicated in an infraction.

2.2.9 Alcohol Policy

Students at Princeton University are responsible for knowing and abiding by both state and University regulations regarding the consumption of alcohol. The University provides educational programs and information on alcohol and drug abuse as well as counseling services related to alcohol and other drug use. Students are expected and encouraged to be aware of the social, physiological, and psychological consequences and personal risks of excessive drinking in order to make responsible and informed decisions about the serving and consumption of alcohol. Students who take prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or herbal or other supplements are expected to be aware of the consequences of drinking alcohol in combination with those medications.

The University alcoholic beverage policy is consistent with the laws of the state of New Jersey that, in general, prohibit the consumption and serving of alcoholic beverages by and to persons under 21 years of age. Students will be deemed to have served alcohol when they have made alcohol available to others, regardless of whether any alcohol is actually consumed. Students’ responsibility for violations of University policy that take place within their assigned room or suite is described in section 2.2.1. Students are responsible for their behavior, whether or not they are under the influence of alcohol. The consumption of alcohol does not constitute a mitigating circumstance when it contributes to the violation of University regulations. The policy affirms the need for mutual respect and personal responsibility within a diverse community.

The University respects the right to privacy, and its representatives will not enter dormitory rooms without substantive cause (e.g., without reasonable suspicion that University policies or regulations have been violated, or that someone’s safety is in jeopardy). However, those whose behavior infringes on the rights of others have, in essence, forfeited that privacy.

What Are the Responsibilities of Princeton University Students?

Alcoholic beverages normally will not be provided at events where persons under the legal drinking age for consumption of alcoholic beverages are present, including those sponsored by the University, the residential colleges, the University centers, the Undergraduate Student Government, and the classes. 

Availability of alcoholic beverages shall not be the primary focus of advertising for campus social events. Those given approval to serve alcoholic beverages are responsible for ensuring that only those of legal drinking age are served, that alcohol is consumed—if at all—in a legal, healthy, and responsible way, and that no intoxicated individuals are served.

It is the immediate obligation of those in the presence of a severely intoxicated person to contact appropriate University or local medical or safety personnel (such as the Department of Public Safety, University Health Services (UHS) staff, local hospital staff, or local police or members of the rescue squad). Neither intoxication nor admission to UHS for intoxication will be grounds for disciplinary action. Contacting the Department of Public Safety for assistance in transporting a student in need of medical attention will not, in itself, lead to disciplinary action. Disciplinary action will occur only if other circumstances indicating a violation of University policy are observed. In such an instance, failure to call for assistance will be considered an especially serious violation of policy. In order to encourage calls for assistance, the University may offer leniency with respect to other violations which may come to light as a result of such calls, depending on the circumstances involved.

When Will the Department of Public Safety or Other University Administrators Intervene?

Public Safety (or another University administrator) may enter a room whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that someone’s safety may be in jeopardy or that a violation of the alcohol policy is taking place.

Public Safety will investigate possible alcohol violations when indicators of alcohol provision are observed. Such indicators may include—but are not limited to—kegs, bottles, cans, spilled alcohol, an individual leaving a room in possession of alcohol, or intoxicated behavior.

In the event of a noise complaint, Public Safety will go to the room and knock on the door. If no one answers, Public Safety may enter the room and instruct the residents of the room to control the noise. Regardless, Public Safety may enter the room where there is cause to investigate further, as described above.

When Are Princeton University Students in Violation of the Alcohol Policy?

1. On campus and in the local vicinity, students are in violation of the University alcohol policy under any or all of the following circumstances, and alcohol, kegs, and/or taps used in violation of the below regulations may be confiscated:
   1. When participating in or organizing an activity that encourages excessive drinking (e.g., drinking games, pre-gaming with hard alcohol, initiation activities, hazing), as these acts can endanger the individual being served. These are especially serious violations.
   2. When the serving or consumption of alcohol contributes to behavior that (i) intimidates or harasses others; (ii) injures or threatens to injure others (e.g., driving under the influence of alcohol, assault); (iii) leads to the destruction of property; or (iv) infringes on the peace and privacy of others. These are especially serious violations. In keeping with state law, when a student has been detained by Public Safety or local law enforcement officials on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, the refusal to submit to the taking of breath samples for the purpose of determining blood alcohol content will be taken as conclusive evidence that the student was driving under the influence of alcohol.
   3. Violations of local ordinances or state laws by students may also be grounds for University disciplinary action, regardless of where such violations occur, if they clearly violate University standards of conduct. Additional state and federal laws can be found at https://odus.princeton.edu/community-standards.
   4. When they fail to immediately contact appropriate University or local medical or safety personnel (such as the Department of Public Safety, University Health Services (UHS) staff, local hospital staff, or local police or members of the local rescue squad) on behalf of a severely intoxicated person.
2. On campus, students are in violation of the University alcohol policy under any or all of the following circumstances, and alcohol, kegs, and/or taps used in violation of the below regulations will be confiscated:
   1. When carrying or possessing an open container of alcohol (defined as any container not sealed by the manufacturer) in or across common spaces (lounges, game rooms, courtyards, dining areas, hallways, etc.).
   2. When in possession of a keg and/or tap or other evidence of intent to serve alcohol, including alcohol delivered in large quantities to the University Mailroom (unless permission has been granted by the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students or the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School).
   3. When, under the age of 21, in possession of any container of alcohol in common spaces of the University, including alcohol delivered to the University Mailroom.
   4. When alcohol is served, provided, or made available by or to persons under the age of 21. Violations involving juveniles, such as high school applicants or visitors to the University, will be deemed particularly serious.
   5. When procuring alcohol for persons under the age of 21 or by using false identification or falsifying identification.

What Are the Consequences of Violating the Alcohol Policy?

Students who are in violation of the alcohol policy are subject to a range of University sanctions: Warning, Reprimand, Disciplinary Probation (including housing, and/or campus service sanctions), Withholding of Degree, Suspension (Not Served), Suspension, Suspension with Conditions, Expulsion, and Censure. In keeping with the University’s particular concern about high-risk alcohol use, the consequences for violations of the alcohol policy will reflect the level of risk represented by the behavior as well as the impact of the behavior upon the community.

In general, first instance lower-risk violations will result in a dean’s warning or reprimand; subsequent violations will result in, at a minimum, disciplinary probation. Examples of lower-risk alcohol violations include, but are not necessarily limited to, situations where:

• Only low-proof alcohol (under 30 proof) is present;
• A modest amount of alcohol is available, appropriate to the number of persons present;
• No high-risk drinking, including drinking games, is occurring;
• No “common sources” of alcohol, such as kegs or alcoholic punch, are present;
• Neither the serving nor the consumption of alcohol has contributed to behavior that infringes on the peace and privacy of others (e.g., disorderly conduct, harassment, vandalism or property damage, injuring or threatening to injure others, or driving under the influence of alcohol).

The University regards higher-risk violations of the alcohol policy as more serious than lower-risk violations. In general, a student who commits a first higher-risk alcohol violation is placed on disciplinary probation. Discipline for a second higher-risk offense will be more serious and may involve a long term of disciplinary probation, campus service, and/or revocation of on-campus residential privileges. Students should expect to be suspended for a third higher-risk alcohol or alcohol-related offense or for any particularly egregious first or second offense. Higher-risk alcohol violations include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

• The serving, providing, or making available of hard alcohol (in any quantity);
• The possession of hard alcohol by underage persons in common spaces of the University;
• The possession of kegs or other common sources of alcohol;
• Drinking games, including those where some participants are playing with nonalcoholic beverages;
• The possession of any large quantity of alcohol (of any kind) relative to the number of people present;
• Violations that result from intoxication, such as assault, harassment, disorderly conduct, vandalism, or property damage;
• Failing to immediately contact appropriate University or local medical or safety personnel on behalf of a severely intoxicated person.

Deans may notify a student’s parents following any significant incident of drug/alcohol-related misconduct. Alcohol, kegs, and/or taps used in violation of the above regulations will be confiscated.

Students who violate the University’s alcohol or drug policies are encouraged to avail themselves of the services of the Alcohol and Other Drug Program offered by the University Office of Counseling and Psychological Services. When appropriate, deans may require an alcohol/drug evaluation by University Health Services staff (UHS).

2.2.10 Drug Policy

Princeton University does not condone the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances, marijuana, cannabis, or drug paraphernalia of any kind in any amount, or the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of prescription drugs without a prescription. This prohibition applies on-campus and to participation in University activities off-campus, including but not limited to work-study programs, off-campus events, and off-campus research projects. Students in violation of this policy may be jeopardizing their own well-being as well as the well-being of the University community.

In general, a student who violates this policy for the first time will be issued a reprimand or placed on probation, depending on the substance and the circumstances. Discipline for a second offense will be more serious and may involve lengthening the probation, campus service, and/or revocation of on-campus residential privileges. Students should expect to be suspended for a third offense. Students involved in such cases, when their conduct is in violation of the law, cannot be guaranteed immunity from either arrest or prosecution.

Among those violations considered to be most serious are the manufacture, sale, or distribution of controlled substances or prescription drugs without a prescription; any involvement in controlled substance use or traffic with minors, particularly from the local area; and possession or use of the more dangerous or highly addictive drugs. Students engaged in activities described in this paragraph should expect a lengthy separation or expulsion from the University upon a first offense.

Students possessing, using, selling, or manufacturing controlled substances may also be subject to mandatory penalties prescribed by the state.

It is the immediate obligation of those in the presence of a person suffering adverse consequences of using drugs to contact appropriate University or local medical or safety personnel (such as the Department of Public Safety, University Health Services staff (UHS), local hospital staff, or local police or members of the rescue squad). In order to encourage calls for assistance, the University may offer leniency with respect to violations which may come to light as a result of such calls, depending on the circumstances involved.

The Department of Public Safety (or another University administrator) may enter a room whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that someone’s safety may be in jeopardy or that a violation of the drug policy is taking place, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

2.2.11 Conduct at Prospect Avenue Clubs

Standards of behavior by University students in the independent Prospect Avenue clubs are to conform with established standards in the University as a whole. In particular, club members are to act with considerate regard for the rights, privileges, and sensibilities of others. It is expected that they will show due consideration for the property of their fellow members and guests, as well as for the property of the club itself. Physical violence, intimidation of others, or offensive and disorderly behavior will not be tolerated in any club or on the walks and streets outside clubs. It is also the immediate obligation of those in the presence of a severely intoxicated person or a person suffering from adverse consequences from using drugs to contact appropriate University or local medical or safety personnel (see section 2.2.9). University policy in cases in which misconduct is alleged to have taken place in the clubs is governed by the provisions set forth concerning off-campus activities (see section 1.4.2).

2.2.12 Transportation and Parking Services

Undergraduate Student Parking Policy

All students must be familiar with the Princeton University parking regulations since students are responsible for their own and their guests’ vehicles. Frequent violations of the parking rules and regulations will result in the revocation of parking privileges and/or may result in disciplinary action.

Detailed regulations and campus maps are available online at https://transportation.princeton.edu.

Undergraduate Student Parking

Princeton University is a pedestrian campus; students are expected to walk, bike, or ride TigerTransit to classes, eating clubs, and athletic practices and events. Undergraduate students are generally not permitted to bring a vehicle to campus. For alternate transportation options, please visit https://transportation.princeton.edu.

Transportation and Parking Services (TPS) has an exemption process available to those undergraduates with a compelling need for a parking permit. A compelling need will be defined as a need that cannot be reasonably accommodated by University, commercial, regional transit or transportation options, and would therefore cause a hardship.

Requests for exemptions, together with supporting documentation, should be submitted to Transportation and Parking Services through the process outlined on the TPS website at https://transportation.princeton.edu. The Parking Committee will review all requests. Medical exemption requests must have supporting documentation from a physician and will be reviewed by University Health Services. The committee, at its discretion, may request additional information. Students will be notified in a timely manner. If approved, students will need to register their vehicles and pay a fee in order to obtain a permit for campus parking.

A current state-issued vehicle registration card and a valid TigerCard is necessary to obtain a parking permit. With a valid Princeton University parking permit, students are permitted day and overnight parking in designated lots as determined by TPS. Repeated violations of the parking policy will result in the revocation of the parking permit. Any student who seeks to register a vehicle on behalf of another student, nonstudent, or student who is not currently enrolled, will be reported for disciplinary action.

Public parking in University parking lots and garages is permitted only after 4 p.m. and on weekend. Students parking in any University lot or garage during the weekday hours of 7 a.m.  to 4 p.m. without a permit will result in a citation, boot, or tow.

Parking in areas next to buildings (e.g., Bloomberg, Scully, Frist, etc.) is restricted at all times. Parking in these areas will result in towing without prior warning or citation. Students who continuously violate the parking rules and regulations will be reported for disciplinary action and revocation of future parking privileges.

Guests

Parking arrangements for guests are the responsibility of the inviting party. To avoid citations and possible towing of a vehicle, students must make parking arrangements through the Service Point for their guests. For a fee, temporary parking permits will be issued to guests who require parking from Monday, 7 a.m., through Friday, 4 p.m. On weekends, from Friday, 4 p.m., through Monday, 7 a.m., guests may park for free in designated lots as listed on the TPS website at https://transportation.princeton.edu.

2.2.13 Legal Assistance

The Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students and the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School are authorized to provide specific kinds of aid to students who have been charged with violations of the law or who are actually under arrest. In such cases, University officials may:

1. Provide the student with the names of a few local attorneys; the student may or may not choose to consult with persons from this list.
2. Help to arrange bail, if the student or parents cannot provide immediate funds for bail. In special circumstances, the University may make a loan for the amount of bail (or of a bondsman’s fee) if the student and/or parent so authorizes.

In all instances, the cost of bail, as well as the cost of legal counsel, are the full responsibility of the student and the student’s family. The University’s actions in such cases are undertaken in an effort to ensure the protection of the student’s rights and safety, and are not to be construed as efforts to afford the student special treatment in respect to the law.

2.2.14 Financial Regulations

Students are responsible for satisfying all student account obligations by the due date on the student bill. A student who fails to meet all financial obligations may be subject to one or more of the following: (a) prohibited from course selection and/or course changes, (b) placed on leave of absence until all financial obligations are met, (c) prohibited from enrolling or being readmitted to the University, (d) denied a diploma document at graduation, and (e) payment of all reasonable collection agency fees, attorney charges, and legal fees necessary for the collection of outstanding indebtedness. If a balance remains due after graduation or separation from the University, the student’s account will be considered in default and may be immediately assigned to an external party for collections. Additional financial information regarding tuition and terms of payment is available online at www.princeton.edu/studentaccounts.

Payments in excess of the balance should not be made to a student’s account unless they are associated with estimated costs, as reflected in the student budget determined by the Financial Aid Office. In all cases Princeton reserves the right to return any overpayment.

2.2.15 Use of University Monies (Including Student Fees)

University funds, including fees collected by the University from all students (or their parents) as a condition of enrollment in the University, can be used only for purposes integrally related to student activities at the University. Such funds should not be used to make grants to organizations outside the University, thus rendering the University, in effect, a conduit for the transfer of funds. An annual fee is assessed to all enrolled graduate students in residence in order to fund activities of the Graduate Student Government, and at the discretion of the Graduate Student Government, to support other organizations and events. Undergraduate activity monies can be allocated through the Undergraduate Student Government for the support of the on-campus activities of campus groups, including provision of funds to assist in fund-raising efforts, in educational and informational campaigns, and the like. University policy stipulates, however, that each of the many causes that compete for student attention should make its own case to potential sources of funds on campus and should solicit from individuals voluntary contributions specifically for the particular purposes of that organization.