NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Alcohol Beverages, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Narcotics or Drugs, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

Weapon concealed carry is only legal for possession and storage in Murray, Carpenter/Wells, Talkington, and West Village. All other residence halls are considered exclusionary zones where concealed carry is prohibited by law.

See Texas Tech University Operating Policy 10.22 related to Campus Carry at http://www.depts.ttu.edu/opmanual/OP10.22.php.

Students in Carpenter/Wells, Murray, Talkington, and West Village that have a valid License to Carry (LTC) may store their authorized weapon within their room so long as the storage safe is approved in accordance with Senate Bill 11 and Texas Tech University OP 10.22.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Firearms, Weapons, and Explosives, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

Potential Violation: Possession of a Weapon as Outlined in the USH Weapons Restrictions and/or Texas Tech University Student Code of Conduct.

Failing to evacuate the building during a fire alarm can cause harm to the individual as well as fire safety personnel. Failure to evacuate may result in disciplinary action and could result in an arrest for violating state and federal law. During severe weather events, students should remain inside the building unless instructed otherwise by authorized safety personnel or USH staff. Residents and guests are expected to follow the directions provided by university officials, staff, law enforcement, and/or first responders.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Failure to Comply and/or Violation of Published University Policies, Rules or Regulations, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

Potential Violation: Failure to Comply; or Violation of Published University Policies. 

Anyone unnecessarily setting off or tampering with fire alarm systems, exit signs, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, cameras, or any other fire/life safety equipment may be subject to disciplinary action, financial responsibility for damage, and referral to the civil authorities for prosecution under state and federal law. Removal from the residence hall community may be considered for those responsible.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Violation of Federal, State, Local Law and/or University Policy and/or False Alarms, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

Potential Violation: False Alarms or Violation of Federal, State, Local Law Tampering with fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, cameras, or any other fire/life safety equipment.

Smoking, vaping, and/or tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco) in unauthorized areas on University property as designated by the Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure 60.15: Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Environment is prohibited.

Smoking is prohibited in all residence hall rooms, suites, apartments, and public spaces. Students may smoke outside 20 feet away from any part of the buildings and utilize designated receptacles for disposal. Use of Hookahs, e-cigarettes, and vaping is not allowed in the residence halls. These items may be stored in a room; however, the use of these items must be at least 20 feet from the building. Smoking and/or Vaping in the buildings will set off the fire alarm (See Fire Safety and False Alarm for ramifications for sending the building into alarm).

On September 1, 2019 a new law for the State of Texas (SB21,2019) took effect. https://legiscan.com/TX/bill/SB21/2019 This law prohibits the sale, use, and possession of tobacco and vaping products to anyone under the age of 21. Smoking and vaping in the residence halls are prohibited and a violation of the Smoking Policy. Any violation of this policy may be reviewed in accordance with the Student Conduct Code and can also be prosecutable as a violation of Texas State law.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Smoking, consult the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct. The Smoke-free and Tobacco-Free Environment Policy is outlined in the Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure Manual 60.15. https://www.depts.ttu.edu/opmanual/OP60.15.pdf.

Potential Violation: Violation of the Smoking Policy; or Violation of Published University Policies.

Advertisements, sales, displays, or distributions of publications on campus are not permitted without approval unless provided for by university policy or law. Neither residents, nor off-campus salespersons, are permitted to solicit room-to-room, through the mailboxes or through the posting of flyers. Please report the presence of door-to-door salespersons in the residence halls to 911 and the hall office or a staff member immediately. Residence hall students may not post flyers selling personal items in the halls or on their doors but rather, must go to the designated board in the Student Union Building for posting. Student rooms may not be used for commercial purposes.

Requests for solicitation by official student organizations and university departments must be submitted at: Texas Tech University :: University Student Housing :: Solicitation Form (ttu.edu). Requests include posters and printed materials, tabling, and fundraising or collection drives.

The Texas Tech Solicitation Policy and Grounds Use Request Form can be found at: TTU Solicitation Policy | Use of University Grounds | Student Union & Activities | TTU.

Potential Violation: Abuse, Misuse, or Theft of University Information Resources; or Violation of Published University Policies.

• Devices including, but not limited to hubs, switches, bridges, routers, wireless network access points, network firewalls, VPN concentrators, and remote access devices are not permitted.
• Equipment and use of university resources for the purpose of crypto currency mining is prohibited per the TTU IT Security Acceptable Use Policy, IT Security Internet Use Policy, and TTU OPs 52.01 & 61.01.
• No outside antennas or satellite dishes are permitted.
• 3D Printers are not permissible in the residence halls.

NOTE: The telecommunications device policy is outlined in the Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure Manual 52.03. : OP 52.03: Telecommunications Services | Operating Policies & Procedures | TTU

The Information Technology (IT) Operations policy is outlined in the Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure Manual 52.01: OP 52.01: Information Technology (IT) Operations | Operating Policies & Procedures | TTU

The Use of University Facilities, Equipment, Vehicles, Supplies and Services for Private Purposes Prohibited Policy is Outlined in the Texas Tech University Operating Policy and Procedure Manual 61.01: OP 61.01: Use of University Facilities, Equipment, Vehicles, Supplies, and Services for Private Purposes Prohibited | Operating Policies & Procedures | TTU

The IT Security Acceptable Use Policy is outlined by the Information Technology Division: Acceptable Use | IT Security Policies List | IT Security Policies | IT Division | TTU

The IT Security Internet Use Policy is outlined by the Information Technology Division: Internet Use | IT Security Policies List | IT Security Policies | IT Division | TTU

Potential Violation: Abuse, Misuse, or Theft of University Information Resources; or Violation of Published University Policies.

The intentional or unintentional misuse of residence hall facilities, equipment, and furniture is a violation of policy. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Vandalism – Any willful behavior intended to destroy, alter, dismantle or deface property belonging to the University or another individual.
• Public Area Furniture - Furniture in public areas of the residence halls is to remain in its place for the convenience of all residents and their guests.
• Room Furniture - Removal or dismantling of any furniture and/or fixtures in the residence halls is considered vandalism and/or theft of state property.
• Elevator Misuse – Persons who misuse an elevator (e.g., jumping, intentionally abusing with carts, excessively and repeatedly pressing and/or punch(ing) the buttons, and prying elevator doors open) may be subject to disciplinary action and held financially responsible for any damage.
• Sealed Windows, Window Stoppers, and Cranks – Window ledges are not to be used for storage. Students may be held personally liable for any damage to property and/or any personal injury resulting from items being thrown from windows or falling from ledges. Some residence halls have window stoppers. If a window stopper is removed, a replacement fee will be assessed to the resident(s) of the room. Window stopper replacement is a minimum of $50. Other halls have sealed windows that must remain sealed for safety reasons. If they are opened in any way, a charge is assessed to the resident(s) of the room to reseal the windows. Resealing one or more windows will be a minimum of $50. Windows with cranks, if broken, will be a minimum cost of $150.

NOTE: For Texas Tech University's policy on Theft, Damage, Littering, or Unauthorized Use please refer to the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.

Potential Violation: Theft, Damage, Littering, or Unauthorized Use; or Violation of Published University Policies.

Students may possess a maximum of two empty alcohol containers (i.e., beer bottle, wine, or champagne bottle) which must be cleaned and used for decoration only. Collections of alcohol-related containers are not permitted. Alcohol use for culinary purposes is still considered a violation of the alcoholic beverages and alcohol containers policies. Students over the age of 21 residing in West Village Building B may have alcohol in the apartment if all residents and guests are over the age of 21.

Potential Violation: Alcoholic Beverages; or Violation of Published University Policy 

Cameras within the residence halls are prohibited with the exception of students residing in a private, single-occupancy room. Cameras are prohibited in hallways, common areas within suites/apartments, and in rooms with more than one occupant. Cameras may not be pointed into any common spaces inside or outside of the room, apartment or suite, including doorways or windows. Cameras not in individual rooms pose a threat to the privacy of other individuals within the residence halls. Student privacy is protected under the Family Educational Rights to Privacy Act (FERPA). More information is available: https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

While residents are permitted to bring skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, bicycles or similar modes of transportation for their personal use, transportation devices are not permitted to be walked or ridden in a resident's room, the hallways, stairwells, or other locations within the residence halls.

Storing a bicycle, scooter or other large mode of personal transportation in the resident's room or other locations within the residence hall interferes with egress should a building evacuation be necessary. Residents must utilize the bicycle racks located outside of their residence hall or another bicycle rack of their choosing. This includes bicycles, electric scooters, or motorcycles, or any item which blocks or is stored in outside stairwells. These items may not be parked or anchored to any outside surface other than designated bicycle racks or two-wheeled vehicle parking.

Any motorized mode of personal transportation including limes, other motorized scooter or skateboard, sports or other bicycle, or other travel device are not allowed in the residence halls. Additionally, any motorized scooter or skateboard, bicycle, or other travel device found charging in the residence halls will be confiscated.

Any damage resulting from the above-listed items will be assessed to the student. Devices aiding those with mobility disabilities are excluded from this policy. Students requesting accommodation must work with Student Disability Services.

NOTE: : For Texas Tech University's policy on Skateboards, Rollerblades, Scooters, Bicycles, or Similar Modes of Transportation, please refer to the Student Handbook, Code of Student Conduct, Misconduct.. Additionally, refer to Transportation and Parking Services Regulations which can be found at Residence Hall Parking. Information regarding Student Disability Services accommodation requests is available at Student Disability Services | Student Disability Services | TTU.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies.

An environment conducive to studying and privacy should always exist in the residence halls. Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Quiet hours are designated Sunday - Thursday from 10:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m., and Friday and Saturday from 12:00 a.m. (Midnight) to 10:00 a.m. the next day. Everyone should be aware of the impact of their behaviors on others. Should a student indicate the noise level is bothersome, the noise level should be lowered immediately. Residents are responsible for their guests and will be held accountable for their guests' behavior regarding noise violations. From individual study day through finals, quiet hours are extended to 24 hours daily to support student academic success.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies.

The hosting resident must escort guests at all times. Residents are responsible for any violations which occur because of their guests, regardless of whether the resident is physically present. Guest behavior must follow all residence hall and institutional policies, as well as local, state, and federal laws.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

Visitation hours are 24/7. Courtesy should be extended to roommates/suite/apartment-mates regarding guests, and the number of guests should not impede egress from the room.

One overnight guest of the same gender as the host is permitted with the permission of the roommate/suite/apartment-mates and should not exceed more than three consecutive nights. Additionally, the overnight guest's host will be responsible for ensuring the guest is familiar with and observes all residence hall and institutional policies, as well as local, state, and federal laws. The host and guest will both be held accountable for policy violations, damages, and/or loss of property.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

In a single-gender hall, guests differing from the designated gender of the hall are not permitted to use bathrooms containing showers, toilets, and sinks. These guests must be escorted to the public restroom facility, which only contains toilets and sinks, located in the lobby of each residence hall.

In a co-ed hall, guests differing from the designated gender of the floor are not permitted to use bathrooms containing showers, toilets, and sinks on that floor. Guests must be escorted to a bathroom designated for the guests' gender or to the public restroom facility, which only contains toilets and sinks, located in the lobby of each residence hall.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

This section includes, but is not limited to, possession or use of the following flammable materials and prohibited items:

NOTE: : All electric appliances must bear a UL or equivalent certification label. All equipment should be kept in a safe operating condition. Extension cords, multi-tap/multi-plug adapters and power strips are prohibited. Only UL approved surge protectors may be used in the residence halls and may not be piggybacked onto other surge protectors. Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies.

Do not give a key to your room or an access card to a guest or visitor for any reason. Remember to take your key and your access card when exiting your room. Report lost or stolen key/access card immediately to your hall/complex front desk. Any lost key/access card will result in a charge to your student business services account.

Potential Violation: Unauthorized Entry, Possession, or Use; or Violation of Published University Policies

False activation of or tampering with life safety systems (including but not limited to smoke detectors, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems) in the building is strictly prohibited. Individuals responsible may face both university conduct and criminal charges. Damages and/or injuries which occur as a result of false activation of life safety systems will be reported to appropriate authorities. In addition, all costs will be assessed to responsible parties.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

University Student Housing residence halls are pet-free facilities. The exception is Aquarium tanks for fish as pets of less than 25 gallons. Aquariums aiding those with approved Emotional Support Animals are excluded from this policy but should follow the guidelines for Service and Emotional Support Animals.

Emotional Support Animals are allowed to remain in university housing with appropriate documentation reviewed and approved by both the Office of Student Disability Services and University Student Housing.

Emotional Support Animals and Service Dogs may remain in university housing as long as they exhibit non-disruptive (e.g., no continuous barking) and non-threatening (e.g., biting) behavior.

Emotional Support Animals can be a dog, cat, small bird, rabbit, hamster, gerbil, other rodents, fish, turtle, or other small, domesticated animal that is traditionally kept in the home. Requests for accommodation should begin with the Office of Student Disabilities Services.

Visiting service dogs are welcome anytime; however, visiting Emotional Support Animals must have prior approval from the Office of Student Disability Services and University Student Housing to accompany a guest.

Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals will be treated as an extension of the student; thus, the student will be responsible for the actions, behaviors, and/or misconduct of their animal.

Sponsored therapy dog events are excluded from this policy if they are in full compliance with all stipulations covered within Texas Tech University Operating Policies and Procedure OP 61.46: Therapy Dog Sessions Within University Buildings https://www.depts.ttu.edu/opmanual/OP61.46.php

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

Residents needing containers for injectable medications must either use a sealable hard plastic or a medical grade Sharps container. When the container is ¾ full, put the lid on, seal it with duct tape, and label it “sharps”. DO NOT RECYCLE. Put the plastic container in a trash bag and dispose of it in the dumpster. Sharps should NEVER be thrown loosely into the bathroom trash, toilet, or other public trash receptacles. Utilization of this process helps to reduce the danger of accidental sticks to University Student Housing staff and fellow residents. More information regarding safe disposal of sharps can be found: Texas - Safe Needle Disposal

More information regarding FDA approved hard plastic containers can be found: FDA-Cleared Sharps Containers - Safe Needle Disposal

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

Sports are not allowed in the hallways or public areas of a residence hall. No items should be bounced, hit, or sailed through the air. Organized sports activities must take place outdoors or in a designated space for such activities. Any recreational activity which may cause damage to the facilities is strictly prohibited.

See Skateboards, Rollerblades, Scooters, Bicycles or Similar Modes of Transportation policy above regarding prohibited use of these items within the residence hall.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

Students living in the residence halls are expected to begin learning acceptable community living habits. Resident rooms should maintain a relatively clean-living environment free from excessive trash, leftover food particles outside of trash bins, human and/or animal waste. It is the responsibility of the students to clean their own living spaces and remove all trash and human/animal waste or other hazardous waste. Trash containers are located outside each residence hall, and it is expected each student will bag and dispose of their own trash in these outside receptacles. Inside trash receptacles are for guests and the occasional singular pieces of trash. Any trash left outside the room/suite/apartment door or in any other public space will be a violation of University Student Housing policy. This includes, but is not limited to bathrooms, lobbies, stairwells, outdoor areas and other public spaces.

See sharps disposal in the residence hall policy above for proper disposal of sharps in the residence halls.

Potential Violation: Violation of Published University Policies

University Student Housing does not permit weapons, including but not limited to:

• firearms (unless permitted under the “Firearms, Weapons, and Explosives” section, above);
• knives or weapons defined as illegal by Texas House Bill 1935
• knife(s) with a blade over five and one-half inches,
• hand instrument(s) designed to cut or stab another by being thrown
• dagger(s) including a dirk, stiletto, and poniard
• bowie knife(s)
• sword(s)
• spear(s),
• dart/pellet/potato/bb guns, hunting equipment (including shotguns, bows, and arrows)
• designated martial arts equipment (e.g., throwing stars, nun chucks).

Use of airsoft guns, paintball guns, and Nerf guns is prohibited inside the residence halls. Students wishing to display facsimile/fake firearms or other weapons must first request and receive approval from University Student Housing. Any item utilized to cause harm or with an intent to cause harm to an individual or property is prohibited.

Potential Violation: Possession of a Weapon as Outlined in the University Student Housing Policies and/or Texas Tech University Student Code of Conduct.

• To set agreed upon expectations with the residents of the room/suite/apartment related to studying, sleeping and socializing in the room/suite/apartment
• To live in a safe, secure, healthy and clean environment
• To be an active member within a supportive community
• To gain access to a variety of programs and services
• To grow and develop as a member of Texas Tech University by interacting with others in the community

• To demonstrate dignity and respect for the needs of all individuals
• To provide open communication with other community members and Residence Life staff
• To consider involvement in the community through student leadership opportunities and planned events
• To care for the facilities and the community environment
• To promote individual and community safety

The Residence Life staff in each hall/complex is present to assist students in creating a positive living community. They are focused on creating a residence hall environment that leads to success at Texas Tech University. By organizing floor meetings, educational interactions, and social events, students and staff come together to enjoy all the benefits and conveniences of living on campus. Actively participating in the residence halls and on-campus affords you many opportunities for success and growth as an individual.

Adapted from In Search of Community, Ernest Boyer, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Communication between roommates is the key to establishing a positive relationship. This relationship will contribute to your overall satisfaction with college life. Roommate agreements are an important tool to ensuring clear communication, appropriate boundaries, and agreed upon expectations of shared space(s). You should discuss any problems that arise and work together to resolve any differences. Staff are available to assist in facilitating these conversations. Keep in mind, individual rights to sleep, study, and privacy precede all other rights and privileges.

Learning to navigate conflict is an important life skill. Living with others is an opportunity to develop skills to assist in approaching future conflicts. Following these guidelines provides a framework for resolution should a disagreement arise.

• Set up a meeting
• Privately approach the roommate or person displaying unacceptable behavior.
• If a person finds it difficult to approach a roommate or a roommate is unresponsive, seek assistance from the community advisor. Take the initiative to act positively.
• What happens during the meeting
• Be direct and specific about the behaviors which are problematic or concerning.
• Discuss the person's behavior, not the person's personality (this enables the person to be less defensive).
• Each person involved should take a turn describing their perception of the situation, how they feels about it and what they believe may be an optimal solution
• Each person should agree to a compromise and help develop a solution. This means all individuals may not get 100% of their desired outcomes.
• Together, develop a plan of action and set a timeframe for the changes to occur.
• Update roommate/suitemate agreement in roompact to reflect current resolutions
• What follow-up happens
• Resolutions may take time and on-going conversations are necessary. Do not expect change to happen overnight. It is the responsibility of all parties to work together in creating change.
• If unable to resolve the situation or the situation does not improve, reach out to your Community Advisor to assist in facilitating a new meeting.
• Set a future date to evaluate the situation and renegotiate if necessary
• If working with the Community Advisor is unsuccessful, please reach out to the complex professional staff through the hall office to set up an appointment.

To assist you and your roommate/suitemate with getting to know each other and setting out some preliminary expectations regarding living together for the upcoming year, we encourage you to read and complete a roommate or suitemate agreement at the beginning of the year. This should be revised throughout the year as necessary, including if any new roommates/suitemates are assigned to the space.