University Housing Information and Policies

HOUSING

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.00

Policy
A binding contractual lease relationship exists between the University and those students living in residence halls. As the institution is committed to the quality of life in the community and within the institution, it is a privilege to live in the residence halls. The University is also committed to fostering responsible, adult behavior within a community setting. The following regulations are part of the contract and are designed to enhance residence hall life for all students. The University provides single undergraduate and graduate/family housing on campus, which is available according to the eligibility, regulations and procedures outlined below.

Procedures

Eligibility
USC Columbia is committed to the educational development of its students in the classroom and in the residence halls, with the residence hall program contributing to the educational objectives of the University. As such, the University requires all first-year students to live on campus as long as space is available. The University may make exceptions to this policy for a year or a semester. Students may receive exemption status based upon marital status, commuting status, military status, non-traditional age, or medical circumstances. Requests for exemption are made to University Housing, hereafter referred to as “Housing”.

Priority to live in University residence halls is given to students carrying a normal course load. Any undergraduate who is enrolled for fewer than 12 credit hours may be required to vacate. Requests for remaining in campus housing must be presented to Housing, 1309 Blossom Street.  Freshmen have first priority in all Freshman Centers and upper class students have priority for all other available spaces. 

Any person required to register under Article 7, Sex Offender Registry, is prohibited from living in campus student housing. (SC Code of Laws Ann. 23-3-465 (2005))  In the event it is determined that any person in campus student housing is subject to the above, law enforcement officials and appropriate University officials will be informed, and the housing contract will be deemed null and void and terminated immediately without refund.

The housing contract is for an entire academic year. The University reserves the right to cancel contracts with residents who do not abide by University rules as specified in the Carolina Community (e.g., violation of drug policies) and Housing regulations (e.g., destruction of housing property). Residents may not be entitled to a refund of rental fees if removed for the above reasons or suspended from the University for disciplinary reasons. (Refunds in such cases are subject to approval by the Assistant Director for Administration or his/her designee.)

Personal Property
The University assumes no liability for bodily injury, personal damages or losses. The University urges residents to lock their doors for protection of persons and property. Residents are advised not to keep valuable property or large sums of money in their rooms. In addition, residents are strongly encouraged to obtain insurance to cover personal belongings and valuables. University insurance covers only University property.  Items remaining in a student's room after the contract has expired and/or after the student completes checkout, will become University property and/or be disposed of.

Missing items should be reported immediately to the University Police (777-4215) and to a residence hall staff member or the Housing Office. Articles found in residence halls should be turned in to the Housing Office. Articles that are found elsewhere on campus should be turned in at the Russell House Information Desk.

Telephone Accounts
As of the Fall 2007 semester, landline phone access in the USC residence halls (Columbia-campus) will be available only by request and at an additional charge. Students who wish to have optional landline telephone access can do so through VIP, through the technology tab. A one-time fee will be charged to set this up, along with a semester charge. This service along with long-distance plans can be purchased online through VIP.  To obtain rates please go to http://uts.sc.edu/connected/phone.shtml

Other Landline Phone Services information:

• If you leave the University campus before the semester ends, make sure you cancel your student phone service. This can be done in VIP. No refund will be issued for cancellation before the end of the term.
• No refund will be issued for cancellation before the end of the term.
• Phone services will be deactivated on or before the first business day following commencement at the end of each semester. For Maymester, Summer I and II, the Voice Service will be deactivated at the close of each term. A new application for Voice Service is required for each semester.
• Students should provide one Touch Tone© phone for each room. Touch tone phones are the only types compatible with the University’s System 85 communication system. Phones that are not compatible may damage the system.
• Voicemail instructions and information can be found at http://uts.sc.edu/infrastructure/telephoneVoiceMail.shtml. 

Contact the UTS Help Desk (7-1800) with questions. Residents are responsible for all charges from individual rooms, authorized or not, as well as resulting administrative charges.

Line service is not provided in Carolina Gardens. Those residents should contact BellSouth to arrange for phone service.

Room Occupancy:  After entering students are officially admitted to the University, have signed residence hall contracts, and paid the required application and advance room fees, they are assigned a room as space permits.  Assignment is determined by the date of application, within the priority groups.  Whenever possible, written requests for a specific hall and roommate(s) will be honored, but the University reserves the right to make whatever room assignments are considered in the best interest of the institution and student body.  Students may not move into any room other than the one assigned. 

If a resident fails to occupy his or her assigned space on or before the first day of classes, the assignment may be canceled if proper notice of late arrival is not given to Housing.  However, a resident who enrolls but fails to occupy his or her assigned space will be required to pay full rental fees.  Residents, who withdraw from the University at the end of or during the fall semester or spring semester, must officially check out with Housing.  Residents may request and pay extra for a single room if space is available.  This includes rooms designed for double occupancy.

 Room changes:  Room changes may be made as often as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available.  Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Director for Administration or his/her designee. 

Unauthorized room changes may result in a charge of $75 and the individual(s) involved may be required to move back to the regularly assigned room(s).  Depending on the circumstances, changing rooms for the balance of the semester may not be permitted.

Consolidation policy:  Housing may initiate and implement a consolidation program in order to: (1) better meet the demand for students requesting to room together; (2) better meet the demand for private rooms; and (3) support the private room policy regarding payment.  The consolidation process is applied to unoccupied spaces on a floor or within the building.  As such, students are not required to move to another floor or building to accomplish consolidation, but may choose to do so if it would meet their needs.  Students in half-vacant rooms will be encouraged to voluntarily consolidate with another resident prior to the implementation of consolidation. 
Specifically:
       1.  Students will be notified of the need to have a roommate at
             the beginning of each semester.
        2.  Students without roommates can:
             a.  Pay the private room rate, if it is available in their hall at   
             that time and for the remainder of the academic year.
             b.  Voluntarily consolidate with another student in a half-
              vacant room.
        3.  By the established date, students still in a half-vacant, non-
             private room will be included in the consolidation drawing. 
             All affected students will be invited to the drawing.
        4.  Each floor with half-vacant rooms will hold its own random
             drawing to determine which students will be required to
              move to one of the other half-vacant rooms on their floor.
        5.  Students will be notified, in writing, of the outcome of the
             drawing the following day.  Students drawn to move will
             have until the following Monday at 8:00 am to complete the
             room change.
        6.  Failure to comply with consolidation outcomes may result
             in additional room fees and/or disciplinary actions.

Illegal occupancy: If a new or non-resident student occupies a room without the consent of Housing, the student will be charged $100 plus pro-rated rent.  The student may also be required to vacate and is subject to disciplinary action. Unregistered non-student occupants are subject to arrest.

Vacation periods: During vacation periods most residence halls are closed. Designated halls will remain open and some break housing may be available.  Due to scheduling pressure, renovations may be going on in the halls kept open for vacation housing.  Prior to each break period specific information regarding the availability of break housing and special regulations will be distributed.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.01

ROOM FEES

Room fees and cancellation/refund policies depend on whether the student in question is a newly assigned or continuing student. For all students, an advance room fee/deposit of $100.00 must be paid when a student's initial application and contract are submitted.

All students are required to pay an additional $45.00 non-refundable application fee. The housing fees must be paid on or before the last day of registration.

STIPULATIONS REGARDING CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

Please visit www.housing.sc.edu/crefund.asp for a complete schedule of fees.

SUMMER HOUSING

With the exception of the items noted below, summer school housing policies and procedures mirror those outlined above for the academic year undergraduate housing.

1. Eligibility: Students do not need to be enrolled in either summer session to be eligible to reside on campus during both summer sessions, but intend to enroll for the next fall term or have been enrolled during the previous spring. Residents must abide by all housing regulations including those outlined in the Carolina Community.
2. Cancellations and Refunds: Specific cancellation dates for summer housing are available after March 1st each year at the Housing Office (777-4283).

 ROOM CHANGES

Room changes may be made as often as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available. Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Assistant Director for Administration or his/her designee.

Appeals to be released from the housing contract may be made to the Housing Contract Appeals Committee. A written request should be submitted within thirty (30) days of the billing date stating the reasons for the appeal and accompanying documentation must be submitted to the chairperson of the Housing Contract Appeals Committee. Forms for filing the appeal may be obtained from Housing at 1309 Blossom Street. The Housing Contract Appeals Committee reviews written appeals and delivers its decision in writing. The action taken by the Housing Contract Appeals Committee is final. 

Summer Housing

With the exception of the items noted below, summer school housing policies and procedures mirror those outlined above for the academic year undergraduate housing.

Eligibility

Students do not need to be enrolled in either May or summer session to be eligible to reside on campus during both May/summer sessions, but must be pre-registered for the next fall term. Residents must abide by all housing regulations including those outlined in the Carolina Community.

Cancellations and Refunds

Specific cancellation dates for May/summer housing are available after March 1st each year at the Housing Office (777-4283).

Room Changes

Room changes may be made as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available. Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Director for Residence Life or his/her designee.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.02

Apartment Units

Eligibility

To be eligible to occupy Family and Graduate Housing the student must be enrolled full time, continue to make normal progress toward a degree as determined by the dean of his/her college or school, and be considered part of a family unit, which is defined as a husband and wife with or without children; or a single parent, widow, widower, or divorcee who has one or more dependents living with them; or a single graduate student. In family units, a minimum of two members of the family must occupy the apartment at least 90 percent of the time to retain eligibility. 

Students who are not eligible for occupancy because of insufficient hours, non-enrollment or change in family status are required to notify Housing as soon as they are aware they are no longer eligible. Students who fail to do so are subject to having their contract terminated immediately.

 Assignment

Applications are filed according to the date they are received by Housing. When an apartment becomes available for assignment, it is offered to the student with the earliest application date who has requested an apartment for that semester.

Transferring to another apartment is permitted under these circumstances:

• A change in family status makes residents eligible for larger apartment;

• Any unpaid housing balance must be paid in full prior to acceptance of the request to transfer and prior to assignment;

• A $25 administrative fee is paid at the time of transfer;

• All requests are filled on a space-available basis.

 Occupancy

Occupancy shall begin and terminate as provided in the Contract for Graduate and Family Housing. Once an apartment is assigned, the student (and spouse, if married) must sign a contract and pay the required rent before the unit can be occupied. Occupancy shall be limited to one family per apartment.

 Guests are not permitted to occupy an apartment beyond a five (5) day period without prior approval from the Coordinator of Graduate and Family Housing. Current and specific information regarding the registering of guests can be received from the Graduate and Family Housing Office.  

The student shall have the option to terminate this contract at the end of any given academic term (date determined by published University calendar) upon 30 day written notice to Housing preceding the end of that term; or if he/she is graduating or withdrawing from the University during or at the end of a given academic term, upon 30 day written notice given prior to such graduation or withdrawal; or for any reason following 30 day written notice to Housing provided there is a waiting list for prospective tenants in sufficient number to occupy vacated premises. Such waiting list shall consist of those persons having filed applications for student family housing and who are verified to be ready and willing to take up occupancy. 

Lease Terms

Rents are payable to Housing on the first day of every month. Rent unpaid on the 11th day of the month will be considered delinquent and a fee of 5% will be assessed. Failure to pay as agreed, including checks returned by banks for insufficient funds, may result in eviction. Residents who are evicted for nonpayment of rent will be ineligible for readmittance to campus housing. 

For the term of the contract the University requires a security deposit of $100 which may be used for replacing keys, more than normal cleaning upon a resident’s vacating, repairing damages, and/or delinquent rents. Any amount remaining will be refunded within a reasonable time after the apartment is vacated. Additionally, a nonrefundable application fee is required for all applicants.

 All federal, state and applicable local laws, as well as policies and regulations of the University, have full force and effect within licensed property, and violations of such laws and regulations by the student, the student’s family, or the student’s guests, are prohibited under this agreement.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.03

As a community of scholars, students are encouraged to engage in behaviors that are consistent with the Carolinian Creed.

University Housing and the Office of Student Judicial Programs are responsible for promoting positive community standards and responding to violations of policies published in two areas: The Student Code of Conduct Regulations and University Housing Policies and Regulations. Students are advised to read both sources of information to understand expectations for their behavior while in or on the premises of University residence halls. Violations of the regulations contained in this section may result in a fine or disciplinary action. 

Regulations may be changed, or new ones may be added, in the best interest and protection of persons and property. Residents will be advised promptly of such changes and/or additions through normal channels of communication. For the most current information and updated policies and procedures, consult the Carolina Community on the USC website at http://www.sa.sc.edu/carolinacommunity/

Alcohol
In compliance with state law, no person under 21 years of age may possess or consume alcoholic beverages in the residence halls or on adjoining property outside the residence halls. No person may possess open containers or consume alcoholic beverages in public areas inside or outside of the residence halls including, but not limited to, stairwells, residence hall lobbies, study rooms, community baths, kitchens, hallways, etc. Alcohol containers (full or empty) are prohibited from being displayed in student rooms/windows.  Residents that are 21 years of age or older may consume alcoholic beverages in the following places only: in their room or in a room with an assigned occupant also 21 years of age or older. Rooms in which only underage residents live are considered "dry" rooms. Alcohol is prohibited in all dry rooms. No person under 21 years of age may possess alcoholic beverages in their room. 

Apartment and Room Care
Residents are held responsible for reasonable care in the use of all housing facilities including the good order, safety, and cleanliness of space leased.

Accumulation of trash and/or materials in apartments or common areas that could constitute a fire or safety hazard is not permitted.

All University controlled housing is subject to scheduled health, safety, and maintenance checks. An authorized staff member will make periodic checks of facilities after adequate advance notice to residents. Where there is due cause, premises may be entered without notice. Violations of health and safety regulations may result in a $25 fine, disciplinary action, or appropriate cleaning fee. 

Apartment and Room Condition Reports
Residents will be required to sign an Apartment or Room Condition Report upon initial occupancy. Upon vacating a room or apartment the condition of that space will be checked against the initial report. Residents will be required to pay for damage other than normal wear and tear. (This includes damage to furniture, equipment, or structural aspects of the area rented.) Grades, transcripts, diplomas, and/or registration materials may be withheld pending final settlement of damage charges.

Appeals

Charges issued through processes other than the resident student conduct system may be appealed to the supervisor of the Housing staff member issuing the charge. A written request should be submitted within thirty (30) days of the billing date.

Apartment and Room Personalization
All rooms are furnished with beds, dressers, and desks. All University furniture must remain in the room. Some students may wish to supplement or complement these furnishings by constructing a loft in their room. Such additions are allowed within certain guidelines. Contact the Campus Office for guidelines. Plan for building any such furnishings must be approved in writing prior to the construction.  Liquid-filled furniture is not permitted because of the extra weight and danger of damage to property.

Room alterations without written approval of the Area Office are not permitted. All large pieces of furniture must be approved by the Area Office before being brought into the residence hall. Decals and stickers are not to be affixed to any University owned property, including furniture, walls, doors, ceiling, windows and floors. Posters should be hung with white "sticky-tack". No tape, nails, or tacks may be used on the walls, doors, furniture, or ceiling. Any violations of these may result in possible restitution for damage and a referral to the Office of Student Judicial Programs.

A student paint program has been established for residents who wish to paint their rooms or apartments. Prior to painting, residents need approval from the Area Office. Normally, rooms that have been painted within the past two years will not be approved for repainting.

Apartment and Room Vacating
When residents vacate their space, they must officially check out with the appropriate staff according to published procedures. Failure to do so may result in additional charges or forfeiture of the security deposit. Upon withdrawal, suspension, removal, or graduation from the University, residents must vacate their space in accordance with procedures outlined in their contract. At the end of each semester, residents must vacate their room or apartment within 24 hours of their last exam.

Asbestos
The following residence halls on the Columbia campus contain asbestos that is accessible to residents: Bates House, Bates West, Capstone, Patterson, and South Tower. Do not disturb the ceiling, pipe insulation, or any soft material surface coverings in any of the previously listed buildings. The University will continue to monitor the areas that contain asbestos and post additional warnings or otherwise communicate special concerns as necessary. WARNING: Medical research has determined that breathing asbestos fibers is dangerous to one’s health when exposure occurs at concentrated levels of asbestos dust or when one is exposed over extended periods of time.

Bicycles/Motorized Vehicles/Scooters/Rollerblades/Skateboards
Bicycles are permitted in residence hall rooms only in accordance with regulations and the approval of the roommate(s). Riding bicycles, rollerblades, scooters, or skateboards inside the residence hall is prohibited. Bicycles kept outside must be kept in a bike rack. Do not chain bicycles or scooters to fence posts, guard rails, stairwells, sign posts, light posts, fire equipment, trees, or anywhere that interferes with an exit from a building. Improperly chained bicycles/scooters will be subject to impoundment. Bicycles abandoned after the residence halls close after the end of the academic year will be impounded by campus police. Mopeds are not allowed in residence halls. Motorized vehicles, with the exception of motorized wheelchairs, are not permitted within 50 feet of residential areas.

Breaking the Plane of a Window, Balcony, or Breezeway
Breaking the vertical plane of a window, balcony, breezeway or similar structure is not permitted. This includes antennas, satellite dishes, flags, signs, and apparel. This applies to throwing or causing to fall, objects and liquids (including bodily fluids) from any residence hall. Failure to abide by this policy may result in immediate removal from Housing. Posters/signs are not permitted on windows.

Cable Television
Tampering with cable equipment or the unauthorized receiving of cable is a federal offense and is considered a violation of University regulations related to compliance with general laws, disruptive activity and theft or misappropriation. Residents of Carolina Gardens must contact Time Warner of Columbia to initiate service.

Cooking of Food
The cooking of food in residence halls is primarily restricted to established kitchens. The only cooking equipment allowed in rooms are Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved appliances that have no exposed heating coils (such as coffee pots and sandwich makers), and microwave ovens which do not exceed the one cubic foot and/or 700 watts of power.

Electrical Equipment

One privately owned refrigerator per resident is permitted provided it does not exceed limitations established by the University. Extension cords and multiple socket plugs are prohibited due to electrical circuitry design limitations as well as health, fire and safety regulations. Surge protectors with a circuit breaker and an on/off switch are approved for use in rooms or apartments. Only one surge protector may be plugged into a socket and at no time may one surge protector be plugged into another surge protector.

Elevators
Each resident is responsible for the proper use and care of residence hall elevators. Residents are not to overload or force doors of elevators. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering the elevator shaft. Emergency call buttons are to be used only in case of an emergency.

Emergency Exits
Using fire escapes and/or roof doors or other emergency exits, except during emergency situations, is strictly prohibited.

Fire Drills
In accordance with state law and for the safety of students, fire drills will be conducted at various times throughout the semester. All persons must vacate the building during drills and remain outside until instructed to return by residence hall staff. Evacuation procedures will be posted in each residence hall. Regulations related to fire alarms, fireworks, and fire safety equipment regulations are included in the Student Code of Conduct Regulations.  Failure to properly vacate the building will result in disciplinary action.

Guest Responsibility
Each student is responsible for the behavior of his/ her guest(s). It is the responsibility of the host to make sure that the guest(s) understands and abides by all University and residence hall rules and regulations. If a resident’s guest is involved in any violations of rules and regulations, the hosting resident as well as the guest may be subject to disciplinary action. Students may be held responsible for violations of policy that occur in their room.

Halogen Lamps
Halogen lamps are permitted in residence hall rooms only if safety "cage" cover is properly attached. Their covers are mandatory.  Other types of lamps with an open cover on top of the light bulb are prohibited unless they have a safety “cage” devise attached on top.  All spider lamps are prohibited.

Keys
Students are responsible for the security of their room keys. Students should not loan their key to anyone at any time. If a student is locked out of his/her room, a backup key may be obtained from the Area Office. Graduate and Family Housing keys are distributed at South Campus Area Office located in Bates House and are available from the Resident Manager. If the backup key is not returned within 72 hours, the lock will be changed without prior notification to the student and the student will be billed for this service. Students who are certain their key is lost may request an emergency lock change.

Personal Property

The University assumes no liability for bodily injury, personal damages or losses. The University urges residents to lock their doors for protection of persons and property. Residents are advised not to keep valuable property or large sums of money in their rooms. In addition, residents are required  to obtain liability insurance to cover personal belongings, valuables, and university property. University insurance covers only University property.

Missing items should be reported immediately to the University Police (777-4215) and to a residence hall staff member or the Area Office. Articles found in residence halls should be turned in to the Area Office. Articles that are found elsewhere on campus should be turned in at the Russell House Information Desk.

 Pets 

Small fish are the only pets permitted in the residence halls.  Fish tanks should not exceed 20 gallons.

 Private Party Policy

A private party can be planned within a room or apartment by following the Private Party Guidelines, which are available from the Student Life Office. The private party registration process must be completed whenever beer or wine is provided and/or when more than ten people will attend. This process also applies when alcohol is not present and more than ten people will attend. The registration packet must be submitted to the Director of Residence Life 72 hours before the event. All University policies and procedures must be followed.

 Property and Equipment Damage/Destruction

Behavior which causes damage to property whether personal or University property is prohibited. This policy includes, but is not limited to, window restrictors, security screens, and other types of property.

Public Area Damage 

When hallways, bathrooms, elevators, and other public areas in a residence hall receive undue abuse, the residents of that area are expected to aid in finding the person(s) responsible. Costs of repairing damages to community property (hallways, bathrooms, lounges, etc.) may be assessed to all residents of the hall or floor when the identity of the individual(s) responsible for such damages cannot be identified. University furniture and equipment may not be removed from lounges, studies, rooms, or other areas where the items are located without specific permission from the Area Office.

Quiet Hours and University Noise Code 

All students are expected to respect the rights of others by refraining from making loud noises or causing other disturbances that interfere with study or sleep. All residents are expected to respect 24-hour courtesy hours. Regardless of the time or day, if a student makes a reasonable request of another student to be less noisy, that student should comply. Quiet hours are in effect from 10pm - 10am Sunday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, quiet hours are from 12 midnight - 10am. During exam periods, quiet hours are extended to 24 hours. This regulation also applies to residence hall and area lobbies. In the event that a group makes a disturbance (ex. card or game playing, watching TV or yelling loudly), staff may request violators to leave immediately.

Note: All sound systems and stereos must be kept inside and speakers must be kept out of window areas, balconies, etc. Musical instruments may be used in the residence halls only in designated places and for properly scheduled events. Music students and band members are expected to use practice rooms available elsewhere on campus.

Roommate Contract
Roommate contracts are available to all roommates, suitemates, and apartment mates in undergraduate housing when moving in together. The roommate contract outlines specific living agreements. Violating the terms of a roommate, apartment mate, or suitemate contract previously agreed to as evidenced by the signatures of the occupants of the room and/or suite is considered a violation of residence hall regulations. In apartment-style housing, the “Head of Household” is identified when the roommate contract is completed.

Security Screens
The removal, loss of damage or opening of a security screen in student rooms or public areas in a residence hall is prohibited.  Tampering with or removal of window restrictions is also prohibited.  Failure to abide by this policy will result in billing and/or disciplinary action.

Smoking/Tobacco Products

I.         In conjunction with the University policy, smoking and the use of tobacco products is prohibited in all campus residence halls including:

·        Entrances, balconies, decks, patios, and outside stairways to residence halls and outdoor passageways to entrances, decks, patios, and stairways

·        Within twenty-five (25) feet of a residence hall or an air intake unit/opening

·        Courtyards or other areas where the air circulation may be impeded by architectural, landscaping or other barriers

·        Outdoor entry or service lines such as bus stops near a residence hall

·        Outdoor seating areas provided by University Housing or USC Dining Services on campus

·        Outdoor areas where there is fixed seating

II.        The sale, sampling or advertisement of all tobacco products or their use is prohibited in or around any residence hall building and in all residence hall publications (fliers, brochures, event postings, etc.)

III.       All members of the USC residence hall community, including visitors and vendors working on campus, are expected to comply with this policy.  This policy relies on the consideration and cooperation of tobacco users and non-users.

Smoke Detectors

Should a smoke detector or alarm malfunction and/or its batteries wear out, residents are required to notify Housing Staff immediately so it may be repaired or replaced. Students should not remove batteries, disconnect or otherwise disable smoke detectors or alarms. Disabling or maliciously triggering fire safety equipment may result in immediate removal from University Housing as well as additional disciplinary action, including restitution/fines up to $500.00.

Solicitation in the Residence Halls

The use of a residence hall room or apartment for selling of goods or services is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, babysitting and personal grooming services.

In order to protect the privacy of students, the following policy governing solicitation in residence halls has been adopted:

Solicitation is defined as door to door contact for the purpose of:

• Soliciting funds or sales or demonstrations that result in sales
• Distributing/displaying advertising or other materials
• Compiling data for surveys or other programs
• Recruitment of members or support for an organization or cause

Materials may not be posted or distributed on residence hall property unless they are approved by the Department of Housing or the Office of Greek Life. Door to door solicitation or solicitation in common areas of residence halls is prohibited for all groups and individuals (official University business excepted). Newspaper subscriptions may be delivered by resident students or district managers after they have the proper authorization from the Director for Residence Life.

Use of lobby tables for soliciting funds/sales/distribution of materials is prohibited for external vendors or organizations other than hall governments. Residence hall governments may approve the setting up of tables for the purpose of recruiting members, compiling data, or distributing materials relevant to the needs and wishes of residents.

Use of lobby tables is permitted for campus organizations and University offices only after permission has been received through:

• The residence hall government president, and
• The Residence Hall Director/Residence Life Coordinator, and
• The Assistant Director for the area or the Director for Residence Life.

External vendors may not advertise, distribute, or leave coupons in the residence halls.

(also refer to the Campus Solicitation Policy)

Sports Areas 

Athletics are to be confined to areas designated for such use and regulated in accordance with the requirements of quiet hours. Hallways are not designated for these activities. Weights used for weight lifting by residents must be of the variety which are plastic covered to minimize noise and damage. Items prohibited in rooms include, but are not limited to, dart boards, darts, paint ball guns, airsoft guns, etc.

 Window Screens 

The removal, loss or damage of a window screen from student rooms, or public areas in a hall is prohibited.  Failure to abide by this policy will result in billing and additional disciplinary action.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.04

Visitation is defined as those times during which residents may have guests in their rooms, suites, or apartments, or in the public areas of residential floors. Specific visitation plans outline the maximum hours during which visitors or guests may visit. Within these plans, the shared concerns and wishes of the roommates are of paramount importance and determine what are acceptable or unacceptable visitation privileges within a specific room. Visitation is a privilege that is subordinate to a resident’s right of privacy within her or his room. Residents may not exercise their visitation privileges if doing so interferes with the rights of the roommate or of other residents.

Policy
USC’s residence halls differentiate in their visitation hour plans.  Each of the four plans outlined below show when members of the opposite gender are allowed in the halls under that plan.:

Plan A
Opposite gender visitation in this facility is restricted 24 hours/day, seven days/week.

• Wade Hampton basement

Plan B
Opposite gender visitation in these facilities will be from 10a.m. – 2 a.m seven days/week.

• Bates House
• Bates West
• Capstone
• Columbia Hall
• Maxcy
• McBryde (freshmen)
• McClintock
• Patterson
• Roost

• Sims

• South Tower (2^nd-9^th floors)

• Wade Hampton (1^st-4^th floors)

At the conclusion of the fall semester, each plan B floor may, if they choose, vote to adjust their visitation to Plan C if the majority of students favor such a change.  Roommate Contracts, however, ALWAYS prevail when it comes to visitation guidelines.

Plan C
Opposite gender visitation in these facilities will be from 10a.m. – 2a.m. Monday through Thursday; and 10a.m. Friday – 2a.m. Monday.

• South Tower (10^th-18^th floors)

Plan D
Visitation in these facilities will be self-regulated by residents of each living unit due to the nature, population, and construction of these facilities.

• Carolina Gardens
• Cliff Apartments
• East Quad
• Horseshoe Apartments
• McBryde (upperclass)
• Preston College
• South Quad
• Thornwell
• Green (West) Quad
• Woodrow
• 820 Henderson 

Visitation Procedures
Staff members are available to assist residents in signing in their guests.  It is the residents’ responsibility to register their guests.

Within the approved visitation hours, all guests must be signed in at the entrance of each residence hall desk and escorted by the host at all times. Each guest and host must present picture ID’s to the staff member working at the main entrance. The staff member at the desk will enter the name of the guest in the sign-in log and will retain the guest ID. The guest ID will be returned when the host and guest sign out at the desk. A resident is permitted to sign in a maximum of four (4) guests but only if the resident has approval from the roommate(s) for all guests. At all times, residents must have their student ID.

C and D Plans only: For late night visitation (between 2:00 am and 8:00 am), on days and at times when visitation is permitted, a resident must have the approval of all roommates. Any time a resident prefers to have no guest in their room, that preference supersedes any visitation privileges.

Additional regulations may be implemented by residence hall governments or staff. Residents will be advised of such additions or changes.

Certain residence halls are exceptions in which residents are not expected to sign in their guests (Carolina Gardens Apartments, Cliff Apartments, East Quad, the Horseshoe, 820 Henderson, South Quad, and West Quad). Visitation privileges in no way alter other residence hall regulations, including quiet hours.

The hosting resident will be responsible for the conduct of his/her guest(s) at all times and must be present with the guest(s) at all times. Guests and hosts alike are responsible for knowing and abiding by all regulations and either or both may be subject to disciplinary action for violations.

Please note that cohabitation is strictly prohibited within all single student residence halls.

Residents may be permitted to have overnight same gender guests for a maximum of two consecutive nights (according to hall visitation plan), provided that approval is given by all roommates and that the guest is appropriately registered. No guest may stay more than two nights by changing hosts.

Persons under 16 years of age may not be overnight guests at anytime without the written permission of the Director for Residence Life or designee. Persons under 16 years of age visiting at any time must be registered at the desk with the host’s ID, and escorted at all times by the host. No babysitting is allowed in the undergraduate residence halls. Residents having children visiting the residence hall will need prior approval from their roommate and the Director of Residence Life.

Failure to gain the approval of roommates or to register the guest will result in the guest being asked to leave and referral of the resident student for disciplinary action. A resident’s visitation privileges may be suspended until the case is resolved.

This policy is not intended for the safety and security of any residents, but is designed to address the privacy of roommates.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.05

The philosophy and purpose of resident student conduct policies are similar to that of the student judicial system. The Department of University Housing is responsible for promoting positive community standards and responding to violations of policies published in two areas:  General Student Conduct Regulations and Housing Information and Regulations. Students are advised to read both sources of information to understand expectations for their behavior while in or on the premises of University residence halls.  These policies may be found by going to the Carolina Community at http://www.sa.sc.edu/carolinacommunity/

Students who violate terms of the housing contract, General Student Conduct, or other housing policies may be subject to disciplinary action.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.06

Based on a concern for the welfare of the total University residence community, as well as the individual, the following policy outlines procedures and reasons for responding to violations.

Options for Resolution of Discipline Violations
Violations of rules and regulations occurring in or on the premises of University residence halls may be referred to a Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, Resident Manager, or Housing Hearing Officer for appropriate action. The case may be resolved by these individuals or referred to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for resolution. 

In buildings that have a Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, or Resident Manager, violations are usually responded to first by that staff member who meets with students in educational conferences. Some cases may be resolved by those staff members. The Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, or Resident Manager may also refer cases to a Housing Hearing Officer or for a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing. 

When evidence exists that indicates a resident may be responsible for one or more violation(s), charge(s) may be filed. After the resident responds to each charge by indicating he or she is "responsible" or "not responsible," he or she may indicate a preference for having the charge(s) resolved through:

Mediation
 This option is reserved for situations where all of the immediate parties in the incident agree to have a conflict resolved in this fashion, and the option is considered appropriate by the housing staff member referring the case. Failure to fulfill the terms of a mediation agreement could lead to reactivation of the charges as well as additional disciplinary action.  Sexual assault cases are not subject to mediation.

Informal Administrative Hearing
Cases may be resolved in an Informal Administrative Hearing when the student(s) accepts responsibility for the charges.

Residence Hall Conduct Hearing
The Carolina Student Judicial Council is composed of students who have been selected and trained specifically to operate as hearing authorities for discipline cases. A hearing board consists of no more than five and no less than three Carolina Student Judicial Council members

The Housing Hearing Officer may assign the case to a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing to expedite resolution of a particular case.  The following restrictions apply to choosing a preference for case resolution:

• If a student indicates he/she is "not responsible", he/she may not choose an informal administrative hearing with the Hearing Officer;
• If more than one person is charged in connection with the same incident, they may be required to choose the same option for resolution, unless exceptional conditions are present;
• If the Housing Hearing Officer filing charges believes one of the sanctions may be termination of the housing contract, the case must be resolved through a hearing conducted by the Carolina Student Judicial Council, a Housing Hearing Officer from another area, or the Office of Student Judicial Programs.

Specific procedures for Residence Hall Conduct Hearings will be provided to the charged student prior to the hearing.

Sanctions
Sanction decisions will be made after a documentation of the violation(s) is presented by a staff member, reviewed by the resident, and determination of responsibility is made. Responsibility for violating Housing policies will be determined by a preponderance of evidence. Once a determination of responsibility has been established by the Hearing Officer (or designee), information concerning the resident student's previous violations and cumulative documentation by the hall staff as well as the impact of a particular student on the residential environment will be reviewed and taken into consideration before a sanctioning decision is made. Sanctioning decisions are made with the goal of achieving the following six objectives:

• Educating the student
• Holding the student accountable;
• Deterring future violations;
• Demonstrating the University's position regarding the behavior;
• Providing an opportunity for the student to make restitution;
• Where appropriate, providing an opportunity for other students to learn from the incident.

Sanctions for the violation of any contractual agreement, residence hall regulation, and/or University conduct policy may include the following:

Written Warning
An official written reprimand making the misconduct a matter of record in University files for a specified period of time. Any further misconduct could result in more sever disciplinary action.

Conditions/Restrictions
Limitations upon a student's behavior for a period of time, or an obligation to complete a specified activity.  This sanction may include, but is not limited to, restriction of visitation privileges, denial of the right to hold an office with a departmental organization, required attendance at a workshop, or participation in public service.

Fines and Restitution
A student may be ordered to make restitution or to pay a fine when the student has engaged in conduct including but not limited to: the damage or destruction of property, or the theft or misappropriation of property, or fraudulent behavior, or violations of the alcohol and/or drug policies. Such property may belong to an individual, group, or the University. Restitution may be in the form of financial payment, community service, or special activities designated by the hearing authority. Additional fines may be assessed as a punitive measure.

Housing Probation
Notification that further misconduct, failure to complete assigned sanctions, or failure to comply with official requests may result in permanent removal from University Housing without entitlement to a refund for the remainder of the period originally contracted.

Relocation
Transfer of the resident's housing contract to another room on campus. The room may be designated. The resident will be given a reasonable time to relocate. When a resident has been relocated, he/she is not permitted to return to the original residence hall for any reason including visiting, unless special permission has been obtained from University Housing or the Office of Student Judicial Programs.  The resident is responsible for any increase in cost associated with a relocation.

Removal from University Housing
Termination of the resident's housing contract requires the resident to vacate his or her room. Removal from University housing is justified if it is judged that a resident's continued presence in University housing would prove detrimental to either the residential community or the resident. The resident will be given a reasonable time, usually no less than two (2) calendar days, to vacate University housing after the decision to terminate his/her housing contract. Students removed from University housing are not permitted to return to any University residence hall without special permission from University Housing or the Office of Student Judicial Programs. A student removed from University housing is not entitled to a refund for the remainder of the semester in which they are removed.

Appeal Process for Residence Hall Conduct Hearings
Decisions of the Carolina Student Judicial Council in a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing may be appealed by a resident student found responsible for a violation to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support. The reasons for an appeal are limited to the following:

• The original Hearing Officer/Council committed a procedural error in hearing the case which significantly prejudiced the findings of the Hearing Council; and/or
• New evidence, which could not have been available at the time of the hearing, and which is material to the outcome of the case, is available.

 An appeal to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support must be made in writing within five (5) University business days of receipt of the original written decision to the Office of Student Judicial Programs who will submit it to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support. A decision is assumed to be received three (3) University business days from the date of the mailing.  On appeal the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support or designee shall review the appeal.

If an appeal is in process, sanctions of relocation or removal may be implemented until after the appeal decision is made.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.07

Emergency removal from housing or relocation to another housing assignment is an action requiring that a student immediately leave the residence hall or residential area. It may be implemented by University Housing when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student is an immediate threat to the safety, health or welfare of himself or herself, other members of the residence hall community, residence hall property and/or when the students' continued presence may be disruptive to the community or to the mission of University Housing. When a student is removed, that student is prohibited from entering any residence hall without written permission from the Office of Student Judicial Programs or the Director of Residence Life.

When a student is removed or relocated on an emergency basis, he or she is given notice explaining the reasons for the removal or relocation, the duration, and any special conditions that apply. A student notified of such action will also be referred for appropriate disciplinary action. The emergency removal or relocation will remain in effect until all disciplinary charges are resolved. If a student is not found responsible for any violation of University policy and is readmitted to University Housing, he/she may be entitled for a refund for the time period they were removed from the hall. Any refunds for the time period are not automatic, and will be determined on a case by case basis by the Director of Residence Life for University Housing.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.08

I.  POLICY

A. The University Housing Conference Center, a unit of University Housing, provides the University with facilities large enough to accommodate University-affiliated conferences, meetings and seminars.  During the summer months, the Conference Center coordinates University housing in residence halls for adult and youth conferences and seminars on campus.

 B. As State property, University Housing Conference Center’s reservable facilities may not be used for individual or financial gain.

 C. Eligible groups and priority of requests

1.       The Conference Center facilities are for use by the members of the University of South Carolina community.  Request for facilities are processed in the following priority order:

a.       activities of special importance to the University;

b.       traditional activities - A traditional activity is an activity that has been presented for three consecutive years during the past five-year span.

* With the exception of conferences housing groups with the Conference Center, reservations for meetings will not be taken until after May 15 of that year;

c.        activities sponsored by academic or administrative units – The Conference Center facilities are not available for regular classroom instruction with the exception of the Capstone Scholars program.  Faculty organizations recognized by the Faculty Senate may reserve the facilities;

d.       activities sponsored by registered student organizations

The Russell House is the primary meeting space for student activities.  Only if all facilities are booked at the Russell House may registered student groups reserve meeting rooms at Conference Center.  Register student organizations are those student organizations at the University of South Carolina registered and in good standing with the Division of Student Affairs. Registered student groups are limited to one Conference Center facility usage per semester.

2.       Within these priorities the reservationist accepts requests for facilities on a first-come basis.  The Conference Center reserves the right to assign facilities on the basis of the most efficient utilization of space.  Certain situations may require changes in the facilities reserved by a group and may be done so by the Conference Center coordinator.

D. Failure to comply with the policies and procedures regarding the Conference Center may subject the person or group to University and University Housing penalties.  These can range from cancellation of the event, forfeiture of organization license, ban from use of University facilities and/or equipment as well as other University disciplinary action.

E. The University assumes no responsibility at any time during the year for any loss or damage to property or person.

F. Summer Conference Housing Facilities

1.       Eligibility

a.       The Conference Center is available to groups with educational objectives for resident conferences, meetings and seminars.  The groups must be sponsored by a USC academic or administrative department, which shall make all necessary arrangements with the Conference Center.  All information requested must be provided, and a designee of the department must be physically present during the time of the conference.  The charges incurred are directed to the sponsoring department.

b.       The sponsoring party assumes full responsibility for the acts of the participants using University facilities and agrees to reimburse the University for any and all damages to facilities by the groups. This includes loss of linen, key, equipment or furniture.

c.        The sponsor agrees to make all arrangements for food service (including banquets, luncheons and breaks) with University Dining Services.

2.       Request for facilities are processed in the following priority order:

a.       conferences, meetings and seminars of special importance to the University;

b.       conferences, meetings and seminars that have 200 residents or more;

c.        seniority -- continuing conferences, meetings and seminars that utilize University housing on a year-to-year basis;

d.       all other requests are processed chronologically with priority given to earlier reservations.

3.       Alcohol

The consumption of beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages on the University of South Carolina campus is subject to South Carolina law and University rules and regulations.

4.       University Rules

a.       Possession of fireworks, firearms, air guns or other weapons is strictly prohibited.  Possession may result in eviction from the residence hall and/or University disciplinary action.

b.       Mopeds are not permitted in residence halls.  Bicycles are permitted in residence halls only in accordance with posted regulations.

c.        Pets are not permitted.

d.       Hot plates and similar appliances are not permitted in rooms, nor is any type of cooking allowed in any of the rooms.

e.       Attaching an object to the premises by nails or screws or altering the premises in any manner whatsoever without prior permission of the University is prohibited.

5.       Conference Center Rules

a.       Male and female guests will share floors but have separate bathroom facilities.  Shared rooms are reserved for married couples or occupants of the same sex in accordance with South Carolina law.

b.       All individuals staying one or more nights must be paying guests.

c.        If participants are minors, there must be one adult counselor for every ten participants.

6.       Reservation of Rights

                The University reserves the following rights:

a.       to reassign facilities to assure the maximum and most appropriate utilization of University facilities;

b.       to reassign residents within a building after notification, in order to accomplish necessary repairs and renovations to the building;

c.        to revoke the campus privilege, including residency in its buildings, of any occupant whose conduct becomes, in the University's opinion, injurious or potentially injurious to the academic community;

d.       To terminate the reservation of the renting party should unforeseen emergencies occur making it advisable, illegal or impossible to provide facilities;

e.       to add or delete from these policies any clause(s) whatsoever upon timely notification.

7.       Liability

The University assumes no responsibility for any property of the Licensee which is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed in the Conference Center at any time, including periods when the Licensee is not in occupancy.  The Licensee agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the University of South Carolina, its officers, employees and agents from any and all claims or losses accruing or resulting to any person during the performance of this contract.

8.       Laws Applicable

This agreement is made and entered into in the County of Richland, State of South Carolina and is governed and construed in accordance with the laws of South Carolina.  All groups using University space are expected to adhere to all University policies, regulations, guidelines and all local, State and Federal laws concerning health, safety and public orders.  Failure to comply with these regulations may result in forfeiture of the privilege of using the conference facilities.

 II. PROCEDURE

 A. Reservations for Capstone

1.       Reservations for Conference facilities are to be made with the Conference Coordinator (7-6636).  Reservations include provisions for the following:

a.       space requirements;

b.       room arrangements;

c.        personnel requirements;

d.       summer conference requirements.

2.       The following form(s) must be completed:

a.       Lease - specifications of meeting premise(s) and specified time

1)       Attachment A - rules that apply to the use of meeting space

2)       Attachment B - rules governing use of beer, wine and /or distilled spirits in meeting space(s)

3)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• copy - Office of the President

b.       Reservation Card

1)       As the Russell House is the primary meeting facility for student groups, students must obtain a reservation card from the Russell House Reservationist before reserving a room at the Conference Center.  The reservation card states that all facilities at the Russell House are in use.

2)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

c.        USC Event Registration Form

1)       This form must be filled out by any organization/department sponsoring an event involving alcohol and/or sound systems in which a student is in attendance.  Student is defined as any person enrolled in the USC System.

2)       distribution:

•  white - USC Police

•  yellow - Student Affairs

• pink - Conference Office

• goldenrod - organization/department

3.       Alcohol

a.       Arrangements for serving alcoholic beverages must be made through the Conference Coordinator.  A Statement of Understanding and, if applicable, an Event Registration form must be signed and adhered to (as well as the University Policy on Use of Alcohol as stated in the Carolina Community).

b.       The Conference Coordinator reserves the right to designate under what conditions and in what areas group events may involve the use of beer, wine and distilled spirits.  Kegs of beer are prohibited in the Campus Room.

4.       All advance reservations must be confirmed (set-ups, group size, times) a minimum of one week prior to the event scheduled.

5.       All cancellations of the use of the meeting facilities must be made one week (during the academic year) or ten days (summer months) prior to the date reserved.  Failure to do so can result in loss of eligibility for use of the facilities and/or a $50 non-cancellation fee.

B. During Events at Capstone

1.       All food must be served by the University Dining Services.  Arrangements for catering must be made directly between function sponsors and University Dining Services (7-7919) which will bill the sponsor directly for catering charges.

2.       If food is served, accurate participant counts must be reported to both Dining Services and the Conference Coordinator.

3.       Any music or other noise producing activity must be conducted at a level appropriate to the facility (no amplified music permitted).

4.       Dancing is not permitted.

5.       Standard set-ups are provided.  Where special set-ups, custodial services and/or overtime payments are required, a minimum charge of $50 will be made.

6.       All functions will terminate no later than 11:30 p.m. with the area clear not later than 12:00 midnight.

7.       It is the responsibility of the person heading the meeting to establish guidelines and/or regulations to ensure order within the group and maintain proper consideration of other groups using the facilities.

C. Summer Conference Housing Facilities

1.       Reservations for summer conference housing are to be made with the Conference Coordinator (7-6636). Reservations include provisions for the following:

a.       number of bed spaces required;

b.       type of linen/maid service required;

c.        dates of conference, meeting, or seminar;

d.       method of payment.

2.       The following form(s) must be completed:

a.       Preliminary Housing Request - specifications of housing needs and specified dates

1)       This form must be completed before a tentative hold will be place on bed space.

2)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• photo copy - Dining Services

b.       Conference Center Housing Agreement - a contractual agreement between the University and the Licensee.  Distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• photo copy - Office of the Board of Trustees

• photo copy - Licensee

3.       Method of Payment

a.       Licensee must indicate method of payment at least 60 days before tentative arrival date.

b.       The University requires that payment be made within ten days after receipt of the final  bill unless other arrangements have been made with the Conference Coordinator.

c.        Group billings are to be paid to University Housing Services/Business Office, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina  29208.  This is the only office on campus authorized to accept payment.

d.       Bill must be paid via a lump sum billing or transfer of funds. Individual payments are not accepted.

e.       Any error in billing must be reported to the Conference Coordinator within 10 days of receipt of bill.

4.