POLICIES

I. Policy Statement
It is the policy of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater that assistance animals are generally permitted in University Housing on the UW-Whitewater campus as described below.  

II. Definition

"Assistance animal" is an animal that:

1. is prescribed to an individual with a disability by a healthcare or mental health professional; and
2. is necessary to afford a person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy University Housing.

III. Determination

1. UW-Whitewater provides reasonable accommodations for persons requesting an assistance animal in University Housing. The determination of whether an assistance animal will be permitted in University Housing is made on a case-by-case basis through an interactive process involving the individual requesting the accommodation and relevant campus personnel. In all cases, the needs of the individual are balanced with the impact of an animal on other campus residents, patrons or programs.
2. In order for an assistance animal to be considered a reasonable accommodation in University Housing, there must be current verification of need from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker, or other mental health professional provided to the Center for Students with Disabilities that:
   1. verifies that the person has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities;
   2. describes the needed accommodation, and
   3. identifies the relationship between the person's disability and the need for an assistance animal.
3. All requests for assistance animals in University Housing are subject to an annual review.

IV. Process

1. Students requesting assistance animals in University Housing begin by registering for services through the Center for Students with Disabilities intake process and include a request for the assistance animal on the Accommodation Request.
2. Students requesting an assistance animal to live in University Housing should notify the Center for Students with Disabilities at least 60 days prior to the desired move-in date in order for University Housing to best accommodate the student and the animal.
3. If all other criteria are met to establish a person as an individual with a disability, as set forth by staff at the Center for Students with Disabilities, a meeting will be arranged between the student and University Housing to discuss how to best accommodate the student, the assistance animal and the campus community.

V. Exclusions

1. 1. An assistance animal is only allowed within a person's dwelling in University Housing, or other areas on campus where domesticated animals are permitted.
   2. An assistance animal may be excluded from all campus areas including University Housing:
      1. where its presence fundamentally alters the nature of a program or activity;
      2. if the animal is disruptive;
      3. if its presence would result in substantial physical damage to the property of others; or
      4. if it substantially interferes with the reasonable enjoyment of the area by others.

VI. Requirements for Assistance Animals
All UW-Whitewater University Housing residents that are provided an assistance animal accommodation must comply with all state laws and local animal ordinances, as well as all University Housing policies and guidelines including, but not limited to, the following:

1. 1. 1. Residents must provide appropriate food, water, and shelter for assistance animals;
      2. Residents must not allow assistance animals to be neglected or abused;
      3. Residents are solely responsible for cleaning up and disposing of all animal waste (both indoors and outdoors) in a timely, effective fashion;
      4. Residents must not leave assistance animals alone in a room or apartment for an extended period of time; In the event that an assistance animal is left alone in a room or apartment for an extended period of time and is not being properly cared for, University Housing will attempt to contact the resident or the emergency contact to remove the animal; If this is not successful, University Housing may notify the appropriate authority and seek to have the animal removed. All costs associated with removing the animal shall be the responsibility of the resident;
      5. Residents must comply with all required state and municipal license requirements, including current identification and vaccination tags when applicable; Assistance animals must wear all required current rabies vaccination tags; Residents must provide requested verification of all veterinarian recommended vaccinations as well as proof of absence of communicable diseases, fleas and parasites (annually or as needed, thereafter);
      6. Residents must not allow assistance animals to disturb, annoy, or cause any nuisance to other members of the campus community;
      7. Assistance animals are not permitted in any public, common spaces within the residence halls/apartments, including but not limited to community/shared bathrooms, lounges, dining rooms, indoor recreational rooms, computer labs and study rooms.
      8. Residents are responsible for any odors, noise, damage, or other conduct of his or her assistance animal that disturbs others or damages the premises;
      9. Residents must be in full control of the assistance animal at all times;
      10. Residents are solely responsible for the care and supervision of assistance animals; University Housing assumes no responsibility for the care of a resident's assistance animal.

VII. Visitors
Assistance animals accompanying campus visitors are only allowed in areas of campus where domesticated animals are permitted.

VIII. Appeals and Grievances
Any person dissatisfied with a decision concerning an assistance animal may use the Appeals and Grievance procedures.

IX. Resources

• Center for Students with Disabilities: 262-472-4711
• ADA Coordinator: 262-472-1024
• University Housing Room Assignments: 262-472-4255

The alcohol policy has been developed according to state laws and UW System Board of Regents guidelines. It is expected that alcoholic beverages will be used responsibly, within legal guidelines, and in moderation to ensure other residents' right to privacy, sleep, and study within their own rooms. Loud or disruptive behavior, interference with cleanliness of the residence halls, or inappropriate drinking habits which are injurious to the health or education of an individual or those around them are reasons for disciplinary action by the university. UW-Whitewater permits the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages in university residence hall rooms by residents and their guests who are of legal drinking age within the following guidelines:

If you AND your roommate/s are under legal drinking age:

• If all residents of a room are UNDER the legal drinking age, NO alcohol is allowed in the room/suite, even by guests who meet the legal age requirement.
• Empty alcohol containers may not be possessed by underage residents, including empty alcohol boxes, bottles, or cans and bottle caps.

If all roommates are of legal drinking age:

• If all residents of a room/suite are of legal drinking age, they are allowed to possess and consume alcohol in their room/suite. Their guests may consume alcohol if the guests are of the legal drinking age.
• Possession, but not consumption, of alcohol is permitted while transporting the unopened beverage from the point of acquisition to the residence hall, or from the residence hall to a point off campus, by residents and their guests who are of the state legal drinking age.

If one or more roommates are of legal drinking age, but the others are NOT:

• If one or more roommates are of legal drinking age and the other roommate/s are under the legal drinking age, the of-age roommate/s and their guests of legal age are allowed to possess and consume alcohol in the room. Possession, but not consumption, of alcohol is permitted while transporting the unopened beverage from the point of acquisition to the residence hall, or from the residence hall to a point off campus, by residents and their guests who are of the state legal drinking age.
• Of age guests cannot possess or consume alcohol unless their host is present.
• The underage roommate/s and their guests of any age are not allowed to possess and consume alcohol in the room. If the of-age roommate/s is consuming alcohol, the under-age roommate/s and their guests may be present.

All residents are subject to the following policies regardless of age:

• Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages, regardless of age, is prohibited in common areas, such as floor lounges, main lobbies, corridors, stairwells, bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
• The possession of beer kegs, beer bongs, or any other common source or mass consumption alcohol device in the residence halls is prohibited. Students found in violation of this policy will be subjected to disciplinary action and the University Police will be contacted.
• Alcohol is not allowed at Leadership Involvement Team (LIT) functions.
• Inappropriate behavior, being under the influence while under-age, incapacitation, and/or the need for medical attention because of alcohol or other drug use is considered a violation of policy.
• The brewing or production of alcohol beverages is prohibited.
• Violations of the alcohol policy will result in referral to the Student Conduct System or University Conduct. Students are also subject to police issued citations for violations of state laws regarding alcohol.

Alcohol violation sanctions

The below sanctions are likely consequences of typical alcohol violations. Each case is treated and decided individually. Sanctioning for multiple alcohol- or drug-related violations will likely be treated consecutively.

1st alcohol violation
Typical first-time violations will be defined as the student was present while alcohol was being consumed underage or was in possession.

1. Completion of a web-based educational course. The student will be charged $45 for the course.
2. Residence hall probation for one year
3. Parental notification
4. Signed statement of understanding of conduct policy and consequences of future violations

2nd alcohol violation

1. Assignment to CHOICES program. The student will be charged $100 for this program.
2. Extended residence hall probation
3. Residence hall relocation and/or ban likely (Depending on where the violations took place)
4. Parental notification
5. Signed statement of understanding of conduct policy and consequences of future violations

3rd alcohol violation

1. Case is automatically referred to the University Conduct process
2. Referral to the Student Assistance Program in the University Health and Counseling Center for an AODA (alcohol and other drug abuse) Assessment
3. Residence hall contract cancellation and/or ban likely (Depending on where the violations took place)
4. Extended residence hall probation if contract is not cancelled. University probation if the contract is cancelled.
5. 8 to 10 page paper on responsibility, life choices, possibility of suspension from the university for a period of one semester to two years
6. Parental notification
7. Signed statement of understanding of conduct policy and consequences of future violations

4th alcohol violation

1. Suspension from the university for a period of one semester to two years

Because of liability concerns and potential damage to floors and carpets, bicycles are prohibited in the residence halls. Bikes are not allowed to be stored in student rooms. Special exceptions may be available by contacting your complex director.

Solicitation by political candidates in the living areas of residence halls is prohibited.

• Campaigning can take place in the lobbies and common areas of the residence halls, materials can be distributed, and candidates can interact with those coming and going from the hall
• Candidates can campaign on a floor if they are invited by residents of that floor. However, per our solicitation policy, there will be no door-to-door campaigning allowed (this includes, but is not limited to, knocking on doors, placing materials on or under doors etc.)</li />
• All other solicitation within the residence halls is prohibited.

Candidates are subject to University Housing’s guest policies, which state:

• Guests must be escorted at all times
• Guests are subject to all rules of the university and the residence hall in which they are staying
• Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guest whether the resident(s) are present or not
• The conduct of the guest should not inconvenience roommates or other students
• Residence hall front desk workers and other staff can ask the political candidate who they are and what office they are running for to verify that the individual is, in fact, a political candidate
• Violators of this policy may be referred to University Housing and/or the UW-Whitewater Police Department

Students are expected to support and maintain the hall environment. When damages, thefts, messes, or other acts occur in common hall areas bathrooms, hallways, lounges, etc., the community is jeopardized. Whenever possible, University Housing will hold the students responsible for all incurred charges. Students in the community can often help identify those responsible. If an individual does not take responsibility, the community as a group will take responsibility to pay for these damages. If the person(s) responsible are not identified, the community will be charged for common area damage. A charge is posted to a student’s account at the end of the academic year if the allocated billable damages are $5 or greater for that student.

Students who have information regarding common area damages or other safety and security information, but who wish to keep their identity confidential, can call the University Housing Tipline at 262-472-1612.

All students present where a violation is occurring are considered responsible for the violation and may face the Student Conduct Process. Any student present for a known policy violation being committed that violates the Code of Conduct is required to remove themselves from the situation. Failure to do so when reasonable under the circumstances may be the basis for a community standards violation. For example, if underage consumption of alcohol or use of illicit drugs is occurring in a residence hall room, all present may be held responsible.

See Information Technology Services (ITS) policies »

In all residence halls, the following hours of the day have been designated as quiet hours:

• Sunday: ends at 10 a.m. and begins at 10 p.m.
• Monday through Thursday: ends at 9 a.m. and begins at 10 p.m.
• Friday: ends at 9 a.m. and begins at midnight
• Saturday: ends at 10 a.m. and begins at midnight

During these hours, noise must be kept to a minimum to allow study and sleep. Any musical instrument or audio equipment (e.g. radios, stereos, video games, computers, TVs) must be played at reasonable volume levels that will not disturb other residents. During quiet hours, typically any type of noise, heard two or more doors down, will be considered excessive. At no time may speakers be played out of the windows. The remaining hours of the day will be designated as courtesy hours. Even during these times, reasonable noise levels should be maintained. During final exams, extended quiet hours are in effect. In order to maintain an academic environment, residents have a responsibility to avoid excessive noise that may be heard outside of residence hall windows and doors. Staff may confront noise issues that occur outside the buildings.

Courtesy and quiet hours violation sanctions
The below sanctions are likely consequences of courtesy and quiet hours violations. Each case is treated and decided individually.

1st noise-related violation

1. If noise is the only policy violation, the first noise violation results in a warning.

2nd noise-related violation

1. All second noise violations will be assigned the web-based course The Judicial Educator: Community Living from Me to We.
2. The student will be charged $20 for this course

3rd noise-related violation

1. Probation for six months and bulletin board/digital signage posting designed to talk about standards and community living. The bulletin board/digital signage posting must be approved by the complex director.

4th noise-related violation

1. Room reassignment, probation extended for additional six months, and the student must meet with the associate director of university housing and write a 4 to 6 page paper, double-spaced, one inch margin, size 12 font, on reaction to this meeting and the overall experience.

5th noise-related violation

1. Contract cancellation

The possession and/or use of illegal drugs and/or drug paraphernalia is in violation of state and federal law and UW-Whitewater policy. In addition, being in the presence of illegal drugs and/or drug paraphernalia and misuse and abuse of legal drugs are also considered violations of the drug policy. Any and all products containing THC are prohibited from being possessed or used within the residence halls. Suspected violations may be referred to the University Police, the Student Conduct System, or University Conduct.

Drug violation sanctions
The below sanctions are likely consequences of drug violations. Each case is treated and decided individually. Sanctioning for multiple alcohol- or drug-related violations will likely be treated consecutively.

1st drug-related violation

1. Residence hall probation for minimum of one year
2. Assignment to online educational course. The student will be charged $45 for this program.
3. 2-3 page reflection paper
4. Parental notification
5. Signed statement of understanding of conduct policy and consequences of future violations

2nd drug-related violation

1. Residence hall probation for your tenure as a residence hall student.
2. Residence hall relocation and/or ban likely (Depending on where the violations took place)
3. Assignment to CHOICES program. The student will be charged $100 for this program.
4. Parental notification
5. Signed statement of understanding of conduct policy and consequences of future violations
6. Contract cancellation is a possibility

3rd drug-related violation

1. Case is automatically referred to the University Conduct process for adjudication

See fire safety section.

Students are expected to complete all assigned sanctions that are the result of a previous conduct case that was adjudicated in University Housing. Failure to complete an assigned sanction may result in further charges and sanctions.

Equipment and electrical appliances
The use of electrical appliances such as toasters, air fryers, hot plates, instant pots, rice cookers, crock pots, and other cooking devices are prohibited in areas other than residence hall or suite kitchens because of fire safety regulations. Small coffee pots are permitted in rooms. Use of halogen lights, large outdoor string lights, heated blankets, and heated mattress pads are also prohibited. Small indoor string lights are permitted but may not come in contact with any metal surfaces. All power strips, extension cords and adapters must be UL approved, and due to fire risk, only one power strip, extension cord or adapter may be used per outlet. All humidifiers must have a humidistat and automatic shut-off functionality. University Housing reserves the right to remove any unauthorized or dangerous electrical appliances. Refrigerators are permitted in student rooms, but may not exceed 4.7 cubic feet. Microwave conventional ovens are permitted, but may not exceed 900 watts. Air conditioners and space heaters must be provided by University Housing.

Fire safety
The safety of every individual in the residence hall is critical to residence hall staff, and fire is of particular concern. It is important that all students become familiar with the stairwells and exits in the buildings, and practice caution when decorating their room. Due to the potential fire hazard, students are not allowed to hang anything such as fishnets, parachutes, sheets, etc. Students are prohibited from decorating with paneling or plywood, or blocking the doorway with furniture. Students are prohibited from modifying the operation of their residence hall room door in any way. Wheelchairs may not be stored in hallways except in approved areas. Candles (including candles without wicks), candle warmers, incense, and fragrant plug-in devices, are not allowed at any time. Smoke and/or fog machines and halogen lights are also prohibited. Due to the possible fire concerns, heated blankets and heated mattress pads are prohibited in the residence halls. If a student intentionally starts a fire, or if a fire results from negligence, students may be held financially responsible for property damage or personal loss, and may be removed from the residence halls.

Fire alarms and fire suppression
Smoke detectors are located in each room and should not be tampered with or unplugged. If a smoke detector is not working, an RA should be notified. Tampering with these or other fire safety equipment, such as fire alarms, fire alarm covers, fire hoses, or fire extinguishers, may be just cause for removal from the residence halls.

University Housing assumes no liability for damages related to the sprinkler systems. Individuals responsible for interfering or tampering with the sprinkler system may be held financially responsible for damages and may be subject to removal from the residence halls.

Persons causing false fire alarms, interfering with the proper functioning of the fire alarm system, including pull box covers, or interfering with the lawful efforts of emergency personnel are subject to prosecution under Wisconsin Statutes. In addition, individuals may be removed from the residence halls and/or the university. Every student is responsible for immediate evacuation of the building in the event of a fire alarm. Failure to evacuate will result in referral to the Student Conduct System and possible police involvement.

Flammable materials/explosives
Explosives, fireworks, gasoline or any other flammable materials that might create a hazard are not permitted in residence halls. Possession or use of such materials is a violation of state law and may result in referral to University Police and/or disciplinary action by the university. Use of such explosives may also result in immediate cancellation of the residence hall contract.

Smoking
All of UW-Whitewater's residence halls are smoke free. This includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vaping, vapors, oils, hookahs, or any other smoking devices. Any and all products containing THC are prohibited from being used or stored within the residence halls. Smoking is not permitted in any areas of the residence halls, including student rooms and foyers. Smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of any residence hall.

Fire procedures
In the event of a fire, students should immediately pull the nearest fire alarm. When the alarm sounds, all residents should immediately evacuate the building, and move away from the building to allow adequate access from emergency personnel.

It is the student's responsibility to evacuate the building; staff members will not come to get them. Failure to do so may result in referral to the Student Conduct System and/or a citation by University Police.

If a fire alarm sounds and you are in the building:

1. Remain calm.
2. Feel door and knob. If cool, open door slowly.

If you can exit safely:

1. Always wear shoes.
2. Close and lock your door and window.
3. Leave through the nearest exit. If smoke is present, use another exit.
4. Stand clear of the building after exiting.
5. Do not attempt to re-enter the building.
6. Do not return to your room until “all clear” is given by appropriate staff.

If door knob is hot or hallway is filled with smoke:

1. Seal cracks around door with wet towels, clothing, etc.
2. If a phone is available, call the Fire Department (dial 911) to report the fire.
3. Open the window and hang an object out the window, such as a sheet or clothing to attract attention.
4. Keep your face covered to aid in breathing.
5. Students with disabilities or those requiring special assistance should discuss their evacuation plans with their RA or Complex Director. Fire alarm tests are conducted on a periodic basis in each residence hall and students will be notified of the times in advance.

Fire hazards
Due to the potential fire hazard, students are prohibited from:

• Charging e-scooters and/or e-bikes
• Hanging anything such as fishnets, parachutes, sheets, etc. in rooms
• Decorating with paneling or plywood
• Blocking the doorway with furniture
• Storing wheelchairs in hallways (except in approved areas)

Students are also prohibited from having the following items in their rooms due to potential fire hazard:

• Candles and incense
• Smoke and/or fog machines
• Halogen lights are also prohibited

Intentionally starting a fire/fires resulting in negligence If a student intentionally starts a fire, or if a fire results from negligence, students may be held financially responsible for property damage or personal loss, and may be removed from the residence halls.

Firearms, ammunition, hunting knives, switchblades, laser pointers, Tasers, paintball guns, slingshots, wrist rockets, airsoft guns, BB guns, any toy guns and other weapons are not permitted in the residence halls. Residents possessing these items may be subject to removal from residence halls. Please check with the University Police for any possible weapon storage.

See fire safety section.

Food may be kept in rooms if stored in sealed containers or refrigerators. Storage of food between the window and the screen or on the window ledge is prohibited.

University-owned furniture must be left in rooms and common areas to which it has been allocated. Lobby, lounge, and basement furniture or other university property is not permitted in student rooms. The removal of any university-owned furniture is prohibited. Students will be held personally responsible for damage sustained by themselves or others in the room resulting from modifications made to the room or its furnishings. Examples include construction of bunk beds, partitions, or lofts.

Gambling, including online gambling, betting on athletic events, or the possession of gambling devices in residence halls, is prohibited by state law and university policy.

The grill policy has been developed in accordance with Chapter 18 of the Administrative code. Specifically, UWS 18.10.4.a reads:

“No person may light, build or use, or cause another to light, build or use, any fires, including but not limited to burning candles, burning incense or gas or charcoal cooking appliances, on university lands or in university facilities, except in such places as are established for these purposes and designated by the chief administrative officer.”

• Barbecue grilling is limited to permanent grills established around our residential facilities.
• Residents are encouraged to use "charcoal chimneys" (available at the front desk) to start charcoal rather than lighter fluid or other flammables. NOTE: Lighter fluid, charcoal or other flammables may not be stored in the residence halls, unless used by an approved student organization and stored in university fire-proof boxes.
• Residents must dispose of ashes in provided ash cans.
• Residents are responsible for cleaning the area and disposing of all trash appropriately at the conclusion of grilling.
• Because of the close proximity to the residence halls, residents should be considerate of other residents while grilling. Noise should be kept to a minimum especially during quiet hours.

A guest is defined as any individual who is not a resident of that complex.

• Guests must be escorted at all times.
• Guests are subject to all the rules of the university and the residence hall in which they are staying.
• Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guests, whether the residents are present or not.
• The host of the guest staying in the residence hall must have the approval of all occupants of the room in which the guests will be staying.
• The rights of a roommate supersede those of a guest in the room. If a roommate is inconvenienced by the presence of a guest, even if it is a time where guests are permitted in the residence hall, the guest can be asked to leave.
• If a guest and/or host do not respect the rights of the roommate, a staff member may be contacted for assistance.
• Any group of four or more guests staying in the hall must have prior University Housing approval.
• Overnight guests must be hosted by a resident. Non-sponsored guests are not permitted.
• A resident whose guest does not comply with the conditions listed above may face disciplinary action including being found responsible for the specific policy violated. University personnel reserve the right to direct guests to leave the premises.
• Guests will be allowed to stay for a consecutive three-day period for a reasonable number of times per semester.
• Children are not permitted to reside with their resident parent or guardian in the residence halls.

During your stay in our facilities, you are to follow all policies of University Housing, outlined on this website. Should you have any questions on these policies, you should contact the Goodhue front desk at 262-472-4200.

Check-in will occur after 2 p.m. on the scheduled arrival date at the Goodhue Front Desk. No early check-ins will be granted. Payment in full is due at the time of arrival. No guests under the age of 18 will be permitted to stay in Guest Housing, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. A valid form of photo identification will be required at check-in. All guests must be registered with the Goodhue front desk.

Check-out will be at 11 a.m. on the scheduled departure date. Rented linens are to remain in the guest room. Room keys are to be returned to the drop box on the 4th floor to the right of the elevator. Any rented parking passes must be returned to the Goodhue front desk to avoid a $100 citation.

Courtesy hours are in effect 24/7 in guest housing facilities. Any noise complaints during business hours should be directed to the Goodhue front desk. After-hour complaints should be directed to University Police at 262-472-4200. Any violations of courtesy hours are subject to cancellation of a guest reservation.

Common areas are to be kept neat and tidy at all times. This includes washing and returning dishes to their designated location after use, using appropriate trash receptacles, and practicing good hygiene practices in the restrooms and showers. Any large trash items that do not fit in your trash receptacles in your room should be brought directly to the dumpster, located on the South-East corner of Goodhue Hall. Concerns should be addressed with the Goodhue front desk.

Guests who become locked out of their rooms should contact the Goodhue front desk during business hours. Outside of business hours, please contact University Police at 262-472-4660.

Student guests are limited to a two-week stay in Guest Housing, unless approval from the executive director of University Housing, or their designee is granted. If a guest is in a transition period to permanent housing, the guest is expected to exhaust all resources to find permanent housing before their scheduled departure date.

By receipt of the room key for my reservation, you agree to follow all outlined policies and additional University Housing policies listed on this website. You understand that your reservation(s) may be cancelled or altered at any time, at the discretion of University Housing.

University Housing firmly believes in the rights of individuals and cautions students about the harassment of others. All reports of harassment will be dealt with according to UWS Chapter 17 guidelines and/or University Housing policies.

Students are expected to maintain their rooms in a reasonably neat and clean manner. In addition, students are expected to remove trash on a regular basis and dispose of it according to established recycling guidelines. It is a violation of policy to leave your room garbage in the bathroom or lounge. At all times, hallways should be kept free of furniture, garbage, or other personal items.

Students who need to dispose of needles or syringes should place them into puncture resistant and leak proof containers. Containers should then be labeled with biohazardous stickers available from University of Health and Counseling Services, which can also dispose of the containers for students. Additional information about disposal of containers may be obtained from the University Housing or University Health and Counseling Service.

Students are required to carry their Hawk Card (university ID card) at all times and must present it to university staff members upon request. Students may not impersonate a university staff member, including student staff members.

When living in such a large community, it is important that the rights and property of others are respected. Consequently, behavior such as horseplay, pranks, the making of a mess, or any actions which damage property or disturb others will be considered inappropriate for the residence hall environment and the surrounding area. Unauthorized production of audio, video, or photographic images of a person in a location in which that person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, including, but not limited to, shower/locker rooms, residence halls rooms, and restrooms, is prohibited. Other behavior that would reasonably be considered inappropriate conduct for a residence hall community, and not addressed in other specific policies, is prohibited.

• Pressure lofts, which exert force between the floor and the ceiling or walls, are not allowed. Students who are buying/building lofts for the first time should be considering only completely freestanding units.
• Designs should utilize untreated wood and bolts. Nails, fiberglass, metal sheeting, chains, ropes, wires, and PVC pipe are not allowed.
• The bed frame, head, and footboards are the only pieces of residence hall furniture that may be integrated into the design of a loft/bunk.
• Any loft design should utilize the bed frames, bed legs, and mattresses which are already in the room. There is no storage for these components. Furniture and components must not leave the residence hall room in which they are designated for.
• Bed risers of any type are prohibited from being used within the residence halls.
• Lofts or bunked beds may not be placed parallel to the window unless the bed is at least 3 feet from the window and/or at a height which is below the window ledge (no more than 3 feet high.) This will prevent accidental falling against the window and/or screen.
• The distance from the top of the mattress to the ceiling must be at least 18 inches. Students should be aware of the potential for falling from a loft.
• A loft must be positioned so the door can open freely. A loft should not hinder a door from being opened all the way.

Motorized vehicles — including, but not limited to, e-bikes, motorcycles, mopeds, hoverboards, self-balancing scooters, Segways, and drones — are prohibited in residence halls, including for charging purposes. If you have questions about prohibited items or are considering bringing an item that might be considered a prohibited item, please contact University Housing prior to bringing it to the residence hall to determine whether it can be allowed.

Small electric scooters
Residents may store small electric scooters in their residence hall rooms; however, they may not be used inside the residence halls. Any scooter-like devices containing lithium-ion batteries must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Lithium metal batteries must not exceed 8 grams total per residence hall room or apartment.
• Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 1,000 watts per battery in residence halls, rooms, or apartments.
• Residents may not dismantle or repair any type of battery in their residence hall or apartment.
• Only use battery chargers designed specifically for the battery being charged.

Through various leadership roles, students often participate in scheduled off-campus activities. These activities may include camps, conferences, programs, retreats, workshops, etc. Students participating in off-campus activities sponsored by and representing the residence halls, University Housing, or the university must adhere to the following:

• University Housing policies addressing student behavior
• Policies and procedures of the off-campus host(s) for the activity of facilities (camp, retreat policies, etc.)
• University policies and related state and federal law

Inappropriate behavior by students representing University Housing at off-campus activities may result in action being taken in accordance with University Housing procedures. Documentation of incidents may be forwarded to the University Housing Student Conduct System or the University Conduct System. Such incidents may also be reported to the respective host officials.

No pet may be kept in or near residence halls, and university personnel or their designee may remove pets from residence halls. The only exception to this policy is harmless fish in a twenty gallon or less aquarium and university approved service animals and emotional support animals. Students with university approved service animals and emotional support animals must contact the Center for Students with Disabilities to have the animal approved and must have a signed copy of the Service Animal or Emotional Support Animal Agreement Policy on file. Visiting pets are also prohibited.

To view the policies further, please visit the following links:

Emotional Support Animal resident agreement form

Service Animal procedure

Service Animal agreement form

To request an Emotional Support Animal, contact the Center for Students with Disabilities.

All forms of physical assault, including physical attacks, fighting, and sexual assault, are prohibited in the residence halls and will be dealt with severely. Furthermore, such actions may invoke the Wisconsin Mandatory Arrest law for domestic abuse. This law provides for the mandatory arrest of any person who commits any of the following acts against a roommate or former roommate:

• Intentional infliction of physical pain, injury, or illness
• Intentional impairment of physical condition
• Sexual assault
• A physical act, or threat in conjunction with a physical act, that may cause the other to reasonably fear imminent engagement in the conduct described above

See our postings and digital signage page.

University Housing reserves the right to limit or prohibit private ventures, businesses, or retail operations in the residence halls. Private or personal business ventures are strictly prohibited in public areas of the residence halls. A student is required to notify the associate director of University Housing prior to establishment of such business.

To minimize potential personal injury, no games or equipment designed to be played outdoors are allowed inside the residence halls.

Students are responsible for helping to maintain a secure residence hall environment and may not prop open outside doors, allow building access to non-residents who are not their guests, duplicate residence hall keys, or attempt to gain access to an area for which they are not authorized. Exiting buildings through emergency doors in non-emergency situations is prohibited.

University staff members are trained to respond to emergency situations and policy violations; however, their effectiveness often depends on cooperation from students. Students are expected to respond to all reasonable directives, written or verbal, from staff members and must not interfere with the performance of any duties (this includes opening your door when it is requested by university staff). Harassment or intimidation of staff members will be immediately referred to the Student Conduct System and may result in contract reassignment or cancellation.

Because of potential damage to floors and carpets, rollerblades, scooters, wheeled shoes and similar items may only be used outdoors.

Students are encouraged to personalize their rooms with decorations. In doing so, masking tape, pins and thumbtacks may be used as adhesives, but nails, duct tape, and scotch tape should not be used due to possible damage to the room. Adhesive hooks (i.e. 3M Command-branded or others) may be used to hang items. Keep in mind that you may be responsible for wall damage incurred with removal of such hooks. Decorative lights should be unplugged if you are not in the room. No decorations should hang from ceilings or raceways. Questions about room decorations should be directed to the complex director.

During the holiday season, students may not have natural trees or wreaths in their room due to the potential fire hazard. Indoor lights which are UL approved may be used. Indoor lights may not be wrapped around metal surfaces, bed frames, or any lofts.

Student room doors and rooms windows in residence halls are considered "private living space." If an item is posted on a student room door or room window that targets a specific individual in a harmful, harassing, or intimidating manner, the resident will be asked to remove it. If an item is posted that is generally discriminatory or distasteful, a dialogue between the student and the complex director will occur.

Rooms occupied by residents of the university shall not be searched by anyone unless a valid search warrant is procured by appropriate authorities. This policy is consistent with section 968.10 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Rooms shall be entered in cases that may involve possible loss of life, limb, property; flood; violation of residence hall policy; or severe disruption. This shall not preclude entrance for requested repairs, including emergency maintenance. Rooms may also be entered by a designated University Housing employee to turn off a loud stereo, alarm clock or similar item, or to shut a window during a storm. Students may not enter or occupy any residence hall facility or student room unless authorized to do so.

All of UW-Whitewater's residence halls are smoke free. This includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vaping, vapors, oils, hookahs, or any other smoking devices. Any and all products containing THC are prohibited from being used or stored within the residence halls. Smoking is not permitted in any areas of the residence halls, including student rooms and foyers. Smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of any residence hall.

Sexual assault is a serious, violent crime, which has far reaching effects. The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University Housing make every effort to educate the community about sexual assault and to protect students. Sexual assault is defined as sexual contact with a person without the consent of that person. Students living in the residence halls who wish to make a complaint about a sexual assault may do so through the University Police and/or the University Conduct process.

Door-to-door solicitation is never allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, knocking on doors, sliding things under student doors and putting door hangers on doorknobs.

Possession of another person's or the university's property, without prior consent, is prohibited. This includes property from individual student rooms, as well as from laundry rooms and other common areas.

Signs or traffic control devices which are the property of federal, state, county or city governments are not permitted in the residence halls, which include but are not limited to stop signs, pedestrian traffic control, and street signs. Possession of such described signs/devices may result in referral to the University Police as well as the Student Conduct System.

Students who occupy or visit residence halls without appropriate authorization will be referred to the Student Conduct System. This includes students who violate a Residence Hall Ban sanction.

Damage to any residence hall furniture, fixtures, or facilities or damage to the property of students living in the residence halls is prohibited. Violators will be held financially responsible for such actions and will be referred to the Student Conduct System. Damages in common areas of the residence halls may be charged to all residents within that unit. See “common area damages” section above for more information.

A Board of Regents decision allows 24-hour visitation in the Universities of Wisconsin residence halls. Visitation shall be defined as the right of the individual student to invite guests and to entertain guests in their room. All of our residence halls have 24-hour visitation.

Students should keep in mind that their conduct and the conduct of their guests should not inconvenience roommates or other students.

The enforcement and supervision of the policies governing visitation are primarily the students’ responsibility. To ensure proper channels of enforcement and supervision, the residence hall staff will assume a mutual responsibility. The coordination of enforcement responsibilities rests with the complex director.

See the “guests” section above for more information.

Waterbeds are not permitted in residence hall rooms.

Weight lifting equipment or barbells are not permitted to be kept in students’ rooms at any time.

Objects and liquids may not be dropped or thrown from a window and such conduct may result in immediate contract cancellation. Yelling, using laser pointers, or playing music from windows is prohibited. Window screens may not be removed. If screens are removed without permission, there will be a referral to the Student Conduct System.