Guide to Residence Living

The Office of Housing Operations and Residence Life (HRL) at Jax State is located in Angle Hall, room 111. The HRL office is open from 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday, and is closed on weekends and most holidays. The HRL office has overall responsibility for residence hall/apartments, housing programs, and services. It also maintains all housing records, including incidents, room assignments, room assignment information, and other housing-related documents.

Each residential area is staffed by well-trained professionals and paraprofessionals who are available to help you make the most of your on-campus living experience. All staff members are trained to provide leadership, assistance, and support. The Resident Assistant (RA) on-call information is posted at the front desk in each residence hall. Residents in the apartment area will need to contact the Apartment Area office at 256-782-8336 between 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. After 4:30 p.m., residents may contact the apartment RA on-call via cell phone at 256-689-6420. 

The HRL staff includes the following professional and paraprofessional team members throughout each area: Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Resident Assistant, Desk Assistant, and Housing Operations Student Staff members. 

If you are interested in a position with HRL please apply online at Careers at Jax State.

Residence Life Coordinators (RLCs) are full-time professional staff members who supervise the Assistant Residence Life Coordinators (ALRCs), Resident Assistants (RAs) and Desk Assistants (DAs) within their respective residential areas. Their primary job is to coordinate their area and maintain an environment conducive to learning, growth, and development. RLCs are trained in crisis intervention and manage the daily operations of their specific area.

In their professional roles, the RLCs seek to provide administration, supervision, educational programming, and counseling in the residence hall or apartment setting. The RLC provides mentoring and leadership to their residence life staff and to residents of the community. It is important that the RLC fosters an atmosphere conducive to learning and living. The RLC should strive to accomplish the goals of the institution, Student Affairs, and HRL.

Each hall is staffed by a RLC, who may or may not live in the building but is responsible for the building. In addition, there is an RLC/ARLC on-call 24 hours a day for the entire university housing area. The RLC is the resident’s immediate contact source if they feel the RA or ARLC did not address the situation properly.

Multimedia Assistants work as an integral member of the HRL marketing team to help in reaching our residents/prospective residents through interactive marketing. The Multimedia Assistant contributes to various projects/campaigns throughout the academic year and is responsible for producing creative content for social media, attending HRL sponsored programs and events to capture footage, working university events such as Preview Day, Admitted Students Day, and Gamecock Orientation sessions, assisting with front desk coverage and day-to-day office operations, running errands, and other duties as assigned.

Student Worker on Assigned Tasks (S.W.A.T.) are a valuable part of the HRL team at Jax State. S.W.A.T. is responsible for ensuring that any duties assigned to them are completed in a timely, efficient manner. The following are examples of responsibilities for S.W.A.T. team members: working outdoors in all weather conditions; picking up debris on campus grounds; moving furniture to areas around campus; cleaning apartments, offices, etc.; and all other duties as assigned.

Assistant Residence Life Coordinators (ARLCs) are graduate students who assist in the administration and direction of all activities associated with the operation of the residential areas. The ARLC assumes the responsibility for the residential areas in the absence of the Residence Life Coordinator (RLC). The ARLC is the primary supervisor for all day- and night-time Desk Assistants (DAs) employed with HRL.

Resident Assistants (RAs) are full-time students who are chosen for their positive attitude, commitment, leadership potential, and ability to relate interpersonally. The RAs are the residents’ primary resource for information and assistance. RAs are on call evenings and weekends to assist with problems or emergencies. RAs, which report directly to the RLC, work closely with the residents on the floor or area where they are assigned. RAs serve as a resource, explain, and enforce HRL’s policies, respond to emergency situations, sponsor social and educational programs, offer general assistance, and support and promote the growth of a positive learning community.

Desk Assistants (DAs) are housing staff members responsible for covering shifts at the main desk of each residential area’s office. The DA who works during the day serves as a customer service representative for HRL and the Jax State community. The DA’s primary responsibilities include monitoring who enters the residential area and answering questions about the university. The DA also logs in visitors, as well as receives and documents telephone calls.

The DA who works at night (NDA) in the residence hall is on duty from 12:00 a.m.– 6:00 a.m. Their responsibilities include ensuring all exterior doors are closed and locked and monitoring who enters the residence hall. They serve as an added security measure to ensure a safe living environment in our halls. They also report any suspicious activities in and around the residence halls. They are required to document all occurrences and perform rounds of their specific area.

The Housing Appeal Board meets to review special circumstances regarding housing lease agreements and housing charges. The board members are represented by various staff members from Jax State. The Housing and Residence Life Operations Specialists act as the liaison between the student submitting the appeal and the board. For more information about the appeals process please visit the HRL office located at Angle Hall, room 111. Buyout Requests are accepted November 1 – December 1 for spring semester only. 

Housing Lease Buyout Request refers to an upper-class, Jax State-enrolled resident requesting to end a HRL signed lease agreement.

1. First-year residents are NOT eligible to request a buyout because they are required to live on campus for their first academic year.

2. Buyout requests will be accepted online starting November 1 until December 1. Note: The Edge residents may request a summer buyout from March 1 until April 1. 

3. No buyout requests will be accepted after the set deadline.

4. All buyout requests will be submitted to the Housing Appeal Board for review.

5. If the request is denied, the resident will remain financially obligated to the HRL signed lease agreement.

6. If the request is approved, the resident will no longer be financially obligated to the HRL signed lease agreement, but a $1,000 buyout fee will be added to the resident's student account.

7. Residents who are graduating, getting married, are required to live elsewhere because of an internship/resident teaching, pregnant (with medical documentation), or deployed by the military during the contract period are not required to submit a buyout request. Residents who meet any of the above required criteria will be advised by the Housing and Residence Life Operations Specialists and will submit an Intent to Vacate form online through Roompact, which is also the form used for withdrawals, and will provide supporting documentation as needed. Please note these residents should submit this form prior to spring semester to avoid cancellation fees.

NOTE: If you meet the criteria for a first-year exemption and choose to apply for on-campus housing, you are still responsible for your lease. Once a student is assigned to housing and accepts a key, they cannot request an exemption.

• First-year students may not request an exemption and/or buyout for the spring semester after they have lived on campus for the fall semester of the same academic year. 
• First-year students switching to all online classes and/or students who are wanting to commute for the spring semester are not eligible for an exemption/buyout after living on campus during the fall semester.

First-year residents are required to live on campus and are not eligible for cancellation unless the resident is no longer enrolled in classes at Jax State. Once a first-year student is assigned and accepts a key, they are no longer eligible for exemption or cancellation. 

• First-year students may not request an exemption and/or buyout for the spring semester after they have lived on campus for the fall semester of the same academic year. 
• First-year students switching to all online classes and/or students who are wanting to commute for the spring semester are not eligible for an exemption/buyout after living on campus during the fall semester.

Note the following established contract cancellation deadlines:

• Lease agreements beginning fall term: A lease agreement for fall term, which has been signed by the resident, constitutes an agreement to reside within university housing for the fall and spring terms (and summer term for The Edge). This agreement may be cancelled by the resident if a cancellation notice is received via the cancellation website on or before August 1 (students who receive an assignment after August 1 are given 10 calendar days after receiving their assignment to cancel).
• Lease agreement spring-only term: A lease agreement for spring term only, which has been signed by the resident, constitutes an agreement to reside within university housing for the spring term only. This agreement may be cancelled by the resident if a cancellation notice is received by HRL prior to January 1. This cancellation is only applicable to newly assigned residents for the spring term only.

If a resident chooses to cancel their housing assignment, they must do so prior to move-in date and at the specified time. If a resident cancels their assignment after August 1 (for fall lease agreements) or January 1 (for new spring-only lease agreements) they must be withdrawing from Jax State with no classes (this includes online classes). Summer housing lease agreements (not including The Edge) may only be canceled prior to the published move-in date of that summer term. 

Access to university housing is limited to residents who are admitted to Jax State and that are enrolled in at least one credit hour per semester as an undergraduate or graduate student at Jax State. As an additional eligibility requirement, a resident must be in good standing. Good standing means a resident is not on academic or disciplinary suspension. The resident will be required to satisfy these eligibility standards throughout the term of the lease and to inform HRL of any changes in their status that may affect eligibility. The Director of Housing Operations and/or Director of Residence Life or their designee must approve any exceptions. Students assigned to The Edge are not required to be enrolled in summer classes to remain in their assignment. 

A resident’s occupancy in university housing may be terminated upon 24-hours written notice at the discretion of Jax State/HRL for including, but not limited to, the following reasons:

• Resident defaults in the payment of housing or any university fees/charges.
• Resident violates the terms of the lease agreement.
• Resident misrepresents or falsifies any material facts submitted to Jax State/HRL.
• Resident ceases to be eligible to live in university housing.
• Resident’s behavior or that of their visitors is such that, in the opinion of Jax State/HRL, infringes upon the rights of others to peaceably enjoy the use of university housing.

If Jax State/HRL determines that the resident’s continued occupancy poses a threat to the health and safety of the resident, others or would endanger Jax State/HRL property, Jax State/HRL has the right to terminate the resident’s occupancy immediately and to enter the premises to remove the resident’s property.

If a resident’s lease is terminated, that resident will receive written notification of their eviction that will designate a specific date and time upon which the resident must vacate their assignment. The resident will schedule an appointment with the RLC to properly vacate (see Check-Out Procedures for more information). If the resident fails to vacate their assignment by the designated date and time, HRL reserves the right to enforce a lock change on the door of the assigned space to prevent entry. During this time, the resident will be responsible for any outstanding fees, charges, or rent owed to Jax State/HRL. Residents who are evicted are still responsible for the remainder of their lease agreement.

Students living at The Edge who are evicted in the summer for nonpayment will still be responsible for the remainder of their lease agreement and will forfeit their fall assignment. 

Residents

For residents living in university housing the following applies:

• Tuition and fees are due in full by the payment due date of each semester or term. Please see the Jax State Academic Calendar each semester or term for payment due dates.
• Please note that any monies owed to the university, including rent, will be deducted prior to the disbursement of any financial aid to the resident.
• It is the responsibility of the resident to ensure that all fees have been assessed and paid on their resident account.

University Faculty and Staff

Due to Alabama’s “At Will” policy regarding employees, faculty and staff are eligible for monthly payroll deduction for rent purposes.

• Faculty/staff will pay a nonrefundable housing application fee of $200.
• Upon acceptance of application and assignment, the faculty/staff resident will be required to pay the first month’s rent prior to check in.
• Faculty/staff may cancel the housing lease agreement at any time with a thirty-day written notice.
• Faculty/staff will pay rent monthly.
• Rent is due on the first business day of each month. A payroll deduction is required.
• If a faculty/staff resident is evicted, the resident will follow the check-out procedures listed below:
  • Contact the HRL office (Angle Hall, room 111) to request an official thirty-day notice and make payroll deduction adjustments.
  • Contact the RLC to schedule an appointment to check out of the assignment.
  • Remove all personal belongings from the assigned space.
  • Clean the assigned space, including all appliances.
  • Remove all trash, adhesive, tape, etc. from the assigned space.
  • Check out of the assigned space with residence life staff and turn in all keys.

Note: Due to the high demand for student housing, availability for faculty and staff is not guaranteed. 

Current residents receive the opportunity to reapply or “squat” for their same room in the spring semester of each year. HRL offers reapplication online through THD Self Service, which is a two-step process. Residents are given a specified date to complete an application and another scheduled date to select their assignment. Residents must complete the renewal process to remain on campus for the next academic year. Residents who fail to reapply for housing during the renewal period will be considered a new resident and will be required to pay the $200 nonrefundable application fee again. They will then be assigned a space according to their placement on the application list for fall assignments.

Housing refunds that are due to residents who withdraw from Jax State are processed in accordance with tuition refunds. Please see the Academic Calendar each semester or term for the withdrawal refund schedule. Residents who withdraw must immediately notify HRL. Residents are required to properly vacate their housing assignment within 24-hours of the withdrawal. Residents who fail to properly vacate within the allotted 24-hours are subject to a $50 per day hold-over charge up to the total cost for the semester or term. For residents who vacate improperly, see the section Check-in/Check-out Procedures.

Note: Students who are living at The Edge are not required to be enrolled in classes for the summer terms and have signed a 12 month lease agreement that ends July 30, 2025. Therefore, no refunds will be issued if a student withdraws from summer classes. 

Any/all items of personal property remaining on university premises following the end of a student’s housing and/or residence life agreement shall be deemed to be abandoned and discarded personal property. HRL will hold such abandoned personal property for a period of ten days. Day one of the ten-day period will begin the business day immediately following the date of initial notice of the end of a student’s lease agreement. If the student does not claim the property within the ten-day period, the property shall be destroyed or discarded by the university.

Jax State and HRL assumes no responsibility or liability, in any way or manner, for maintenance, protection, or safekeeping of abandoned personal property or any personal property on university premises.

HRL does NOT reimburse for spoiled food or damages to personal property due to appliance issues. Residents should purchase renter’s insurance (See the FAQ on Renter’s Insurance for more information). All residents of university housing should pay careful attention to the listed items below. Apartment residents may have items that are not allowed in the residence halls. Any questionable items should be discussed with HRL personnel.

Further questions concerning watts or other issues can be directed to the housing office in Angle Hall, room 111, or at 256-782-5122. If any unacceptable appliance(s) is found in the resident’s room, the RA will confiscate the appliance(s) during health and safety inspections. The resident will receive it during check out. If the appliance(s) is not claimed by the last day of check out, it will be deemed as abandoned property and disposed of accordingly. Residence halls include: Crow, Curtiss, Daugette, Dixon, Fitzpatrick, Logan, Patterson, Meehan, North Village, Salls, and Sparkman Hall.

Residents of The Edge have refrigerators provided for in each unit; therefore, additional microfridge units are not allowed within individual rooms. Meehan Hall has a refrigerator provided in each unit; therefore additional refrigerators are not allowed within individual rooms.

North Village residents may bring two refrigerators (max 4.6 cubic feet) per suite, and one microwave (max 700 watts) per suite.

Housing Operations and Residence Life does not provide cable television services to students. Students are welcome to use their own streaming platforms for their television services.

Prior to a resident’s arrival, they should ensure all fees have been paid and that they have photo identification available. Residents must also be registered for at east one credit hour for the appropriate terms prior to checking into their assignment. Residents’ rooms or apartments are preinspected and existing conditions are documented. Residents arriving before move-in day that are not part of an early-arrival group or after move-in day MUST schedule a check-in time with their RLC and may be subject to early move-in fees if before move-in day.

When checking out of your assigned space, residents will need to communicate with their RA for their designated departure date. HRL will rely on the departure date to reassign the space. Failure to vacate the room or apartment on the date specified, without subsequent notification to HRL, will result in default of the university housing lease agreement and may make the resident liable for all costs incurred and/or damages suffered by Jax State because of the default. The resident is also subject to cancellation and/or hold-over fees. Graduating residents should also submit an Intent to Vacate form online. 

Before vacating an assigned room or apartment, the resident must complete the following:

• In advance, contact the RA to schedule a mutually convenient time to vacate the room.
• Clean the room (i.e., dust, sweep, and mop, etc.).
• Empty and clean the refrigerator unit and/or other provided appliances (if applicable, such as stove, microwave, dishwasher).
• Ensure that the room has the original furniture and fixtures in their original position at the time of check in.
• Remove any decals/stickers, including adhesive residue, nails, tacks, tape, etc. from walls, floor, ceiling, doors, and/or window(s). Residents will be liable for any damage to the room, room furniture, and/or fixtures.
• Remove all trash from room.
• Empty all drawers and closets and leave both open for inspection by a RA.
• Remove all personal property from room.
• At the agreed upon time, the RA will inspect the room for compliance with these regulations. Once the inspection is complete, residents will be allowed to sign the check-out roster.

NOTE: Failure to check out properly will result in the resident being held financially liable for any damages to the room or apartment, appliances, furniture, and/or fixtures.

Residents are responsible for contacting their RA if they have any concerns, questions, or complaints. The RA may decide that it is necessary for an ARLC or RLC to intervene. In situations where residents feel uncomfortable approaching their RA, they may take their concerns directly to the ARLC or RLC. The resident should make an appointment with the appropriate ARLC/RLC through the hall’s front desk. Residents who are still dissatisfied with the ARLC/RLC response may then make an appointment with the Director of Residence Life. These appointments should be made through the HRL office at 256-782-5122. The concern will need to be briefly described to determine the appropriate housing official with whom to make the appointment.

Residents residing in Crow, Curtiss, Daugette, Dixon, Fitzpatrick, Logan, Meehan, North Village, Patterson, Salls, and Sparkman Hall are required to participate in the Residence Dining Plan. For information, contact Campus Dining Services at 256-782-7242. Residents residing in any other on-campus apartment or specialty housing may also purchase meal plans if desired.

Winter Check Out

Winter check out is mandatory during the winter break. Residents will be required to sign a winter check-out roster and turn in their key. Residents should be preregistered for the spring semester and have all fees paid to check in and receive their key after returning from winter break. Residents will return to their same assignment in the spring semester. Please note that residents do not have to remove all their personal items from the room for winter check out. Residents are encouraged to pack what they will need for the winter break because the buildings will be closed for the break. Residents not returning (due to cancellation/termination/buyout approval, graduating, or withdrawing from the university) for the spring semester should properly vacate their assignment following normal check-out procedures.

Continuous housing residents (i.e., Meehan Hall, Sparkman Hall, on-campus apartment area, and The Edge) may remain in their assignment during all breaks and holidays. However, preregistration is required for continuous housing residents to remain during the winter break. Residents staying for winter break will be required to submit a Break Housing Request through THD Self Service.

At the time of winter check out, each resident is responsible for having their room inspected by a RA. The resident is responsible for any damages not present at check in. If a resident fails to follow check-out procedures, in addition to any damages found, they will also be charged $50.00 for improper check out and up to $55.00 for a lock change (additional charges may apply for The Edge residents). By failing to follow the proper check-out procedures, the resident may forfeit their right to contest any damage charges (For more information about charges, see the section Residence Hall and Apartment Damage Charges)

Spring Break/Thanksgiving Holidays

Residence halls close for spring break and Thanksgiving holidays. Residents are required to vacate their rooms during hall closings by the specified date and time that will be posted in the residence halls and on the HRL website. During spring break and Thanksgiving holidays, residents may leave their personal belongings in their rooms. However, HRL is not responsible for theft or damage to personal belongings. Continuous housing residents (i.e., Meehan Hall, Sparkman Hall, on-campus apartments, and The Edge) may remain in their assignment during all breaks and holidays. Residents staying for Thanksgiving break or spring break will be required to submit a Break Housing Request through THD Self Service.

Summer Terms

During the summer terms, residents who have applied for summer housing will be required to relocate to the designated summer housing facility. Residents are required to pay rent during the summer terms. The Edge does not close during the summer terms and residents will be assigned and billed accordingly.

NOTE: Summer housing options are subject to change. HRL rotates summer housing to complete renovation and cleaning projects for the facilities

HRL provides laundry facilities in the following halls: Crow, Curtiss, Daugette, Dixon, Fitzpatrick, Logan, Meehan, North Village, Patterson, Sparkman, and apartments/specialty housing: Colonial Arms, International House, Kappa Sigma, Leadership House for Women, Pannell, and Pi Kappa Phi.  Residents who live in an area where laundry facilities are not provided will be advised on which facility to use for laundry services. Residents of Mountain Street/Goodlett Avenue and The Edge have washer and dryer connections in their unit and may bring these items if desired. Jax State personnel are unable to assist with connection or service them.

Please use caution when operating machines. Overloading machines can cause damage to the articles being washed and create the potential for an electrical fire. Residents are encouraged to stay with their laundry. Neither Jax State nor HRL will be responsible for lost or stolen articles in the laundry facility. Please use the trash cans provided in the laundry rooms to keep them clean and orderly.

If a resident is experiencing a malfunction with the laundry machines or if the laundry facility needs attention, please contact the front desk of that area for assistance. If after hours, contact the RA on call for that area for further assistance. The staff member will notify HRL for assistance. Residents may also utilize LaundryView to view the status of their laundry cycles and check for machine availability.

Mail service is available on the fourth floor of the Theron Montgomery Building (TMB). Packages may not be delivered to the residence halls, on-campus apartments, or the housing office.

Routine work orders may be submitted online through Asset Essentials.

SUBMITTING A WORK ORDER REQUEST

1. Download the Asset Essential APP on your smart device through the App Store or Play Store.

2. On desktop computer use this link: https://assetessentials.dudesolutions.com/JSU

a. Follow the instructions below

Once you’ve logged into Asset Essentials, your page will open directly to the “My Requests” tab. Here, you can create new requests or view previous submittals along with the status of those submittals. To create a new request, make sure you are on the ‘My Requests’ tab and click on ‘New.’

Under Campus Area pull down menu select:

• Housing Facilities

Under Location – Building pull down menu select your building:

• Example: North Village Residence Hall or Meehan Hall

Under Area/Room Number pull down menu select your room or area:

• Example: NVRH – Unit 101

Under Work Category Select one of the following icons:

In the Work Requested text box, simply type in the work order:

• Examples:
  • Light out
  • Toilet stopped up / water running
  • Blinds broken

UPLOAD DOCUMENT/IMAGE: If available, you may upload a document/image to support your request.

Once all the information has been entered, click SUBMIT to save and enter your request. 

VIEWING YOUR REQUESTS

After submitting a work request, you will automatically be taken to your My Request summary page. This will allow you to see a summary list of all requests that you have submitted and the status of those.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• How to put in a request (Video)
• Requester Help Page
• Mobile App Requests

Please note: Residents of The Edge will submit work orders online through their tennant portal with Taylor Real Estate. 

 In the event of a maintenance emergency, contact the RA, the RA on-call, ARLC, or RLC. Residents should provide their name, a clear description of the problem, and the location (including floor and room). All residence halls/apartments have a RA on-call Monday–Friday, 4:30 p.m.–7:00 a.m., Saturday–Sunday, 24-hours a day. An ARLC or RLC is on-call 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

A maintenance emergency is defined as follows:

• Overflowing water from water heater, sink, shower/tub, or toilet
• Complete power outage
• Smoking or sparking appliances
• Sewer problems indicated by a toilet not flushing or a sink or shower not draining
• Unsecured or broken entry door or completely broken window depending upon extent and location of damage
• No hot water
• Loss of heat/air
• Gas leaks

NOTE: Please be aware the maintenance staff will enter your room/apartment to address the work order.

The university reserves the right to allow staff members to enter rooms/suites/apartments to examine, inspect, and maintain all the facilities. Residents are not allowed to perform their own repair work or hire outside contractors. To report problems after hours, residents should notify the on-call RA. Residents of The Edge may submit work orders online though their tennant portal with Taylor Real Estate.  

HRL has all halls, apartments, and specialty housing treated once a month by a professional contractor. Treatment is scheduled for the interior and exterior of buildings as follows:

If a resident has a pest control problem, they can submit an online work order at THD Self Service. You can select the “Submit New Work Order” and fill out the required information. Residents do not have to be present for their room/apartment to be treated. An exterminator and HRL personnel will enter the room/apartment and the trained exterminator will use the appropriate treatment(s) for that room/apartment.

For health and sanitary reasons, pets are not permitted in the residence halls, apartments, or any other university owned residential facility, except for fish in properly maintained aquariums (ten gallons or less) and Disability Resources approved animals necessary for residents with disabilities. 

• A resident requesting special accommodations must be registered with Disability Resources. The resident must have documentation submitted to HRL from Disability Resources. Request must be approved by Disability Resources prior to bringing the approved emotional support animal or service animal on campus. 
• Failure to comply with the policy may result in the following disciplinary action:
  • Residents may be placed on disciplinary probation and be subject to a $100 disciplinary fine.
  • A second occurrence may result in immediate eviction.

When there is a high demand for space in the residence halls, private rooms may NOT be available regardless of the reason for the private room request. Residents who harass their roommates to obtain a private room are subject to immediate disciplinary action. Residents living in a private room are charged higher rates (regular semester rate plus half). Residents may request a private room on the room change request form found on Roompact. 

The primary responsibility of the residence life program is to maintain an atmosphere that is conducive to the pursuit of education. However, it is also the desire of HRL to move beyond the academic development of the resident. Fostering the personal development of the resident through educational programming is a process of teaching residents life skills that may be used in their personal growth. Providing programs that focus on the physical, occupational, intellectual, social, and emotional growth of the resident will aid the transition in becoming their future selves.

HRL encourages residents to obtain renter’s insurance for their personal property. Neither Jax State nor HRL provide renter’s insurance or assumes responsibility for property that is damaged, lost, or stolen. The resident is responsible for obtaining insurance through a company of their choice. Students may wish to investigate whether some property or belongings are insured under their parents’ homeowner’s insurance. See FAQ regarding GradGuard, our renter's insurance partner. 

Learning to get along with others is an important part of a college education; therefore, we encourage roommates to first try and work out their differences. Should a student wish to change a hall or room assignment, they should discuss the matter with their RA. The RA will inform you of the proper procedures. Residents who want to make hall or room changes must complete a hall or room change request form online through Roompact.

Room change week is the third full week of classes for each semester. Exceptions will be at the discretion of the RLC. Residents who elect to move from a more expensive room, hall, or apartment to a less expensive room, hall, or apartment will receive a refund of the difference between the two assignments. Residents who want to move into a more expensive hall or apartment will have to pay the difference.

HRL will conduct health and safety inspections each month. These inspections are meant to check for compliance with fire and safety hazards, maintenance repairs, and cleanliness of the entire room or apartment. Residents may not be notified in advance of room entries or health and safety inspections. (For more information about inspections see the Health and Safety Inspections section under Acts of Misconduct)

Residents are not required to be present during room entries or inspection. However, if possible, at least one occupant of the room or apartment should be present during inspection. Staff members and maintenance personnel will leave notification behind in the space giving reason for the entry/inspection.

The university reserves the right to perform the following:

• Inspect each resident’s room or apartment prior to or at the time any resident initially occupies it and inspect the room prior to the resident’s departure from the residence hall/apartment to ascertain that the conditions of the room and furnishings meet with the original condition.
• Make repairs in rooms or apartments at any time during the school year, with reasonable consideration for the occupants.
• Enter a resident room or apartment when a staff member has reasonable grounds to believe that some conditions exist that constitute a clear and present danger to the health, safety, or security of the occupants of a room/apartment and/or residence life community.
• Enter a resident room or apartment when a staff member has reasonable grounds to believe that unauthorized equipment is present in the area or to make routine inspections for maintenance, health, and safety reasons during each semester as announced by the residence life staff.
• Enter a room or apartment if a staff member has reasonable grounds to believe that unauthorized people are living there.
• Inspect a resident’s room or apartment when there is reason to believe a specific violation of HRL policies is taking place.

All room or apartment inspections (exclusive of the previous conditions, emergency situations, and maintenance functions) will be conducted only when the following occurs:

Occupants of the room/apartment have been notified of the timeline of the inspection (excluding winter/summer semester breaks when inspections of a resident’s room or apartment must be made prior to occupancy for cleanliness or maintenance concerns).

Residents are responsible for the cleaning of their rooms, suites, or apartments. In a group living situation, pest control can be a major problem. Uncovered food and empty cans/bottles provide excellent breeding areas for roaches, ants, and other pests. Please wrap food and dispose of garbage and recyclables on a regular basis. Trash, garbage, and recyclables from the resident’s room must be placed in designated receptacles only. It is imperative that the current resident keep the room or suite in a condition that is always acceptable (i.e., cleanliness, adequate storage space, closet space, etc.). If the resident does not have a roommate, the other side of the room (or bedroom) must always remain clean and unoccupied. A new roommate could potentially move in the unoccupied space at any time. 

Upon moving out, the room/suite/apartment must be left in a clean, acceptable condition. This is applicable even if one roommate is moving and the other roommate is staying. Failure to comply with this request will result in a $100.00 cleaning charge. (See the section on Residence Hall and Apartment Damage Charges for more information) The remaining roommate will be responsible for bringing the room and/or suite up to acceptable standards.

Residents who use syringes for legitimate medical purposes, such as insulin injections or asthma medication injections, are required to notify the RLC immediately. It is university policy that all sharps used for legitimate medical purposes be disposed of in the proper manner in a sharps container. To obtain a sharps container, these residents must visit the RMC/Jax State Health Center and register for the container. Once the sharps container is filled, it should be returned to the RMC/Jax State Health Center for the resident to receive another container. For further information, students may contact the RMC/Jax State Health Center at (256) 782-5310.

To promote the academic goals of Jax State residents, HRL and its staff promote and uphold a quiet environment. HRL strongly believes that, above all else, a resident has the right to study and sleep in their room/suite/apartment without disruption. However, HRL realizes that community living also involves socializing and, at times, there will be noise. It is the dual responsibility of staff and residents to monitor the level of noise, keeping it at an appropriate level always. A staff member or resident has the right at any time to request that the noise level be decreased. Students have the responsibility to comply with that acceptable request.

Study lounges are equipped with tables and chairs that are available in each residence hall. These facilities provide a private area to study anytime during the day or night and are large enough to accommodate several residents. So that all residents may benefit from the study areas, lounge furniture is not to be removed from the study lounges. To facilitate the study environment, loitering is not permitted in the study lounges.

The heating and cooling system for all residence halls cannot be immediately converted from heat to air or vice versa. HRL works in conjunction with the Capital Planning and Facilities to evaluate weather patterns to determine when to convert the system. Because the weather fluctuates, especially during transitions from summer to fall or winter to spring, there will be days when neither heat nor air are on. Once the weather appears to be consistent, the system will be converted. This process can take several days to complete. Please try to be understanding. We greatly appreciate the residents’ cooperation and patience during these transitioning periods. RAs, ARLCs, and RLCs have no control over when the heat or air conditioning is turned on or off. We apologize for any inconvenience.

The university is not responsible for loss or damage to personal property of residents. Residents are encouraged to carry renter’s insurance (see the Renter's Insurance FAQ). Students should immediately report all theft, vandalism, attempted thefts, and people who appear out of place or act in an unusual manner in the residence hall or on-campus apartment to a RLC and the Jax State Police at 256-782-5050.

HRL provides a utility package that includes the following: water/sewer, trash service, internet, laundry services, and electricity. For residents of The Edge, rent is inclusive of water, sewer, trash, internet, and electricity. Cable service is not provided in the residence halls or on-campus apartments. 

Vending machines are provided in each of the residence halls and at Pannell Hall. All vending machines have a service number posted on or near each machine. If a vending machine malfunctions, please contact the service number posted on or near each machine. A student may receive vending refunds from the Office of Auxiliary and Business Services by contacting (256) 782-5557.

Campus Dining Services is responsible for all dining locations on campus and maintains all meal plan requests, records, transactions, etc. Meal plans are required in all areas that do not contain kitchens as an amenity. For more information regarding meal plans, contact Campus Dining Services at 256-782-7242.

Building Services/Housekeeping Services are assigned to each residential community and care for only the common areas, not the residents’ personal space. Housekeeping staff is under the direct supervision of Capital Planning and Facilities.

Capital Planning and Facilities provides each residence hall and/or apartment complex their own maintenance staff member that is knowledgeable about their specific areas and are dedicated to completing work order requests in a timely manner.

University Police Department (UPD) officers routinely patrol the residence halls, apartments, and parking areas. These officers are dedicated to aiding residents and staff, while maintaining law and order in and around these areas. For more information regarding the police patrol, contact the UPD at 256-782-5050.

Residents who have questions regarding health issues or need to see a physician/nurse practitioner may schedule an appointment with the RMC/Jax State Health Center at (256) 782-5310. Hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday–Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Fridays. For weekend and evening emergencies contact UPD at (256) 782-5050.

Acts of misconduct are defined as any behavior that is inconsistent with university policy or as outlined in the Student Handbook or other university publication. Acts of misconduct are outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.  Acts of misconduct and/or violations of the University’s Code of Student Conduct will be documented. Residents will receive notification of alleged violation and the date, time, and place of any meeting or hearing on alleged violations(s). The Director of Community Standards and Student Ethics or designee may appoint university staff to serve as an administrative hearing officer or appeal officer. Acts of misconduct are listed below. 

Administrative dismissal is the immediate dismissal of an individual from HRL, as authorized by the Director of Housing Operations and/or the Director of Residence Life, when the continued presence of the resident in housing constitutes a threat to the health, safety, or well-being of other residents or the housing facilities. At the time a resident is summarily dismissed, the resident will be informed of their right to a hearing in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

The resident may be allowed to remain in housing for the duration of their appeal process and until a decision is rendered. If the resident’s appeal is granted, the resident will remain in housing for the term of the lease. If the resident’s appeal is denied, the resident will vacate their housing assignment at the discretion of the Director of Housing Operations and/or Director of Residence Life on a case-by-case basis. Upon dismissal, all costs, including the remainder of the lease agreement, will be assumed by the evictee. In cases of disciplinary dismissal, the evictee is responsible for paying the remaining portion of the lease agreement.

In a group living situation, it is important to understand students' rights and responsibilities to others. The rights to study and sleep are considered primary in the residence hall/apartment environment. The student’s major purpose for enrollment is to pursue an education. Excessive noise and distractions inhibit this goal. Therefore, when a student chooses to exercise a subordinate privilege, such as using any type of audio equipment or entertaining guests, it is a student’s responsibility to ensure that their guests are not inhibiting another person’s rights to sleep or study.

When enrolling as a resident of Jax State and accepting the terms/conditions of the housing lease agreement, a student is agreeing to abide by the policies, procedures, rules, and regulations of the university (as outlined in the Housing Operations and Residence Life Code of Conduct located in the Guide to Residence Living, and the Student Handbook.) A student is responsible for becoming familiar with the contents of these publications. They must take responsibility for knowing and understanding the consequences of not reading the contents of this publication.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of residential living is the opportunity to live and work closely with all types of people. Certain responsibilities are inherent in a roommate relationship. While there must be a balance between roommates as to the time and priority of room usage, the right to study and to sleep in one’s room outweighs any social privileges. Roommates must take the responsibility to assert their rights in using the room. Although there is no guarantee that roommates will agree on every issue, the residence life staff can be very helpful in working with residents in this area.  

As a member of the HRL community, each member is expected to abide by and affirm the following community standards:

• I will respect the dignity of all persons and will not demean individuals or groups.
• I will strive to learn from differences in people, ideas, and opinions.
• I will strive for personal integrity and academic achievement.
• I will demonstrate concern for others, which will support their development.
• I will respect the rights and property of others.
• I will do all in my power to see that the residence hall/apartment area is kept clean and attractive.
• I will challenge all members of the community to abide by their fundamental expectations and will confront, in an appropriate manner, those who violate them.
• I will respect the community property.

All members of the Jax State residential community and their guests are expected to comply with the directions of the HRL officials (RAs, DAs, ARLCs, RLCs, etc.), acting in the performance of their administrative duties. This includes, but is not limited to, identifying oneself and producing valid identification, changing one’s behavior when asked, or attending a scheduled disciplinary meeting or conference when requested.

HRL supports the university’s Code of Student Conduct. HRL is committed to maintaining an environment in which the rights of all members of the housing community are protected while they are in pursuit of their educational aspirations. It is important that each resident becomes aware of and abides by the University’s Code of Student Conduct, Guide to Residence Living, and other university regulations. Although each resident of university housing possesses certain individual rights and responsibilities, residents are always obligated to assume responsibility for their actions, to respect constituted authority, to be truthful, to respect the rights of others, and to respect private and public property. It is also important that members of the university community must be willing to confront violations and the infringement of another person’s rights or by filing complaints with HRL.

Claiming ignorance of the Code of Student Conduct does not excuse the violation. The residence life staff follows the Code of Student Conduct when dealing with violations of any residential standard.

For additional information concerning the university conduct process, sanctions, and appeals, please refer to the Code of Student Conduct.

In the residence halls and on-campus apartments, where many people with varying lifestyles live in proximity, policies and procedures are necessary to promote a generally safe and healthy environment for the community. There are behaviors that are prohibited because they disrupt the development of a positive community atmosphere and infringe upon the rights of other residents. It is the resident’s responsibility to be familiar with and abide by the guidelines that have been established. If they fail to adhere to these guidelines, each resident will be held accountable for their actions. Infractions of university housing policies and regulations may result in disciplinary action, included, but not limited to, dismissal from the residence hall or on-campus apartment. HRL has a responsibility to the resident and the community. HRL will not hesitate to terminate the housing lease agreement of a resident who disrupts the welfare of the residence hall or on-campus apartment community.

Alabama law prohibits possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by those under the legal drinking age (21 years of age) and prohibits making alcoholic beverages available to persons under the legal drinking age. Residents that are underage and found in possession of alcoholic beverages will be found in violation of the alcohol policy. Residents of legal drinking age may consume alcohol responsibly in the privacy of their room/apartment. No alcohol is to be consumed in any other area of the residence halls, apartment complex, grounds, or parking lots. No open containers of alcohol are permitted outside of the residence hall room or resident’s apartment. Public intoxication is also prohibited. HRL and Jax State will hold any resident accountable who has violated Alabama State Law, created a disturbance, or posed a danger to themselves or others because of consuming alcohol.

The university prohibits the unauthorized possession, use, or distribution of alcoholic beverages. The university enforces all state and federal laws or regulations that regulate and control the sale or use of alcohol. The alcohol policy prohibits, but is not limited to, the following:

• Unauthorized or illegal use of any alcoholic beverage. This includes possession, use, or distribution of alcoholic beverages by underage persons.
• If a resident is not 21 years of age, they may not host in their room, apartment, or house anyone, whether of legal age or a minor, who possesses, consumes, sells, or serves alcohol.
• Drinking, serving, and/or the sale of alcohol are not permitted in the public areas of the residence halls, apartment buildings, parking lots, or grounds (e.g., lounges, lobby, parking lot, or balcony).
• If a resident is of legal age and chooses to drink, consumption must be confined to the privacy or the interior of the individual room or apartment.
• Kegs, party balls, punch bowls, and other multi-quart containers (e.g., beer balls) are not permitted in any university-owned facility, including individual rooms and apartments.
• Misbehavior due to alcohol is at any time prohibited. This misbehavior that is loud or disruptive interferes with the cleanliness of any residential facility or poses a threat to the health or education of another individual is a violation of the alcohol policy.
• Public intoxication is prohibited.
• Misrepresentation of age to obtain alcoholic beverages.
• The brewing and/or distilling of alcohol in any residential facility is prohibited.
• Residents that are 21 years of age or older are not permitted to store alcohol in their room if their roommate is a minor that is under the age of 21. This behavior is considered contributing to a minor and is prohibited.

Outside antennas and satellite dishes of any kind are not permitted on university-operated housing. Cable service is not provided. 

The use of electrical appliances is permitted in the residence halls with certain guidelines. Residents in the halls should be aware that several rooms are on the same circuit and should coordinate use of appliances so that power is not interrupted. If residents have questions about specific appliances not listed, they should ask their RA, ARLC, or RLC.

Residents residing in the apartment area or residence halls that have balconies, patios, or porches are always expected to keep them clean and orderly. This includes The Edge.

• University furniture is not intended for use in these areas.
• Balconies, patios, and porches may not be used for storage.
• Because of the potential of serious injury, throwing objects from the balconies, patios, or porches is strictly prohibited.
• Residents are required to maintain reasonable levels of noise when using the balcony, patio, or porch to avoid disturbing others.
• Abusing the use of the balcony, patio, or porch (i.e., loud noise or music disturbing others, throwing objects, displaying unapproved banners, storing trash, debris, or paper products, storing university-owned property, disposing of cooking oils/grease) will result in disciplinary action. (Please see the Trash policy.)
• Residents of the second floor of Meehan Hall and North Village are advised for safety reasons that unauthorized access to the ledge through the window is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, sitting, standing, or leaning on the window and/or ledge in any way allowing any body part or item(s) to hang and/or be placed outside.

Bicycles/scooters that are chained to outside fixtures, other than bike racks, are subject to removal. Bicycles/scooters are not permitted to be parked or chained in public areas of residential buildings (such as indoors in stairwells, laundry rooms, hallways, and other common areas) as this creates a safety hazard. Bicycles/scooters kept indoors should be stored only in rooms/apartments and should not be riden indoors. Neither HRL nor the UPD will assume any responsibility for damage to bicycles/scooters, chains, or locks. HRL recommends registering bicycles through the UPD. More information can be found online at https://www.jsu.edu/parking/traffic.html. Bicycles/scooters should be removed from campus at the end of the academic year. Any bicycles/scooters left behind will be considered abandoned property and confiscated for disposal.

Children and/or minors are not allowed to live in any university housing facility. HRL will not assume liability for injury or accidents involving minors within or on the property of any university housing facility. Babysitting in the residence halls or apartments is prohibited. Children under the age of 17 are not permitted to stay in the residence halls or apartments overnight. 

Each member of the residential community is expected to constructively confront noise that is considered disruptive prior to contacting a residence life staff member for assistance. If a resident has a problem with the noise level of a roommate or neighbor, talk to them first and try to work it out. During quiet hours, students and guests in the residence halls, apartment area, and The Edge must keep stereos, televisions, music, and other sources of noise at a level that cannot be heard in another person’s room or in adjacent public areas. Residents are expected to comply with any request to lower their noise level whether it is a request from fellow residents or staff.

• Courtesy Hours: 24-hours/seven days a week
• Quiet Hours: 10:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m./seven days a week
• Playing musical instruments, radios, stereos, TVs, or other amplifying devices, which interfere with the quiet enjoyment of the room/apartment or community by roommate or residents, may result in the restriction or removal of such items from the residence hall/apartment and possible disciplinary action.
• Stereo speakers should not be directed out of hall/apartment windows or placed on balconies at any time.
• During courtesy hours, noise is to be kept at a level that it does not disturb others. Complying with courtesy hours will allow all residents to sleep, study, relax, or host visitors without distracting noise from neighbors.
• During final exam times, special quiet hours are posted in the residence halls. 24-hour quiet hours will be in effect beginning the last week of classes and ending with the last scheduled final exam of the semester. 24-hour quiet hours may start earlier or later at the discretion of the RLC.

High priority is given to the security of residents and this is the basis for policies regulating access into the residence halls. All traffic should flow through the front doors. Residence hall staff monitor the access to the halls and enforce the visitation policy. These individuals are in communication with UPD for immediate response to emergencies.

• Entrance through doors marked EXIT ONLY is not permitted.
• Never Prop Doors! The propping, or other obstruction, of exterior doors is prohibited. Any resident found propping open any door will be held responsible for violating the safety of the residents living in that building.
• Any resident that props a door open places all other residents in the hall/community at risk and will be subject to serious disciplinary action.
• If a student discovers a propped door, they should close the door and notify residence life staff. Any resident who withholds information concerning the propping of doors may face disciplinary action.
• Doors, other than the main entrance, in the residence halls are equipped with alarms that sound when opened. Residents should enter and exit all residence halls through the front entrance doors only. Residents who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
• Do not allow anyone other than guests, in which a resident is responsible for the guest, to enter the building from behind this is called “tailgating.” Each resident will enter the building using the card swipe system.

Passenger elevators located within Daugette, Meehan, North Village, and Sparkman Halls are provided for use by residents, their guests, and residence hall staff. To keep elevators in safe working condition, the following actions are prohibited and will result in disciplinary action:

• Smoking in the elevators
• Intentional damage and/or vandalism, such as prying elevator doors open, jumping, etc.
• Overloading elevators
• Use of emergency alarms and emergency stops in nonemergency situations
• Evacuating people from the elevator without trained personnel
• Spraying offensive objects/residue in elevators
• Flyers may not be posted on outside or inside of elevator doors.

• Stacking of furniture is not allowed.
• Furniture may not be modified, dismantled, moved in or out of the room.
• Furniture may be rearranged, but it is required that a resident leave the furniture in the appropriate room (i.e., beds in bedroom, sofa in living room, etc.). Furniture must be arranged in its original position upon check out.
• Furniture may not be transferred from one room/apartment/suite to another. Violation of this policy will result in a $50.00 fine to all residents of each room/apartment/suite.
• In the event furniture cannot be accounted for, replacement cost of the furniture will be assessed to the resident’s account (See the section on Residence Hall and Apartment Damage Charges for more information about furniture replacement).
• Because of potential damage to the floor, liquid-filled furniture is not permitted (i.e., waterbeds, etc.)
• Televisions may not be mounted to the walls. 

Personal charcoal grills, gas grills, and other grilling mechanisms are prohibited and may not be used.

• Neither lighter fluid nor charcoal may be stored in or around mobile homes, residence hall rooms, or apartments.
• Grills (i.e., gas, propane, or charcoal) are not permitted in the residence halls, mobile homes, or the apartment area including The Edge. Grills found in the apartment area (i.e., balconies, parking lots, under stairwells, in apartments, etc.) will be confiscated and disposed.
• Residents found with grills may be sanctioned and monetarily fined.

The grounds around the residence halls and apartments are maintained by the Capital Planning and Facilities Department.  Grounds at The Edge are maintained by Taylor Real Estate personnel.

• Residents may not decorate with additional plants, greenery, or flowers in the balconies or grounds area. These items are considered an obstruction to the walkway.    
• The university reserves the right to remove hazardous or unsightly items.     
• If there is a designated parking area established, residents of the residence halls and apartments, including The Edge, are not permitted to park on grassy areas of the property. Failure to comply could result in disciplinary action and/or monetary fines.
• Toys, equipment, or other miscellaneous items are not allowed in plain view in lawn, parking lots, and grounds area in the apartment area.

Because of the potential for personal injury, injury to others, disruption of the sleep/study atmosphere, and/or damages to facilities, the playing of hall sports within the hallways or common areas of the residence halls is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: bike riding, rollerblading, bouncing balls, hoverboards, water guns/balloons, etc. Residents are encouraged to use the appropriate recreational areas for these activities.

Residence life staff conducts monthly health and safety inspections. RAs will visit a resident’s room or apartment monthly to check for compliance with fire and safety regulations, maintenance repairs, and cleanliness of bathrooms and kitchen facilities in the apartment area and houses. Facilities that are not clean create a variety of health problems, including attracting pests. Routine inspections also help the staff to prevent or correct maintenance concerns. RAs will also be checking to ensure that a resident’s room or apartment meets fire safety standards. If necessary, the RA will forward the inspection information to maintenance staff. Maintenance staff will enter the room to complete a repair just as if a resident had placed a work order.

• Residents whose room or apartment does not pass inspection will have forty-eight hours to correct infractions.
• If the room or apartment fails to pass the first inspection, a $50.00 fine will be added to each resident’s account (the resident will be notified via email).
• If the room or apartment fails to pass the second inspection, a $100.00 fine will be added to each resident’s account (the resident will be notified via email).
• If the room or apartment fails to pass the third inspection, a $100.00 fine will be added to each resident’s account (the resident will be notified via email) and the resident will meet with the Director of Residence Life about possible eviction.
• Conflicts between roommates regarding shared cleaning responsibilities must be resolved prior to the beginning of the inspection process.

At check in, residents will sign out their room or apartment key. Residents living within a residence hall will also be issued a colored key tag. Each hall is represented by a specific color and must be shown upon entry of a hall. The resident’s signature on the roster always indicates the acceptance of responsibility for the appropriate use of a key. The key is given to a resident for their use only! Do not lend a key to others or duplicate it.

Lock outs

• If residents are temporarily locked out of their room or apartment, they must locate a RA or another residence life staff member to gain access to their residence. Photo identification must be shown to the staff member at the time of the lock out to verify that the resident is, in fact, a resident of that room. The resident’s account will be charged a $10.00 lock-out fee.
• If residents are locked out of the building due to a misplaced student ID, they must contact the RA on-call or another residence life staff member to gain access into the building. Proof of identification must be shown to the staff member at the time of entry to verify that the resident resides in that building. Staff members may not unlock a door for anyone other than the resident of that room. The resident’s account will be charged a $10.00 lock-out fee.
• Excessive lock outs (i.e., three to four per month) may result in additional disciplinary action.

Lock changes

• If a resident loses their key, they should report it immediately to the RA. A lock change request will then be submitted. The lock will be changed, and new keys will be issued to the resident and roommate(s) for security. The resident will be charged $50 for the lock change.
• The RLC will issue a student a temporary key until the lock is changed.
• If a resident signs out a temporary key, it must be returned within 48 hours. If a key is not returned during this time, a lock change will be issued and charged to the resident’s account.

HRL reserves the right to call mandatory meetings as deemed necessary by appropriate staff. A mandatory meeting is defined as a meeting for an individual, room, suite, hall, or building as deemed necessary by appropriate staff. If you are unable to attend a mandatory meeting due to class conflict, you must contact the RLC or the appropriate staff member at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Items that require an open flame to operate or that produce heat (e.g., Bunsen burners, space heaters, candles, either lit or with burnt wicks, or candles with decorative alcohol burners, halogen torchiere floor lamps, etc.) are not allowed in residence halls and apartments. Burning of candles, incense, and herbs is also prohibited. 

The posting of materials in public areas must be approved by the HRL office which reserves the right to refuse such postings that contain rude, vulgar, indecent, or obscene expressions.

• Hallways and windows are also considered public areas and are subject to the same restrictions as other public postings.
• Only HRL staff members may post and remove banners, posters, flyers and other printed materials in the residence halls or apartment complexes.
• Recognized student clubs/organizations may submit to HRL one flyer or poster for posting in each lobby area of the residence halls or apartments. HRL will determine if the items may be posted.
• To protect residents from unwanted disturbances, flyers, booklets, magazines and any other advertisement must be approved in advanced to be posted or placed in the residence halls or apartment complexes.
• HRL will approve items with an HRL stamp. Items that do not have the stamp and approval of the HRL will be removed immediately from bulletin boards, lobby areas, etc.
• Only HRL functions or announcements may be placed in the glass areas of residence halls and apartment complexes.
• Flyers are not permitted to be posted on entrance doorways.
• Establishments not associated with the university (i.e., businesses, restaurants, taverns) may not post flyers in any residential area.

The use of rude, vulgar, indecent, or obscenely depicted verbal or written expressions, while protected by the First Amendment, are considered detrimental to the community environment (i.e., lounges, lobbies, entry ways of the buildings, etc.) and are certainly not condoned. The posting of materials in public areas must be approved by HRL’s main office, and HRL reserves the right to refuse such postings that contain rude, vulgar, indecent, or obscene expressions. Hallways and windows are also considered public areas and are subject to the same restrictions as other public postings.

RLCs and the Assistant Director of Housing and Residence Life must approve any usage of residence hall facilities by residents, recognized student organizations, and/or any other person or group. Generally, residence hall spaces are reserved for the exclusive use of the staff and residents of that building. Public areas are defined as hall and room windows, doors, hallways, stairwells, laundry rooms, lobbies, or TV/study lounges. Please see the HRL Facility Reservation Request for more information.

HRL encourages residents to personalize their room. Room decorations such as pictures, posters, and other items can transform a resident’s room into a comfortable home, but certain restrictions are necessary. They are as follows:

• Decorations are encouraged if they do not create health problems, fire hazards, or room damage.
• Street signs must have a bill of sale (receipt) with them or they will be considered stolen property and returned to the proper authority.
• Do not cover peepholes or fire alarms.
• All university furniture must stay in the assigned room.
• All decorations are subject to the approval of roommates.
• Wall murals are not permitted.
• Wall mounted TVs are not permitted. 
• Furniture may not be mounted to walls and/or floors. 
• Only Hercules (or other similar product) hooks that adhere to the wall or push pins can be used in the halls or apartment area. Please take care to hang items so that walls are not damaged.
• Double-sided tape, contact paper, and (removable) wallpaper are not permitted.
• Individual decorations must follow these guidelines:

• Each resident must take reasonable care (as determined by staff) of their room, apartment, and its furnishings.
• There should be no modifications to “freestanding” furniture (i.e., beds, desks, chests, etc.) and equipment.
• Residents may not introduce into their rooms or apartments any furnishings or equipment that obstruct exits, create safety and/or fire hazard, or appreciably increases structural load.
• Residents who fail to adhere to this policy are subject to damage charges and disciplinary sanctions.

In double occupancy units, each resident has been assigned a half space in housing, unless there is a special case warranting a private space. When one roommate moves into the assignment before the other or has been living in the space and does the following, it is called roommate trespassing:

• Encroaching upon a roommate’s space is offensive, inconsiderate, and inconvenient to the incoming roommate. Roommate trespassing is unacceptable behavior in university housing and violators of this policy are subject to a $100 fine.
• Allowing a person to move into the room or suite that has not been assigned to your room or suite by the HRL is also considered roommate trespassing. Violators are subject to the $100 fine, disciplinary action, and possibly eviction.

All resident rooms and apartments are equipped with smoke detectors. If a smoke detector slowly and continuously beeps, please contact a RA immediately. RAs check each smoke detector before fall opening and during health and safety inspections.

According to Alabama law it is a misdemeanor crime to tamper with or disable any fire equipment or protection systems, which includes but is not limited, to fire extinguisher, fire alarm, and smoke detectors. Everyone’s safety is jeopardized when this occurs. Do not remove or cover smoke detectors in your room, apartment, or mobile home. The violation is punishable by $300.00 fine and/or possible imprisonment.

Jax State is a smoke-free campus. The university and HRL are committed to promoting a safe and healthy work and educational environment for all residents, staff, and visitors on campus. Since many individuals express discomfort when exposed to secondhand smoke and/or smokeless receptacles, HRL has adopted a policy that restricts smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco in all university-owned/managed facilities. There are no designated public areas for smoking inside the residence halls or apartments (i.e., stairwells, hallways, common areas). Residents are responsible for putting their cigarette butts and ashes in the appropriate outdoor designated location.

Residents must be respectful when playing their stereo or other audio equipment in the residence halls, apartments, or parking lot areas near or adjacent to residence halls and apartments.

• Stereos and audio equipment must be played at a reasonable time and volume that will not interfere with other residents’ right to sleep or study.
• Stereos and audio equipment may not be directed out of windows, balconies, or patio doors.
• Failure to comply with these responsibilities will result in the immediate removal of the stereo or audio equipment from the room/suite/apartment and/or further disciplinary actions.

Properly dispose of all small and large trash items, when the inside trash can is full, into the dumpster located outside the residence hall or apartment complex. Do not dispose of trash in the hallways, stairwells, balconies, parking lots, water fountains, bathroom sinks, or patios. Do not place trash outside of your apartment door or room door. This includes the disposal of cooking oils/grease. Residents should not pour the oil/grease outside on the ground. Residents should let the oil or grease cool and solidify. Once cool and solid, scrape the grease into a container that can be thrown away. When the container is full, place it in a plastic bag to prevent leakage and then throw it in the dumpster. 

There is no acceptable excuse for purposely damaging university or personal property. Any resident(s) who commits an act of vandalism will be charged the cost for the damage and will face strict disciplinary action, including dismissal from the residence hall/apartment. In addition, the resident(s) may be charged for replacement or repair of the vandalized property. The exterior and interior finishes on room doors and walls are easily damaged by tape, tacks, etc.; therefore, any materials that can damage these areas should not be used to post objects. If a resident chooses to post something on their door(s) or wall(s), they will assume full responsibility for damage and will be assessed an appropriate fee. All mounting materials must be removed prior to check out. If damages are found, the resident will be fined, and the items must be removed permanently.

(See the section on Residence Hall and Apartment Damage Charges for more information)

Visitation within residence halls is only allowed during specified visitation hours below. A visitor/guest is considered as a person who does not live in the residence hall that they are visiting. All visitors (i.e., Jax State residents, parents, non-Jax State residents, Jax State housing residents of other areas, etc.) must always be escorted.

Hours

• Traditional residence halls (Crow, Curtiss, Dixon, Fitzpatrick, and North Village) have visitation for the following hours:

• 12:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m., seven days a week, while the building's front desk is open. 
• Guests must sign in at the front desk and leave a photo ID. Residents must always escort their guests. No guest should be unaccompanied while in the facility.

Upper-class halls (Daugette, Logan, Meehan, Patterson, and Sparkman) and apartment complexes have 24-hour visitation. Cohabitation is not allowed.

Visitation and Guest Policy

• Each roommate must consent to all guests in their room/apartment/suite.          
• Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guest. Residents who entertain visitors are expected to maintain standards of appropriate group living behavior, and their roommate’s right to privacy will take priority over the privilege to entertain a guest.
• Guests and visitors of the opposite sex are required to use appropriately designated bathroom facilities. 
• Residents must inform visitors of pertinent HRL policies and procedures.
• Failure to comply with the visitation and guest policy may result in loss of visitation privileges or other sanctions approved by HRL.
• Residents must always accompany their visitors. All visitors must obey all HRL and Jax State's policies and procedures including the following:
  • Visitors must contact the resident they are visiting to gain access into a residence hall.
  • Visitors must always be accompanied by the resident while visiting at the residence hall.
  • Residents are limited to two guests per visit.
  • Visitors and residents from other halls/areas must leave valid photo identification (i.e., state-issued driver’s license or identification card, military ID, current resident ID) with the staff person on call at the main desk. Each visitor must check in and check out every time they enter and exit the hall.
  • Residents will be held fully responsible for the conduct of their guest(s). If a resident does not feel their guest(s) can act responsibly, do not permit visitor/guest to be signed in.
  • At the end of guest’s visit, residents must accompany their visitor(s) back to the front desk to receive their ID cards. There is NO LOITERING in the building or the surrounding areas of the building after visitation has ended and the guest has been signed out.
  • No ID will be given to guests without the presence of the resident who signed in the guest.

Overnight Guest Privileges/Cohabitation

Residents may have guests of the same sex provided they secure the consent of their roommates and inform their RA by submitting an Overnight Guest Privilege form, which can be found online through Roompact.

• Overnight guests must be at least 17 years of age and have valid photo ID in their possession.
• Each roommate must consent to all guests in their room or suite. Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guest at all times.
• Overnight privilege is defined as “visitors staying for more than a total of five hours between 12:00 a.m.-8:00 a.m.”
• Each resident may utilize four overnight privileges in a 30-day period upon prior notice and approval of the HRL.
• Overnight visitors are prohibited without the expressed written consent of the resident’s roommate(s) and the university.
• The consent form must be submitted 24-hours in advance to the RLC.
• If there is an overnight visitor without a consent form on file, the resident is subject to disciplinary action.
• Overnight visitors must properly check into the residence hall at the front desk with photo ID.
• Visitation is not restricted in the apartments. However, male/female, or same-sex cohabitation is not permitted in university residence halls and apartments.
• Male/female residence hall or apartment sharing is not permitted.
• Cohabitation is not permitted. Cohabitation exists when a person who is not assigned to a particular room, apartment, or mobile home uses that space as if they were living there. Instances of cohabitation will result in disciplinary action (may include fees) and/or immediate eviction for all parties involved.

Examples of cohabitation include but are not limited to:

As a safety feature, certain windows in the residence halls and apartments have been equipped with devices to limit the distance they can be opened. It is vital that these clips are not removed or altered. Removal will result in a replacement charge. Blinds must not be removed. Displays, objects, pictures, or any form of window covering may not be placed in windows. The throwing of objects from windows is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action. Residents of the second floor of Meehan Hall and North Village are advised for safety reasons that unauthorized access to the ledge through the window is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, storing items, sitting, standing, or leaning on the window and/or ledge in any way allowing any body part or item(s) to hang and/or be placed outside. Using the first-floor window to gain access and/or exit the building is prohibited unless an emergency such as a fire occurs.

The following charges are estimated, not all-inclusive,charges that may be applied to the resident’s account of a liable individual. Whether an item is damaged maliciously or by accident, the repair cost remains the same. Charges are subject to change.

Maintenance quotes are sometimes needed for repairs outside of these scopes of work. If your charges exceed the above charges you will be charged for the entire amount of work quoted. 

Floor and community fines are used when the entire floor/community is being charged for an issue that affects the entire floor/community. These charges vary from incident to incident. 

Additional judicial charges may be assessed as determined by the Director of Community Standards and Student Ethics.

Alcohol depresses nerves that control involuntary actions such as breathing, the heartbeat, and the gag reflex (which prevents choking). A fatal dose of alcohol will eventually stop these functions leading to alcohol poisoning or possibly death. Critical signs for alcohol poisoning include:

• Mental confusion, unconsciousness, or person cannot be awakened
• No response to pinching the skin
• Vomiting while sleeping
• Seizures
• Slow breathing (less than 8 breaths per minute)
• Irregular breathing (10 seconds or more between breaths)
• Hypothermia (low body temperature), bluish skin color, paleness

If you suspect that someone may have ingested a fatal dose of alcohol, help is required immediately. Call 911, stay with the victim and keep the victim from choking on vomit. Be sure to tell emergency medical technicians the symptoms and, if you know, how much alcohol the victim drank. Prompt action may save the life of a friend, or your own.

All crimes should immediately be reported to UPD. If a resident is a victim of a crime, they should call the police or stop by Salls Hall to initiate a written police report of the incident. Residents should also contact their RLC after notifying Jax State police. A police officer will investigate the crime, which may include, but is not limited, to questioning appropriate persons, collecting potential evidence, and photographing the scene. The police officer who takes the report should advise the resident if criminal charges are appropriate and assist in filing such charges. If a resident is the victim of a crime committed by another Jax State resident, they may bring university judicial charges against the resident in addition to criminal or civil charges.

If university personnel alert the campus/university housing that there is a dangerous person/active shooter on campus, all staff and students are to stay in a locked and secure place.  If there is an active shooter in the same building you are in, stay in place and Call UPD at ext. 6000, also inform them of any persons injured. 

On University Grounds

When a hostile person is actively causing (or the threat of) death, serious physical injury, to person(s) on the campus, we recommend the following procedures be implemented:

• Run away from the threat if you can, as fast as you can.
• Do not run in a straight line (run in a zig-zag motion instead).
• Contact the University Police Department at ext. 6000 if possible, or dial 911 on a cell phone.
• Keep vehicles, bushes, trees, and anything that could possibly block your view between you and the hostile person(s) while you are running.
• If you can get away from the immediate area of danger, summon help and warn others.
• If you decide to hide, take into consideration the area in which you are hiding. Will I be found here? Is this really a good spot to remain hidden?

In a Non-Residence Hall Building
While the emergency procedures protocol refers primarily to residence halls, it should be stated that these procedures are also relevant to other common buildings on the campus. We recommend the following procedures if you are in a non-residence hall building:

• Immediately lock everyone in the classroom if possible. Cover any windows or openings that have a direct line of sight into the hallway.
• If communication is available, call ext. 6000.
• Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm would signal the occupants to evacuate the building.
• Lock the windows and close blinds or curtains.
• Stay away from the windows.
• Turn off lights and all audio equipment.
• Try to remain as calm as possible.
• Keep everyone together.
• Keep classrooms secure until police arrive and give you directions.
• If you are not in a classroom, try to get to a classroom or an office.
• Stay out of open areas and be as quiet as possible.

In a Residence Hall/Apartment Complex

When a hostile person(s) is actively causing deadly harm or the imminent threat of deadly harm within the residence hall, we recommend the following procedures be implemented:

• Lock yourself in your room.
• If communication is available, call ext. 6000.
• If away from your room, join others in a room that can be locked.
• Do not stay in the open hallway or open lounges.
• Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm would signal the occupants in the rooms to evacuate the building and thus place them in potential harm as they attempted to exit.
• Barricade yourself in your room with desks, beds, or anything you can push against the door.
• Lock your window and close blinds or curtains.
• Stay away from the window.
• Turn all lights and audio equipment off.
• Try to stay calm and be as quiet as possible.

If you are caught in the open such as hallways and lounge areas, you must decide what you are going to do. If you think you can safely make it out of the building by running, do so. If you decide to run, do not run in a straight line. Keep any objects you can between you and the hostile person(s) while in the building. Once outside, do not run in a straight line.

If the person(s) are causing death or serious physical injury to others and you are unable to run or hide, you may choose to play dead if other victims are around you.

The last option you have if caught in an open area in the hall maybe to fight back. Remember, if you decide to fight back it is dangerous, but depending on your situation, this could be your last option. If you are caught by the intruder and are not going to fight back, obey all commands and do not look the intruder in the eyes.

Once the police arrive, obey all commands. This may involve your being handcuffed or made to put your hands in the air. This is done for safety reasons, and once circumstances are evaluated by the police, they will give you further directions to follow.

These procedures for dangerous persons/active shooter(s) cannot cover every possible situation that might occur but is a recommendation that can reduce the number of injuries or death if put into action as soon as a situation develops. Time is the most important factor in the management of these types of situations.

Do NOT prop exterior doors open.

For security reasons, doors other than those at the main entrance of the residence halls are emergency exits only and remain locked from the outside. An exterior door propped open invites non-residents into the building, some of whom might commit crimes against residents. Also, opening any doors other than the main entrance will set off the security alarm to that door.

Never loan your key out to another person. Ever!

In addition to compromising your safety, this is also a violation in the Guide to Residence Living.

Lock your door when you are in or out of the room.

Locking your door when you are present or absent will be the most important thing you can do to ensure your safety. In the time it takes for you to shower or use the bathroom, a thief can take your wallet or laptop and be on their way. Also, if an unwanted guest comes to your room they cannot gain access without your permission. Remember to always lock your door.

The following actions are violations of hall policies, state, and federal regulations:

• Tampering or playing with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, exit lights, emergency lights, or removal of smoke detectors, smoke detector batteries or otherwise, propping stairwell fire doors, obstructing halls and stairways with furniture debris and other materials is a violation of hall policies and state and federal regulations. These actions are also subject to monetary fines.

If you see a fire: Stay calm.

1. Activate the building fire alarm immediately. If the alarm fails to operate, warn other occupants by knocking on doors and shouting warnings as you exit the building. Call the University Police Department at (256) 782-5050 from a safely located phone outside of the building. Give as much information as possible to the dispatcher. Do not assume that someone else has already notified them. Do not hang up until told to do so by the dispatcher. Notify the Residence Life Staff as soon as possible.
2. Before opening the door, feel it with the back of your hand. If it is hot, do the following (if it is not hot go to step 3).

• • Open the windows.
  • Seal cracks around the door with towels, tape, bed, clothing or similar items to keep out smoke.
  • If you are trapped, hang a sheet, jacket, or shirt or other object out the window that will attract attention. Shout for help. Call the University Police Department on the phone and tell them that you are unable to get out of your room. Remain calm until firefighters reach you from the hallway or window. Their first duty upon arriving at a fire is to search for persons trapped in the building.

4. If smoke is present keep low to the floor. Take short breaths to avoid inhaling any more smoke than necessary.
5. Leave the building immediately. When the University Police and/or firefighters arrive, inform them of the location of the fire.
6. After leaving the building, stand clear. Follow the directions of the Emergency Personnel and the Residence Life Staff. Do not reenter the building for any reason until the fire department has declared it safe.

If you hear the fire alarm: Follow steps 2 through 6 above.

All persons inside the building during emergency drills are required to evacuate the building. Failure to evacuate the building for any reason, including sleeping through an alarm, may result in disciplinary action.

It is essential that residents observe the following fire safety regulations:

• Do not leave appliances unattended while in use.
• Do not overload electrical circuits.
• No open flames (i.e., candles, incense, kerosene lamps, etc.) or any incendiary devices are permitted in the residence halls, rooms/suites/apartments.
• Fireworks are prohibited.
  • Electrical appliances with exposed heating elements are prohibited. (See the list of approved appliances in the sub-section Appliances in the Living on Campus Section).
  • The use of multi-outlet plugs is prohibited, except for those with built-in circuit breakers.
  • Motorcycles, motor scooters, and other internal combustible engines are not permitted inside or adjacent to residence halls, rooms/suites/apartments, except in approved parking lots.
  • Electronic “hover boards” or “balance boards” are deemed a fire risk and are not allowed within or adjacent to any university housing facility.
  • Bicycles may not be kept in hallways/stairwells, attached to fire equipment, or placed in any manner that interferes with exiting from the building.
  • Smoking is prohibited inside all residence halls or apartments.
  • Do not cover or disconnect the smoke detectors.

If you are taken hostage, the following instructions should be put into action as the situation develops. The initial period is the most dangerous. Follow instructions, be alert and stay alive. The captor is likely to be emotionally imbalanced.

• Do not speak unless spoken to and then only when necessary. Do not talk down to the captor who may be in an agitated state. Avoid appearing hostile.
• Avoid speculating. Comply with instructions as best you can. Avoid arguments. Expect the unexpected, i.e. mood swings or irrational actions.
• Be patient. Avoid drastic action. Do not make quick or sudden moves.
• Be observant. You may be released or have the opportunity to escape. The personal safety of others may depend on your memory.
• Be prepared to answer the police on the phone. Be patient, wait. If medications, first aid, or rest room privileges are needed by anyone, say so. In all probability, the captors do not want to harm persons held by them.

In hostage and other related situations, please be mindful that the University Police Department personnel’s objective is to:

• Secure safe release of any hostages involved.
• Minimize risk to uninvolved people and police personnel.
• Apprehend offender(s) with the amount of force that is reasonable given the circumstances.
• Secure available evidence to assist in the appropriate disposition of the offender(s).

When the warning siren is heard, or a tornado is sighted, take shelter immediately. In the event of a severe weather warning, residents should move to the lowest level of the halls and away from windows. Residents of Mountain Street/Goodlett Avenue Homes are not able to remain in their assignments during tornado watches/warnings and will need to seek shelter at Meehan Hall. 

The warning sirens will sound as long as the tornado is a threat. Remain in the sheltered area until the sirens are silenced. All residence halls have adequate protection in the basement area or first floor hallways. The severe weather locations for the halls are as follows:

• Crow Hall - Basement
• Curtiss Hall - Basement
• Daugette Hall - First Floor Hallways
• Dixon Hall - Basement Hallway
• Fitzpatrick Hall - Basement
• Leadership House for Women - First floor bathrooms
• Logan Hall - First Floor Hallway
• Meehan Hall - First Floor Hallways
• Mountain Street/Goodlett Avenue - Meehan Hall
• North Village - First Floor Storm Shelter
• Patterson Hall - Basement
• Sparkman Hall - Basement
• The Apartment Areas - Leone Cole Auditorium or Salls Hall

For more information about inclement weather procedures, visit UPD's tornado website. 

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, call 5050 or 6000 and request an ambulance. The University Police Department will be notified and will respond.

In the event of non life-threatening medical emergency call the Student Health Center at (256) 782-5310. After hours contact the University Police Department and give the person on duty the following information:

1.   Your name and position.

2.   The exact location of the injured/ill student.

3.   The injured/ill student’s name.

4.   Your assessment of the situation

5.   Follow any instructions given by UPD

6.   Inform your RA immediately.

In the event a resident is in severe emotional distress and is disrupting the hall or is in danger of inflicting harm to him/herself or others, notify your RA or another member of the Residence Life staff immediately. 

Between keeping up with academics and a student’s social life, it can be tempting to put concerns about personal safety on the back burner. HRL and Jax State staff work with UPD and other campus offices to reduce risks to personal safety and security. However, like anywhere in the world, personal safety is largely dependent on the students’ own prevention and precaution. 

Always escort your guests.

As a resident in housing, you are responsible for your guests and their actions. Even if you trust your guests, unescorted strangers might frighten others. Please escort your guest so that others in the community know that they are authorized to visit.  Always keep track of where your guests are located. 

If you see an unknown person who is unescorted in the residence hall, please inform your Resident Assistant.

If your Resident Assistant is unavailable, contact another Residence Life Staff member or the Desk Assistant at the front desk as soon as possible.

Attend residential community programs.

Learn more about protecting yourself and others by attending programs focused on safety. In addition, pay attention to important messages posted in the halls about security and crime warnings.

Protect your property.

Make sure you have a list of all the serial numbers of your valuables and keep the list in a safe place. You can also keep a list of your serial numbers on file with the University Police Department. To do this, go to http://police.jsu.edu/property.html and register your valuables on the property inventory list. Also, mark your property with an identifiable number in a conspicuous place.

Learn the facts about alcohol, drug abuse, and violence.

People under the influence of alcohol or other drugs can be dangerous to themselves and others. If you are assaulted, contact the University Police Department immediately. You can also contact the Student Health Center and Counseling and Career Services for information, help, counseling, or referrals. If a friend or resident has consumed and excessive amount of alcohol or drugs, do not leave him/her alone. Contact a Residence Life Staff member immediately and call for medical assistance, if needed.

If you are the victim of a crime or witness a crime, contact the University Police Department immediately at (256) 782-5050 and contact your RA.

Police officers routinely patrol the residence halls and parking areas. These officers are dedicated to aiding residents and staff, while maintaining law and order in and around these areas. For more information regarding the police Adopt-A-Hall Program, residents may contact UPD at (256) 782-5050.

The UPD provides an escort service for members of the university community. This service is available in the evening hours (after dark). UPD will send a uniformed officer to escort any member of the university community to any on-campus destination. To request an escort, simply dial extension 5050 on any campus phone or (256) 782-5050 to advise the police dispatcher.

All entrances to the halls are locked and are monitored by HRL staff. Anyone entering a residence hall may be asked to present photo identification to the front desk. Every visitor must be signed in by a resident, leave photo identification at the desk, and be always escorted by the resident when in the building. Despite these precautions, residents remain responsible for the security of their buildings. When residents are in their rooms or apartments, they should keep their door locked—particularly when they are alone or sleeping. Residents should always use their peephole or door window to identify visitors before letting them into their room. Residents should not sign in a guest they do not know. They should ensure that they escort their own guests and most importantly, report unescorted guests to residence staff at the front desk or to the police immediately.

Walk with a friend.

If you are out on campus after dark, walk to and from your residence hall/apartment with a friend or classmate.

Call for an escort.

The University Police Department provides an escort service after sunset to and from residence halls and any building or parking lot on campus. Call UPD at (256) 782-5050 to request an escort.

Use well-lit walkways.

Always be sure to stay on well-traveled and well-lit walkways/paths (especially if you absolutely must walk alone at night).

Have your automobile keys ready.

Always have your keys out before you get to your automobile, especially you are by yourself or it is dark outside.  Having your keys ready will enable you to get into your vehicle more quickly, which can help to avoid possible attacks.

Safeguard your automobile.

Do not leave valuables, such as purses, wallets, and textbooks in plain view. Ensure that doors are locked and windows are completely closed. If you see suspicious behavior in the parking lots, notify the University Police Department.

The Residence Life staff and the University Police Department work cooperatively with the Title IX Office and Counseling Services to provide support for the victims and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Sexual assault is a felony and all acts of sexual assault will be considered a crime. If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, please contact the University Police Department immediately.

Most thefts result from residents’ carelessness. By observing the following precautions residents can help protect their personal property.

• Lock the room/suite/apartment when out, even for just a few minutes.
• Keep the door locked when sleeping.
• Never lend a room/suite/apartment key or key tag to anyone.
• Keep valuables in a safe place. Do not leave valuables in the open and unattended.
• Report suspicious people to Residence Life Staff or the Jax State police (256-782-5050).
• Do not prop locked outside doors and stairwell doors. Be certain they close and lock. Do not allow anyone other than guests, for which residents are responsible, to enter the building.
• Do not remove window security locks.
• Report lost keys to HRL immediately.

HRL, at its discretion, may place any resident attending Jax State or any nonresident on the No Trespass List. The No Trespass List is issued for those individuals who neither respect nor adhere to the university policy and/or HRL policies and procedures, resident(s), university personnel, and/or the community. The No Trespass List is issued by the Director of Residence Life and is distributed to the Director of Housing Operations, Chief of Police, and RLCs. The No Trespass List should be placed in each residence hall and Pannell Hall front desk. Those placed on the list will not be able to visit specified university-owned or managed properties for any reason during the specified time frame. Individuals are subject to consequences, which may also result in arrest, if violated.

Jax State UPD is in Salls Hall and can be contacted at (256) 782-5050.