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    Residence Community Standards

    IntroductionThe Residence Community Standards set out clear expectations of acceptable behaviour within the residence community and theconsequences for behaviour that is contrary to these expectations.

    To be consistent with Ryerson Universitys core mandate of teaching and learning, the aim of these standards is to further studentsdevelopment and enhances their academic experience. The system has been created to differentiate actions based on three levels, while atthe same time being progressive in order to discourage repetitive unacceptable behaviour. Residents who have engaged in unacceptablebehaviour will be assigned points. The greater number of points a resident is assigned, the more serious the consequences are for thatresident. Ultimately, a resident who has repeatedly engaged in unacceptable behaviour or has engaged in a serious offence will be removedfrom the residence community all together.

    Code of HonourStudent Housing Services makes the assumption that the primary objective of each resident is to pursue success in academics. While theresidence environment provides additional social and cultural opportunities, everyone involved in the residence community must contribute inorder to make the residence a positive and supportive environment aligned with Ryerson Universitys core mandate of teaching and learning.

    Every member of the residence environment must accept that certain standards, or rules, need to exist in order for a large group of people tolive together and function as a community within a relatively small environment. Student Housing Services believes that integral to the Codeof Honour is an appreciation of the effect of ones personal behaviour on others and respect for their personal and property rights. RyersonUniversity appeals to each residents sense of reason, responsibility, and consideration for others. Ryerson University promotes the ideal thatresponsibilities are to be shared by everyone in order to maintain a high standard of cooperative living, tolerance, mutual respect andcompromise.

    In choosing to join the residence community at Ryerson University, each resident accepts to live by this Code of Honour, whichvalues and promotes common courtesy, good citizenship and responsible behaviour.

    Responsibilities1. It is the responsibility of Student Housing Services to ensure that residents are made aware of their rights and responsibilities

    under the Residence Contract and Residence Community Standards. The Residence Life and Education Coordinator orhis/her designee is responsible for ensuring the Residence Community Standards is upheld.

    2. It is the responsibility of each Residence Life staff member to ensure that all residents in his or her section are made aware oftheir rights and responsibilities under the Residence Community Standards. This will be accomplished through the hosting ofat least two meetings early in the year to outline the Residence Community Standards. The resident is responsible forattending one of these meetings.

    3. Every resident is responsible for observing the terms and conditions of the Residence Contract and Residence CommunityStandards or any changes to these documents as outlined in a written update during the course of the residence term. TheResidence Community Standards outline acceptable behaviour expectations for every resident, or their guest(s), and the typesof consequences for breaching these standards. No resident is exempt from the terms and conditions of the ResidenceCommunity Standards for any reason.

    4. It is the duty of each resident, in accordance with the procedures specified in the Residence Community Standards, to takereasonable steps to prevent a problem situation from occurring or, if it occurs, to prevent it from escalating to a more seri ouslevel e.g. informing Student Housing Services staff of the problem.

    5. It is each residents responsibility to be aware of and behave in a manner consistent with the Residence CommunityStandards, Residence Contract, University Code of Ethics, Ryerson Student Code of Non-Academic Conduct and any otherrelevant University policy, as well as all relevant municipal, provincial and federal laws and statutes.

    6. Residents are required to take responsibility for their guests in residence. All residence rules, policies and procedures apply toguests of residents. Residents risk consequences to them if their guest behaves in an unacceptable manner.

    7. Every resident is expected to act in a responsible manner which does not compromise his or her own safety or endanger thehealth and safety of others. Student Housing Services, on behalf of the University, reserves the right to determine whatconstitutes unsafe practices. This includes but is not limited to: tampering with fixtures and/or building systems, (including thewiring and fire prevention controls), fabricating or building structures, or impeding any means of exit from the building.

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    8. The resident is financially responsible for any damage or losses to his or her room or its contents, and also for the cleanlinessof the room upon vacating. All students in a suite/room are jointly and severally responsible, with the other occupant(s) of thesuite/room, for damages or losses to the shared areas of the suite/room. All charges for damages and/or cleaning to commonareas will be split equally among the occupants of the building, provided that such damage and/or cleaning cannot be traced tothose directly responsible.

    Note: Violations of the Residence Community Standards, Residence Contract or any other University policy, Municipal, Provincial orFederal law may be investigated by Student Housing Services and any other appropriate University department or outside agency, suchas the Police. Sanctions for any one incident may be given to a resident by multiple agencies, such as Student Housing Services,

    another University department or the Police.

    Standards & ConsequencesAn investigation may result if any Student Housing Services staff is made aware that a resident has engaged in unacceptable behaviour orbreached the Residence Contract and/or Residence Community Standards. Should the facts of an incident be disputed or the accusedindividual denies responsibility for an offence, then the Residence Life and Education Coordinator will direct an investigation to conclude themost probable course of events, based on the balance of probabilities.

    Once the investigation has been concluded, and it is found that a resident has engaged in unacceptable behaviour, breached the ResidenceContract and/or Residence Community Standards, then the incident will be classified into one of the following three definitions:

    One (1) Point Offences- Actions by an individual(s) that:

    Interfere with the rights of another individual(s) to the peaceful use and enjoyment of his or her space in residence and/or Fail to cooperate with Student Housing Servicess administrative procedures

    Two (2) Point Offences- Actions by an individual(s) that:

    Create a significant nuisance and/or disturbance to an individual or community.

    Three (3) Point Offences- Actions by an individual(s) that: Endanger the safety and security of themselves or another individual(s) and/or Compromise personal or University property and/or Attack the dignity/integrity of an individual and/or Contravene federal, provincial and/or municipal laws and/or University policy

    Committing any 3 Point Offence can lead to evictionPending the investigation of an incident Student Housing Services may separate the residents involved, direct them to avoid each other andadvise them to keep the matter private until the situation can be properly investigated and resolved.

    In a case where the residents reside in the same building, separation will likely involve directing the residents to alternate accommodations asdesignated by Student Housing Services until investigation can be completed by the Residence Life and Education Coordinator. The alternateaccommodations could be in another room, floor, building or off-site. Please note that separation of the residents involved is not meant to be asanction, but a means to establishing conditions suitable for facilitating privacy and a safe and quick resolution of the case.

    The first three charts below include, but are not limited to, examples that would be found under the three different offence levels definedabove. The fourth chart outlines the consequences of obtaining points under the Residence Community Standards.

    Any resident can be evicted from residence by either: Accumulating nine points through the Residence Community Standards Committing a 3 Point Offence that is deemed serious enough by the University

    In order to explain why some behaviours are listed in multiple levels below, it should be noted that a residents behaviour is measured againstthe One Point, Two Point and Three Point offence definitions first to determine the seriousness of the actions. After determining the offencelevel, then the actions are measured against the specific examples in the first three charts below. Therefore, the context and other factors ofan incident will help determine the assigned point value. Typically, however, the examples in the charts fall under the corresponding pointvalues assigned.

    Please remember, that residents have the responsibility to seek clarification of the Residence Community Standards, as ignorance may not beused as a defence against receiving a sanction.

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    One Point OffencesDefinition of One (1) Point Offences-- Actions by an individual(s) that:

    Interfere with the rights of another individual(s) to the peaceful use and enjoyment of his or her space in residence and/or Fail to cooperate with Student Housing Services administrative procedures

    # RESIDENTS ACTION or BEHAVIOUR Normal Rangeof Sanctions

    1.aAdmission Procedures Improper check-in, room transfer, or check-out is prohibited. This mayinclude, but is not limited to failing to provide a photo or requested documentation, switching roomswithout informing Student Housing Services and failing to turn in an access card.

    1 Point;Replacement charge

    1.bAlcohol Consumption -- Students must abide by all Federal, Provincial and Municipal alcohol lawsand University policy. Alcohol consumption is only permitted within suite/room areas (ie insidesuite/room entrance) Consuming alcohol in all other residence areas is strictly prohibited. 1 Point

    1.cBehaviour Unbecoming of a Student Leader Student Leadersare held to a higher standard. Theymust strictly abide by all Residence Community Standards. Any inappropriate behaviour by a studentleader could lead to a request to resign, a public apology, etc

    1 Point;resignation/demotionof Student Leaderposition

    1.dNo Bicycles in Residence Bicycles are not permitted inside the residence unless written permissionhas been granted to the resident ahead of time by Student Housing Services. Bicycle storage facilities

    are available outside the residence.

    1 Point

    1.e

    Cleanliness Standards -- Students are expected to keep their bedroom, washroom, shared livingareas and the exterior of their room/suite/room doors clean and adhere to the rules for proper removalof garbage and/or recycling. Please note that suite/room/room tours by Student Housing Services staffcan take place on a monthly basis. Throwing or leaving garbage anywhere other than in anappropriate container is prohibited.

    1 Point; restitutionfor damage

    1.f

    Commercial Use The use of residence property, mailbox, telephone or data connection for anycommercial use is prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to selling products or services,advertising without authorization and allowing someone else to use the residence facilities forcommercial use.

    1 Point

    1.g

    Complying with a Sanction Failing to comply with a Residence Community Standards sanction maylead to further sanctions. This may include, but not be limited to paying damage costs within the timeframe outlined, breaking a behaviour contract, not completing an educational sanction and completingthe Residence Community Standards Quiz.

    1 Point

    1.h

    Decorating & Posters Student Housing Services, with advice and feedback from the Residence

    Council, must approve, in writing, any decorating that is to take place outside of a suite/room. Reasonsfor this include, but are not limited to the following: ensure appropriate cleaning plans are in place andto review any messages that may impact the community. Students must poster and/or decorate withinthe designated areas in residence only. Tape, nails, tacks and pins or other such material are NOT tobe used at any time to hang posters or affix objects to the walls, floors or ceilings within all areas of theresidence, including suite/room areas. Adhesive strips can be requested from the Student HousingServices office to hang appropriate materials. Paint and spray can material or similar products such asFake Snow are not to be used on any residence surface without written approval from StudentHousing Services.

    1 Point; restitutionfor damage

    1.iEquipment Storage -- Students are not permitted to store any personal belongings or room property inany common or shared living areas. Equipment may include, but is not limited to bicycles, hockeyequipment, desks, lamps and musical instruments. 1 Point

    1.j

    Guests -- A guest is any non-resident or non-staff member. A guest can be someone who wasformally invited by a resident or someone that a resident invites, accepts or admits into the residencewhether or not the resident has previously met that person. In circumstance, the resident / host isresponsible, at all times, for the behaviour of his or her guest. This includes informing them of any

    relevant policies or standards. Students are not permitted to host overnight guests during Registration /Orientation Week or any time after the end of classes each semester (ie during exams) unless writtenpermission is granted from the Student Housing Services Office. Overnight/guest nights guests aredefined as any guest who stays or is signed into the residence between the hours of 11 pm and 8amregardless of their length of stay. Residents may host a maximum of 5 guests at any one time for amaximum of three consecutive nights. Guests can stay overnight to a maximum of nine (9) guestnights per calendar-month regardless of the host Resident. Guests must sign in and provide pictureidentification to the Residence Services Desk upon arrival. Hosts must have obtained permission fromtheir suite-mate within a reasonable time frame prior to the arrival of a guest(s). Acting as a host for aposted individual and / or a person whose visiting privileges have been revoked, is prohibited. A guestcan be removed from the residence and Ryerson University property at any time without notice.Guests have no right to be in the Residence at any time.

    1 Point; Guestprivileges may berevoked

    1.k Lost or Inaccessible Keys Residents are responsible for his/her room keys/access cards at all 1 Point; Subject to

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    times. Room keys/access cards that are inaccessible for any reason is prohibited as it compromisesthe safety of the residence buildings. This may include, but is not limited to losing, misplacing or lockingrooms keys/access cards behind a locked door.

    fee

    1.lModifying Physical Structure Tampering with or modifying the physical structures of the residenceis prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to, using nails or screws in the wall or ceiling, alteringdoor closure devices and running wires, phone lines, cables or electrical power between rooms.

    1 Point

    1.m

    Physically Active Games in Residence - Students are not permitted to participate in potentiallydestructive activities that may cause personal injuries and/or property damage. These activities

    include, but are not limited to indoor sports, water fights, golfing / putting and bouncing / throwing anobject.

    1 Point; restitutionfor damage

    1.nRefrigerators Refrigerators brought into the residence (either purchased or rented) must be "EnergyStar" rated, CSA approved and clearly bear an "Energy Star Certified" logo and must have a capacityof 3.5 cubic feet or less.

    1 Point

    1.oRemoval of Residence Property In order to promote community living, removing and/or relocatingfurniture from bedrooms, lounges, meeting rooms and other common living areas is not permitted. 1 Point

    1.pSleeping in Common Areas Residents and guests are not permitted to sleep in common areas suchas lounges, stairwells, elevators, etc..

    1 Point

    1.qSolicitation and Elections Residents and guests are not permitted to solicit in the residencebuildings or canvas for elections at any level (federal, provincial, municipal, campus).

    1 Point

    1.r

    Unacceptable Noise Creating noise that can be heard outside of a room or lounge or through aclosed door is not permitted, aside from noise created from reasonable living activities. This mayinclude, but not be limited to the following: bouncing or throwing a ball repeatedly, stereo/computer /

    television noise or noise generated from a gathering of people. Woofer and sub-woofer speakers areprohibited in the buildings. This definition is primarily in effect during Quiet Hours. Quiet Hours are ineffect during the following times:

    o Sunday through Thursday evenings from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM the following morning.

    o Begin Saturday and Sunday mornings from 1:00 AM to 10:00 AM that morning.

    o Twenty-four hours a day during the final exam periods, which will be publicized at least oneweek in advance through posters, email and newsletter.

    All other hours are considered to be courtesy hours, that is, all residents are expected to be courteoustowards other members of the surrounding community if they are engaged in an activity that generatesnoise. These guidelines are meant to act as a minimum standard and may be enhanced throughconsultations with the floor, residence community, Residence Council and Residence Life staff. Noiselevels at any time should not detract from any residents ability to pursue academic endeavors or toenjoy their living environment. An individuals right to reasonable quiet supersedes anothers right to

    make noise.

    1 Point

    1.sUse of Appliances Electrical or other cooking appliances including, but not limited to toasters,toaster ovens and microwave ovens, are permitted only in areas with approved facilities.

    1 Point; restitutionfor damage

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    Two Point OffencesDefinition of Two (2) Point Offences- Actions by an individual(s) that:

    creates a significant nuisance and/or disturbance to an individual or community.

    # RESIDENTS ACTION or BEHAVIOUR

    Normal Range

    of Sanctions

    2.a

    Behaviour Unbecoming of a Student Leader Student Leadersare held to a higher standard. Theymust strictly abide by all Residence Community Standards. Any inappropriate behaviour by a studentleader could lead to a request to resign, a public apology, etc

    2 Points;resignation/demotionof Student Leaderposition

    2.b

    Cleanliness Standards -- Students are expected to keep their bedroom, washroom, shared livingareas and the exterior of their suite/room doors clean and adhere to the rules for proper removal ofgarbage and/or recycling. Please note that suite/room tours by Student Housing Services staff will takeplace on a monthly basis. Throwing or leaving garbage anywhere other than in an appropriatecontainer is prohibited.

    2 Points; restitutionfor damage or clean-up

    2.c

    Cooperation with Staff -- Residents and guests are expected to cooperate with staff members.Misleading, not cooperating with, harassing, failing to answer the door when the staff identifythemselves, providing improper identification to staff is strictly prohibited. Interfering with or not

    cooperating with any Student Housing Services investigation is not permitted. Pleading ones case orpoint of view can be made to the Residence Life and Education Coordinator (or GA-CommunityStandards) not to the Residence Life team member during an incident.

    2 Points

    2.d

    Discrimination Every individual has the right to an environment characterized by equal opportunityand equitable access to University goods and services. Every individual has the responsibility to treatall members of the University community without discrimination. Discrimination is defined as anyconduct that results in adverse treatment of an individual or group on the basis of race, ancestry, placeof origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed/religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, maritalstatus, record of offences, or receipt of public assistance.

    2 Points

    2.e

    Disruption Every individual has the right to an environment that, while safeguarding dissent, is freefrom interference and disruption. Students should not intimidate, interfere with, threaten or otherwiseobstruct any activity organized by the University, including classes, or to hinder other members of theUniversity community from being able to carry out their legitimate activities, including their ability tospeak or associate with others.

    2 Points

    2.f

    Excessive Noise -- Intentionally or unintentionally creating noise that disrupts several members of theresidence, University or surrounding community is not permitted. This may include, but not be limitedto the following: banging/knocking on multiple doors in a consecutive manner, musical instruments, discjockeys, bands, turntables, megaphones, speaker/music, directing stereo noise outside of a suite/roomthrough windows or into the hallway or yelling/screaming inside or near the building.

    2 Points

    2.g

    Harassment Every individual has the right to an environment characterized by mutual respect. Everyindividual has the responsibility to treat all members of the University community with respect andwithout harassment. Harassment is defined as any attention or conduct (oral, written, graphic, orphysical) by an individual or group who knows, or ought reasonably to know, that such attention orconduct is unwelcome/unwanted, offensive or intimidating.

    2 Points

    2.h

    Inappropriate / Illegal Entry -- Entering another students suite/room or disturbing another residentsproperty without the permission of the resident and/or Student Housing Services is not permitted.Students must have written permission to enter anothers room and do so only with authorized use ofthe prescribed key; manipulating the lock, door, or window is strictly prohibited.

    2 Points

    2.i

    Open flames - Open flames are not permitted in residence, and this includes, but is not limited to,attended or unattended lit candles, lamps requiring a combustible fuel and incense. Residentsrequiring one of these items for religious, aboriginal, or spiritual observances need to contact StudentHousing Services, in writing, at the beginning of their term in residence or at least seven days prior totheir intended use. One exception to this standard is using birthday candles, but they must bemonitored at all times, with the appropriate safety equipment nearby. Any consequences resulting fromthis exception is still the responsibility of the organizers.

    2 Points; Restitutionfor damage andemergencypersonnel

    2.jOut of Control Parties If a gathering cannot reasonably be controlled by the host then it isconsidered out of control and is not permitted in the residences.

    2 Points

    2.kPets Students are not permitted to bring into or keep in residence non-human life forms other thanplants and non-dangerous fish in aquariums no larger than 10 gallons.

    2 Points

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    2.l

    Physically Active Games in Residence -- Students are not permitted to participate in potentiallydestructive activities that may cause personal injuries and/or property damage. These activitiesinclude, but are not limited to indoor sports, water fights, throwing / shooting / smashing an object andusing roller blades, skateboards or bicycles in the building.

    2 Points

    2.m

    Raids or Inappropriate or Destructive Pranks --Initiating, encouraging, supporting, or participating inraids and/or pranks that are disruptive, offensive, or hostile to residents and/or staff is prohibited.These raids or pranks include, but are not limited to water fights, leaners, dismantling, removing,and/or relocating residence/personal property, pennying someone into a room, posting unacceptable

    information on the internet/video/photos.

    2 Points

    2.n

    Telecommunications Students are prohibited from using their telephone or data service, orpermitting them to be used, for a purpose or in a manner that is contrary to law or University policy, orfor the purposes of relaying annoying or offensive messages. Students are responsible for ensuringthat others do not have access to their phone or data service. Students will be held responsible formessages sent from their room whether they were present or not.

    2 Points

    2.oThrowing Material -- Throwing, dropping, or ejecting material from residence buildings, windows, rooftops, or down stairwells is prohibited. Throwing material at the residence building is also prohibited.

    2 Points

    2.p

    Unintentionally triggering the Building Fire Alarm Setting off the building fire alarm accidentally orunintentionally is prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to hitting a detector by mistake whileparticipating in hall sports.

    2 Points; restitutionfor damage oremergencypersonnel

    2.q

    Vandalism Vandalism is defined as the willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or

    private property. Any vandalism directed toward another individual or group of individuals may alsoconstitute harassment. Behaviours that are considered as vandalism include, but are not limited to,tearing down posters/decorations, writing graffiti and breaking furniture/equipment.

    2 Points

    2.r

    Violence -- Violence or physical aggression in residence will not be tolerated. Physical aggression isdefined as any violent or physically aggressive behaviour. These behaviours include, but are notlimited to hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, pushing, pulling and fighting. 2 Points

    2.sWaterbeds/Hot Tubs -- Students are not permitted to bring in or use waterbeds, small childrens poolsor hot tubs in the residence.

    2 Points; Restitutionfor damage

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    Three Point OffencesDefinition of Three (3) Point Offences- Actions by an individual(s) that:

    Endanger the safety and security of themselves or another individual(s) and/or Compromise personal or University property and/or Attack the dignity/integrity of an individual and/or Contravene federal, provincial and/or municipal laws and/or University policy

    Please note that the consequence of any 3-Point Offence can be eviction from residence.

    # RESIDENTS ACTION or BEHAVIOURNormal Rangeof Sanctions

    3.a

    Access to Residence Loaning or giving anyone an access card or any residence keys is prohibited.Any lost access cards or keys should be reported immediately. Charges may apply for replacement ofthe lost items.

    3 Points

    3.b

    Behaviour Unbecoming of a Student Leader Student Leadersare held to a higher standard. Theymust strictly abide by all Residence Community Standards. Any inappropriate behaviour by a studentleader could lead to a request to resign, a public apology, etc

    3 Points;resignation/demotionof Student Leaderposition

    3.c

    Cooperation with Staff -- Residents and guests are expected to cooperate with staff members.Misleading, not cooperating with, harassing, failing to answer the door when the staff identifythemselves, providing improper identification to staff is strictly prohibited. Interfering with or notcooperating with any Student Housing Services investigation is not permitted. Pleading ones case orpoint of view can be made to the Residence Life and Education Coordinator (or GA-CommunityStandards) not to the Residence Life team member during an incident.

    3 Points

    3.d

    Discrimination Every individual has the right to an environment characterized by equal opportunityand equitable access to University goods and services. Every individual has the responsibility to treatall members of the University community without discrimination. Discrimination is defined as anyconduct that results in adverse treatment of an individual or group on the basis of race, ancestry, placeof origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed/religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, maritalstatus, record of offences, or receipt of public assistance.

    3 Points

    3.e

    Disruption Every individual has the right to an environment that, while safeguarding dissent, is freefrom interference and disruption. You have the responsibility not to intimidate, interfere with, threatenor otherwise obstruct any activity organized by the University, including classes, or to hinder other

    members of the University community from being able to carry out their legitimate activities, includingtheir ability to speak or associate with others.

    3 Points

    3.f

    Excessive Consumption of Alcohol -- Possession and / or consumption of common source alcohol(e.g. kegs, swish barrels, electric jello, and other large containers of alcohol, etc.) and/or participating indrinking games (e.g. century club, funneling, etc.) within residence is prohibited. Consuming alcoholto the point of intoxication is prohibited.

    3 Points

    3.g

    Explosives -- Explosive or flammable material is not permitted in residence buildings, this may include,but is not limited to, firecrackers, fireworks, barbecue propane tanks, dynamite, etc. Proper storage forflammable material such as oil paints, etc. is required. Please seek assistance to store such materialsif in doubt.

    3 Points

    3.h

    Gambling Participating in and / or running an illegal gaming or gambling operation is prohibited.Gambling activities include, but are not limited to, sports pools, reality television pools, playing cardtournaments and providing loans for related activities.

    3 Points

    3.i

    Harassment Every individual has the right to an environment characterized by mutual respect. Everyindividual has the responsibility to treat all members of the University community with respect andwithout harassment. Harassment is defined as any attention or conduct (oral, written, graphic, orphysical) by an individual or group who knows, or ought reasonably to know, that such at tention orconduct is unwelcome/unwanted, offensive or intimidating.

    3 Points

    3.j

    Illegal Drugs Students in residence are prohibited from being involved with trafficking, possessing,using and consuming any illegal drug substance in residence. Evidence of drug traces or drugparaphernalia, or the smell of prohibited substances (eg marijuana) in or near suite/rooms, commonareas or near the residence building will be assumed to be conclusive of use or possession. (inaccordance with the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act)

    3 Points

    3.k Inappropriate / Illegal Entry -- Entering another students suite/room or disturbing another residentsproperty without the permission of the resident is not permitted. Students must have written permission

    3 Points

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    to enter anothers room and may do so only with authorized use of the prescribed key; manipulating thelock, door, or window is strictly prohibited.

    3.lOpen-elements Any devices, beyond those provided by the University, that uses an open element isnot permitted in residence for fire safety reasons. This includes, but is not limited to hot plates.

    3 Points; restitutionfor damage

    3.m

    Open flames - Open flames are not permitted in residence, and this includes, but is not limited to,attended or unattended lit candles, cigarettes/cigars, lamps requiring a combustible fuel and incense.Residents requiring one of these items for religious purposes need to contact Student Housing

    Services, in writing, at least seven days prior to their intended use. One exception to this standard isusing birthday candles, but they must be monitored at all times, with the appropriate safety equipmentnearby. Any consequences resulting from this exception is still the responsibility of the organizers.

    3 Points; Restitutionfor damage or

    emergencypersonnel

    3.n

    Pornography Displaying or making available for viewing pornographic material in the hallways,common rooms, lobbies, stairwells, bathrooms, exterior room doors, or any interior area of a room thatcan be seen from an open door is prohibited (in accordance with the Criminal Code of Canada, Section163).

    3 Points

    3.o

    Prohibited Lamps Torchier(e) Lamps or halogen lamps that expose the bulb at the top of itsstructure, as opposed to those with a shade or shield, are prohibited in residence for fire safetyreasons. Lamps must be CSA approved and preferably lit using LEDs.

    3 Points

    3.p

    Raids or Inappropriate or Destructive Pranks --Initiating, encouraging, supporting, or participating inraids and/or pranks that are disruptive, offensive, or hostile to residents and/or staff is prohibited.These raids or pranks include, but are not limited to water fights, leaners, dismantling, removing,and/or relocating residence/personal property and pennying someone into a room.

    3 Points

    3.q

    Restricted areas-- Students are prohibited from being in any restricted areas, these include, but arenot limited to the roof of the residence (except in emergencies involving fire or a similar nature),Telecommunication Rooms and Facilities / Loading Dock area.

    3 Points

    3.rSafety Procedures Failing to follow emergency or safety procedures is prohibited. This includes, butis not limited to failing to leave the residence during a fire alarm and entering an area that is restricted.

    3 Points

    3.s

    Smoking As per university policy, all areas in residence are non-smoking. Smoking in areas wheresecond hand smoke is affecting the community is also prohibited. Such areas may include but are notlimited to doorways, near windows or air intake vents. Smoking must be at least nine (9) metres awayfrom the building.

    3 Points +Restitution fordamage or cleaning

    3.tSubletting Residents are prohibited from subletting or allowing other people to live in their residenceroom.

    3 Points

    3.u

    Tampering with Physical Structure Tampering with fixtures, building systems and fire equipment is

    strictly prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to discharging or suppressing any fire preventionor detection equipment, propping interior or exterior doors and tampering with the elevator, card accesssystems or laundry equipment.

    3 Points; Restitution

    for damage oremergencypersonnel

    3.vThrowing Material -- Throwing, dropping, or ejecting material from residence buildings, windows, rooftops, or down stairwells is prohibited. Throwing material at the residence building is also prohibited.

    3 Points

    3.w

    Underage Drinking Student under the age of 19 cannot consume alcohol in or near the residencebuilding. In addition, residents must abide by all Federal, Provincial and Municipal Laws and Universitypolicy regarding alcohol use and consumption.

    3 Points

    3.x

    Use of Residence to Support Illegal Activities: Using the residence or University Property tosupport or assist with illegal activities is strictly forbidden. This may include, but is not limited to: storingstolen property or hosting discriminatory websites.

    3 Points

    3.y

    Vandalism Vandalism is defined as the willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public orprivate property. Any vandalism directed toward another individual or group of individuals may also

    constitute harassment.

    3 Points

    3.z

    Violence -- Violence or physical aggression in residence will not be tolerated. Physical aggression isdefined as any violent or physically aggressive behaviour. These behaviours include, but are notlimited to hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, pushing, pulling and fighting.

    3 Points

    3.aaWeaponsFirearms, fake guns and any other weapon or item that is created / intended to causeharm, or could be seen as intimidating, are strictly prohibited.

    3 Points

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    Consequences for Points GainedPoints Accumulated Sanctions / Consequences

    1 Letter of Warning

    2 Letter of Warning

    3 Letter of Warning & Successfully Pass Residence Community Standards Quiz

    4 On Notice

    5 On Notice

    6 On Probation

    7 On Probation

    8 On Probation

    9 Eviction

    Additional sanctions or consequences, aside from those listed above may be given to a resident at the sole discretion of the University.

    The points given to a resident after an incident remain in place for one calendar year. In other words, if a resident is given 1 point onSeptember 20, 2006 and 2 more points on October 31, 2006, then on September 20, 2007 that resident only has 2 points remaining on theirrecord.

    How Residence Community StandardsAre Adjudicated

    Incident

    Documentation by member of Residence Community

    Investigation & documentation by Residence Life and Education Coordinator (RLEC) or Graduate Advisor - Community Standards

    Determination of Level of Offence by Student Housing Services

    Communicate Decision to resident

    Resident may appeal to Residence Appeals Committee

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    Appeal ProcessThe following is a visual summary of the Residence Appeals Policy. The full written document can be found online at:http://www.ryerson.ca/studentservices/housing/rescontract/

    Gather Necessary Information

    Complete Residence Appeal Form(Available Student Housing Services office, PIT-100)

    Submit Form

    within 5 business daysTo:

    1st

    Level of Appeal:Student Housing Services office, PIT-100Staff Responsibility for Appeal area

    Acknowledgereceipt of appeal

    via email

    Incomplete Complete

    1st

    Level of Appeal - Informal

    Emailed outline ofconsiderationprocess & next steps(2 business days)

    ConsiderationProcess

    Emailed Decision & Official Res onse

    If not resolved move to next level of appeal

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    Gather Necessary Information

    Complete Residence Appeal Form(Available Student Housing Services office, PIT-100)

    Submit Formwithin 5 business days

    To:

    2n

    Level of Appeal:Manager, Student Housing Services

    Acknowledgereceipt of appeal

    via email

    Incomplete Complete

    Emailed outline ofconsiderationprocess & next steps(2 business days)

    ConsiderationProcess

    Emailed Decision & Official Res onse

    2n

    Level of Appeal InformalPrevious Level Must Be Com leted Before Proceedin

    If not resolved move to next level of appeal

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    3r

    Level of Appeal Formal(Previous Level Must BeCompleted Before Proceeding)

    Gather Necessary Information

    Complete Residence Appeal Form(Available Student Housing Services office, PIT-100)

    Submit Formwithin 5 business days

    To:

    3r

    Level of Appeal:Director, Office of the Vice Provost,Students (OVPS)

    Emailed Final Decision& Official Response

    Complete Incomplete

    Preliminary Discussionwith Director, Office of theVice Provost Students

    Resolution No Resolution

    Director calls to orderResidence Appeals

    Committee

    Residence Appeal Hearing

    Acknowledge receipt of appeal via email

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    Eviction ProcessThe eviction process is initiated by the Residence Life and Education Coordinator upon making a decision which results in a resident havingaccumulated 9 or more points or a serious 3-point offence.

    Responsibilities of Student Housing Services

    1. Inform resident of eviction in writing. The letter will outline the events which lead to eviction and delineate a timeline indicating when thestudent is required to leave residence and when s/he may return to pack the remainder of their belongings. The letter will be presentedto the student during a meeting.

    2. The resident will be provided with information about the appeal process and relevant deadlines.3. A meeting may be set up between the resident and a counselor in the Development & Counseling Centre.4. The resident will be provided with a check-out envelope.5. A refund of residence fees will be forwarded if resident is eligible (based on the number of weeks left in the semester; room inspection;

    outstanding phone charges, damage costs etc) within a two week time period. (In the situation where the case is under appeal, theresidence fees refund process will not start until a decision is communicated.)

    6. If the resident does not have alternative accommodations, Student Housing Services will be responsible for booking one night in a localhotel. Resident will be refunded after a receipt is provided.

    Responsibilities of the Resident

    1. Resident must inform Student Housing Services in writing as to whether or not they plan on appealing the eviction. This is required inorder to begin the appeal process or the process of refunding the balance of their residence fees. If a letter is not submitted within fivebusiness days it will be deemed that the resident is not appealing the eviction.

    2. Resident must check-out of residence by following the procedures outlined on the check-out envelope.3. Resident must leave residence room in good condition.4. Resident must abide by the timelines and consequences outlined on eviction letter. (ex. Visiting privileges, when the student may return

    to pack belongings, etc)5. Within 24 hours the resident must submit receipts for re-imbursement for one night at a local hotel (re-imbursement is limited to the costs

    of the room; meals, phone charges and transportation will NOT be reimbursed)

    DefinitionsAcceptable Noise- Noise that should be expected in a student living environment during appropriate times of the day as a result ofreasonable living activities

    Behavioural Contract(Sanction)A set of behavioural expectations and limitations, written in the form of a contract, that is determinedbetween Student Housing Services and the resident(s). With his or her signature, the resident agrees to the terms of the behavioural contractand is aware that any breach of this contract constitutes an offence that will result in further consequences.

    Collective Billing(Sanction) Unclaimed damage or vandalism costs to the common areas of the residence may be sent to every resident ora specific section within the residence as an additional charge to recoup the costs of repair and administration. Example. A broken loungewindow that occurs on the 3

    rdFloor. The entire 3

    rdfloor could receive a bill for this damage. Collective billing can also occur for the whole

    building for (including but not limited to) common area damages, fire alarm fines etc.

    Community/Educational Sanctions(Sanction)These sanctions include but are not limited to: community restitution, community service,creating an educational program for the community and/or reflection paper describing what the student has learned from an incident or seriesof incidents.

    Eviction (Sanction) Student loses ability to live in the residence. Visiting privileges will be restricted or even eliminated. Student HousingServices will outline the terms of eviction, in writing, at the time the eviction notice is given to the student.

    Excessive Noise Intentionally or unintentionally creating noise that disrupts several members of the residence, University or surroundingcommunity is not permitted. This may include, but not be limited to the following: banging/knocking on multiple doors in a consecutivemanner, directing stereo noise outside of a suite/room through windows or into the hallway or yelling/screaming inside or near the building.

    Incident Report A documentation tool used to track behaviour that may be unacceptable, in breach of the Residence Contract orResidence Community Standards. The primary purpose of the Incident Report is to ensure that residents are informed of their behaviour if itwas questionable in nature. Depending on the nature of the behaviour, and past history, sanctions may be placed on an individual because ofthis documented behaviour. Please note that every student has the right to express his or her view in writing to the Residence LifeCoordinator, within 48 hours of receiving the Incident Report.

    Letter of Warning (Sanction) Outlines a residents involvement in the past incident(s)and highlights potential consequences for furtherunacceptable behaviour.

    Normal Range of Sanction A listing of the sanctions or consequences that typically follow a resident who has behaved unacceptably,breached the Residence Contract or Residence Community Standards. It should be noted that other sanctions might be placed on anindividual, at the discretion of the University, which are not listed in the One Point, Two Point or Three Point charts in the ResidenceCommunity Standards document.

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    On Notice (Sanction) Automatically review residents ability to re-apply to residence or run for a Residence Council position for asubsequent semester/year at the conclusion of their current term in residence. A student may, at the discretion of Student Housing Services,have restrictions placed on them that may include, but not be limited to the following: being suspended from residence, not being able toconsume or be under the influence of alcohol while in residence or loss of guest privileges.

    On Probation (Sanction) Resident will be prohibited to re-apply to residence or run for a Residence Council position for a subsequentsemester/year at the conclusion of their current term in residence. A student WILL, at the Universitys sole discretion, have restrictions placedon them that may include, but not be limited to the following: being suspended from residence, not being able to consume or be under the

    influence of alcohol while in residence or loss of guest privileges. Association with ANY other three-point offence may lead to eviction fromresidence.

    Posting From Residences(Sanction) People may be posted, or barred, from residence(s) and not allowed to return to the specificbuilding(s). If the posted individual is found in the building then the Police may be called and the person may be charged under the Trespassto Property Act.Resignation/Demotion from a Student Leader Position (Sanction) Occasionally student leaders behave inappropriatelyand must be removed from their leadership position. This may involve losing their room in residence as well.

    Student LeaderAny student that lives in a residence building that holds a position with Student Housing Services or the Residence Council.This includes but is not limited to Residence Advisors, Academic Links, Floor Presidents, and Ryerson Orientation Crew Residence Guides.

    Suspension from Residence(Sanction) When warranted, a resident may be required to vacate residence for a specified period of time.During this time the student will be required to find alternative housing at their own cost, and will not be permitted to stay in any residence oncampus.

    Unacceptable Behaviour Any behaviour that is described in the One Point, Two Point or Three Point Offences in the ResidenceCommunity Standards or any behaviour that breaches Federal, Provincial or Municipal law or Ryerson University policy.

    Unacceptable Noise Creating noise that can be heard outside of a room or lounge or through a closed door is not permitted, aside fromnoise created from reasonable living activities. This may include, but not be limited to the following: bouncing or throwing a ball repeatedly,stereo/computer / television noise or noise generated from a gathering of people. This definition is primarily in effect during Quiet hours.

    Verbal Warning --Verbal warnings are used by the Residence Advisor to indicate to the student what policy was violated, and what theconsequences are if the behaviour is repeated. It is imperative that students understand that the warnings are occasionally given by theResident Advisors as a courtesy, most often for incidents involving noise, and are in no way mandatory. A first occasion of inappropriatebehaviour will normally result in documentation being issued.

    This document was created with the help of several member institutions of the Ontario Association of University and University HousingOfficers (OACUHO).