How to Have a Responsible Party Off-Campus

Outdoor gathering under string lights

As a student, your behavior while living off campus greatly impacts your neighbor's image of all university students. If you are a member of a fraternity or sorority, your behavior also impacts your neighbor's image of Greek Life and Organizations.

As a student who has chosen to reside off campus, you have the rights and responsibilities as a community resident. It is strongly recommended that you consider the suggestions below if you choose to host a party.

Things to Consider Before Hosting a Party:

  • Talk to your neighbors before the party. Let them know you are having a party and when it will start and end. Leave them your name and phone number. Encourage them to call if there is a problem during the party so you can correct it before someone call the police.
  • During the party let your guests know you are the contact person. If a neighbor call, they'll know to take a message or find you.
  • Avoid overcrowding which might: (1) Block apartment exits in case of any emergency, (2) result in vehicles blocking your street in case fire, police, and/or medical units need to respond, and/or (3) force your guest to inappropriately use "outdoor bathroom facilities."
  • periodically during the night, walk outside to check the noise level and adjust it accordingly. Also remember that voices carry and just by moving the party indoors you can avoid disturbing your neighbors.
  • It is your responsibility to stay in control of yourself AND your guests. Please do Not let your guest abuse or misuse alcohol as excessive use of alcohol can lead to sexual assault, legal problems and even death.
  • Know and observe North Carolina Laws in terms of you liability in providing alcoholic beverages to persons less than 21 years of age, as well as the City of Greenville's "Open Container Law, Trash Ordinance," and "Noise Ordinance."
    • Understand that as a student of East Carolina University, you are also responsible for upholding the rules and sanctions of the Code of Conduct for Off-Campus events.
  • After the party, clean up the area around your house/apartment as well as your neighbor's if needed. Contact your neighbor the next day and thank them for their cooperation.

If you have a problem at your party and need assistance, contact the ECU PD Neighborhood Relations at 252-328-5627 or 252-328-6787.