Policies and Good Practices for Registered Student Organizations: Social Events & Gatherings Off Campus

Many University of Connecticut (University) students, including members of Registered Student Organizations (RSO) live in the surrounding communities and towns of Storrs. While RSOs are considered independent entities, the Student Code applies both on and off campus to University students. Thus, if an RSO chooses to socialize or meet off campus, they are expected to do so in a manner that respects neighbors, complies with the Student Code, adheres to state and federal laws and local ordinances, and reflects positively on both the RSO and the University. 

More specifically, the Town of Mansfield has ordinances that govern topics such as noise, alcohol, nuisance behavior, litter, and zoning regulations. Violations may result in municipal fines, criminal charges, and University action through the Student Conduct System (if applicable and when appropriate). This document serves as a resource for RSOs that gather, attend, or host events off campus in Mansfield or surrounding towns. 

Note: This resource is intended for educational purposes only and summarizes commonly applicable to local ordinances.

It does not replace the official Town of Mansfield Code of Ordinances, University policies, or applicable federal or state law. 

Mansfield Ordinances & Common RSO Issues

Large Gatherings at Rental Properties 

Many residential neighborhoods are intended for normal residential use – not for large social gatherings or RSO events. Before planning an event off campus and in a residential home or apartment, consider whether: the gathering is appropriate for the location; the property can safely accommodate the expected attendance on the RSO guest list; how parking, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic may disrupt the neighborhood; and any negative impact on surrounding neighbors. 

 Depending on the respective zoning district, repetitious use of a residence for an RSO gathering may violate local zoning regulations. Certain violations may be issued to the property owner, landlord, or occupants of the residence (e.g., RSO members). Current zoning regulations and ordinances are maintained by the Town of Mansfield here: https://ecode360.com/11768105  

Noise & Nuisance 

Noise complaints are one of the most common reasons police respond to an RSO event or gathering in a neighborhood. Keep music and other amplified sounds at a reasonable level, particularly during evening and nighttime hours. A nuisance is defined broadly as conduct that substantially interferes with neighbors’ comfort or safety. Some examples include illegal parking, excessive pedestrian or vehicle traffic, disorderly conduct, underage drinking, public urination, fights or disturbances, littering, and excessive noise.  

Some good practices include: keep speakers indoors; close windows and doors when music is playing; lower volumes as the evening progresses; and ask guests to remain respectful when arriving and leaving. 

Alcohol 

RSOs hosting, attending, or participating in events off campus with alcohol are expected to remember and comply with all distribution and/or consumption of alcohol laws. The Mansfield Town Ordinances specifically calls out and defines the parameters for prohibited use of alcohol including providing alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age1, and consuming alcohol in public places. Public places are considered locations that are open and accessible to broad population of people and pedestrians. Further the Student Code2 prohibits similar behavior around alcohol and other drugs. See the Off Campus Activity Advising resource on Events with Alcohol. 

Repeated and excessive complaints for any of the common issues listed above may result in a University Conduct referral and/or enforcement under the Town of Mansfield’s ordinances and zoning regulations.  Further, individual RSO members may be individually responsible for violations of state or local laws.

Good Practices for RSOS

Under the Student Code and Blueprints, RSOs may be held accountable for the actions of their individual members or their organization’s guest(s) when violations occur in the context of an organizational event or activity, including those that occur off campus. A violation may be considered to have occurred within the context of an RSO’s responsibility if: 

  • The incident or misconduct occurred during an RSO sponsored, endorsed, or planned event; 
  • The RSO failed to take reasonable steps in their event or organization planning process to mitigate or address foreseeable risk(s); or 
  • The RSO’s conduct reflects a pattern of concerning organizational behaviors. 

An RSO can help reduce risk and mitigate harm by taking necessary steps in their planning processes and discussion with their members. Some good practices include: 

  • Keeping gatherings or events small and manageable; 
  • Respecting neighbors and neighborhood quiet hours; 
  • Avoid overcrowding; 
  • Prohibit open parties; 
  • Develop a guest list to assist with risk management planning and to help avoid fire code violations; 
  • Monitor parking so streets and driveways remain accessible and clear; 
  • Call 911 immediately if an emergency occurs.

Building positive relationships with neighbors helps maintain a safe and welcoming community for everyone.  

Additional Resources