Fort Collins Living
CSU Housing Guide 2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS DON’T PANIC .................................................................... 4 AFFORDABLE HOUSING ............................................... 6 WHY LIVE ON?.................................................................. 8 STUDENT LEGAL SERVICES ......................................... 10 PROTECT YOUR SECURITY DEPOSIT ....................... 10 WHAT’S NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR?........................ 11 KNOW YOUR STUFF ....................................................... 14 BEWARE OF RENTAL SCAMS ....................................... 15 U+2 ....................................................................................... 16 AMERICAN LIVING ........................................................... 18 PARTY SMART................................................................... 20 NEIGHBORHOOD ETIQUETTE ..................................... 21 ROOMMATE CONFLICTS............................................... 22
STAFF COVER AND PUBLICATION DESIGN: Anna Jelden
The CSU Housing Guide is produced by the advertising and creative services staffs of Rocky Mountain Student Media in partnership with Off-Campus Life.
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STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022 | 3
DON’T PANIC! Off-Campus Life Can Help You Find the Perfect Place By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff Did you know there is an office on campus to help you find off-campus rental housing?! It is Off-Campus Life, and we have a host of ways to help you find the perfect place to live next year!
CSU RENTALSEARCH
RentalSearch is an exclusive site for the CSU community to find housing in Fort Collins. Visit rentalsearch.colostate.edu and log in using your EID to search for vacant rentals, rooms for rent, and potential roommates. You can also list your own vacant place, room for rent, or yourself as a potential roommate.
RENTALSEARCH AND MARKETPLACE
LIST AND FIND:
RENTALSEARCH.COLOSTATE.EDU
HOMES FOR RENT ROOMS FOR RENT ROOMMATES HOME FURNISHINGS AND MORE
OFF-CAMPUS LIFE APARTMENT COMPLEX AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LISTS
On the Off-Campus Life website (ocl.colostate.edu), you will find two easy-to-use resources: •The Apartment Complex List is an extensive list with pricing, lease options, amenities, proximity to campus, etc.—all the details you need to know about apartments catering to students. •The Property Management Company List is a compilation of property managers in town with contact information and direct links to their websites. It’s a great place to search for houses, condos, and duplexes!
CSU HOUSING FAIR
February 2nd, 9am-4pm, LSC Grand Ballroom Brought to you by Off-Campus Life, this free event is open to students, faculty, staff, and the public and takes place in the Lory Student Center every spring. On this day, you can visit with landlords, apartment complex personnel, property managers, and community resources. See what is available for rent, shop around and compare, ask questions, gather freebies, and enter a drawing for a grand prize!
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ROOMMATE MEET & MATCH
4 | STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022
Be sure to shop around and explore your housing options before signing a lease. Decide what you’re looking for and broaden your search! The following resources will help you do just that:
• Newspapers Collegian, Coloradoan, and other prints • Local realtors • Marketplace • NorthernColoradoRentals.com and other rental websites • Signs in lawns/windows
OFF-CAMPUS LIFE
Like “speed dating” but for roommates! This program is designed to connect people who have a vacant room or rental and others who need a place to live. Offered multiple times throughout the year, this is a great opportunity to meet people face to face and do on-the-spot roommate interviews! Visit Off-Campus Life’s website calendar for future dates coming soon.
Other Available Sources
CHECK PAGE 22 FOR DATES AND TIMES
• Word of mouth: ask other students and community members. Find out what management company or apartment complex they have used, who their landlord was, and what it was like to live there.
For more information visit: ocl.colostate.edu/housing/roommate-meet-and-match
STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022 | 5
AFFORDABLE HOUSING By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff Fort Collins is a desirable place to live for a lot of people, which is one of several factors that has caused our community to become unaffordable for many. There are a variety of offices on campus that are here to support you in accessing financial resources to help you better afford your housing.
OWN YOUR HOME WHILE ATTENDING COLLEGE FREE CONSULTATION with you and/or your parents!
OFF-CAMPUS LIFE Off-Campus Life has several resources to help students find off-campus housing. You can read about those in the Don’t Panic article. Beyond helping you find off-campus housing, Off-Campus Life offers individual appointments to help students explore how to access rental assistance, emergency grants, utilities assistance, free food, transportation assistance, and other resources to help you afford rent. Email offcampuslife@colostate. edu to set up an appointment.
MILK
RAMS AGAINST HUNGER Visit your Rams Against Hunger Food Pantry in the General Services building (1251 Mason St.), where you’ll find milk, eggs, fresh produce, and shelf stable items at no cost! The food pantry is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursdays, 3pm-6pm, and Tuesdays, 9am-12pm. Visit rah.colostate.edu to read about additional food support including our Pocket Pantries locations, the Rams Against Hunger Meal Swipe Program, RamRide Food Ops, SNAP benefits, and the Ram Food Recovery Program.
STUDENT CASE MANAGEMENT Student Case Management offers individual appointments to help students access resources for rental assistance, housing and utilities, food, transportation, and other basic needs. Student Case Management supports students through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application and can refer you to a variety of campus and community resources.
3 Br, 2 Bath Single Family Home Rent = $2100
OWN = $1850
Email Help4Rams@colostate.edu, visit studentcasemangement. colostate.edu to schedule an appointment, or visit their office during their walk hours, M-F, 9:00am-10:30am, at 501 W. Lake Street, Suite B, on the first floor of Walnut building in Aggie Village.
Call today to learn more! Owned and Operated by CSU Alumni! QUESTIONS Do you have concerns about being able to afford your basic needs, but you’re not sure where to start? Send an email to lsc_ basicneedsinfo@colostate.edu and we will get you connected to the appropriate resources.
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WHY LIVE ON?
1-5 BEDROOM APARTMENTS
Eight Reasons to Live On Campus Again By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff It is often assumed that after one year of living in the residence halls, all students move off campus. In reality, typically about 15% of the students living in the halls are either returning, transfer, or upper-division students. Premium spaces are set aside for returning students each year, so don’t forget to consider the benefits of staying on campus.
Higher GPAs: Students who live on campus have higher GPAs than students who live off campus, with the most significant gap among first- and second-year students.
Location, location, location: If you want easy access to The Rec, Morgan Library, and campus events, living on campus offers the best location in FoCo.
Skip the Commute: When it’s cold and snowy outside, enjoy the luxury of sleeping in and still arriving to class on time without the hassle of scraping car windows, finding parking, biking on icy or wet roads, or waiting at the bus stop.
Located right next to Canvas stadium, our community offers a rooftop pool and hot tubs, clubhouse, tanning, 24 hour gym, and arcade! Call today to find your home for fall of 2022!
Why Do You Live On?
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“Living on campus for a second year is so much fun. It allows you to get to know more people, as well as build relationships - I feel like I have a family in the residence halls.”
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Adriana – Laurel Village, Piñon Hall
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“When you live on in the halls, you don’t have to cook or meal prep as you always have meal swipes, which means you have more time to study, sleep, and do other recreational activities you enjoy.”
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Truong – Corbett Hall Easy living: Forget leases, splitting utilities with roommates, shoveling sidewalks, and grocery shopping. The halls offer one bill that goes directly to your student account with no negotiation required.
$0 due at signing: If you return to the halls, your deposit from this year carries over to next fall and there are no hidden or surprise application fees, security deposits, or first/last month rent charges.
“Living on campus your second year is more independent than your first. I was a part of a close-knit community of students, but my RA was more handsoff and we all spent more time off campus. If you aren’t ready to commit to paying rent, finding roommates, or living far away, residence halls are a FUN way to continue to grow as an upperclassman and also stay plugged in.” Michelle – Braiden Hall
Designated spaces for returning, transfer, and upper-division students: You get first choice of available rooms on campus, including premium spaces in Laurel Village, Aspen Hall, 4th floor lofts in Parmelee Hall, single rooms, and the All Gender & Open Housing community in Summit Hall. There are designated wings and floors in these locations set aside for returning and upper class students only. Plus, students who live in the halls for at least two years receive priority consideration at the Aggie Village apartments for their third year and beyond! You could win big: Apply by March 31st to be entered to win free room and board for next year. Visit housing.colostate.edu/liveon for more details.
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“When living on campus, everything seems more convenient. I don’t have to worry about paying bills, or keeping a strict budget for food. If I want to go to the library to study, I can easily walk there in less than five minutes and not worry if I will make the last bus in time.” Moira – Newsom Hall
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GET ALL THE INFORMATION Student Legal Services attorneys say: Slow down! Research! Ask Around!
By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff Resist the frenzy! Resist the landlord giveaways and discounts to sign early. Fort Collins will not run out of rentals by August. Too often your plans (or your intended roommates’ plans) will change. Most leases require that you pay a re-let fee (in the hundreds of dollars) and find your own replacements to terminate a lease, even if you never moved in. Never sign until you confirm the landlord has a decent reputation. Search the internet for reviews! How will you feel if you have to deal with some of the situations described in the reviews? Come to Student Legal Services BEFORE you sign any lease. We will explain lease language and discuss your concerns. Check out our tips for seeking a rental: sls.colostate.edu.
Your goal should be to graduate without a criminal record. Students do get charged for party, alcohol, and marijuana violations that seem small. We hear over and over that students do not get considered for jobs due to a criminal record, no matter how petty or small the convictions. If you do get charged, make an appointment with Student Legal Services. You should never go to court before being advised. There might be a way to structure a plea agreement that will allow you to seal a conviction later. Prosecutors you meet at court will not tell you about this. Student Legal Services is located in Room 284 of the Lory Student Center. You can also submit an online intake at sls.colostate.edu or call us at 970.491.1482.
PROTECT YOUR SECURITY DEPOSIT By: the Off-Campus Life Staff With help from Penny Gonzales-Soto, Director, Student Legal Services Room 284, Lory Student Center, sls.colostate.edu Your security deposit is the amount of money collected at the beginning of the lease and held by the landlord to cover damages beyond ordinary wear and tear -- the deposit usually represents a substantial sum of money. Accordingly, you should take care to ensure you get it back. These are a few precautions you can take to protect your substantial investment. WHEN YOU MOVE IN Check-In Sheets: Check-in sheets document the condition of your rental unit when you move in. This should evaluate the unit room by room. Usually both the tenant and the landlord sign the list to acknowledge its accuracy. You can find examples of check-in sheets on Off-Campus Life’s website, under the “helpful resources” tab. Make a Video: Imagine that a judge is viewing your videos, deciding what you should be charged for, what was pre-existing to your tenancy, what was ordinary wear and tear, and what was damage caused by your misuse. Make a detailed narrated video before you move in one box or suitcase. Give a clear and thorough narration of the condition of the residence. Go from room to room, blemish to blemish. Be sure to save a copy of the video in a location other than your phone.
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WHAT’S NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR? By: Mike Levy, formerly of NorthernColoradoRentals.com Have you ever wondered why landlords require security deposits when you move in? One of the main purposes of a security deposit is to help cover the cost of any damages to a unit outside of normal “wear and tear” that may occur within your rental period. So, what is normal “wear and tear”? Here are some examples: REMEMBER: A security deposit can only be used to repair damage for which a tenant is responsible. It cannot be used for normal wear and tear.
NORMAL ELECTRICAL
• Worn out or broken electrical switches
WINDOWS & WINDOW COVERINGS
• Frayed or broken pull strings on blinds
• Broken drapery rods
• Faded drapes, blinds, or curtains
• Torn or missing blinds, curtains, or drapes
• Heat blistered blinds
• Blinds with bent slats
• Sticky Windows
• Torn or missing screens • Broken windows
WALLS
Send a Copy to Your Landlord: Even if your landlord refuses to sign the check-in sheet, send them a copy with a request for a reply. Do this within 1-2 days of moving in to the unit. You may choose to send to the landlord only the check in sheet. Keep a copy of your cover letter, check-in sheet, and video. PHOTOGRAPHS With the phone, photograph your entire unit, paying close attention to damaged areas. This will provide date stamp regarding the condition of the unit prior to moving in. Be sure to save copies of the photographs in a location other than your phone.
WHEN YOU MOVE OUT The conditions you documented at move-in should have been sent to your landlord at the beginning of your lease. Additionally, you should have kept copies of those documents, especially if there was evidence of pre-existing damage prior to your tenancy. You should only be charged if there is evidence you caused new damage beyond ordinary wear and tear.
• Plaster cracked from settling
• Large holes in walls from shelving or hanging pictures
• Faded, cracked, or chipped paint
• Repainted walls to a significantly different color
• Peeling or loose wallpaper
• Holes in walls • Unapproved paint job • Ripped or marked-up wallpaper
CEILINGS
• Stain on ceiling from rain or plumbing
• Stains on ceiling from overflowed bath tub
DOORS
• Worn out keys
• Lost keys
• Loose or stubborn door locks
• Broken or missing locks
• Loose door hinges or door handles
• Damage to doors from forced entry
• Closet doors off track
• Damaged or missing doors
• Worn carpets
• Torn, stained, or burnt carpeting
• Carpet seam unglued
• Badly scratched or gouged wood floors
• Scuffed up wood floors
• Linoleum/vinyl tile with tears or holes
WITNESS Have someone other than a roommate inspect your unit when you move in. Have the same person inspect it when you move out. DURING YOUR TENANCY Be responsible. Take care of your rental unit. Report problems to your landlord promptly.
NOT NORMAL (TENANT’S RESPONSIBILITY)
FLOORS
•Linoleum/vinyl tile worn thin KITCHEN
• Worn countertops
• Burns or cuts in countertops
PLUMBING
• Toilets run or wobble
• Broken toilet seats or tank tops
• Loose or inoperable faucet handles
• Broken or missing faucet handles
MISC.
• Intentional alterations to the premises
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BEWARE OF KNOW YOUR STUFF: UNDERSTANDING IMPORTANT RENTAL SCAMS CITY CODES & ORDINANCES By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff While there are many codes and ordinances within the city, there are a few that get discussed a little more frequently among students. Here is your chance to get a glimpse of how some of these ordinances may have an impact on you. UNREASONABLE NOISE: A violation of this ordinance can come with a $1,000+ price tag (per resident!) and a criminal misdemeanor. In the City of Fort Collins unreasonable noise is determined, typically, when noise is heard beyond property lines. When a noise complaint is called into Fort Collins Police Services, an officer is sent to determine if the level of noise is unreasonable by considering the time of day, type of noise, and other factors. While you may think you are doing a good job at keeping the noise down, it is always wise to go outside and walk around your property line to determine if noise can be heard from your residence. NUISANCE GATHERING ORDINANCE: This ordinance holds party hosts accountable for any damage to neighboring properties as a result of their gathering. A conviction carries a $1,000+ fine, in ADDITION to the cost of any repairs needed, with the possibility of jail time or community service hours. Examples of these damages include trash and litter, public urination, and vandalism. Remember, as a party host you are responsible for what happens at, and as a result of, your party, including the actions of others. For information on how to avoid receiving these citations, check out the Party Smart article.
Those are some heavy hitters, but how about other codes and ordinances that could have a smaller impact on you? Whether you rent or own, there are several important nuisance ordinances to be aware of. If violations are not corrected in the allotted time, the City will bill the property owner for the expense, which may be passed down to tenants. The City may also issue citations for chronic problem properties or for violations that can’t be corrected by a contractor.
The potential renter usually has some kind of money transaction problem and has a “friend” or intermediary in the states that can send a money order. Typically, the amount being sent is over the required deposit amount. Before the landlord, property manager, or renter finds out that the money order or traveler’s check is fraudulent, the potential renter has backed out of renting the unit for some reason and has asked for the deposit or overage back.
Trash: Residents are not allowed to accumulate trash and discarded items. Trash containers must be stored out of view from the street.
Although we want to stress that there are genuine requests for rental housing coming from abroad, we offer the following suggestions to determine the legitimacy of the requests.
Snow: You are responsible for clearing snow and ice off the public sidewalks adjacent to your property within 24 hours of accumulation. Remember it’s easier to shovel fresh snow!
Things to watch for: • The emails usually have notable grammatical errors. • The interested renter wants to use an intermediary or friend to make payment.
Sofas: Furniture manufactured for indoor use is prohibited in outdoor areas. This includes unenclosed porches. Weeds: Weeds and grass on your property can only be up to 6 inches tall. As a renter, it is important to know that a violation of any of the above mentioned may cost you additional fees assessed by your property manager. So, what happens if you have received any citations related to the issues above? PUBLIC NUISANCE ORDINANCE (PNO): The PNO is a tool for managing chronic problem properties. Properties are considered problematic when citations occur on a regular basis. Property owners are accountable for the use of their properties and the behaviors of tenants. If a property receives two citations (of the same kind) within six months, three citations (of any kind) in a year, or five citations (of any kind) in two years, the tenants and property owner can be held responsible under the PNO which may require eviction. It is important to note that citations follow the property, so be aware of your property’s prior citations to avoid costly fines or possible eviction. You can check on property violation history by calling Neighborhood Services at the City of Fort Collins at (970) 224-6046.
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By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff It’s that time of year when rental scams start happening to landlords, property managers and unsuspecting tenants. This is especially prominent on independent sites such as Craigslist. The communication usually begins via email from someone out of the country (UK, Australia, Kenya, etc.) who wants a room or place to rent.
304 West Prospect Road • Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 482-9513 • https://csurf.org/prospect-plaza-apartments/ Conveniently located at the south edge of the CSU campus.
Looking for an apartment for Fall 2022? Leasing opens Monday, March 15, 2022
Open to CSU Students ONLY Get right out of bed and walk or bike across the street to campus! Select from studio, one-, and twobedroom furnished apartments, ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED.
Suggestions on how to avoid a rental scam: • Never accept more payment that the amount you request. • Always ask for references. • Google the potential renter’s name to see if anything comes up that is of concern. • Inspect the money order by holding a note up to the light and looking for a watermark picture of Ben Franklin on the left side. There should also be a dark security thread running to the right of the watermark, with the tiny letters “USPS” facing backward and forward. You can also take the money order to the nearest post office for examination. • Take the money order or check to your bank and don’t give any money away until the check is fully processed and approved. Counterfeiting is a felony, punishable with a fine of up to $250,000 and up to twenty years in prison.
To report a postal money order scam: call the local post office or Postal Inspectors at (303) 313-5320. To report a fraud complaint, call the Fraud Complaint Hotline at 1-800-372-8347 or visit the U.S. Postal Inspection Service web site at https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/.
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U+2: KNOW THE FACTS By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff Did you know that in the City of Fort Collins no more than three unrelated individuals may live together? Prior to signing a lease, it is important to know the facts behind the occupancy ordinance and how it may have an impact on you.
Some facts… Occupancy in a residential dwelling unit (single-family, duplex, and apartments) is restricted to:
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• One family and not more than one additional unrelated person, or • Two adults (and their dependents) and not more than one additional person. “Family” means any number of persons who are related by blood, marriage, adoption, guardianship or other duly authorized custodial relationship, who live together as a single housekeeping unit and share common living, sleeping, cooking and eating facilities.
2-3 1-3
Helpful Examples:
0-3
ELEVEN13 APARTMENTS
1-3
PROSPECT STATION APARTMENTS 221-303 W Prospect Rd
1113 W Plum Street
Allowed: three unrelated friends Allowed: two siblings and one friend Allowed: three unrelated friends and guests who stay 30 nights or less in a 12-month period
x x x
Not allowed: four unrelated friends Not allowed: two siblings and their 2 friends Not allowed: three unrelated friends and guests who stay more than 30 nights in a 12-month period (anyone who spends more than 30 nights in a dwelling unit in a 12-month period is an occupant)
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1-2 1
There are exceptions… A frequently asked question that students have is whether there are any places that allow for more than three unrelated people to live. The answer is yes! There are options in the City that allow for extra occupancy. Visit offcampuslife.colostate.edu and look for the “Extra Occupancy” list on the homepage. Some apartment complexes are also exempt from this rule, and you can find those on Off-Campus Life’s apartment complex list. A little history… Since the 1960’s, Fort Collins has enforced occupancy restrictions. The City addresses occupancy to help ensure health and safety of residents, and to help protect the quality and character of neighborhoods. Need more information… If you are looking for a little more detail to this law, please visit fcgov.com ( just type “occupancy” into the search tab) or contact Neighborhood Services at (970) 224-6046.
1-3
STONE CREEK APARTMENTS 1121 W Prospect Rd
1-2
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Call us today at 970-419-1113 STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022 | 17
AMERICAN LIVING
Advice for International Students Seeking Housing By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff You got off the plane and took the bus to your new apartment, the one you reserved months ago once you received your admissions letter to CSU. According to some stereotypical college American movies, like National Lampoon’s Animal House or Accepted and maybe even Monster’s University, you think you have a good idea of what your new roommates might be like. You have pictured yourself drinking beer and going to parties every weekend. You envision having a cranky landlord who will get mad about the dartboard in the bathroom or the sofa on the roof. You go for it and sign the lease, unlock the door and find a neat, clean living room with one roommate cooking dinner and another roommate studying on the couch. Where’s the party you were promised in the movies? Well, that was the movies. You will hear a lot of myths and some truths about living in the United States. Here are a few things we believe you should know, no movie fantasies, about being an international student seeking housing in Fort Collins:
1.
U + 2 – this LAW means
you can only live with two roommates who are not related to you -- not two roommates and their two partners, not you and your cousin and her three best friends. Even if your house has five bedrooms, unless the place is zoned for more than three people, that’s all you get. For more detailed information check out: fcgov.com/neighborhoodservices/occupancy. php.
2.
Private bathrooms – not so fast. While you may
prefer to have your own private bathroom, when it comes to rentals in the United States, your choices may be limited. If you want the “classic American roommate experience,” be prepared to share a bathroom with your roommates and their guests. If you can’t live without a private bathroom, you should look to rent a room with a master bathroom which means the bathroom is “en suite” and attached to your room. Additionally, you may want to look at apartment complexes that offer individual leases and individual bathrooms.
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Parties, pets & smoking – If you like to party or
want to own a dog or smoke hookah, your housing options may be limited. Most landlords don’t want these in their rentals, and if you violate the policies you could be facing thousands of dollars in fees and possibly getting evicted from your apartment.
6.
Don’t sign a lease until you have read through the entire contract!
It might seem very long and boring, but make sure you understand the terms and conditions because a contract is a legallybinding agreement that you must follow. CSU’s Student Legal Services office can help you understand the lease. Call (970) 491-1482 or visit their website, sls.colostate. edu/ before signing a lease!
7.
NOW LEASING FOR FALL 2022 › Fully fu furnished nished › Attached Private Bathroom › Individual Leases › Hardwood style flooring › Individually Locking Rooms
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Reso Resortt Style Pool Three Hot Tubs Large Sun Deck Outdoor TV's
Take pictures and document problems with your rental BEFORE moving in. Most rental places have an inventory form for you to document any damages that currently exist in your apartment. If an inventory form isn’t provided, there is a sample one in the Off-Campus Life Student Handbook, ocl. colostate.edu.
W PLUM ST
› Roommate Matching Available
› Complimentary Cable and WiFi
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› Patios and Balconies Available
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› Fire Pits › Gas Grills and Picnic Area › 24-hour Fitness Center › Clubhouse
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Private Study Rooms Mac & PC Cyber Cafe Covered Parking Garage Starbucks Coffee Machine
W LAUREL ST
*Breed and Weight Restrictions Apply
W PITKIN ST MERIDIAN AVE
United States are made of wood and don’t have drains in the floors like houses in other countries. You must keep water off the floors. This means you must keep the shower head and curtain in the shower and only put toilet paper in the toilet. If you don’t, you’ll have a flood in your house along with an expensive repair bill and a very angry landlord.
5.
fair price but now you have to pay for a deposit, first and last month rent, internet, TV, electricity, water, heat, gas, sewer, trash, Home Owner’s Association fees, snow removal, pet deposit, carpet cleaning, yard maintenance…and the list goes on. Don’t forget furniture, bed linens and groceries. There are many rental options that do include utilities. Just pay close attention to the lease and what is and isn’t included.
S SHIELDS ST
3.
Floors are NOT waterproof. Most houses in the
4.
Utilities included – it depends. The rent looks like a
1308 W Plum St., Fort Collins, CO 80521 | districtcsu.com | 970.658.5540
STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022 | 19
PARTY SMART By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff Hosting a party has its risks, but there are steps you can take to lessen the chances of interacting with police and receiving a ticket if officers do show up. Always remember that when hosting a gathering you are assuming responsibility for any and all issues that may take place. Here are some of the many tips to help you host a safe party. *Please remember to share this information with anyone involved in hosting the party! • Register your party! Registering your party can help you avoid a possible noise citation of $1,000+.
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• It is illegal to provide alcohol or marijuana to minors. If the guest is over 18 but under 21, the crime is a misdemeanor with possible jail time and fines. If the guest is under age 18, it’s worse: the crime is a felony with possible longer jail times and higher fines. If you’re in doubt of someone’s age, protect yourself and don’t serve. It is illegal to: • Consume alcohol or marijuana in public. • Sell or transfer alcohol or marijuana to persons under the age of 21. • Drive under the influence.
• Discuss party expectations with your roommates before you host a gathering. Things to consider include: date, time-frame, house rules, number of people, what you will provide guests (consider food), who will be the sober host, who will chat with the neighbors, etc.
The use and possession of marijuana, including medical marijuana, is prohibited on all CSU property, regardless of your age.
• Notify your neighbors in advance and provide them with the phone number of the sober host. Ask us for neighbor notification forms (or find them in your party pack).
• Be proactive by asking for help. If you’re uncomfortable with the size of your party, people will not leave when asked, or if people are acting in a threatening manner, please do not hesitate to call Fort Collins Police Services at 970-419-FCPD (3273) and ask for assistance in breaking up your party before things get out of control.
• Designate a sober host to control music volume, access to the party, outside disturbances, and to address any interactions with the neighbors or police. Behaviors of people coming and going (including parking issues) to the party are often most disruptive to neighbors, not the party itself. Make sure the sober host is monitoring the foot traffic to and from the party, and check the backyard. • Think before you post! Posting your get-together using social media can lead to out-of-control parties, unwanted guests, and their unwanted behaviors. Remember, as a party host you are responsible for what happens at, and as a result of, your party, including the actions of others. • Unreasonable Noise/Nuisance Gathering…Know the Difference: The Party Registration program only provides a potential warning for unreasonable noise. The Unreasonable Noise Ordinance is in effect 24 hours a day. Nuisance gatherings are NOT covered! Nuisance gatherings cover other issues that occur on your property and/or extend past the property line: foot traffic to and from your gathering, disrupting neighbors, public urination, leaving trash in yards, trampling bushes, jumping fences, etc., or unlawful consumption or possession of alcohol and/or marijuana. The HOST of the party, if found responsible for a nuisance gathering, can be held accountable for the costs associated with these damages – including any overtime needed (police, ambulance, etc.). Any cost for damages and clean up could be charged on top of the citation fine received. Remember that YOU are responsible for your guests’ actions! • Engaging in a riot: State Riot Laws provide that anyone convicted of a rioting offense cannot attend any state funded institution for one year. Engaging in a riot, or even just being a bystander and watching it, can result in negative consequences. Note to CSU students: tuition is NOT refunded. • Noise to and from your party: Neighbors typically report that it is the behaviors of people “coming and going” to the party they find most disruptive, not the party itself. Encourage your guests to be quiet and respectful before they come and when they leave as well as when in the front or backyard.
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• Keep the size reasonable so your party stays in line with the capacity of your residence and does not disturb your neighbors.
Party Registration Myth Busters: 1. “The List” of registered parties is given to all police on duty for the night. A: FALSE – The list is never provided to the officers on the street. 2. Dispatch calls every party at midnight to give a warning. A: FALSE – Dispatch only calls when an address receives a noise complaint from a neighbor. Or, if a neighbor can’t determine a specific address when there is a cluster of parties, dispatch calls all surrounding registered parties. 3. Being on “The List” means police target those addresses. A: FALSE – Police on duty do not have the list, nor do they have the time to target parties as there are higher priority calls coming in.
• Get a safe ride: When clearing out your party, help your guests find a safe ride home. Have them to download the RamRide app and request their free, safe ride, or encourage them to use Uber or Lyft. • Clean up all trash resulting from your party and follow up with your neighbors the next day. Your neighbors may be more tolerant of your next party if they see that you care about how your party may have impacted the neighborhood. • Your actions have impact; make it a positive one. Be a good neighbor both on and off campus. If you are a CSU student, you may be held accountable for your behaviors off campus through the Student Conduct Code.
Fort Collins is known for its friendliness and small-town warmth – so take pride in where you live! Get to know your neighbors and city ordinances. Here are some helpful tips:
expectations. Each neighborhood has a different feel. As you get to know your neighbors, ask them about what is expected of each resident.
Introduce Yourself! A simple “hello” goes a long way. This is your first step in building a good relationship, and it’s a great one, but don’t stop there. Grow the relationship throughout the year you never know when you will need that cup of sugar or help shoveling your walk.
Be Aware of Differences Age, faith, ethnic background, and family status can drastically affect how one goes about their daily life. Be aware and respectful of differences between you and your neighbor.
Keep Neighbors Informed Contact your neighbors in advance before undertaking something that may affect them… like throwing a big party, building a fence, or getting a dog. Share your contact information (cell phones, etc.) so there is an easy way of communicating during any event you might host or if other questions come up. Be Aware of Neighborhood Expectations & City Ordinances Be aware of not only local laws and HOA covenants, but also neighborhood
• Back Yard Fire Pit Ordinance: The City of Fort Collins recently adopted new rules regarding backyard wood burning fires within City limits: Outdoor wood fires must be at least 15 feet from a property line and are prohibited between the hours of 10:00 pm and 7:00 am. For more information regarding outdoor fires, please visit this site. • Be cooperative towards neighbors, police, and others who come to discuss issues. Don’t make the situation or citation worse. When police arrive, all guests need to leave.
NEIGHBORHOOD ETIQUETTE
Ask How You Can Help Neighborly gestures contribute to a positive and welcoming neighborhood for all! Shoveling snow for your neighbor who may need assistance is a great hospitable gesture. Be Candid If your neighbor does something that bothers you, respectfully let them know as soon as possible. If you cannot work out a fair compromise, take advantage of free and confidential mediation services offered by the City of Fort Collins Community Mediation Program, fcgov.com/mediation, (970) 224-6022.
REGISTER YOUR PARTY WITH OFF-CAMPUS LIFE
6,300+ PARTIES REGISTERED SINCE 2009
AVOID A $1,000+ NOISE CITATION
98%
CITATION FREE
• COVID-19: We want your party to be neighborly AND safe. Please remain up to date on the latest CDC COVID-19 Guidance for Organizing Large Events and Gatherings and CSU’s COVID Information & Resources site. The Party Registration program: • Is available year-round, every night of the week. • Provides a 20-minute warning for noise complaints. • Can help you avoid a costly $1,000+ noise citation. • Must be completed in person at Off-Campus Life (LSC Rm. 274) by 5:00pm the Thursday before your party. Once you register in person, and assuming your party does not receive a warning or citation, you can start registering your party online! • Has more information at partysmart.colostate.edu.
REGISTER BY 5PM THE THURSDAY BEFORE YOUR PARTY
PARTYSMART.COLOSTATE.EDU
OFF-CAMPUS LIFE
STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022 | 21
ROOMMATE CONFLICTS
By: The CSU Off-Campus Life Staff
Roommate conflicts can happen at any time, but when students move into off-campus residences and increase the number of roommates they are living with, they often face more complex issues. People who start out as the best of friends may find themselves feuding over bills, food, overnight guests, cleanliness, noise, parking, pets, house temperature, parties, or alcohol/drug use. Conflict can be scary and uncomfortable, yet it can also be a great opportunity to develop and practice communication and conflict resolution skills. By maintaining open lines of communication with your roommates, you can avoid escalation by addressing issues when they arise. Here are a few tips to help with conflict: 1. Encourage communication and collaboration. Most roommate conflicts occur due to lack of communication. Use “I” statements to communicate any behavior bothering you, rather than judging or accusing the individual.
Try to work toward a solution that is mutually acceptable for everyone involved, and be willing to recognize where you may have room for improvement.
2. Remember that conflicts are normal. It’s not essential for roommates to be best friends with one another, or for best friends to be roommates. In fact, sometimes it’s better not to live together in order to get a little break from each other. Be proactive in your roommate relationship so you can feel ready to talk about it when conflict begins. 3. Being direct is the key. Sometimes we are afraid to hurt our roommate’s feelings, but this can also end up hurting them more in the end. Remember to stand up for your rights while respecting others. It’s not what you say but how you say it! When you are direct (and respectful), everyone involved usually benefits. 4. Avoid the following behaviors. Communication through text message or social media, getting friends and others involved who do not need to be involved,
and/or confronting a roommate when there has been no time allowed for “cooling-off ” are not effective methods of communication. Avoid confronting your roommate when you are angry. Face-to-face communication is far more effective than a white board or post-it note. The Student Resolution Center (SRC) is a great resource on campus for roommate (or other) conflicts. Oftentimes students have a concern but don’t know how to navigate the situation. SRC can help you through Conflict Coaching, in which we meet with you one-on-one to talk through things, brainstorm solutions, and prepare for the conversation with your roommate. For students who feel the lines of communication with their roommate have broken down, SRC can offer a neutral third-party mediation to help facilitate a difficult conversation. To set up an appointment with SRC you can call 970491-7165, request an appointment at resolutioncenter. colostate.edu, or come visit the office (501 W. Lake St, Suite A, Aggie Village, Walnut Hall). Whatever the conflict, SRC is here to help!
5PM - 6PM
5PM - 6PM
JANUARY 26 (LSC 374)
FEBRUARY 10 (LSC 374) FEBRUARY 24 (LSC 306)
5PM - 6PM
5PM - 6PM
(LSC 374) MARCH 3 MARCH 24 MARCH 15 MARCH 31
APRIL 7 (LSC 226) APRIL 14 (LSC 374) APRIL 25 (LSC 306)
For more information visit: ocl.colostate.edu/housing/roommate-meet-and-match
22 | STUDENT HOUSING GUIDE 2022
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