Living on Campus

In a group living situation, there is a need for structure that protects both the rights of the individual and rights of the community. In our residence halls, this structure is comprised of the following three parts:

• First, we have developed reasonable policies, guidelines and behavioral expectations which protect our students’ rights, ensure a safe environment, and recognize the academic mission of the institution.
• The second part of this structure is the consistent enforcement or application of policy by staff.
• The final part of this structure is the student conduct process through which situations where rights have been infringed upon can be resolved fairly and educationally.

Services

Cable TV

All on-campus residence halls offer digital cable TV. Any cable TV problems or issues should be reported to the LTS Help Desk at 717-815-1559.

Campus Safety

The Department of Campus Safety and the Office of Residence Life staff work closely together to help ensure the safety of all students, staff and guests of the College. Campus Safety patrols the campus community to maintain an environment which is safe and conducive to academic achievement and personal growth. Students should be prepared to show their York College ID card upon request from Campus Safety officers and other York College staff members.

Student conduct cases involving resident students are typically channeled through Campus Safety and/or the Residence Life staff to the Assistant Director of Residence Life for Student Conduct, who operates under the aegis of the Dean of Student Development and Campus Life, and the Director of Residence Life.

Equipment

Each front/welcome desk maintains items available for student use; including, but not limited to, games and vacuum cleaners. For each item, a student ID must be provided and a time limit for use/return must be followed. The Desk Assistant checks the condition of each item upon return and notifies the Area Coordinator of any need for replacement/billing.

Front Desk Hours

The front desk in each residence hall will be open during the following hours unless otherwise posted:

Manor Hall South, Penn Hall, West Campus Community Center

Laundry Facilities

For your convenience, residence facilities are equipped with washers and dryers. The College is not responsible for any loss or damage to student belongings. If machines become inoperable, please report the malfunction to Caleco immediately by calling the phone number listed on the laundry machine decal.  Requests for refund of money lost should be directed to the Area Coordinator for your residential facility. Misuse of laundry machines and facilities may result in damage billing to an individual or residential community.  The laundry facilities are for residential student use only.  

Lounge Areas

Lounge areas are available for use by resident students in the traditional residence halls. These areas are intended for socializing, studying, small group meetings, television viewing, and hall programs. These areas may be reserved by staff members, individual students, or student organizations for workshops, lectures, programs, or small group meetings. Students wishing to reserve these areas may do so by contacting the Area Coordinator of the facility.

Mail and Postal Center

All students residing on campus are assigned a mailbox at the beginning of the semester. Mail is received and distributed by the York College Postal Center, located in Kings Mill Depot. Student mail is distributed to their mailboxes by a Postal Center employee Monday through Friday. Mail received over vacation and break periods is stored in the Postal Center and distributed upon the students’ arrival back to campus.

In the event that a student receives a package the Postal Center will notify the student through their YCP e-mail account. The student must bring his or her YCP ID Card from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. to their respective Postal Center; in the Manor Northeast (Manor Complex), Susquehanna (Penn-Beard Complex), West Campus Community Center (West Campus), or Northside Commons (Northside Commons and Tyler Run Apartments).

The Postal Center will forward students’ mail only to their permanent/home address during the summer months, but will not forward mail during the school year or to any other address.

The Postal Center can also help students send mail. The Center can process First Class Mail, packages, airmail, certified mail, and next day mail. NOTE: Postal Overnight Express mail must in the Postal Center by 2:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.

To avoid delays in delivery, please ensure that those who send you mail have the proper address format as listed below. Students will be notified should any changes in mail delivery occur during the academic year.

STUDENTS RESIDING IN THE FOLLOWING RESIDENCE HALLS SHOULD USE THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS

RESIDENT STUDENTS USING INDIVIDUAL ADDRESSES

Note: Do not put York College of Pennsylvania as part of your address as this could cause a delay in your mail getting to you. 

Network Access Information

Items necessary for network access:

• A valid YCP username and password
• Complete Computer Registration Process
• All updates for the device must be installed.
• A YCP approved antivirus software must be installed and all definitions must be up-to-date.

LTS Help Desk—ltshelp@ycp.edu or (717) 815-1559

Refrigerator/Microwave Rentals

Refrigerators (3.6 cubic foot) and microwaves are available to rent through Campus Specialties. The rental cost for the academic year can be found online at www.mymicrofridge.com. If pre-ordered they are dropped off and picked up at residence hall rooms.

Students wishing to have a refrigerator in their residence hall room are limited to one per bedroom within the above specifications. This includes all types of residence hall spaces. Personal refrigerators are not permitted in common areas of buildings, suites, or apartments.

All students in traditional/suite style residence halls wishing to have a microwave must rent the micro-fridge unit from the aforementioned vendor to ensure that the device matches electrical guidelines for the residence halls. A microwave and mini refrigerator are currently supplied in Little Run Lodge; no additional microwaves are permitted. Students in apartments with kitchens may still purchase their own microwave, however it must be less than 700 watts. Only one microwave is allowed per apartment.

Telephone Services

Local telephone service is typically provided within lobbies or designated locations of residence halls. The College does not provide phone lines within each individual bedroom. Residence halls with public phones may be used for local or emergency calling. Any concerns or repair issues should be directed to the LTS Help Desk, (717) 815-1559 or ithelp@ycp.edu.

Health and Safety Contact Information

YCP Health Center
X1615 or 717-849-1615

Campus Safety Office
X1403 or 0 or 717-815-1403

Campus Safety Emergency Number
1314 or 0 or 717-815-1314

Vending Services

Vending equipment, located in the residence facilities, is supplied by local businesses and will be retained as long as it is used appropriately by students. Equipment not operating properly should be reported to the Area Coordinator of the residential complex. Damage to equipment may be charged to the residents of the buildings in the same manner as damage to College property. Residence Life staff will place Out of Order signs on machines not operating properly. Requests for refund of a loss of money should be directed to the Office of Student Activities and Orientation.

Policies & Procedures

Abandoned Property

Property left in a housing assignment after the student has moved out will be declared abandoned.  Property left in a housing assignment during a semester in which the student did not register for classes will also be declared abandoned.  When possible, written notification will be sent via YCP email to the student whose items have been left behind.  If no action is taken by the student to remove the items from the housing assignment within the timeline indicated in the written notification, the College will dispose of the items. 

Accidents

The College works very hard to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment not only in our residential facilities, but the entire campus. Accidents, however, can occur. In the event that an accident and/or injury occurs anywhere on campus property, it is the policy of the College that the incident be reported immediately to Campus Safety. For emergencies, please contact (717) 815-1314 (x1314) and for non-emergencies, please contact (717) 815-1403 (x1403). 

Air Conditioning

Air conditioner units are not allowed in on-campus facilities. If a returning student has a substantiated medical reason, approval may be granted, but all requests must be submitted in writing to the Director of Residence Life. The special housing accommodations request form can be requested through the Office of Residence Life. Returning student requests must be completed by the assigned deadline, which is prior to on-campus room selection. Students with approved requests will be given the option to live in Little Run Lodge, Northside Commons, or Susquehanna Hall, if air conditioning is medically necessary. Little Run Lodge, Northside Commons, and Susquehanna Hall are the primary residence halls with air conditioning designated for returning students.  First-year students may be placed in Northside Commons if a medical reason is substantiated and space exists at the time of the request.    

Please note that due to architectural limitations, it may be necessary for the student to relocate to another living space in order to accommodate an air conditioning unit. If a request is granted, additional fees may be applied. Please contact Residence Life with any questions related to the air conditioning policy.

Alcohol

Alcohol is not permitted in residential facilities, except for the designated Independent Living community (see Independent Living Guidelines). No student or guest under the age of 21 is permitted to possess or consume alcohol, at any time. Please see the Code of Conduct  for more information.

Animals

Pets 

Fish are the only pets allowed in the York College campus housing and residence halls. One fish tank, no larger than ten gallons in capacity, with an electric filter is permitted per room. No other pets or animals (York College approved assistance animals excluded) of any type are allowed to visit or stay in any York College campus housing, even as a “guest.” 

If a pet or unapproved animal is found in York College campus housing, the resident will be asked to remove it immediately and may be referred to the York College student conduct process. In this instance, students may face any sanction(s) outlined in the Student Handbook.  This policy applies to any and all stray animals that might be found adjacent to campus and/or college science projects. No animals are permitted in York College campus housing without our approval. No animals, except fish in a ten gallon tank, are allowed in campus residential buildings. Any special accommodations must be requested and approved through Student Accessibility Services and the Office of Residence Life.

Assistance Animals

An Assistance Animal is an animal that works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or that provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified effects of a person’s disability. An assistance animal is not a pet. Assistance animals are categorized as Emotional Support Animals (ESA) or Service Animals (SA). 

York College of Pennsylvania is committed to reasonably accommodating students with identified and documented disabilities. York College will follow local, state, and federal laws in response to the presence of assistance animals including the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), the Amendments Act of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADAA) of 2008, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as well as Assistance Animals as defined under the Fair Housing Act.

There are differences in the processes required and in the accommodations provided to individuals with identified and documented disabilities that are supported by Assistance Animals (Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals). 

All students who seek to bring an Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) to campus housing must first contact Student Accessibility Services to submit their request. Student Accessibility Services will determine on a case-by-case basis, whether bringing the animal to campus is a reasonable accommodation for the student. In making this determination, Student Accessibility Services (SAS) will consult with the Office of Residence Life and the Health Center when necessary; to consider the needs of the student with a disability, as well as the impact of the animal on the campus community. Additionally, students interested in bringing an approved animal to campus should consider in advance how the following items will affect the animal: close proximity to other students, square footage of on-campus living spaces, exposure to community noises including fire alarms, temperatures in on-campus living spaces, and being left alone and confined to a crate in on-campus living spaces while the student is away, possibly for extended periods of time for classes and activities. 

An “Owner/Handler” is defined as an York College Student with a disability who has requested the reasonable accommodation of an Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) through the York College Student Accessibility Services accommodation request process and has received approval from Student Accessibility Services and Residence Life to bring an Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) into the student’s on-campus housing assignment.

Service Animal 

Service Animals are defined under The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 as dogs, or in some cases minute horses, that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. These tasks can include things like pulling a wheelchair, guiding a person who is visually impaired, or alerting a person who is having a seizure. The tasks a service dog can perform are not limited to this list. However, the work or task a service dog does must be directly related to the person’s disability. Service dogs may, in most cases, accompany persons with disabilities into places that the public normally goes. York College will follow all local, state, and federal laws in response to the presence of service animals.

Any individual that has a Service Animal on York College campus must abide by current local, state, and federal ordinances, laws, and /or regulations pertaining to licensing, vaccinations, and other requirements for these animals. It is the owner/handlers responsibility to know, understand, and adhere to these requirements.

All York College students that intend to bring a Service Animal (SA) to campus and live in on-campus housing are required to contact Student Accessibility Services to obtain approval and submit all required vaccination and related documentation. 

York College requests that all commuter and graduate students with a Service Animal contact and register your service animal with Student Accessibility Services.

Certain areas of campus may be deemed unsafe for assistance animals including, but not limited to medical facilities, laboratories, mechanical rooms, or other locations where the safety of the animal or its owner/handler may be threatened.  Students should discuss these concerns with laboratory directors, faculty chairs, and.or Student Accessibility Services if course work or other related responsibilities may place you or the assistance animal’s safety at large.

Student Accessibility Services

Humanities 23

441 Country Club Rd

York, PA  17403

717-815-1717

sas@ycp.edu

Emotional Support Animal

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA), as defined by the Fair Housing Act (FHA), may provide a person with a psychiatric or mental health disability with emotional support, calming, stability, and other kinds of support in a housing environment. An ESA is one that is necessary to afford the person with a disability an equal opportunity to engage in residential life on the York College campus. The presence of the ESA must be necessary to provide the person with the disability the use and enjoyment of the campus housing setting. Under FHA, there must be an identifiable relationship between the student’s disabilities and the assistance or support the ESA provides in a residential setting. An ESA is not specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a diagnosed disability. An ESA is not granted access to places of public accommodation, including public areas on campus. York College will follow all local, state, and federal laws in response to the presence of emotional support animals.

All York College students that intend to bring an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) to campus and live in on-campus housing are required to contact Student Accessibility Services to submit their request, submit all required vaccination and related documentation, and obtain approval. Student Accessibility Services will determine on a case-by-case basis, whether bringing the Emotional Support Animal to campus is a reasonable accommodation for the student. 

Student Accessibility Services

Humanities 23

441 Country Club Rd

York, PA  17403

717-815-1717

sas@ycp.edu

Assistance Animal Residence Life- Campus Housing Policies

A York College student resident that is deemed by Student Accessibility Services as eligible and approved for an Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) as a reasonable accommodation in on-campus housing, will be required to meet with Residence Life staff to review and agree to the following policies. Failure to adhere to these policies may result in the removal of the Assistance Animal from on-campus housing. 

Student’s Responsibilities as the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) Owner/Handler in York College On-Campus Housing: 

• An Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) is the responsibility of the Owner/Handler at all times while in York College on-campus housing. Responsibility for the animal may not be transferred to another person including:

  • behavior

  • feeding and watering

  • walking/exercising of animal

  • waste clean up

  • supervision and safety

• The Owner/Handler is required to clean up after and properly dispose of the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) feces in a safe and sanitary manner. If the animal is a dog, the dog must be fully housebroken, and kennel trained. If the animal is a cat, the litter should be refreshed on a regular basis, not emitting odors.

• An Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) may not, at any time, pose a health or safety risk while at York College. Disruptive and/or aggressive behavior by the animal cannot be permitted, and if it occurs, the animal will be removed from campus housing. 

• An Emotional Support Animal must be contained within the privately assigned student living accommodation (room, suite, or apartment), except to the extent the student is taking the animal out for natural relief. 

• A Service Animal ONLY, in most cases, may accompany their Owner/Handler into York College public areas to provide trained assistance work or tasks.  Owner/Handlers are responsible for their animals at all times and York College will follow all local, state, and federal laws in response to the presence of service animals.

• An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is not permitted in other public areas of York College, including areas where residential students are normally permitted to go (examples include, but not limited to: common areas, classrooms, academic buildings, student lounges, laundry facilities, and dining facilities). 

• An Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) must, at all times, be controlled by a leash or harness or contained in an animal carrier when the animal is outside of the student’s private living accommodation. 

• A Service Animal ONLY may be off leash if the use of a harness, leash, or tether would interfere with the Service Animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks. When a Service Animal is off leash or tether the animal must be otherwise in the Owner/Handlers control (voice control, signals, or other effective measures).

• The Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) may not be left alone overnight in campus housing to be cared for by another student. The Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) may not be housed in another student’s on-campus living accommodation. If the student is to be gone overnight or for a prolonged period, the animal must accompany the student. 

• In the case of an emergency, York College is not responsible for evacuating the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal). 

• The Owner/Handler must abide by current city, county, and state ordinances, laws, and/or regulations pertaining to licensing, vaccination, and other requirements for Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal). The student must know and understand these ordinances, laws, and regulations. York College has the right to require documentation of compliance with such ordinances, laws, and/or regulations, which may include a vaccination certificate, requirement of the animal to be spayed or neutered, and/or a veterinarian’s statement regarding the animal’s health. York College reserves the right to request documentation showing that the animal has been licensed. 

• York College reserves the right to reassign the student to another on-campus housing space to accommodate the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal). This move may only accommodate the student, and not roommate(s). 

• Emotional Support Animal (ESA) accommodations are approved for the length of 1-school year (Fall-Summer semester). The student is responsible for submitting their request for re-evaluation and approval of Emotional Support Animal (ESA) with Student Accessibility Services each year by the established due dates. If the student submits an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) accommodation request or re-evaluation and approval after the established due dates each year, Student Accessibility Services and Residence Life will collaborate to fulfill the accommodation. If current on-campus housing options are not available the student will be added to a waiting list and the approved ESA accommodation will be filled as soon as possible.

• The Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) is permitted in York College on-campus housing only as long as it is necessary due to the student’s disability. The student will be required to apply for an updated approval of their Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) accommodation for each school year with Student Accessibility Services by the designated date. Students may not replace an Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) with a different animal without approval from Student Accessibility Services and must make a new request to demonstrate that the new animal is necessary due to the student’s disability. 

• The Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) is financially responsible for any and all actions of the animal, including but not limited to, bodily injury or property damage, such as furniture or floor coverings replacement. The student may be charged for any damage caused by the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) that is beyond reasonable wear and tear. The student’s living accommodation must be kept clean with no odors from the animal. The student’s living accommodation may be inspected for fleas, ticks, or other pests if necessary. If fleas, ticks, or other pests are detected through inspection, the on-campus living accommodation will be treated using approved fumigation methods by a York College approved pest control service. The student will be billed for the expense of any pest treatment above and beyond standard pest management in on-campus housing. York College shall have the right to bill the student’s account for unmet obligations under this provision. 

• The student agrees to abide by all equally-applicable policies that are unrelated to the student’s disability such as assuring that the Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) does not unduly interfere with the routine activities of the on-campus residence or cause difficulties for other students residing in York College on-campus housing. 

• If it is necessary for the animal to be removed from York College on-campus housing premises, the student is obligated to fulfill the Housing and Dining Contract Service obligations for the remainder of the contracted year. 

• York College will not ask for or require a student with a disability to pay a surcharge or comply with other requirements generally not applicable to people without animals. 

Assistance Animal Presence Notification

York College reserves the right to notify specific individuals who may be impacted by the presence of an approved Assistance Animal (Emotional Support Animal or Service Animal) in York College on-campus housing, including, but not limited to: College Facilities personnel, potential/actual roommate(s), Residence Life staff, the fire marshal, and Campus Safety personnel. Such information will be limited to information related to the animal and shall not disclose information about the student’s disability.

In the event College staff needs to enter an on-campus residence hall assignment, the residential student will be notified. York College will not be liable in the event the Assistance Animal is harmed, harms another person/animal or gets loose. The liability will always be with the approved Owner/Handler.

Babysitting

Students are not permitted to host guests who are under the age of 18. The babysitting of children in York College of PA residential facilities is not permitted.

Bicycles

All bicycles must be parked and locked in the bike racks provided. Bicycles must be registered with the Department of Campus Safety.  Bicycles may not be stored in an area which restricts exit from a building in case of emergency (such as stairwells, hallways, residence hall rooms, balconies, railings, trees, lamp posts, etc.). Bicycles stored in inappropriate places may be removed at the owner’s expense. Please contact the Department of Campus Safety for additional information.

Break Housing

During vacations and semester breaks, all residence halls may close based on the schedule published by the Office of Residence Life. Any student who has a class the evening of a scheduled closing may remain in their residence until 9:00 a.m. the day after closing, with written permission from Residence Life.

Please make appropriate travel plans in advance according to the aforementioned published schedule.

If circumstances require a special arrival or departure time, approval must be granted by the established deadline. Request forms may be found on the Residence Life webpage. The student may be required to pay a break housing fee.  

If circumstances cause a student to request to stay in their campus residence during a scheduled break, approval must be granted by the established deadline. Request forms may be found on the Residence Life webpage. The student may be required to pay a break housing fee.  

Meal plans are not in effect during scheduled breaks; students are responsible for providing their own meals.  

During scheduled breaks, students are not permitted to have any guests or visitors in campus residence facilities.  

Halls re-open at 12:00 p.m. on the day preceding the first scheduled class session. Students may not re-enter their residence hall prior to this time.  A complete schedule of break opening and closings for the semester in session is available on the Residence Life website. A printed copy may be obtained from the Office of Residence Life.

Burning Substances

Candles, incense, wax melting or warming devices, lighter fluid, or any other burning substances are prohibited in the residential facilities for fire safety. This includes decorative candles. If found with burning substances, students may face student conduct sanctions and/or fines.

Check-Out Procedure

During vacations and semester breaks, all residence facilities will close based on the schedule published by the Office of Residence Life. Any student who has a class the evening of a scheduled closing may remain in their residence until 9:00 a.m. the day after closing, with written permission from Residence Life.

Please make appropriate travel plans in advance according to the aforementioned published schedule. 

Halls re-open at 12:00 p.m. on the day preceding the first scheduled class session. Students may not re-enter their residence hall prior to this time.  A complete schedule of break opening and closings is available on the Residence Life website. A printed copy may be obtained from the Office of Residence Life.

Before Leaving Your Residence Hall Room

1. Secure your possessions in an efficient manner.
2. Disconnect all electrical equipment, except for College-owned refridgerators.  Micro and mini fridges may remain plugged in for short breaks only.  
3. Turn off lights.
4. Lower blinds to completely cover windows.
5. Make sure your room is neat and clean. Dispose of garbage and trash properly in dumpster before leaving for break.
6. Close and lock all windows and lock your door.

Please note: The College cannot assume responsibility for damaged, lost or stolen items left during vacations or semester breaks. It is recommended that items of value and/or high portability be taken home during these periods.

At the End of the Academic Semester

1. Pack all personal possessions and clean your room. You may be billed for items left in the room or missing from the room.  You may also be billed for cleaning or repairs.  
2. A final check of the room will be made after your possessions have been removed and the room has been cleaned. A student may request a preliminary inspection of the room and sign the RCR/ACR noting any damages incurred since time of check-in; or sign an express checkout form and turn in their keys.
3. Turn in your room/apartment key and sign the key card. Final damage assessments are completed by Facility Services and Residence Life professional staff.
4. If one roommate is accepting sole responsibility for any damage, that roommate must email Residence Life prior to the damage billing appeal deadline during the summer.

Note: With the exception of those participating in graduation or late finals, students must leave their campus residence within 24 hours after their last final examination, or by 9:00 am the morning after the last day of the exam period; whichever comes first.  

Cleaning Rooms and Apartments

Each student is responsible for cleaning their own room or apartment. The College reserves the right to have rooms cleaned by the custodial staff and/or to initiate student conduct proceedings against students who do not respond to requests to improve the condition of their rooms or apartments. Any charges incurred will be billed directly to the student. Students in small houses share the responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the house.

Damage/Community Billing

Charges are assessed for damage repairs, cleaning, or missing College property (including, but not limitied to, screens, beds, mattresses, chairs, etc.), as well as common area (hallway and/or lounge) damage. When property loss or damage cannot be attributed to the person or persons responsible, the cost will be assessed to the residents of the floor where the damage occurred or to all the residents in the building. This process is known as community billing. Any appeals must be made through an online form provided to residents via YCP email. In this email, an appeal deadline is provided, along with the review process timeline.

Any students who have information regarding the responsibility for community littering, vandalism, and/or other damage are encouraged to contact their Area Coordinator.

Decorations and Furnishings

Items typically included in all student rooms are: beds, dressers, closets, desks, mirrors, chairs, towel racks, desk lights, and blinds. Students must bring their own linens, clocks, wastebaskets, clothes hangers, curtains, and pillows. Misuse of furnishings and abuse of College property will add to student repair and replacement costs. ALL RESIDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO RESPECT COLLEGE PROPERTY.

Adding personal touches to rooms is encouraged. It is understood that personal touches should be selected with regard for community respect, and in accordance with the College standards. Painting of rooms by students is not permitted. Wallpaper and stick-and-peel adhesive paper is not permitted. Do not mar the walls, ceiling, or doors; remove screens; dismantle or remove furniture. The draping of flags, tapestries, sheets, etc., should be kept to a minimum due to fire safety. Hanging items from/on ceilings and sprinkler systems is strictly prohibited and is associated with a fine and student conduct referral.

It is the policy of the College that lofts, or any type of bed other than those provided by the College, are prohibited. Cinder blocks are prohibited because they are unsafe and cause damage to floors. Students may purchase plastic bed risers similar to those sold in the College Bookstore. These should be no higher than 12 inches. All requests to bunk beds should be made through Facility Services.

Doorbell Camera Devices

Only College authorized security video and audio systems are permitted in and around all College-owned student residential facilities (halls, apartments, suites, and houses). Personal video doorbells and other similar devices are not permitted. College-owned houses occupied by students may request a Smart/Video doorbell by contacting Campus Safety.

Electrical Appliances

Due to the limited electrical capacity of each area, and for reasons of fire safety, students are required to observe the following:

1. All electrical devices must carry the approval label of the Underwriters Laboratory.
2. Use of multi-plug extension cords is limited to surge protector devices only, and only one surge protector should be used per outlet.
3. Appliances:
   1. Traditional Halls - Use of any kitchen/cooking appliances is prohibited in all traditional and suite-style student rooms except for microwaves rented through Campus Specialties, single-serve coffee makers, single-serve personal blenders, personal rice cookers, personal ice makers, and electric kettles with automatic shut-off and no exposed heating element.
   2. Little Run Lodge - A microwave and mini-refrigerator are provided within the common area of each suite. No additional microwaves are permitted. Coffee makers, single-serve personal blenders, personal rice cookers, personal ice makers, and electric kettles with automatic shut-off and no exposed heating element are permitted. No additional appliances are permitted. An additional personal refrigerator is allowed in bedrooms only.
   3. Apartments/Houses - All appliances must be in designated kitchen areas. Personal microwaves must be 700 watts or less. An additional personal refrigerator is allowed in bedrooms only. Portable dishwashers, freezers, and deep fryers are not permitted.
4. Refrigerators that are rated greater than 1.5 amps and/or 3.6 cubic feet are prohibited. Only one refrigerator is allowed per bedroom.
5. Personal air-conditioners are not permitted.

Please contact Residence Life professional staff with all questions related to appliances. Students must ask for clarification prior to purchasing electrical appliances.

Fines

Information on fines is available by request through the Office of Residence Life.  Fines may also be applied through the student conduct process. Please note, end-of-year damage and damage charges are not listed, as they are not fines.

Fire Procedures

YCP conducts fire drills and testing in all residence facilities. Although you will not be notified in advance, you will be expected to respond and cooperate each time the fire alarm sounds. Failure to leave the building during a fire drill will result in a student conduct referral.

If a fire, an unusual odor, or burning odor is discovered in or near a building, the procedures recommended by the Fire Department should be followed. It is important that students learn the location of pull boxes, extinguishers, and exits wherever they are in the building.

1. Sound alarm by activating nearest pull station.
2. If fire is contained in a room, keep door closed.
3. Notify nearest main office of location and nature of fire.
4. Alert occupants and evacuate as soon as possible. Remain calm, walk quickly, and do not run.
5. Turn off lights as rooms are evacuated. A light indicates to firefighters that someone requires rescue.
6. If exit from room is blocked due to fire or smoke outside, keep door closed, turn on lights, open window shade, and stand at window. This will signal your need for rescue.
7. Remain out of the way of firefighters until the signal is given to return to the building. Designated locations will be determined by the Department of Campus Safety.

Fire Safety Equipment

All fire safety equipment must be kept in good working condition. Students who tamper with fire safety equipment or other security devices in the residence facilities, or who report a false fire alarm/emergency may face student conduct action including, but not limited to, financial restitution for damage, fines, eviction from College housing, and/or suspension or expulsion from the College. Fire safety and security equipment includes, but is not limited to, the following: sprinkler heads, smoke detectors, pull stations, fire extinguishers, security screens in residence rooms and common areas, and emergency exit doors. Please note; students are responsible for damages caused by setting off a sprinkler head.

Flammable Materials

Storage of any flammable material in or around the residence facilities is prohibited due to fire and safety regulations.

Gender Inclusive Housing

The Office of Residence Life offers multiple gender inclusive housing options in upperclassman living spaces, including apartments and suites. Students wishing to live as a gender inclusive group in an apartment/suite should keep the following guidelines in mind:

1. Groups requesting a gender inclusive apartment/suite must participate in the appropriate housing selection sign-up process, following the same general guidelines as single-gendered groups. All group members must be eligible to live on-campus as defined through the housing policy.
2. Gender inclusive living spaces will only be available in designated locations within College residential facilities.
3. Gender inclusive groups must be able to completely fill the apartment/suite that they are requesting. Partial groups will not be assigned.
4. While the apartment/suite is considered gender inclusive, the bedrooms within the apartments are single gender.
5. Students involved in an intimate relationship with one another are not permitted to select and live in an apartment/suite together.  If an intimate relationship begins while students are living together, one or more of the involved students may be reassigned into another space on campus.   
6. If a person leaves the gender inclusive living arrangement after being assigned, the remaining residents may identify and request an eligible replacement.  
7. Residence Life reserves the right to make changes to assignments in its residence facilities whenever it is deemed necessary.

Housekeeping and Maintenance

All students are expected to properly dispose of trash and other waste, and clean up after themselves at all times in the residence facilities. The custodial staff of Penn, Beard, Manor North, Manor South, Manor Northeast, and Northside Commons is responsible for regularly cleaning the lobbies, hallways, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other public spaces. The custodial staff of Manor East and Manor West are responsible for cleaning the bathrooms. Students are expected to maintain the cleanliness of the common space in these halls. Students in Arnold, Curry, Newberry, Kieffer, and Springettsbury Houses are responsible for their own housekeeping, and snow removal from their front steps and walk areas. All students are responsible for cleaning their own room. Students in Spring Garden, Brockie, Richland, Little Run Lodge, Susquehanna, Springettsbury, and Tyler Run I, II, III Apartments are responsible for cleaning their entire apartment/suite, including all common areas, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Students are responsible for reporting maintenance requests. Requests should be submitted via the YCP portal under the TDX (Team Dynamix) icon. Students may also contact Facility Services at (717) 815-1351 or facilityservices@ycp.edu. Students with concerns regarding service may also contact Residence Life staff for assistance.

Custodial and maintenance needs that are above and beyond the scope of ordinary cleaning and other damage may be subject to extra costs, which will be paid by the student(s) responsible or by the residential community as per the Damage/Community Billing policy.

Independent Living

The College is interested in the health, safety and well-being of every member of the community and insists that those who choose to consume alcoholic beverages do so in a responsible and legal fashion. College policies are designed to allow responsible use of alcohol by those of legal age within a specific residential community. Students may self-select to live within this community.

Independent living is coordinated by the Residence Life Office, who establishes policies and standards of behavior for this community in accordance with York College’s mission. Specific residential communities, Richland Apartments, Brockie Commons, Spring Garden Apartments, Springettsbury Apartments and Springettsbury House, have been designated for this program. The goal of this community is to provide a safe on-campus living arrangement for legal age students to remain on-campus where they may responsibly consume alcoholic beverages.

Students are expected to observe all applicable laws and College policies related to purchase, possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Violations of applicable laws and/or College policies pertaining to alcohol will subject students and organizations to College student conduct referral and potential legal penalties.

Independent Living Alcohol Guidelines

The following general provisions apply to individual possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages in the designated independent residential living area, Country Club Manor, Richland Apartments, Brockie Commons, Spring Garden Apartments, Springettsbury Apartments, and Springettsbury House:

1. Alcohol is not permitted in any individual apartment/room in Richland Apartments, Brockie Commons, Spring Garden Apartments, Springettsbury Apartments, and Springettsbury House, unless one of the residents is at least 21 years of age and the alcohol belongs to that resident.
2. Residents choosing to use alcohol must do so responsibly.
3. Alcoholic beverages may only be consumed within the confines of a private apartment, with the door closed. (i.e., the front door shall not be propped)
4. Alcohol is not permitted in any of the outside public areas within the Independent Living complex (Richland, Brockie, Spring Garden Apts., Springettsbury Apts., and Springettsbury House).
5. Alcohol may not be consumed within an apartment, if guests visiting the apartment are under the age of 21.
6. A guest may only possess or consume alcohol if the guest is over the age of 21 and is visiting a resident’s apartment where at least one of the assigned student residents is also of legal drinking age (i.e., if a double-occupancy apartment is occupied by two students under the age of 21, those students shall not permit the consumption, possession or use of alcohol by anyone, including guests, in that apartment. However, if one of the roommates is over the age of 21, he or she may allow the possession or consumption of alcohol by guests who are over 21, provided the resident that is 21 is present).
7. The student’s (or a guest’s) possession, use or consumption of alcohol shall not infringe upon the privacy, peace or enjoyment of other students or guests in the residence hall. Nor should it infringe upon the educational mission of the institution.
8. Empty alcohol containers within the apartment may constitute evidence of alcohol consumption or possession, and may, therefore, be subject to inspection and seizure, and residents may be subject to disciplinary action, if found in violation.
9. Common alcohol containers and alcohol paraphernalia, including, but not limited to, kegs, taps, pony kegs, beer balls, box wines and containers greater than 750 ml. and mixed alcoholic punch are prohibited, whether the containers are empty or full.
10. Illegal items will be confiscated at the owner’s expense (i.e., taps, kegs will not be returned).
11. Within Independent Living, students are limited to one six pack of beer or  one bottle of wine no larger than 750ml per student over 21. Within the residential unit, liquor may not exceed 1 liter with no container larger than 750ml. Amounts in excess of this constitute a violation of the policy.
12. Alcoholic beverage containers, whether empty or full, are not to be displayed in any areas of the campus including residence hall/house/apartment individual rooms, public areas, and windows.
13. A resident student has a duty to know if there is or has been illegal use or possession of alcohol in his or her apartment. Therefore, the burden of proof shall be on the resident in cases where the resident claims no knowledge of such use.
14. Students who exhibit disorderly behavior inside residential buildings or on residential grounds as a result of intoxication may be held in violation of the Alcohol Policy whether or not the alcohol was consumed in a residential building. This policy applies to everyone, regardless of age or residency status.
15. All violations of the alcohol policy will be referred to Office of Student Conduct.
16. Students/Apartments found in violation of the Independent Living policy may face disciplinary sanctions, which include but are not limited to, re-assignment, alcohol privileges for an apartment revoked; removal from housing, suspension, etc.
17. Persons possessing alcoholic beverages within residential facilities may be required, at any time, to provide proof of their legal right to possess those alcoholic beverages by providing a legal form of identification to a Residence Life staff member, Campus Safety, or other College Official. Should the person fail to provide valid proof of legal age, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
18. Selling, either directly or indirectly, of alcoholic beverages in the residential areas is prohibited. Advertisements of any kind soliciting attendance at a function or party in apartments where alcoholic beverages are to be consumed are not permitted. Drinking games are prohibited. Drinking games are defined as activities that accelerate the consumption of alcohol and foster binge drinking.

Locks and Keys

The duplicating of College keys and tampering with locks in the residence facilities is prohibited. Student conduct referral may result from these actions.

It is a violation of College policy to lend or make available for use any key(s) to a room/suite/apartment to anyone other than an occupant of that housing assignment.

Lost or stolen keys must be reported to Residence Life staff immediately for safety and security reasons. Any key(s) not returned by the student vacating their room/suite/apartment may result in billing for a lock change.  Students will incur a cost for each lock that needs to be replaced, as well as each replacement key that needs to be made. This includes the cost of roommate’s keys.

Lockouts

Students are required to carry their room keys and ID at all times. In the event that you should become locked out of your room, you may contact the Department of Campus Safety staff or the Residence Life staff on duty. Please contact the Residence Life staff member on duty between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.; otherwise contact the Department of Campus Safety. They will help you gain access to your room with the proper identification. 

Lounge and Suite Furniture

Furnishings in lounges and suites are provided for the general use of residents. Students who move these furnishings out of their designated space will be required to replace them immediately. The theft of College property will be processed through the College’s student conduct system. College-owned furniture is not allowed outside the residence facilities. Students may be billed (per piece) each time the furniture is found outside, plus the cost of replacing the damaged piece(s). Under no circumstances should “indoor” furniture be placed outside, including personal furniture.

Mattresses

Mattresses must remain on the students’ bed and must not be placed on the floor, or removed from the bedroom. Personal mattresses are not permitted unless approved by the Director of Residence Life or their designee. Students found using a personal mattress without approval from Residence Life will be asked to remove it immediately.

Motorcycles and Motorbikes

This type of vehicle should be parked in accordance with Campus Safety parking regulations. Please contact Campus Safety for more information.

Off-Campus Housing

Students that are eligible to live off-campus, as outlined through the housing policy, may live off-campus with authorization from the Office of Residence Life. All students must apply to live off-campus through the off-campus application process. This process begins in Spring semester of the academic year and applications are typically made available the first half of the Spring semester.

Students wishing to live off-campus will need to complete the following in order for their application to be considered complete: 1) Pay your housing deposit and complete your housing contract for the upcoming academic year , 2) Complete the off-campus application by the posted deadline, 3) Be in good academic standing (eligible to be full-time without restriction or probation), 4) Be in good student conduct standing (student conduct records will be reviewed), 5) Select a licensed property within the area they are choosing to live, 6) Complete an online education program on responsible living expectations in an off-campus dwelling, and 7) Confirm in writing their understanding that York College of Pennsylvania does not warrant the suitability or safety of the off-campus dwelling unit they plan to occupy and that the student is responsible to ascertain that the unit is suitable, safe, and in compliance with applicable law.  

Completely filling out and submitting an application does not guarantee you permission to live off campus and we discourage students from signing leases until they have been granted permission to reside off campus.

Applications are reviewed based on credit groupings similar to those when registering for classes. The process is in place to allow students that have achieved academic seniority to have first priority when receiving permission to reside off-campus. The process is not based on the number of semesters that you have been attending York College. Each application is reviewed individually. All applications must be received before the announced deadline to be considered for release. Notification will be made via York College e-mail the second half of spring semester.

Students who are approved to live off campus or commute will have their scholarships and financial aid affected; students must consult with the Office of Financial Assistance and acknowledge this change as part of their approval to live off campus or commute. ​

Off-Campus Statement

The Residence Life Office does not publish a listing of off-campus housing accommodations. Publishing a listing would imply that we sanction or approve off-campus facilities. We encourage all students to be aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding occupancy and safety. These ordinances vary according to the municipality in which the home/apartment is located. Check with the local borough or township office for ordinances that apply to that locality. A summary of the York City Housing Regulations is as follows:

The College has been advised officially by City authorities that City regulations prohibit more than two unrelated persons to inhabit a dwelling unit in the City’s residential neighborhoods, unless licensed as a ‘student home’. The point of this advisory is to provide advance notice that City zoning officers will be citing violating landlords and tenants on a regular basis and seeking to impose fines on such violators.

Students should take care to avoid residing in an off-campus “dwelling unit” with more than one other unrelated person, given the provisions of prevailing regulations and the chance that enforcement of such regulations could displace a person at a point in the academic year that would interfere with his/her studies.

Information regarding available off-campus accommodations can be located through local newspapers, advertisements, and online.

Outside Objects/Satellites

The placement of any object outside windows presents a safety hazard and detracts from the appearance of the building. Any student found attaching a satellite dish, or other electronic device, should be reported to Residence Life staff immediately. A student conduct referral may be initiated. Additionally, no personal items or College property shall be left outside, including balconies.

Personal Property

Students are encouraged to obtain renter’s insurance or review their parent/guardian’s homeowner’s insurance policy to determine whether or not their belongings in their residence hall are covered. Students’ personal items are not covered under the College’s insurance plan.

Prohibited Items

Please see Housing Contract  for a full list.

Quiet Hours

It is the policy of York College that the residence facilities will be reasonably quiet at all times. Each hall establishes a schedule of hours when restrictions on noise are maintained above and beyond the College “quiet hours.” This is to ensure privacy, to maintain respect for the rights of others, and to encourage an academic environment. Students are expected to abide by Courtesy Hours at all times, meaning that they should be courteous to neighbors above, below, beside and down the hall from them by not making noise so as to disturb them. Further, if they are asked to reasonably lower their noise level at any time, they should do so. Quiet hours are seven days a week from 10:00 p.m. - 10:00 a.m.. When many students are sleeping or studying, residents should be especially quiet and keep their noise level low enough so as not to disturb other students. Residence Life supports the philosophy of final examinations and a finals week each semester. You will be asked to abide by the following quiet hours so that the integrity of finals week can be maintained for all students. These hours will be strictly enforced.

Quiet Hours: 24 hours beginning 10:00 p.m. on the final day of classes during the semester.

Residence Hall Access

The entrances to all residence halls are secured by card access or keyed entry. Several halls have front desks, where guests must sign in. Rear and side doors to residence facilities are always locked, except in emergency situations and check-in days, to help secure the building, its contents, and its residents against unauthorized entrants. Students are discouraged from propping these doors open. Propping of exterior doors is a violation of the Code of Conduct and will be processed through the College’s student conduct process.

Room Assignment Procedures

Returning students receive priority in their selection of rooms and roommates once housing is confirmed. Housing is confirmed (guaranteed) by paying a $200 deposit prior to housing capacity being reached. Deposit letters are sent out in early spring semester, therefore it is strongly recommended to pay the deposit as soon as possible to guarantee housing. Room selection for the following fall semester occurs in the second half of spring semester by way of credits achieved. Students required to live on campus that do not pay a housing deposit by the deadline will not receive a priority lottery number, which may affect the student’s housing preferences during the room selection process. 

First-year students are assigned to traditional residence halls by Residence Life staff, and transfer students are assigned to to spaces based on availability. Consideration is given to roommate preferences made by the deadline published by Residence Life.  Information provided on the housing contract will also be taken into consideration whenever possible. Students typically receive their final room, roommate, and housing assignment in early July.

Please review the York College of Pennsylvania Housing Policy  for residency requirement information.

Room Changes

Room changes can only be made under the authorization of Residence Life professional staff. The Office of Residence Life authorizes room changes based on available space. In the event of a room change, advanced notice is usually given to the new roommate(s); however this is not always possible. During the first and last two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, no room changes will be permitted.

Residents interested in changing rooms must follow these steps:

1. Contact the AC of their facility*.
2. The AC will work with the student to determine a new housing assignment, if space permits.
3. The student is given their new housing assignment.
4. Keys and online access to the Room Condition Report (RCR) are issued to the student from the Office of Residence Life.
5. The RCR needs to be filled out online by the student within three (3) business days to their new RA/AC.
6. The student must completely check out of their previous room by meeting with a Residence Life staff member to complete an inspection.
7. The keys for the student’s previous housing assignment must be returned to the Office of Residence Life within the time frame assigned.

*In the event of a roommate conflict, the AC will request that the students meet with their Community Assistant (Manor Complex, Penn Complex, and North Campus) and/or Resident Assistant to review or complete a Roommate Agreement. This involves a discussion between roommates and a compromise regarding behavior within their room/apartment/suite. If the roommate conflict continues, a room change can be requested through the AC of the facility. The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to relocate a student or all occupants of the room/apartment/suite if a resolution cannot be reached.

Room Inspection

Intermittently, Residence Life staff will conduct announced room inspections to check for needed repairs, cleaning, and safety purposes. If your room has officially failed the room inspection, you have 24 hours to correct the items specified. If these are not corrected, you may face a student conduct referral and/or fines. For reasons related to health, safety, and protection of property, the College reserves the right to enter and/or search a student’s room. Also, during the semester breaks, student rooms are inspected for the reasons listed above. If there are any questions or concerns with inspection procedures, please contact your Area Coordinator immediately.

Illegal, prohibited, and/or unsafe items will be confiscated during room inspections. Illegal or unsafe items will be turned over to the Department of Campus Safety. Prohibited items will be stored by the AC and are the responsibility of the student to retrieve. Items not claimed will be discarded and/or donated.

Room Refund Policy

Students must officially check out of the residence hall by contacting Residence Life staff, returning keys, and/or completing the appropriate paperwork.  The following room refund schedule will apply:

Security of Rooms and Valuables

Security of rooms and valuables is the responsibility of all students. All residents are asked to lock their doors when leaving their rooms and carry their room keys with them at all times. The College is not responsible for the loss of personal possessions or property. Family homeowner’s insurance may cover loss of personal items. Be sure to participate in the College’s Operation ID program. For more information, contact the Department of Campus Safety at (717) 815-1403.

Solicitation

Solicitation on campus by organizations not associated with the College is prohibited. Student involvement in any commercial enterprise must be specifically approved for this purpose by the Division of Student Development. Any on-campus organization must receive permission from the AC/RD and/or the Director of Residence Life, or their designee, to solicit in the lobby area of a residence facility.

Vandalism

It is the policy of the College that any resident who engages in the malicious destruction of property or vandalism will face a student conduct referral, which may include the loss of housing or suspension/expulsion from the College. Please also see Community Billing.

Visitation Hours and Guest Policy

Approved Guests

For everyone’s health and safety during the 2023-2024 academic year, the visitors you may have to your college residence are:

• Your parent(s)/guardian(s)

• York College students 

• Non-student guests 

All guests must be at least 18 years old unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 

You may have only two (2) approved guests at a time.

You may not have overnight guests for any reason. This includes parents and guardians.

Approved Visiting Hours

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday: 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Use of Residence Lobbies

Lobbies are open to residential students when the front desk is open. 

Only residents and their approved guests are allowed in residence hall lobbies. 

Additional Rules and Responsibilities

1. You must stay with approved guests the entire time they are in the building.

2. Approved guests must sign in and out at the front desk of the lobby, where applicable. Guests must leave photo identification (government-issued ID, driver’s license, etc.) at the front desk. It will be returned when they leave. 

3. You are responsible for your approved guests’ actions on campus. Make sure they follow all College policies, rules, and regulations. You will be held accountable if they violate the Code of Conduct. This may include student conduct sanctions.

4. The Area Coordinator of each residence oversees the College’s guest policy and may suspend your guest privileges. 

5. You must get a guest parking permit from the Department of Campus Safety for any guest who brings a vehicle on campus. You must ensure that they use the parking permit and follow all traffic and parking rules. You and/or your guests are responsible for any citations.

Windows/Displays

It is the policy of the College that at no time is it acceptable to place speakers, radios, or other audio/electronic equipment in windows to broadcast sound outside of residential facilities. This type of behavior may negatively impact the ability of those trying to study or sleep.

It is also a violation of College policy to place signs, banners, notices, or decorations in residential windows such that they are visible from the outside.

Lastly, climbing in or out of residential facility windows is prohibited.