OUR COMMITMENT TO BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR

The University of Utah values its relationships with surrounding neighborhoods and recognizes the frustration and disruption that can result from large-scale events and off-campus student behavior, particularly when it affects residents’ quality of life. The university takes these concerns seriously and is committed to working collaboratively with residents, city officials and law enforcement to be a good neighbor.

University sponsored large-scale campus events like those at Rice-Eccles Stadium are coordinated in collaboration by several university entities from Auxiliary Services, Athletics, Crimson Brand Partners, University Department of Public Safety, General Counsel, University Marketing and Communications and Salt Lake City and County agencies responsible for safety, traffic, permitting and code enforcement. We recognize the impacts on adjacent neighborhoods and work to provide timely communication to minimize impacts.

The university’s Student Code establishes expectations for student behavior and provides authority to address misconduct both on campus and, under certain circumstances, off campus. This includes conduct involving members of the university community, activities or properties under university supervision, and criminal behavior that threatens campus safety or the educational environment. When violations occur within the university’s jurisdiction, disciplinary actions can include suspension or dismissal, subject to established due process protections.

At the same time, there are important limits to the university’s authority. The university does not have general jurisdiction over student behavior off campus. Responsibility for enforcing municipal laws, including noise, parking and other neighborhood regulations, rests primarily with Salt Lake City. A violation of city law does not automatically constitute a violation of the university’s Student Code.

We recognize that these jurisdictional distinctions do not diminish the very real concerns of our neighbors. While the university cannot exercise authority it does not have, we can and will work with students, neighborhood residents and city partners to promote responsible behavior, address concerns within our authority and strengthen the relationship between our campus and the surrounding community.