Guide to Campus Living

The Guide to Campus Living is designed to assist you in understanding your responsibilities as a member or guest of our Residence Hall community at The University of Maine at Machias. Please refer to this online document for the most updated version. The Guide to Campus Living outlines policies specifically related to Residence Hall Living.

As a community member, we rely on you to report any suspicious activity. We encourage you to seek out your Resident Assistant (RA) or the Residence Life Coordinator. For emergencies, dial 911.

Final Note: No guide can possibly anticipate every question or situation in a residence hall community. This guide is meant as a resource, and is complemented by the hard work and judgment calls of your residence hall staff as well as staff within the Division of Student Life. If you have any questions or would like clarification about any information or policy listed in this guide, please contact Student Life Professional Staff. This guide can be updated at any time as needed.

University of Maine System Student Conduct Code

Section 1: Moving In/Checking Out

A.  Move-In Procedures for First Year Students and Transfer Students
  • Please plan to arrive during the designated move in time, and follow signage in and around campus to ensure that you are following the correct path to get to your building, as some roads may be closed.
  • Upon your arrival at your residence hall, you will need to check-in at the front desk with a state ID or University ID Card. Someone will need to stay with your vehicle(s) at all times during the unloading process. Empty vehicles will be asked to move immediately to an appropriate parking lot, in order to ensure a timely move-in process for all students.
  • As available, there may be moving carts and dollies in the residence hall to assist with your move-in process.
B.  What to bring to college – Permitted items:
  • A cart or dolly for move-in day
  • Bedding (mattress pad, comforter, pillow, sheets, etc) for a twin mattress
  • Crates or closet organizers
  • Toiletries
  • Towels
  • Shower shoes (flip flops work great!)
  • Shower caddy (to use going to and from the community bathroom)
  • Laundry hamper
  • Laundry detergent, dryer sheets, cleaning supplies
  • Power strips that are 15-amp UL approved surge protectors or 3-pronged extension cords
  • Electronics Permitted: stereo, TV, video game equipment, and computers
  • One refrigerator per room
  • Coffee-makers are permitted if there is an auto shutoff feature
  • Small kitchen items (plates, cups, bowls)
  • Alarm clock
  • First aid kit for personal use
  • UL certified fans
  • Up to a 10-gallon fish tank if bringing a fish (this is the only permitted pet)
  • Desk lamp (without a halogen bulb)
  • Prescription medication
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
C.  What NOT to bring to college — Prohibited items:
  • Amplifiers and subwoofers (not permitted to be used in the halls, but may be stored in room)
  • Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs/vapes)
  • Halogen lamps and/or octopus lamps
  • Neon signs
  • Drones
  • 3-D Printers
  • Toasters and toaster ovens
  • Hoverboards or other similar battery operated personal mobility devices (unless approved as a reasonable accommodation through Student Accessibility Services)
  • Any appliance with an open flame or coil
  • Induction cooktops and portable burners
  • Electric frying pans
  • Grills
  • Candles or incense (Any burnt wicks, or the actual burning of candles will result in a student conduct referral)
  • Flammable items—charcoal, incense, lighter fluid, gas, fireworks/firecrackers/sparklers
  • Electric blankets
  • Space heaters and/or air conditioners
  • Personal lofts, water beds, or any furniture or decorative item that requires bolting or nailing into the walls
  • Strip lights
D.  What to discuss sharing with your roommate:
  • Carpets
  • Television
  • Gaming system
  • Microwave or mini fridge
  • Any additional furnishings (futon, etc.)
E.  Procedures for room changes during a semester:
  • All moves must be approved through the professional staff.
  • If approved:
    • Remove all belongings from your current room.
    • Clean and arrange your side of the room neatly so it is ready for a new occupant.
    • Be on time to your check-out appointment with an RA or staff member.
    • Turn in your room or mail key, if applicable. University Card access will be removed after you check out.
    • Change your mailing address directly with friends, family, and companies.

Failure to check-out correctly may result in fees and/or charges to your student account for: improper check out, key replacement, removal of personal belongings (per hour charge), disposal of property, room cleaning (per hour charge), etc., so please be sure to follow these procedures.

F.    Procedures for checking out of residence hall at end of a semester or academic year:

All students not returning for the spring semester are expected to leave the residence halls within 24 hours of their last exam or 5:00pm on the last day of December exams – whichever comes first.

At the end of the academic year, any unapproved student must be checked out of their residence hall by 5:00pm on Friday of finals week in May.

To checkout of one’s room:

  1. Make a check-out appointment with your RA or staff member
  2. Remove all belongings from your room.
  3. Clean and arrange your side of the room neatly so it is ready for a new occupant.
  4. Be on time for your check-out appointment with an RA or hall staff, or sign your express check out card and place it securely in your mailbox with your metal room key if applicable. University ID Card access will be removed after you check out.
  5. Change your mailing address on MaineStreet if appropriate, and directly with friends, family, and companies. Mail will be returned to sender if you no longer live in the residence hall.
  • Failure to check-out correctly may result in fees and/or charges to your student account for: Improper check out, key replacement, removal of personal belongings (per hour charge), disposal of property, room cleaning (per hour charge), etc., so please be sure to follow these procedures.

Section 2: Breaks/Continuous Housing

A.    Closing for Breaks

Residence Halls are open year round; however it is requested that you sign up in advance with the professional staff if you intend to be here for any breaks and an additional charge may be assessed. This assists staff in communicatng emergency and other information with residents who remain over breaks. If there is an evacuation we know who to account for.

For safety and security reasons, residents may only register themselves and are not permitted to have overnight guests during breaks.

Section 3: Lock Out Policy

A. Lock Out Policy

It is the resident’s responsibility to keep their room key or University ID Card on their person at all times.

If a resident should find themselves locked out of their room they should contact their roommate first, then find a Resident Assistant or Residence Life Professional staff member to let them back in the room. During duty hours, please contact the RA on duty. Students should keep in mind that they may need to wait some time before being let back into their rooms.

All students will be required to show a picture ID either before or after being let in the room to ensure the safety and security of all students on campus. Students will also be required to produce their University ID Card upon entry to the room.

* Students are only permitted 3 lockouts during a semester. The fourth – and each successive – lockout will result a referral to the student conduct process, and a fee may be assessed to their student account.

Section 4: Guest Policy

A.    Guest Policy

Overnight guests are not permitted during the first and last two weeks of each semester, including early arrival, move-in, First Year Welcome Weekend, move-out, and graduation periods.

Anyone not assigned by Housing to a particular residence hall room is considered a guest. Entrance into rooms is permitted only at the invitation of the occupants of the room. Any guest (including family members) will need to be provided access by the occupying resident.

Outside of the periods outlined above, occasional overnight guests are permitted, although within the context of the following guidelines:

  • Prior to the visit the resident should discuss time frame and expectations of such a guest with their roommate(s). Keep in mind that no student can refuse to allow a roommate to have guests and then invite their own guests to visit.
  • Regardless of host, no guest can remain in a student room for longer than 3 consecutive nights in any given week. A guest form must be filled out every time a guest is staying the night.
  • No guests can visit more than 2 times in one month.
  • Guests must be escorted through the halls by their host.
  • Guests are expected to utilize the restrooms that correspond with their gender identity; at times, this may require the use of facilities in public spaces of the residence hall.
  • Guests must follow all university/residence hall policies.
  • Hosts are responsible for guest behavior, particularly when the guest is a non-student.
  • Guests needing a reasonable accommodation, including an emotional support animal (ESA), must contact Student Accessibility Services at 207.255.1228 a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to their visit.
  • All guests must exit the residence hall by 11 PM or they will be considered overnight guests and a guest form must be filled out for their stay.
  • Any guest found violating policies will be asked to leave immediately and their host may be referred to the student conduct process.
  • Residents may not host more than two overnight guests during one visit.
  • Speak with an RA or Residence Life Professional staff to obtain the link for the Dorward Hall Overnight Guest Form.

Section 5: Safety Policies

A.    General Safety

Safety is the responsibility of all community members. Tampering with emergency signage, fire alarms, phone, video surveillance, other safety devices, or the creation of an unsafe condition is a violation of the University of Maine System Student Conduct Code.

Do not let unknown persons in the residence hall, do not prop entrance doors open, and do not allow unknown persons to follow students into the building. Doing so may result in a referral to the student conduct process.

Motor Vehicles On Campus: For safety reasons the driver and all passengers who are driving on campus must be in a vehicle seat and have a seat belt on when the vehicle is in motion. On the UMM campus, no one can ride in the back of a vehicle, the bed of a truck, or any other unsecured way. People cannot be hanging out of vehicle windows or off the sides of vehicles.

Parking page for more information about UMM vehicle and parking policies.

B.    University ID Card Access
  • All Residence Hall buildings are locked 24 hours a day and use a card swipe system for entry.
  • All student rooms use a card swipe
  • No exterior door may be propped, and locks may not be tampered with. Additionally, doors may not be tampered with in a way that prevents the door from closing properly
  • Students may not lend their University ID Card to any other person
  • Students must present their University ID Card to staff upon request
C.    Fire Alarm Procedures

Anticipate a fire drill at the beginning of each semester. When ANY fire alarm sounds students must:

Evacuate the residence hall immediately; close your door when exiting.

Re-entry to the hall may NOT occur until Fire Department personnel signal that it is okay to re-enter the building. The ceasing of the alarm alone is not an indication for re-entry; staff will notify residents when the building may be re-entered.

Students who need an elevator in order to exit the building should talk with Residence Life staff at the beginning of the year, or as soon as such an accommodation is needed. This includes temporary circumstances such as being on crutches. Staff will assign a stairwell location where the student in need of assistance exiting should wait for rescue staff.

D.    Fire Safety Regulations

Tampering with or pulling a fire alarm maliciously or falsely is a criminal act. Tampering in any way with fire safety equipment which includes smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, exit lights, and fire extinguishers is a violation of the University of Maine System Student Conduct Code.

Students may not cover, remove, or in any way tamper or damage emergency exit signage posted on their door, or anywhere within the residence hall.

Students responsible for causing false alarms will be referred to the university conduct process.

Students who cause alarms to activate by cooking may be charged a fee. If this behavior is repeated on the part of an individual student, then the student is billed for restitution.

The possession, use, and sale of fireworks is not permitted in any campus living unit. The possession, use, and sale of fireworks is also not permitted on campus.

Section 6: Room Policies and Quiet Hours

A.    Room Entry

It is expected that the residents of the room will present themselves when asked to do so by University staff. Failure to do so may result in a referral to the student conduct process.

Entry into a student room may occur when:

  1. Residents have extended an invitation to the person(s) for them to enter
  2. There is a clear or apparent emergency, such as fire, injury or damage to property (including a report or reasonable belief thereof), or where there is a reasonable belief of a threat to the safety of persons or property
  3. There is a confirmed smell of smoke and/or “burning” identified as coming from a specific room
  4. An alarm or other continuous sound is coming from a room that is causing a disruption to the community, when the residents of the room cannot be located and/or do not respond to attempts to contact them
  5. To conduct scheduled maintenance or other repairs; Facilities Management will try to give as much notice as possible about when they will enter a room. Due to staff availablity, the nature of the work that needs to be done, and/or in an emergency situations, prior notice may not be able to be provided.
B.    Health and Safety Room Inspection Policy

Residence Life staff will conduct periodic health and safety inspections of residence hall rooms. The purpose of these inspections is to ensure the residence halls are as safe as possible. A physical check of residential spaces in the halls is the only way to determine if, for example, a window has been left open, there has been any tampering with the fire detection or suppression systems, or there are prohibited items in the rooms.

  • The purpose of health and safety inspections is to assure the safety of the resident(s) and to assure that the use of the rooms and suites is in accordance with University rules and regulations.
  • Health and safety inspections will occur at least once per semester during the academic year, in addition to checks at semester closing.
  • At the end of the Spring semester, residence halls will be inspected prior to closing for the summer as well. Professional Staff will inspect rooms and assess any damage or loss charges.
  • Inspections by Residence Life staff will be preceded by notice given to residents at least 24 hours in advance of the inspection. This notice will be given via email, flyers in the residence halls, and/or other means designed to make residents aware of this process.
  • Pairs of Residence Life staff will inspect rooms. Rooms will be inspected even in the absence of the resident(s). Notice will be left indicating the Health and Safety Inspection has occurred for mid-semester checks.
  • Inspections will be of items in plain view. Closet doors, drawers, refrigerators, etc. will not be opened. Any pets or other inappropriate items found will be addressed directly by Residence Life staff with the residents. Referrals to the university conduct process will be made as appropriate. In the event of an obvious violation being covered (example: a sheet over an obvious pet cage), professional staff will be notified to verify the violation, and follow up with the student.
  • Areas such as windowsills and the space above ceiling tiles are subject to search to ensure the safety and security of all residents.
  • Alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, and other contraband and illegal substances in plain sight will result in notification to the Director of Student Life – and possible confiscation by staff, who will give any illegal substances or items to the police. Additionally, any violations of the weapons policy including but not limited to: hunting rifles, knives exceeding 4 inches, paintball guns, airsoft rifles, etc. in plain view will be confiscated by professional staff.
  • Items such as empty alcohol containers will be considered evidence of alcohol possession and may constitute a Student Conduct Code violation.
  • Tampering with fire suppression and/or detection devices will immediately be addressed, and when possible immediately remedied by Residence Life Staff. Possession of candles, incense, banned or inappropriately strung lights, and similar items will result in the student(s) being approached by Residence Life staff immediately on the return of the resident(s).
  • Stolen property may result in confiscation of stolen property, as well as a referral to the university conduct process.
C.    Cleanliness

Students are responsible for cleaning their personal space. Excessive messes as determined by staff may be determined to be a health and safety violation. This may include but is not limited to excessive room trash and recyclables, odors that extend into the hallway, restricted pathway to exit or window, etc. In the event professional staff must be utilized to assist in an excessive clean-up, the student will be billed an hourly rate.

Noxious odors that impact roommates, neighbors, or public areas (including corridors), regardless of origin, are prohibited and may result in a health & safety room check and/or possible referral to the student conduct process.

D.    Permitted Decorations Policy
  1. No more than 20% of any wall or door should be covered with decorations. In order to prevent damage to painted walls, students should use painters tape, sticky tack, or a similar method to temporarily affix items to walls.
  2. Only use decorations that are noncombustible or have a label that states that they are “flameproof,” “flame-resistant,” or “flame-retardant.” Keep the label to document acceptability.
  3. Electric string lights:
    1. String lights are acceptable ONLY if they are labeled with Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Factory Mutual Tags with this information required to be on each string of lights.
    2. Strings that are frayed or bare show wires, cracked sockets, and loose connections or damaged insulation are not permitted.
    3. String lights may not be wrapped around any furniture or other cloth items such as curtains or wall hangings.
    4. They may not be attached with nails or staples. In addition, no more than four sets of lights may be strung together in one connection.
  4. Do not place decorations near electrical equipment or other heat sources.
  5. Do not hang any decorations from sprinkler heads.
  6. Do not route electrical cords across aisles or corridors or under rugs or doors.
  7. Extension cords must have a 3-prong grounded plug and not be daisy chained. For definition purposes, daisy chaining refers to two or more extension cords being attached to each other.
  8. No lit candles, open flames, or spark-producing devices are permitted. This includes incense.
  9. Do not obstruct corridors, stairways, exits or doors from closing.
  10. Decorations may not obstruct exit lights, sprinkler pipes or heads, smoke detectors, fire alarm pull stations, portable fire extinguishers or cabinets, or other safety apparatus.
  11. Only artificial trees/wreaths which are flame retardant are allowed in residence halls. No other cut greenery is acceptable. For artificial trees/wreaths, documentation should be available to prove their flame resistance.
  12. Keep in mind that no one should put holes in the walls to hang materials. There are a number of products that can be used which are removable without damage to the wall or wall surface.
  13. Painting or altering of any surface is not permitted (markers, etc.).
  14. Windows may have items placed on the interior glass if they are removable and do not cause any permanent scarring or damage.
  15. Tape of any kind is not permitted on windows.
  16. Students may not hang items from the exterior of their windows or adjacent exterior building surfaces.
  17. Wall tapestries can be hung in a student room if it is no larger than 4 feet x 6 feet, and only one per wall may be hung in the student room. Tapestries, curtains, etc are not permitted to be strung across a doorway or across ceilings.
  18. Ceilings:
    1. Nothing may be attached to ceilings.
    2. Smoke detectors and/or sprinkler heads must remain unobstructed at all times.
    3. No lights, ceiling fans, or other electrical appliances can be hung on the ceiling or interior walls.
    4. Decorative holiday-style lights are permitted on walls.
E.    Noise

Our residence halls are first and foremost a place for students to sleep and study. Some noise is to be expected in a thriving community but, because it is difficult to develop a shared definition of what is too loud, noise inevitably becomes an issue in the halls. All members of our communities and their guests are expected to be attentive to their noise levels, and to be responsive to other students who ask them to be quieter.

Note: It is never appropriate to set-up speakers to point out of their residence hall windows. Students who are being disturbed by noise are expected to respectfully confront those responsible for the noise and request that they quiet down. If noise issues continue, a student should then seek assistance from a Residence Life staff member.

The University’s policies on quiet hours, courtesy hours, and finals week quiet hours are designed to promote environments where students may sleep and study without disruption from noise.

F.    Quiet Hours Policy

Quiet hours during the normal academic year are as follows:

  • Sunday – Thursday: 11:00pm to 8:00am the following morning.
  • Friday & Saturday: 12:00 midnight to 8:00am the following morning.

During quiet hours:

  • Noise should not be heard outside of a student’s door or in adjacent rooms where others may be disrupted.
  • Stereos, video games, and televisions should be at a lower level so they are not likely to be heard outside of the student room or from open windows.
G.    Courtesy Hours Policy

Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours per day.

Courtesy hours mean that students are expected to refrain from noise which is a disturbance to another member of the community. If asked by any community member to lower their noise level, a student should appropriately do so immediately.

H.    Finals Week 24-Hour Quiet Hours Policy

Quiet hours run 24 hours a day beginning at noon the Friday before finals week until the hall officially closes at 5:00pm on Friday of finals week. Disruptive behavior may result in disciplinary action and may include being asked to leave the hall.

Section 7: Substance Use/Weapons Policy

A. Alcohol:
  1. State and federal law prohibits the use of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21.
  2. In compliance with these laws, the University of Maine at Machias does not permit the use of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21.
  3. Students of any age, including over the age of 21 CANNOT provide a place for students under the age of 21 to consume alcohol.
  4. Students over the age of 21 CANNOT provide alcohol to students under the age of 21.
  5. Alcohol may be consumed by students 21 or older inside a student’s residence hall room, so long as all residents of that room are over 21.
  6. No students may possess or consume alcohol in public areas, including residence hall lounges, stairways, and hallways.
  7. If neither occupant of the student room is of legal drinking age then the use of alcoholic beverages in that room is prohibited. When a guest of legal age is visiting, the guest is not permitted to possess or consume alcohol in the room.
  8. Students of legal drinking age are not permitted to have a common source of alcohol in the residence halls, including but not limited to: punch bowls, barrels, kegs, kegerators, beer balls, etc.
  9. While empty alcohol containers alone are not a violation of the Student Conduct Code, they may be evidence of consumption in a conduct case.
  10. Students are advised to refrain from collecting, storing, or displaying empty alcohol containers in their room. Recycling areas are provided in all residence halls and students are encouraged to recycle all their cans and bottles.
B.    Marijuana/Cannabis:
  1. Marijuana/Cannabis possession and use, regardless of form, is prohibited in the residence halls and on campus.
  2. Medical marijuana/cannabis is also not permitted in the residence halls or on campus.
  3. The use and/or possession of marijuana/cannabis will result in a referral to the student conduct process and/or police intervention.
C.    Other Drugs:
  1. Students using a prescription drug may not allow anyone else to use this medication.
  2. Sharing or selling of prescription drugs is illegal.
  3. Use or distribution of illegal substances is not permitted, and is a violation of the Student Conduct Code.
  4. Use of a legal substance in an inappropriate or harmful manner (example: huffing) is not permitted.
  5. Drug paraphernalia is not permitted in any university residence, including but not limited to; bongs, pipes, water pipes, hookahs, scales, etc. Possession of these types of items is a violation of the Student Conduct Code.
D.    Tobacco:
  1. The University of Maine at Machias is a tobacco-free campus. This policy applies to faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors, and visitors. The use of tobacco and all smoking products is not permitted on any university-owned property, which includes but is not limited to; buildings, university grounds, parking areas, walkways, recreational and sporting facilities, and university-owned vehicles.
  2. Tobacco use includes the possession of any lighted tobacco products, or the use of any type of smokeless tobacco. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping.
E.    Weapons Policy
  1. Guns and ammunition of all kinds are prohibited from residence halls and from campus. This includes but is not limited to hunting rifles, airsoft guns, paintball guns, pellet guns, and bb guns.
  2. Bows and arrows, hunting knives (knives exceeding 4 inches in length), martial arts weapons, tasers, and ammunition are not permitted at any time in the residence halls and/or on campus.
  3. Keeping these items in vehicles is not permitted on University property.
  4. Any other items that are weapons and/or using an item as a weapon is prohibited. Prohibited weapons can be added to list this at anytime and/or Student Life staff can verbally prohibit a weapon as appropriate.

Section 8: Pet/Service Animals Policy

A.    Pet/Animal Policy
  • Fish (non-meat eating) in a 10-gallon tank or smaller are the only permitted pet/animal for on-campus residents.
  • Neglect of fish will result in a student conduct referral and possible loss of pet/animal privileges.
  • The university does not permit students to have any other pets/animals inside the residence halls, including pets/animals belonging to visiting guests.
B.    Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals Policy
  • Prior to utilizing a service or emotional support animal, residents must seek and gain approval from Student Accessibility Services.
  • Service and emotional support animals must be in the immediate control of the person to whom they are assigned and may not be allowed to be treated as a pet by others.
  • Service and emotional support animals must be in good health and current with all required vaccinations.
  • Because of health standards, service and emotional support animals must be kept clean at all times. It is the sole responsibility of the student to make the necessary cleaning and grooming arrangements. Residence hall facilities (showers, sinks, tubs, etc.) may not be used for this purpose.
  • Service and emotional support animals must not be an undue annoyance to other residents (excessive noise, smells, physically threatening, etc.) nor cause damage to the property of others or damage to university property.
  • If the accommodation to the student of the service or emotional support animal becomes unreasonable by violation of this policy, or becomes a direct threat to the health or safety of others, the student must cooperate with Residence Life staff, Student Accessibility Services, and others as appropriate to resolve the conflict. This may require a change in housing arrangements including modification or discontinuance of the accommodation, or reassignment to another room, residential unit, or residence hall.
  • Emotional Support Animals are not allowed in the common areas of the residence hall, unless they are exiting the building. 

Section 9: Mail/Internet/Cable Policies

A.    Mail Service

Mailing Address on Campus:

Student Name
116 O’Brien Avenue University of Maine at Machias
Machias, ME 04654

Mail is delivered each day (Monday-Friday) to student mailboxes before 8pm. All paper mail will be placed in assigned mailboxes. 

If you will no longer be residing in a residence hall, you need to change your mailing address in your various personal accounts so that you continue to receive your mail. Please note that Residence Life does not automatically forward mail, nor do we forward mail to off-campus locations.

All packages (or mail exceeding the size of your residence hall mailbox) sent by UPS, FEDEX, USPS, or any other carrier to students in the residence hall will be delivered to the residence hall mail room. Please note: it is not uncommon for UPS, FedEx, or the shipper to send a delivery notification. This means your package has arrived in Machias, not necessarily to the central university office.

B.    Internet and Wireless Service

Every residence hall room has at least one active internet jack. Wireless internet access is available in all the residence halls.

Residents are required to register their computers and other connected devices on the network. Wireless routers are prohibited from use in the residence halls.

C.    Cable Service

The University of Maine contracts with an outside company to provide cable to campus. Resident cable issues should be reported to professional staff.

Section 10: Property Insurance

A. Property Insurance

The University of Maine at Machias does NOT carry insurance protecting a student’s belongings. Check that your items brought to campus are protected under your parents/guardian’s homeowner’s policy or a separate personal property policy. We strongly encourage insurance for your belongings. We also recommended you engrave valuable items and keep a record of serial numbers.

Section 11: Common Area Policies

A.    Common Area Policy
  • Residence hall lobbies and lounges are reserved for residence hall students’ use only. University organizations may not reserve or meet in any residence hall lobby or lounge, nor may a resident of a residence hall reserve or meet in their hall lobby or lounge for the specific purpose that supports a University organization without permission from Residence Life.
  • All lobby and lounge programs or meetings should be sponsored by a Resident Assistant, professional staff, or a recognized UMM organization/club that has permission to use the space.
  • Each residence hall lounge is outfitted with furniture (couches, chairs, small tables and desks) and is intended for common use. Students may not remove lounge furniture for personal or organization use.
  • Equipment, such as billiards, foosball, and table tennis, may be purchased by the university and placed in the residence halls. This equipment may or may not be available in your hall or complex. Use of some equipment after quiet hours may be limited in some buildings per that complex staff. Should limitations occur, this information will be clearly posted in the common rooms.
  • Sound amplifiers may not be used in any area of the residence hall, including lounges. Skateboards, rollerblades, longboards, and other similar activities are not permitted indoors, or off of benches, buildings, handrails, etc.
  • Hoverboards or other similar battery operated personal mobility devices are not permitted for use or storage in the residence halls (unless approved through Student Accessibility Services).

Section 12: Housing

A.    Residency Requirement

All first year students are required to live on campus. Academic, personal, and programmatic support is provided to first-year and transfer students living on and off campus through Student Life and Student Services.

B.    Eligibility
  • All students living on-campus and in undergraduate housing must be enrolled in a degree program and a minimum of 12 credit hours.
  • Students intending to enroll in fewer than, or who otherwise fall below 12 credit hours must secure an exception from Student Life by the Monday following the end of the add/drop period.
  • Students who do not meet the above conditions must vacate their campus residence within 48 hours.
  • Failure to do so will result in denial of residence hall access as well as referral to the university conduct process.
  • Winter term credits will count toward the 12 credit minimum.
C.    Housing Application

The University of Maine at Machias uses an online application for housing assignments. Communication with students is done directly upon receipt of a completed application.

D.    Housing Assignments

Returning enrolled students complete their Housing Application and requests online. Information sessions are held in the residence halls prior to housing selection to explain the process to current students. Following the upper-class housing sign up process, incoming first-year students are given housing assignments. These assignments are made on a first come first serve basis. If two students want to room together it is crucial that this information is submitted on the housing application of both students, each indicating the other as a requested roommate. Both applications should be submitted at the same time. Assignment as roommates will not occur unless both parties follow this procedure. Note: if assignments have already occurred, it may not be possible to change the assignment given.

Students must live in the room they are assigned. All room change requests must be approved and are at the discretion of Residence Life staff. Please note that no room changes are permitted in the first and last 2 weeks of any semester. Should a conflict occur between roommates, Residence Life staff members are available to mediate a resolution. It would not be uncommon for a room request to be denied until all possible roommate mediation has been exhausted.

No roommate(s) may force another roommate to move out. If the conflict cannot be resolved and no one is willing to move, staff may relocate both roommates (or in suites, all residents). If a student refuses to accept a roommate, that student may face conduct charges, and could be billed the cost of a double as a single room.

*Room changes occurring as a result of a conduct resolution will be billed at the rate of the room reassigned to. Note that this may result in additional housing charges.

Section 13: Subletting/Summer Housing

A.    Subletting Policy and Unauthorized Use

Students may not sublet their residence hall room at any time.

Students may not allow anyone to live in their residence hall room who is not assigned to the space by the Housing office.

Residents who allow their spaces to be used in any of the above ways are in violation of this provision and are subject to a penalty charge. This charge could be as much as the full room charge for each violation during the period of their contract. Residents may also be subject to removal from university housing and/or referral to the student conduct process.

B.    Summer Housing

A residence hall will be open to students for summer housing who are taking classes, working on campus, and/or are enrolled as full time students in the upcoming Fall semester.

If a student is taking classes in various summer terms, they will need to secure housing for each term.

If there is a gap in time between classes, students will need to move out of the building between sessions.

Section 14: Property Management/Custodial/Maintenance

A.    Property Management

Residence Life is charged with making on-campus living the style of choice for students attending the University of Maine at Machias. The condition of your rooms and buildings are paramount in this effort and we strive to make your living experience a memorable one.

B.    Custodial Services

Custodial Services provides for the cleaning, supplies and materials and departmental furniture. The custodian monitors and reports issues involving maintenance or damage. The Facilities Maintenance staff is trained in biohazard cleanups, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning practices. These folks are an integral part of the residence community and essential to the operation of our residence halls. Please thank them whenever you are given the opportunity.

C.    Maintenance Services

Residents should submit maintenance concerns to their RA or a professional staff member.

It is the policy of the university to ensure that students’ privacy in their residence hall rooms is consistent with the basic responsibilities of the institution to fulfill its educational function and to conduct day-to-day operations.

As an occupant of a room, a student is responsible for its upkeep and is liable for damage to or loss from the room. Students are not permitted to paint their rooms.

Section 15: Recycling

A. Recycling & Sustainability

Students must remove personal trash directly to the trash room. We advocate the conservation of energy and water through the following methods:

  • Please be sure to unplug items not in use that are drawing wasted power such as computers and phone chargers.
  • Please shut off lights, televisions and/or stereos when you leave the room.
  • In the winter, please be sure your windows are closed tightly.
  • Please try to cut a couple of minutes off your shower time to conserve water.
  • Please don’t run water continually while doing things like brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing dishes.

Section 16: Pest Management

A. Pest Management

Screens are in place to prevent bugs and other debris from entering a student room when windows are open. For safety, security, and to prevent infestation, no screen may be removed. If a screen comes loose for any reason, students should immediately contact their RA

The University of Maine at Machias proactively works to control pests in the residence halls. Students play a significant role in keeping pests out of residence halls.

Room cleanliness is essential when it comes to pest management. Making sure to empty trash regularly and remove open food containers from the room immediately after use are the most proactive ways to avoid pests. Collecting empty cans can attract pests very quickly, be sure to recycle them regularly. Do not bring any used mattresses or upholstered furniture, such as couches, chairs or futons, into the residence hall in order to prevent flea and/or bed bug infestation.

A contract with an outside agency implements an Integrated Pest Management System to regularly inspect and spray all the residence halls for pests. Residence halls are monitored on a weekly basis for any other issues that may arise concerning pests.

Section 17: Elevator

A. Elevators

If the elevator in Dorward Hall is not working properly, please contact a professional staff member. The maximum capacity for the elevator is listed in each elevator. Students should not exceed this capacity. Jumping in and overcrowding an elevator is known to cause serious damage. When this happens the cost of the repair is paid for by the students involved or the residents of the residence hall. If an elevator is stuck, do not attempt to open the doors from inside. Always push the safety call button for the police department who will then contact the appropriate individuals for repair.

Elevators are essential for students with physical disabilities so it is essential that everyone protect them and avoid activities that may endanger them.

Section 18: Refrigerator/Microwave/Washer/Dryer/Vending Policies

A.    Refrigerators and Microwaves

Students are permitted to have one miniature refrigerator and one small microwave per residence hall room. Refrigerator units should not be more than 4 cubic feet and must be UL or FM approved, drawing no more than 10 amps and properly grounded. Microwaves should be no more then 1200 watt, no more than a height of (in.) 10″ – 12″ and width (in.) 15″ – 18″, and cannot be a combination unit (such as cannot be a microwave & oven, microwave & air fryer, and other similar combination units).

The university provides grounded outlets.

B.    Washers, Dryers & Vending Services

Washers and Dryers– Contact the laundry company with maintenance concerns. Contact information is listed on the machines/in the laundry rooms.

Soda and Food Vending Machines – Contact the company that is listed on the machines for issues or loss of money.

Section 19: Heating/Ventilation/Furniture/Window Policies

A.    Heating & Ventilation

Facilities Management works closely with Residence Life to provide proper heating and ventilation in the residence halls.

During the break closings the temperature in closed buildings is reduced. It is vital that all windows be closed prior to leaving for break.

Air conditioning units are not allowed in individual rooms, common spaces, and/or lounges unless a student has gotten an approved accommodation from Student Accessibility Services.

B.    Furniture & Windows in Residence Hall Rooms

The furniture typically provided for each residence hall room consists of a bed, mattress, desk, chair, dresser, and wardrobe/closet for each resident as well as window curtains.

All furniture must remain in the student room and is the student’s responsibility.

Storage is not available in the halls. Students are prohibited from moving furniture out of their rooms.

If furniture is missing or damaged at the time the student moves out, the student will be charged for the repair or replacement cost of the item(s). Do not place furniture in the hallway as it is not only a safety hazard but damage or loss of the furniture may result.

No furniture or decoration should hinder the exit of your room. There must be a minimum unobstructed pathway of 28 inches.

C.    Windows & Screens

Residence hall rooms should come equipped with window screens. Screens are in place to prevent bugs and other debris from entering a student room when windows are open.

Screens should never be removed from the frame or student window. Windows may not be used as an entrance into or exit out of the student room. Throwing items out of a student room is a danger to all students and thus is prohibited.

Section 20: Bike Storage

A. Bike Storage
  • The residence hall has one outdoor bike storage unit.
  • For safety reasons, bikes may not be stored in lounges, hallways or stairwells. If bikes are found in these areas, they will be removed and the cost of removal will be assigned to the owner.
  • Students are responsible to bring locking mechanisms to secure their bikes.
  • Bikes may not be locked to sign posts or trees.
  • Bikes remaining on campus after the close of the academic year are considered abandoned and are removed.
  • No motor-bike, motorcycle, or other bicycle containing gas or other flammable substance is permitted in the buildings.