Living Rhody, Being Neighborly
At URI, being part of the Rhody community extends beyond campus. When you live off campus, you’re not just a student, but you’re also a neighbor. Living off campus is an exciting step toward independence that comes with responsibilities and the opportunity to make a positive impact.
Use this guide to help navigate your role as a respectful, responsible member of your off-campus community.
Respect Your Neighbors
Many of your neighbors are families, retirees, or professionals with different lifestyles and schedules. A little effort goes a long way. Help foster a friendly environment by:
- Saying hello and introducing yourself—it sets a positive tone.
- Being mindful of noise—especially late at night or early in the morning
- Parking only in legal, permitted spots
- Small gestures—like helping shovel snow or saying thank you—can build trust.
- Attend neighborhood meetings or town events when possible.
- Make sure your guests follow the same expectations
- Respond respectfully if concerns are raised.
Keep Noise in Check 📢
Keeping the peace is one of the most important parts of being a good neighbor. Late-night parties and loud music can lead to strained neighbor relations—and fines.
- Observe local noise ordinances, especially during nighttime quiet hours; check local government websites for noise ordinances.
- For example:
- Narragansett’s noise ordinance prohibits unreasonable noise after 10 p.m.
- South Kingstown restricts excessive noise after 11 p.m.
- For example:
- Keep music, voices, and outdoor activities at a respectful volume.
- If you host guests, ensure they arrive and leave quietly.
- Refrain from holding large or disruptive gatherings, especially on weeknights.
🗑️ Take Care of Trash
- Store garbage in sealed bins; avoid overfilling
- Recycle properly—check your town’s guidelines
- Bring trash and recycling bins to the curb only on pickup days
- Bring trash and recycling bins in promptly after collection
Maintain Your Property
- Keep your hallway, yard, porch, and sidewalks free from trash and clutter.
- Mow lawns, remove snow, and take care of seasonal upkeep, if specified in your lease.
- Avoid parking on lawns or obstructing sidewalks and driveways.
Respect Shared Spaces
You’re part of a shared community—help keep it safe and welcoming.
- Keep pets leashed and pick up after them promptly.
- Avoid gathering in large groups on front lawns or sidewalks.
- Don’t block driveways, mailboxes, or entrances to other homes.
Understand the Consequences
You’re still a URI student, even off campus. Your actions off campus still matter.
- All students are subject to the URI Student Code of Conduct for their off-campus activities while enrolled at the University.
- Violations such as disorderly conduct, illegal substance use, or disrespecting community norms can result in disciplinary action through the Dean of Students Office.
- Students found responsible for off-campus misconduct are subject to the same consequences and penalties as misconduct that occurs on campus including dismissal from the University.
- Local law enforcement and municipal authorities may also issue citations or fines for noise, property, or public behavior violations.
- Know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and as a student.
Misconduct in the community can lead to:
- Tickets and fines from local police
- Landlord intervention or lease termination
What to Do If You Witness Student Misconduct
| Step | What to Do | Additional Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Ensure your personal safety. | Always prioritize your own safety first. Do not intervene directly in situations that could be dangerous. | If someone is in immediate danger or if there is a threat to life or property, call 9-1-1. |
| Contact local authorities (if needed). | For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For noise, public disturbances, or illegal activity, call the local police department’s non-emergency line or city/town Code Enforcement. | Example: In Narragansett, call (401) 789-1091 (non-emergency police) or Code Enforcement for housing and noise violations. |
| Report the incident to URI. | Any person—student, neighbor, faculty, staff—may report student misconduct to the URI Office of Community Standards. | |
| Be specific and factual. | When submitting your report to URI, include clear details: who was involved, what happened, where and when, and any supporting evidence (e.g., photos, video, time logs). | Reports should describe the behavior objectively, avoiding speculation. Reports that lack detail may be more difficult to investigate. |
| Understand the process. | Review URI’s Student Handbook or learn more about how the University handles reports of off-campus misconduct. | Visit uri.edu/studentconduct/conduct-system/ for policies and procedures. The University may follow up with you if additional information is needed. |
| Do not use the reporting form for emergencies. | The URI report form is not monitored 24/7 and should not be used for incidents involving immediate danger. | If you are unsure, it’s always best to call 9-1-1 or your local police department first. |
Consequences of Poor Neighbor Relations
Your conduct off campus can lead to serious outcomes:
- Complaints from neighbors may result in University discipline.
- Local police may issue citations for noise, disorderly conduct, or parking violations.
- Persistent issues can damage your reputation, lead to eviction, or limit housing options for future URI students.
Be a Rhody Neighbor
Living off campus is a big step. How you show up in your neighborhood matters.
- Be visible—in good ways
- Communicate openly with neighbors
- Respect shared spaces
- Celebrate responsibly
- Help build a stronger town-gown relationship
You’re not just renting a place—you’re joining a community. Let’s make it better, together.
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