Good Neighbor Guidelines
Being part of UCR means being part of the community. Students in residential neighborhoods should take special care to follow ordinances connected to:
- Noise
- Parties & Events
- Trash
- Traffic
- Parking
- Alcohol
Neighbor complaints can lead to citations, fines, arrests, and/or UCR sanctions. Avoid complaints by following the Good Neighbor Guidelines.
- Observe quiet hours (after 10 p.m. every day). Noise should be inaudible from 50 feet during the day, and 25 feet after 10 p.m.
- Keep music, TV and conversations low.
- Follow the Riverside Noise Ordinance.
- Use amplified sound only in accordance with the Riverside Noise Ordinance.
- Avoid using exterior amplified sound.
- Negotiate with neighbors regarding hours for outdoor athletic activities such as basketball games, etc.
- In writing, notify neighbors (within 300 feet and any others requesting notification) of any event at least three days in advance. Include the event size, type, and hours, plus a phone number of a contact that will be there.
- Consider hosting large events at more appropriate off-campus venues.
- Consider hiring private security for large functions where alcohol is served.
- Set reasonable limits on the total number of large events per quarter/year.
- See other guidelines regarding trash, parking, guests, etc.
- Keep your house and yard clean and presentable.
- Dispose of trash regularly.
- Mow your lawn and landscape regularly.
- Clean up any event trash within 24 hours.
- Maintain your property in accordance with all fire, health, zoning, building and safety codes, and the City of Riverside's Landscape Maintenance Ordinance.
- Follow Riverside and California laws (and hold guests to the same standards).
- Make provisions for guest parking.
- Don’t park in or block neighbors' driveways, public alleys, or sidewalks.
- Don’t park on lawns or other unsurfaced areas.
- Tell guests about neighborhood parking restrictions.
- Tell guests to arrive and leave quietly.
- Drive slowly, safely, and sober.
- Follow Riverside and California alcohol and drug laws.
- Don’t allow illegal drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption and encourage moderation.
- Student organization officers should especially set a good example.
- Encourage events where only nonalcoholic beverages are served.
- If you serve alcohol, provide water, nonalcoholic options, and food.
- Provide sober monitors at all functions where alcohol is served.
- Educate all student organization members regarding national risk management and insurance policies, and hold members responsible where applicable.
- Consider sponsoring alcohol and drug education programs.
- Never drink and drive.
- Don’t trespass on or damage your neighbor’s property.
- Take steps to prevent your guests from trespassing on or damaging your neighbors' property.
- Take responsibility for any damage caused by your household or guests.
- Get to know your neighbors. Introduce yourself.
- Host a meeting with your neighbors before each fall quarter, especially with those within 300 feet of your house.
- Provide neighbors with current phone numbers for house contacts/student organization leaders/alumni advisors, etc.
- If you call neighbors, do so before 9 p.m.
- Address concerns and disagreements in a mature and civil manner.
- Be friendly and respectful.
- Follow all Riverside and California laws and ordinances.
- Respect your neighbors’ rights.
- Educational activities related to Good Neighbor Guidelines
- Community service
- Payment for damages
- Suspension of privileges, suspension, and/or dismissal from UCR.
City of Riverside sanctions are case-by-case and may include:
- Non-binding mediation
- Citations and/or arrest for law violations
- Civil suits (may result in fines or other judgments)
- Criminal charges (may include fines, jail time, or both)