RESIDENCE HALL SERVICES

Building/Area Hall Offices

Residents may contact the Resident Assistants at the Hall Office during posted hours of operation. If help is needed when Hall Office staff is not available in the office, students should contact Public Safety at ext. 6666. Each hall office is located on the first floor of the building for traditional residence halls. The hall office for Village residents is located in the Thomases Commons. The hall office for the College Park Apartments is located in the Lodge.

 

return to top

Fitness Centers

The Bradley Center houses an elaborate fitness and weight training facility. In addition, the Athletics department manages a Fitness Center located in the College Park Apartment’s Lodge. There are several cardio machines as well as weight machines. The hours for the Fitness Center are communicated usually within the first two weeks of each semester. Both facilities are available for use by all students (college ID required).

return to top

Laundry Facilities

Laundry is free of charge to Ramapo College residents. Washers and dryers for Pine, Bischoff, Mackin, and the Overlook are located on the first floor. Laurel Hall’s laundry room is located on the second floor. In the College Park Apartments, washers and dryers are located in the laundry room across from Mimosa. Laundry facilities in the Village are located in the Thomases Commons. Each Laundry room is open 24-hours a day. The College is not responsible for any items left abandoned in the laundry room. Items that have been abandoned for over 24 hours are subject to removal. These items may be donated to a local charity or they may be discarded.

return to top

Community Events

Community events are a vital part of residential living. Events sponsored by Residence Life are open to all Ramapo residents, regardless of where the student lives on campus and where the event is being hosted. View our Events @ResLife calendar.

The Resident Assistants, through the Office of Residence Life, provide educational and community-building events for residents. Community events not only enhance what is being learned in the classroom but also provide a forum for sharing and learning about other members of the residential community. Residents are encouraged to be active in the event planning process by sharing ideas or requesting specific events to their Resident Assistant. Faculty and staff are also encouraged to support and participate in Resident Assistant community events.

return to top

Lockouts

If a student is locked out during Hall office hours, which are Monday-Friday 12 PM – 12 AM and Saturday and Sunday 8 PM – 12 AM, they should contact the hall office for assistance. Between 12 AM and 8 AM students should contact Public Safety asking for assistance and an RA will be sent to assist them. Students should wait outside of their hall office area until the RA On-Duty arrives to assist with the lockout Lockouts conducted when the hall office is closed will result in a $15.00 fee that will be assessed to your student account.

No lockouts are conducted between 8 AM – 12 noon on any day of the week; in emergency situations during this time contact Public Safety. For your convenience, there are campus courtesy phones located near each hall/area office which can be used to contact Public Safety, should a lockout occur. After three (3) lock-outs there will be an automatic referral for the student to meet with their respective Residence/Area Director. Abuse of lockout assistance may result in fines and referral to the Office of Student Conduct.

Residents who are locked out of their room should be prepared to show their ID to the RA or Public Safety Officer to verify their identity and prove the access card has not been lost. If you lose your student ID you must get a new one at the Public Safety ID office in C-101. Please be very responsible with your ID access cards. Students who conceal the fact that they have lost their ID access card in an attempt to avoid charges jeopardize their safety and security (and the safety and security of their roommate(s). Loaner access cards are not available.

Lockout Guidelines Chart

return to top

Lost or Broken Student ID Access Cards

Students must go to the Public Safety ID Room (RM C-101) to obtain a new ID card if an ID card is lost, stolen, broken or damaged. Public Safety will give the student a new ID card for a fee. When a new card is needed it must be done in a timely manner; until the new ID card has been activated the students’ old ID card will work for their room/suite/apartment.

return to top

Summer Storage Lockers located in The Overlook

There are limited storage lockers located in The Overlook. These lockers are provided on a “first come, first serve” basis as there are only a limited number of lockers, with priority given to International Students. A maximum of one (1) locker space will be assigned per person and there is a cost of $50.00 (fee subject to change) for the entire summer. The application process will begin at the end of March and approval will be given in early May. Please contact The Overlook office at overlook@ramapo.edu with any questions. Alternatively, residents requiring storage space may contact an outside storage company in the local area.

return to top

Campus Resources

Visit Ramapo’s Information website for connections to all the important campus resources, including campus hours, and things to do on or near campus.

return to top

Campus Mail

Campus mail is received Monday through Friday at the Office of Residence Life, from Central Receiving. Mail is not delivered to campus mailboxes on Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, and whenever the college is closed. Mail is sorted and placed in students’ campus mailbox by Residence Life Staff. Students are responsible for information placed in their mailbox by the College. Resident students are required to check their Campus mailbox (and their Ramapo College email) at least once each day.

Campus Mailbox Locations

Mailboxes for Bischoff, Laurel, Mackin, Overlook and Pine residents are located in the lobby of each residence hall’s first floor. The Village mailboxes are located in the Thomases Commons and mailboxes for the College Park Apartments are in the Lodge.

Mailbox Combinations

All residents are issued a mailbox combination via email when they check into their assigned residence. If you need assistance accessing your mailbox, please contact your hall office.

Mailing Address

Students should use the address format listed below to receive mail. Any deviation from this format will result in delays. All mail for students is delivered to their campus mailbox, not their room or apartment.

Student Name
Assigned Mailbox #
501 Ramapo Valley Road
Mahwah, NJ 07430

Receiving Packages

All packages received for on-campus residents are delivered to the Office of Residence Life Mailroom (located in the Lodge in the College Park Apartments). “EZ track it” is a system the College utilizes to track incoming packages and notify residents when they receive a package. When a package is received, the resident will receive an email from EZ track it, indicating that they have a package that needs to be picked up at the Residence Life mailroom. Students must bring their student ID to the Lodge Mailroom in the College Park Apartments to retrieve packages.

Sending Packages and Letters

Outgoing mail that already has postage on it, may be brought to the Office of Residence Life Mailroom. Mailroom hours may vary from day to day and semester to semester. Please visit the Residence Life mailroom website for most up to date hours. Students may also go to the Mahwah Post Office located on East Ramapo Avenue off Franklin Turnpike, FedEx on Route 17, and The UPS Store (formerly Mailboxes, Etc.) on Franklin Turnpike to mail packages.

Mail Delivery

Mail is not delivered when the College is officially closed, including holidays and during inclement weather when the College has been closed by the President.  During the summer break, first-class mail is forwarded to your home address for a limited time to residents that have filled out forwarding labels only.  Mail is not delivered on the following Federal holidays: New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King’s Birthday; Washington’s Birthday; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day; Columbus Day; Veterans Day; Thanksgiving Day; Christmas Day.

[/column] [/columns]

At the end of each semester students are responsible for informing correspondents of their new mailing address. If students complete the forwarding mail form as part of their closing information their first class mail will be forwarded until the beginning of June. Mail that has been forwarded is usually delayed.  Bulk-rate mail and magazines cannot be forwarded.  Students having problems receiving mail on-campus should notify their hall office.

Postage Stamps

Students may buy stamps at the Roadrunner Central ticket counter (located on the second floor of the Student Center across from the Bookstore), in the Campus Bookstore located on the second floor of the Student Center, or at the Mahwah Post Office located at 12 East Ramapo Avenue in Mahwah.  Some local grocery stores also sell stamps.

return to top

Transportation

Ramapo College offers a variety of transportation services to assist students in navigating through the off-campus community as well as taking advantage of the close location of New York City.

Off-Campus Local Shuttle Services

The College contracts with a bus company to provide a 7-Day Shuttle Service for all Ramapo students, faculty, and staff. The shuttle travels to local businesses, the Ramsey Train Station and makes evening mall trips. Please refer to the TRANSPORTATION SERVICES website for the service calendar and updated schedules.

Seating for each shuttle trip is on a first come-first serve basis and cannot be reserved. For information, questions, and comments please email: shuttle@ramapo.edu.

New York City Bus: Short Line Bus Service 365 days a year NYC bus service ticket information

• Discount tickets are sold at Roadrunner Central (ext. 7933; 2nd Floor Scott Student Center). Tickets expire the last day of the calendar year.
• Discount Price (one-way) for staff with valid Ramapo I.D., Tickets are full price on bus. All tickets are non-refundable.
• Tickets are valid for all stops from Port Authority to Suffern, and Suffern to Port Authority.
• Valid Ramapo I.D. must be presented on the bus.
• Short Line Bus Schedule available online: www.shortlinebus.com. Check the Short Line Schedule for reduced service on holidays.
• Any passenger requesting an ADA-Accessible bus must inform ShortLine no later than 48 hours prior to departure at shortline@coachusa.com or call 800-631-8405 (toll free) or 201-529-3666.

The following is the link for Public Transportation Information: https://www.ramapo.edu/about/transportation/

Community Living and Resident Responsibilities

return to top

Overview and Roommate Rights

Community Living and Resident Responsibilities

Living on campus is more than just “renting a room.”  All residents are members of a community.  Being part of a community involves having responsibilities.  Students who see or hear something happening that could be dangerous to others within the community are expected to report it. 

Resident Assistants are resources for the residents and are trained to confront residents or guests when they conduct themselves inappropriately. Because residents are strongly encouraged to interact with each other on a one-on-one basis, residents should attempt to communicate effectively and harmoniously. For example, if a neighbor is playing their music too loudly, it is expected that the resident will first ask the neighbor to politely lower the music. If they do not comply, then contact the Resident Assistant through the hall office. If unable to reach a Resident Assistant then contact Public Safety at 201-684-6666.

Roommate Rights

• • The right to read and study in one’s room without interference.
  • The right to sleep at reasonable hours without disturbance from noise, guests, roommates, etc.
  • The right to a healthy and clean living environment.
  • The right to worry-free access to one’s room.
  • The right to personal privacy and freedom from inappropriate behaviors of others.
  • The right to host guests (as long as you and your guest(s) comply with all guest policies and are not interfering with the rights of others).
  • The right to live in an environment free from illegal drugs, cannabis and alcohol use (where alcohol is prohibited).

Roommate/Suitemate Contracts

Roommate/suitemate contracts or agreements can be very important tools during a resident’s college experience. Although these agreements are often thought to be useful only for situations requiring conflict resolution, they are very effective in conflict prevention.

All First Year residents at Ramapo College are required to develop a roommate/suitemate agreement with their Resident Assistant at the beginning of the year.

Other residents are strongly encouraged to develop agreements and may be required to do so by the Residence Life Staff.  The agreement will help each resident to have a more enjoyable experience and will help to alleviate a buildup of concerns that could become very uncomfortable.  Each roommate/suitemate is required to sign the agreement, which is designed to protect each resident’s rights and to help provide a comfortable living environment.  The following questions and answers attempt to clarify the importance of roommate/suitemate agreements:

Why is it important to develop a roommate/suitemate agreement at the very beginning of the year?  There are no problems yet; why should my roommate(s)/suitemate(s) and I bother?

There may not be any issues right now; however, by developing an agreement from the beginning, roommates/suitemates/apartment-mates will ensure that everyone’s rights are maintained.

Won’t this agreement limit my rights?

Too often, there is a negative perception about roommate/suitemate agreements.  The items developed in the agreement are not meant to be limiting or to prevent students from having fun.  The agreement should be viewed as a set of expectations that each roommate/suitemate has of one another, which will help to make everyone’s time living together as productive and fulfilling as possible.  Residents will spend a great deal of time with their roommate(s)/suitemates and each roommate should feel as comfortable as possible in their residence area.

Is the agreement set in stone?

Each roommate/suitemate is expected to abide by all terms outlined in the agreement.  However, some concerns may later develop which were not outlined in the original agreement.  The agreement can be amended to address any other items which the roommate(s)/suitemates feel are of importance.  The suitemates and the Resident Assistant can sit down and discuss amendments to the agreement.

What if someone violates the agreement?

If any person in the room/suite violates any term outlined in the agreement, that person will meet with the Resident Assistant, Graduate Residence Director, or a professional staff member to discuss the actions and appropriate sanctions.  Once again, by having the agreement the rights of everyone in the room/suite are protected.  If one or more individuals violate the agreement an administrative room change may be conducted at the discretion of the Residence/Area Director.

Each room/suite should develop an agreement to prevent disputes, which distract from living a healthy life and detracts from the ability to do academic work both physically and emotionally.  When roommates are ready to develop an agreement, the Resident Assistant can help them discuss which items should be addressed in the agreement.

Personal Hygiene

All residents have a right to a healthy and clean living environment.  With this in mind, residents should:

• Shower on a regular basis.
• Keep all dirty or soiled clothing in a laundry basket or hamper until they can be washed.
• Change bed linens regularly (every two weeks at minimum).
• Change and wash clothing on a regular basis (change clothes daily and wash dirty clothes weekly).

Residents who feel that a roommate has a serious hygiene problem and are uncomfortable approaching them should consult with their Resident Assistant for advice or help. Students who refuse to comply with reasonable standards of personal hygiene may have their housing privileges revoked.

return to top

Residence Agreement

return to top

Guest/Visitation Policy and Procedures

Guest Procedures

Guests are allowed in the halls as long as they comply with all Residence Life policies and procedures and do not disturb the normal operation of the building.  Guests must carry the appropriate valid identification on them at ALL times as well as their approved Guest Registration Form if residing on campus after 10:00 PM. Guests must remain with their resident (host) at all times.  Residents will be held accountable for the behavior and/or actions of the guest(s).

Each registered guest is allowed to stay on-campus no more than three (3) nights (consecutively or not) within a seven (7) day period. A night begins and ends at 10:00 PM. RCNJ residents are allowed to host up to two (2) guests at any given time.

All guests residing on-campus past the hours of 10:00 PM must carry an approved Guest Registration Form and the appropriate valid form of identification at all times. Guests may not move from host to host to stay on-campus more than three (3) nights.

Current RCNJ residential students do not need to be registered as a guest. All residents are responsible for their guests.

The College automatically assumes that all residents within a shared housing unit (room/suite/apartment) agree to permit their roommate, suitemate, or apartment-mates to register guests in their shared housing unit, without having to provide prior acknowledgment of those guests. However, residents have the right to opt-out of this automatic Guest Registration by contacting their Resident Assistant to facilitate a roommate/suitemate/apartment contract. As with any roommate/suitemate/apartment contract, if someone violates the terms of the contract, staff in the hall/area office must receive a formal complaint before they can act upon it. It is important to note that once a complaint is received for a particular room/suite/apartment, all residents of that space may lose guest privileges until they come together and a contract is developed.

It is essential that students adhere to the Occupancy Limit for Residence Units Policy for the assigned room/suite/apartment. It is the responsibility of roommates/suitemates to alert the host of the guest of any issues or concerns they may have concerning any guests or the amount of guests entering their room/suite/apartment. It is recommended that students have open conversations with roommates/suitemates about guest expectations.

*Currently Enrolled commuters with current RCNJ IDs may use their IDs at the front desk. If a commuter is not found on the list, they will need to provide another form of acceptable identification.

Adult Guests (18+)

An Adult Guest is defined as anyone who is age 18 years or older and not assigned to an on-campus student residence room, suite, or apartment.

Examples of Guests:

• RCNJ Commuter Students
• RCNJ Former Students
• Non-RCNJ Students
• Non-RCNJ Family Members

These individuals need a Guest Registration Form if residing on campus after 10 PM and can be registered any night of the week. All guests must remain with their hosts at all times. Guests must carry the approved Guest Registration Form and a valid form of identification. Please note ALL guests must sign in and out of the residence hall when entering and exiting the building between the hours of 10 PM – 5 AM.

Minor Guests (Under age 18)

A Minor is defined as a person under 18 years of age. Minor Guests are only permitted to visit on the weekends (Friday-Sunday).

Minors over the age of 14 must provide a current high school identification card. All other forms of acceptable Identification listed above will be sufficient as well.

Failure to adequately supervise guests who are minors may result in disciplinary action or termination of minor visitation privileges.

It is highly recommended that anyone who wishes to host a guest who is a minor to notify his/her respective hall office in advance.

All guests, regardless of age, must abide by all Ramapo College rules and local, State, and Federal regulations and laws.

Guest Registration Availability and Submission

In order to have a guest(s) after 10 PM, the resident (host) must register his/her guest(s) by completing a Guest Registration Form and submitting it to the respective locations indicated in the chart below. Guest Registration Forms will ONLY be approved by the Residence Hall Office or Desk Attendant Booth of the host, with the exception of those who live in The Village or The College Park Apartments. When the Hall Offices of The Village and The College Park Apartments close, residents from those areas must get their Guest Registration Forms approved at the Residence Hall Office closest to their place of residence.

No one may use the guest procedure to evade paying proper residence hall charges.  Guests may not move from host to host in order to stay on campus for more than the duration the policy states. Students and guests who are found to be in violation of these procedures will be documented by the Residence Life Staff or Public Safety Officers. Students who violate the Guest Policy may be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and may be subject to campus restriction ban.  Individuals, such as runaways or others fleeing lawful parental authority, are not permitted as guests.

NOTE: Depending on the situation, the College reserves the right to change or limit guest procedures.  Guest privileges will be revoked if actions impede the teaching and learning processes that are at the heart of the College’s mission.  Guests’ personal behaviors should conform to the wishes of all the residents in the room/suite/apartment.  It is the host’s responsibility to report the misconduct of guest(s) to the Department of Public Safety or Residence Life staff immediately. Any guest who may be in violation of a College Policy or impede the teaching and learning process that are at the heart of the College’s mission, may be asked to leave campus immediately and/or issued an immediate campus restriction ban.

Guest Restrictions

There are designated times throughout the year when guest privileges are more restricted in order to assist with Residence Hall operations. Below is a listing of these times and guest expectations and procedures.  Residents who reside on campus may not use their residency to allow others to circumvent paying for housing.

Time:	Policy:	More Information:
Fall Early Arrival Check-in	No Guests Permitted until check-in begins for designated building/ area	Residents in Early Arrival Housing who are approved to arrive to housing early due to an affiliation with a group on campus are not permitted to have guests.
Thanksgiving Break	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	Residence Hall Offices work on a revised schedule.   Desk Attendants work normal hours – 10 PM – 5 AM.
Fall Semester Finals	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	It is important to note that it is 24-hour quiet hours during this time and residents should be mindful of peers who are studying or preparing for finals. Please review expectations regarding 24-hour quiet hours and residents are expected to hold their guests to the same standards.
Fall semester check-out extensions	No Guests Permitted.	Residents are approved for a check-out extension for academic related reasons. No guests are permitted.
Winter Interim Housing	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	Winter Interim Housing period is for students who reside on campus in order to work for the college, are international students, or are in-season athletes. Residence Hall Offices work on a revised schedule. Desk Attendants work normal hours – 10 PM – 5 AM. Winter Interim Housing residents do not have the authority to allow roommates/suitemates/apartment mates to move into residences prior to normally scheduled check-in date. A Student who is found violating this will be considered an Illegal Resident. Please reference the illegal resident procedures as listed below.
Spring Early Arrival Check-in	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	Residents in Early Arrival Housing, who are approved to arrive to housing early due to an affiliation with a group on campus, are permitted to have guests. Residence Hall Offices work on a revised schedule. Desk Attendants work normal hours – 10 PM – 5 AM. A resident cannot register a semester roommate/suitemate/ apartment mate as a guest during this time period. Spring Early Arrival residents do not have the authority to allow roommates/suitemates/apartment mates to move into residences prior to normally scheduled check-in date. A Student who is found violating this will be considered an Illegal Resident. Please reference the illegal resident procedures as listed below.
Spring Break	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	Residence Hall Offices work on a revised schedule. Desk Attendants work normal hours – 10 PM – 5 AM.
Spring Semester Finals	Guests Permitted. Normal Guest procedures are followed.	It is important to note that it is 24-hour quiet hours during this time and residents should be mindful of peers who are studying or preparing for finals. Please review expectations regarding 24-hour quiet hours and residents are expected to hold their guests to the same standards.
Spring semester check-out extensions	No Guests Permitted.	Residents are approved for a check-out extension for academic related reasons. No guests permitted.
Summer School	Guests are Permitted	The Residence Hall Offices work on a revised schedule. Once a resident participates in the end of summer “all summer move-over “no guests are allowed until regular check-in begins for designated building/ area. This is regardless of Fall placement on campus.

Guest Parking Procedures

Guests are allowed to bring their vehicles on-campus. Attached to the Guest Registration Form is a parking pass. All parking passes must be completed thoroughly, stamped for approval, and placed on the dashboard of the guest’s car. Guests may only park in designated Parking Lot D, located near the Bradley Center.

If a Guest who plans to stay on campus after 10 PM is not registered prior to coming to campus, they should first park their car in Parking Lot D before receiving a Guest Registration Form Parking Pass from the appropriate residence hall. After receiving an approved Guest Registration Form Parking Pass, that guest should immediately put the parking pass on the dashboard of his/her vehicle.  If a guest receives a ticket from Public Safety for parking in Parking Lot D without a Guest Registration Form Parking Pass between the time of parking his/her vehicle, receiving a Guest Registration Form Parking Pass and putting it on his/her vehicle, the ticket may be revoked, if appealed. The guest should indicate that s/he was in the process of receiving a Guest Registration Form during the time the ticket was issued.

If a guest is only interested in visiting the campus for a couple of hours during the day, he/she should visit the Public Safety Booth at the front of the College for a day parking pass.

Guest Transportation Procedures

Guests are welcome to use both the RCNJ Shuttle and the NYC Port Authority Bus.

RCNJ Shuttle

Guests are welcome to use the RCNJ Shuttle. They must be with their host at all times. All guests should have their Guest Registration Form available when riding the RCNJ Shuttle; they may be asked to present it. If a guest is using the RCNJ Shuttle to arrive from the train station, the host must be onboard the RCNJ Shuttle to meet him/her. The times and destinations for the RCNJ Shuttle are located on the Ramapo website.

NYC Port Authority Bus

Guests are welcome to use the NYC Port Authority Bus. Their ticket must be purchased with their host’s Ramapo ID at Roadrunner Central. A guest is not required to present a Guest Registration Form to ride the NYC Port Authority Bus.

Illegal Entry

Entering another resident’s room without that person’s permission is illegal and prohibited.  Breaking into or entering any room (including entering one’s own room) by means other than the regular method of using one’s student ID swipe-card is also prohibited.  Criminal charges and/or any damage charges may be pursued for illegal entry by any unauthorized means.

Prohibited Residents

Prohibited residents are persons who visit residents’ rooms for long periods of time (for more than three days within a given week) or whose visitation violates the Guest Procedures in any way.  Unregistered guests are considered “prohibited.”

If the Office of Residence Life staff, officers from the Department of Public Safety, or other College officials find someone who is living in a campus residence, but who is not authorized to be there, the “host” student (or students) may be charged the regular housing charge for the “guest” and the “host” may be charged with conduct violations.  Violators may be fined and/or face judicial action.

Residents who are aware of a person(s) living on-campus without authorization or who is violating the Guest Policy, should notify their residence hall office staff as soon as possible. The Desk Attendant Staff will be checking the Guest Registration database on a regular basis to ensure that all residents and guests are complying with the Guest Policy.

Occupancy Limit for Residence Units Policy

The following guidelines have been established to define Ramapo College’s occupancy limit for each residence unit (room, suite, and apartment) within our Residence Halls and Apartment Complexes. Occupancy limit is defined as the maximum number of persons permitted within a housing unit at any time, including residents assigned to the unit.

The chart below lists the occupancy limits:

Should College Staff observe the number of persons present in a residential unit exceeding the occupancy limit, it will lead to an immediate dispersal of the gathering by having all persons not residing in the unit vacate the space. The incident will be documented and referred to the Office of Student Conduct for disciplinary action. Please also see related policies: Alcohol, Cannabis, Other Drugs, and Good Samaritan Policy (Link).

Outdoor Congregations:

In addition to interior occupancy limits, the following guidelines are in place for exterior areas: Obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on College premises or at College-sponsored or supervised events or activities is prohibited. Additionally, congregating in front of buildings/apartment entrances, stairwells, and balconies/landings is prohibited. Individuals or groups who obstruct the free flow of others will be instructed to clear the area and may be referred to the Office of Student Conduct for disciplinary action.

return to top

Quiet Hours

Official “Quiet Hours” are in effect:

• Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 PM – 8:00 AM
• Friday – Saturday: 1:00 AM – 12:00 noon

During these hours, noise should not be heard outside of residents’ bedroom, suite, or apartment. Violators of this policy are subject to disciplinary action. Quiet Hours are extended to 24-hours a day during Final Exam Week and are strictly enforced. Violators may have their housing privileges terminated with the imposition of disciplinary charges.

A student’s 1st and 2nd Noise Violation, witnessed by a staff member, may result in a Written Warning. The 3rd Noise Violation, witnessed by a  staff member, may result in a $50 fine, charged to the student’s account. Subsequent violations may result in the student being referred to the Office of Student Conduct for disciplinary action.

NOTE: Specific dates of 24-Hour Quiet periods will be posted prior to closing. Please note that Quiet Hours apply to all public areas in and around the residence halls/apartments including all parking lots.

Information Technology and Campus Media

return to top

Wireless Internet

• All residence hall areas have wireless internet. 
• Residence Hall rooms are equipped with wired Ethernet ports for each resident student in the room/apartment. 
• If you have connectivity issues please consult ResNet, contact your hall/area office or the ITS helpdesk (ext. 7777) or email helpdesk@ramapo.edu. 

TV/Computer Equipment Recycling

NJ legislature now requires that all TV and Computer equipment be recycled.  Ongoing recycling cannot be accommodated in the Residence Halls and Apartment complexes.  However, recycling drops will be set-up during the academic year in designated locations on campus.  As these dates may change from time to time, please review the Daily Digest and any materials from your hall/area office for dates and locations.  Do not leave any TV or Computer equipment for disposal in the Trash and Recycling areas unless expressly permitted.  If needing to dispose of TV or Computer equipment during periods other than Hall-closing periods, please consult with local recycling centers.

Dining Services and Meal Plans

return to top

Dining Services Information

Dining Services Information

Click here for Ramapo Dining Services website. Questions regarding any of this information can be directed to the Dining Services Office at (201) 684-7773.

Students assigned to Pine, Bischoff, Mackin, Laurel, and Overlook Halls are required to select and purchase a Dining Plan for each semester of the academic year. Students assigned to the apartments on campus may also choose a Dining Plan; however, it is not required. Meal plan information may be found on the Ramapo Dining Services website.

Dining Plan Information

Dining Plan Options

All dining plan information can be viewed on our Ramapo Dining website  here.

Unused flex dollars associated with one of the traditional meal plans from the fall semester will rollover to the spring semester, provided the student retains a traditional meal plan for the spring semester. Any remaining Flex dollars from a Flex plan or a Block plan will roll to the spring semester automatically. However, flex will expire at the end of the spring semester. 

If you do not reside in a residence area that is required to have a meal plan or are a commuter interested in signing up for a meal plan, please send an email from your Ramapo email account to mealplan@ramapo.edu. Be sure to include your name, R number and new meal plan selection. These plans may be purchased at any time and are valid until the end of the semester.

Dining Plan Commonly Used Terms

Flex Dollars: These are dollars attached to all Dining Plans, which may be used to purchase meals over the allotted number for each week, for student catering, guest meals, or for use in any of the retail operations on campus. These dollars are similar to a debit banking account, with the assigned amount of dollars being available at the beginning of each semester and debited as they are used throughout the semester. These dollars will roll over from fall to spring semester provided the student remains on a traditional meal plan. After final exams in the spring conclude, any remaining flex dollar balance on your students card will be forfeited.

Late Night Dining:  In addition to the traditional breakfast, lunch, and dinner served, Ramapo College offers a late night dining program from 9 pm to 11pm Monday through Friday and 8 pm to 10 pm Saturday and Sunday. Students may use a meal swipe during this time frame.

Meal: This represents each time a student enters the student restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The student may enter the facility only once during each meal period, with the exception of the Ultimate plan, which offers unlimited usage. Any additional meals over and above the number stated in the selected Dining Plan will require payment with Flex, Ramapo Dollars, cash or credit.

Ramapo Dollars: Ramapo Dollars are similar to flex dollars and can be purchased in any amount, at any point throughout the semester. Ramapo Dollars are purchased separately, aside from a meal plan and will carry over from semester to semester. These funds may be used throughout the student’s college career at Ramapo. Ramapo Dollars are non-refundable regardless of the reason. Ramapo Dollars may be purchased at the Ramapo Dining Office or by emailing ramapodollars@ramapo.edu. Please include your name, R# and amount of Ramapo Dollars you would like to add. 

Charges for Ramapo Dollars are placed directly on a student’s account. Purchases made in Dining Services are paid by cash or check only and may be purchased for any amount. Ramapo Dollars may also be used in the Bookstore to make purchases. 

Retail Operation: This refers to facilities which are not specifically geared towards meal plans. The retail operations on campus are the Atrium, located in the Scott Student Center, Dunkin’ located in the Adler Nursing Building, the Convenience Store, located in the Trustees Pavilion and Common Grounds located in the Peter P. Mercer Learning Commons. All locations  accept cash, charge,  Flex and Ramapo Dollars.

Student Restaurant: The student restaurants are the facilities that offer all you care to eat dining for students on dining plans, as well as visitors who wish to pay a flat rate at the door. The student restaurants are located in the Trustees Pavilion (Pavilion) and the Scott Student Center (Birch Tree Inn).

Week: The week begins on Saturday and ends on Friday. There are four meals served Monday through Friday: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night dining. There are three meals served on Saturday and Sunday: brunch, dinner and late night dining. Meal allotment is reallocated on Saturday for brunch. There are approximately 16 weeks in each semester.

return to top

Dining Facilities

Dining Facilities

Following is a list of the dining facilities on campus. Hours vary by location and time of year. Customers can call Dining Services at 201-684- 7773, visit the Dining Services website or see signage posted at each location for specific hours of operation.

---

The Atrium

The Atrium is a retail operation located in the Scott Student Center. This operation accepts cash, credit, Flex and Ramapo Dollars as methods of payment. This location is primarily a quick service and convenience item venue.

---

The Birch Tree Inn

The Birch Tree Inn is an all you care to eat Student Restaurant located in the Scott Student Center. This operation caters primarily to the resident students with a meal plan however also accepts cash, credit, Flex and Ramapo Dollars as methods of payment as well. The menu includes a variety of daily choices designed to suit the needs and tastes of students.

---

Dunkin

Ramapo College is now home to one of the forty-eight in total next generation store fronts of Dunkin’. The Next Gen storefront, located in the school’s Adler Center for Nursing Excellent building features a modern atmosphere with new innovative technologies. Donuts, breakfast & lunch items, Nitro infused coffee and a state of the art tap system for coffee brewing are just a few of the new offerings that you can experience when visiting the location. This operation accepts cash, credit, Flex and Ramapo Dollars as methods of payment.

---

Common Grounds

“We Proudly Serve” Starbucks is located in the Peter P. Mercer Learning Commons. Please see our website for hours of operation. Serving both hot and cold Starbucks drinks as well as pastries, breakfast items and assorted hot and cold grab and go items. This operation accepts cash, credit, Flex and Ramapo Dollars as methods of Payment.

---

return to top

Changing Dining Plans

Students may change their Dining Plan up until the 100% refund date, as published in the academic calendar. If students would like to change their meal plan, they may do so by emailing from their Ramapo College email account to mealplan@ramapo.edu.

Dining Rules and Regulations

Dining Rules and Regulations

Students must present a valid college I.D. card in order to use their Meal Plan, Flex Dollars or Ramapo Dollars. Meal Plans are non-transferable and may not be used by anyone other than the owner of the I.D. . Students are entitled to unlimited service while in the Student Restaurants, however, food, trays or service ware may not be removed from the dining area. If an I.D. card is lost, student’s must notify Dining Services immediately to ensure that their account is protected until a replacement card can be obtained through Public Safety.

As a common courtesy to other users, students are asked to place their food, dishes, utensils, etc., in the provided receptacles when leaving the dining facility. These rules apply to all outside seating areas as well.

College Park Apartments and Village Residents

Students in the apartments may shop at the local grocery stores and cook their own meals in the kitchen facilities provided in their apartment. Although it is not mandatory for apartment residents or commuters to purchase a Meal Plan, it is encouraged. Apartment residents/commuters may sign up for a Meal Plan by emailing mealplan@ramapo.edu from their Ramapo email account. Student’s living in the apartment areas are also able to purchase a Block plan which includes a specified number of meal swipes per semester. Students may also purchase Ramapo Dollars directly from Dining Services or by emailing ramapodollars@ramapo.edu from their Ramapo email account.

Late Night Dining

Late Night Dining allows students to enjoy lighter fare such as pizza, pasta, ice cream, made to order deli sandwiches, quick service foods, fruit and assorted beverages at the Birch Tree Inn from 9 pm to 11pm Monday through Friday and 8 pm to 10pm Saturday and Sunday. Students may access “late night” as part of their Meal Plan or with Flex, Ramapo Dollars, cash or credit.

Boxed Meals

Students who are ill or disabled and cannot get to one of the dining facilities can also make arrangements for a boxed meal by calling Dining Services at (201) 684-7773. In such cases, a friend or roommate can pick up the meal for them, using the student’s I.D. along with a note of explanation. Advance notice of such a need is appreciated and will better ensure prompt service.

Special Diets

Dining Services can accommodate most special diets. Vegetarian and vegan interests are kept in mind as menus are developed. There is a specific process for making special requests for medical, religious, cultural or other reasons.  Students with such requests should inquire at the Dining Services Office, located across from the Atrium dining room.

Facilities, Housekeeping, and Work Orders

return to top

Cleaning, Recycling and Trash Removal

Residents are responsible for cleaning their own suite/room/apartment bedroom, bathroom and common areas. Residents are also required to bring their own cleaning products, vacuum, broom, and mop. It is highly recommended that residents create a timeline for cleaning their living area at the beginning of each semester. Please view the  Sustainability Website for information regarding Ramapo College’s commitment to Sustainable Practices.

return to top

The Office of Facilities and Work Orders

The Office of Facilities has a web based system that allows users to input a request for routine services via a series of click-and-pick menus. Any questions regarding this site can be referred to Facilities at extension 7660. Please report any work order needs to your hall office and the Residence Life staff will submit the request on your behalf.

If you require immediate assistance, problems such as no power, elevator malfunctions, plumbing leaks/clogs, no heat/AC any lock related problem, or health safety concerns please call the Service Desk at extension 7660, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM or Public Safety after these hours at extension 6666.

If utilizing the online system on your own, please send only one request per issue. Our system will send automatic email notifications to the sender when the request is processed, when the status changes and when the work is complete. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your request, you may call our Service Desk at extension 7660; please reference the request number generated by the system when you call.

return to top

Asbestos

The College Park apartments were built before 1980, and some of their construction materials contain asbestos. Buckeye, Holly, International, Mimosa, Elm, Palm, Redwood, Hickory, Science, Mulberry, and Cypress have been renovated and are asbestos-free. Materials that contain asbestos include floor tiles/mastic and joint compound in walls and ceilings. These materials present no hazard unless they are impaired or disturbed. Puncturing these materials could cause a release of asbestos fibers. Please do not insert nails, tacks, hooks or otherwise impair or disturb the materials. If you notice any damage, please vacate the apartment and report it immediately to your Resident Assistant. Please contact Gina Mayer-Costa, the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, at gmayerco@ramapo.edu or at ext.7531 with any questions.

return to top

Heating Ventilating Air-Conditioning Units (HVAC)

Please do not block HVAC units with furniture or personal belongings, and do not cover vents. Students who detect a smell or noise should submit a work order immediately. If smoke is visible, they should contact Public Safety immediately while vacating the area. HVAC units are inspected twice a year.

The process of switching the cool air to heat in the fall and heat to cool air in the spring can take up to one week. Once air has been switched by our Facilities department, they will not switch the air back to it’s previous setting until the following semester. The Village, the College Park Apartments Phase II, the Overlook and Pine Hall have the ability to experience cool air and heat year-round. Should you have concerns at any time with your heating and cooling system within your residence area, please be sure to contact your hall office or Resident Assistant for assistance.

We encourage all residents of a living unit to agree on an HVAC setting for the suite at the start of each semester.

Should you have concerns at any time with your heating and cooling system within your residence area, please be sure to contact your hall office or Resident Assistant for assistance.

return to top

Pest Extermination and Insects

Ramapo College is located in a wooded area with a diverse and plentiful population of insects. However, students who find an excessive number of insects in their room/suite/apartment. should contact their hall office staff. The College employs the practice (IPM), (Integrated Pest Management) in conjunction with the service of a contracted pest control company. IPM means before using aggressive measures, the College exhausts other measures first. For instance, Facilities makes sure that screens are in place on all windows and weather stripping is in place around doorways, etc. Students are also expected to take out trash on a regular basis, report any plumbing leaks and practice clean housekeeping standards. Leaving dirty dishes or food items in unsealed containers will invite vermin. In some cases, monitoring traps are used to identify the pest involved and a determination is then made on how to proceed. Residents will be informed if more aggressive measures are needed. Students should contact their hall/area office to coordinate with The Office of Facilities in the event that they believe there is a pest problem.

return to top

Facilities Emergencies and After Hours Emergencies

Any needed repair that affects the health, safety or security of students should be reported immediately. The chart below provides guidelines for determining who to call for emergencies. Examples of emergencies are: clogged/overflowing toilets, broken pipes, any lock problem, no heat, and broken windows in inclement or cold weather or no lighting around stairways.

Time of Day	Who to Call	Phone
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday – Friday	The Office of Facilities	201-684-7660
4:30 PM – 8:00 PM	Public Safety	201-684-6666
After midnight	Public Safety	201-684-6666
Weekends	Public Safety	201-684-6666
8:00 PM – 12:00 midnight	Your hall office (to speak to your RA)	Found here

return to top

Miscellaneous Maintenance Issues

Odors in Pine Hall

From time to time and under certain weather conditions, residents may notice a natural gas odor in Pine Hall.  A pressure relief valve located outside of the boiler house next to Pine Hall causes this odor. The valve is designed to relieve boiler pressure when four or more of the boilers shut down simultaneously. This odor will be of short duration and poses no danger to anyone. There are NO gas lines in the building. However, it is important that students still continue to report all unusual odors of any kind immediately to the Facilities Office, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM or to the Public Safety Department after 4:30 PM.

Bischoff/Mackin/Overlook bathroom fumes

The bathroom floor drains in Bischoff, Mackin and the Overlook may emit a foul odor at some point during the semester.  Students who smell this odor coming from the drain should try to solve the problem by pouring a few cups of water down the drain first. DO NOT use any liquid plumber solution to unclog a drain. These products damage the plumbing system. If the smell remains, contact the Facilities Office at ext. 7660.

Pending maintenance requests

Students who have submitted a maintenance request and have received no action or follow-up about it in a reasonable time frame should notify the appropriate hall office, or call the Facilities Service line ext. 7660.  Students who call the Service Line and have received the emailed response should have the work order number available when asking questions about the request.  Students should keep in mind that the average response time for non-emergency work requests is approximately five (5) days.  The average response time for emergencies between 8 AM and 10 PM is less than 60 minutes.

Plumbing

Residence Life has provided a plunger for each resident’s bathroom.  Please contact the hall office if a plunger is not present at the time you check-in.

Toilet overflow

Call Facilities at 201-684-7660 and let them know about the problem if the above steps do not resolve it.  An overflowing toilet is considered an emergency repair; if the Facilities Department is unavailable, immediately call Public Safety at 201-684-6666. Students can stop an overflowing toilet by shutting off the water valve at the bottom left or right-hand side of the toilet (this feature may not be available on all toilets).  To close the valve, turn it counterclockwise, this will prevent water from passing through. Students can also use the plunger provided in each bathroom to loosen any materials or waste that may be clogging the toilet.  

DO NOT use any liquid plumber solution to unclog a toilet or drain.  These products damage the plumbing system.  Inform the Residence Life staff if it becomes a recurring problem.  Call Public Safety at 201-684-6666 if there is a plumbing emergency.

Water conservation

High efficiency water-saving toilets, low-flow sink aerators, and showerheads have been installed in the residence halls.  Please follow these guidelines in order to ensure the proper functioning of these items:

• Use toilet paper conservatively and be as efficient as possible.
• Dispose of all feminine hygiene products in a wastebasket securely wrapped.
• Never flush foreign objects, wipes (disposable or flushable), feminine hygiene products, food, trash, or paper towels down the toilet.
• Medical syringes and other medical waste must be disposed of according to NJ laws and regulations. See the Director of Health Services for information.

Please note: Students found responsible for clogging the toilet due to not adhering to the above guidelines will be held liable for all costs associated with cleanup and replacement of college property such as carpet, tiles, furniture etc.

Public Safety and General Information

return to top

Public Safety Department

The Public Safety Department is located in rooms C-101 and C-102 in the main Academic Building.  The Public Safety main office is in room C-102 and is open 24-hours a day, seven days a week, year-round.  Their Parking and ID Office, in Rm. C-101, processes Photo ID Cards and addresses parking permit questions and problems. Questions on parking and permits may also be submitted through parking@ramapo.edu.  Public Safety may be reached for non-emergency assistance at ext. 7432, or for emergencies at ext. 6666.

All students intending to operate a vehicle on campus are expected to become familiar with RCNJ Motor Vehicle Rules and Regulations, found on the Public Safety webpage. An Adobe Reader printable version of the Regulations is available as well.

All students parking a vehicle on campus must have a current and valid parking permit displayed for that vehicle.  Go to www.ramapo.thepermitstore.com to apply for the current academic year permit.

Note: The parking fee is included with tuition and other fees, but PAYMENT OF THE PARKING FEE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE COMPLIANCE WITH THE PARKING REGULATIONS. YOU MUST APPLY FOR THE PERMIT AT THE ABOVE WEBSITE, RECEIVE IT AND AFFIX IT TO THE PROPER LOCATION ON YOUR VEHICLE (REAR LEFT PASSENGER WINDOW, LOWER RIGHT CORNER). If you do not receive your permit by mail within 10 – 14 BUSINESS days, contact parking@ramapo.edu.

return to top

Photo IDENTIFICATION Cards

Every Ramapo student is issued a photo ID from the Public Safety ID Office. Students are expected to keep this ID on their person at all times as it may be requested by any Ramapo official and/or Residence Life staff upon request to properly identify a person. Students who lose or damage their ID may obtain a new one at the Public Safety ID Office.

All resident guests are required to carry an Overnight Guest Pass at all times and must present the pass to any Ramapo official upon request. Failure to present identification upon request will result in a fine and/or judicial action.

return to top

Temporary Permits

If you are using another vehicle temporarily, you must obtain a one day temporary parking permit at the main entrance’s Public Safety booth or the vehicle will be subject to citations.  If a longer term temporary permit is needed, go to Public Safety, Rm. C101.  All visitors must stop at the Public Safety booth and obtain a one day temporary parking permit as well.

return to top

Reserved Parking

Parking spaces reserved for those with disabilities are clearly marked. Parking in a fire lane or a handicapped space without legal authorization may result in a NJ State-assessed fine of at least $200, with additional and/or higher fines and penalties if also ticketed by the Mahwah Township Police. The Mahwah Police Department patrols the campus and enforces traffic and parking laws, especially for emergency and access routes and parking for people with disabilities. Vehicles parked in an unauthorized space may be booted and/or towed at the vehicle operator’s expense.

Students are not authorized to park in spaces displaying a reserved sign (i.e., reserved 24 hours, Residence Life Staff, Service Vehicles, etc.) and/or in a residence area not authorized for the parking permit displayed. All violations to this policy are subject to parking citations.

All parking regulations are strictly enforced. There are costly fines for infractions.

return to top

Gate Access/Resident Area Parking

Gate Access/Resident Area Parking

All residents needing gate access must go to Public Safety’s Parking and ID Office (Rm. C-101) to have their ID card coded for the correct gate access. ID Cards are NOT coded for gate access automatically.

Residents must use their Ramapo College ID to gain entrance to the North side of Campus (Overlook/College Park Apartments). All residents’ vehicles will be issued permits according to their residence location. All Bischoff/Mackin residence are authorized to park in Bischoff/Mackin Hall parking lots.  Overflow parking for these residence areas are the C1, C2, C3 and D lots.  First Year Student Pine Hall residents are authorized to park in the D LOT ONLY.  Village residents may park only in the B-4, C or D lots. Laurel residents must have their ID card coded for access the parking deck via the south side of campus – Tupelo Road gate to Woods Road. Overlook residents may use the parking deck for overflow parking, however, they can only access the parking deck via the north side of campus, as Overlook residents’ do not receive gate access via Tupelo and Woods Road.

Citation Appeals Process

Citations issued to vehicles must be appealed within 20 calendar days of issuance. Failure to file the appeal within 20 calendar days constitutes forfeiture of the right to appeal. Appeals are made online at https://ramapo.thepermitstore.com/.

Appeals ARE NOT CONSIDERED for the following reasons:

• Ignorance of the regulation
• Stated inability to find a legal parking space
• Operation of the vehicle by another person
• Stated failure of parking enforcement staff to ticket previously for similar offenses
• Inability to pay the fine
• Disagreement with RCNJ Motor Vehicle Rules and Regulations

In all cases, appellants should provide evidence to support their position, i.e., witness statements, photographs, etc. The Appeals Committee may invalidate citations found to be in error but may not reduce published fines or other sanctions for those reasons listed above. The decisions of the Appeals Committee, comprised of Ramapo College staff, faculty and students are final. Appellants will receive an email notification of the Appeal outcome. The Appeals Process can take up to one month or more during the academic year.

return to top

Visitor and Guest Parking

Residents and their guests must comply with campus motor vehicle regulations, or the resident student may have their resident parking privileges revoked, and the guest will be banned from the Ramapo College campus. The ONLY authorized locations for overnight resident guests are the C or D lots. Overnight guests parking in the residence areas will be ticketed. Resident students are responsible for ensuring that their guests are parked legally and have obtained the proper temporary overnight parking pass from their respective residence hall staff. Please see the Guest Policy for more information. PARKING AT RAMAPO COLLEGE IS AT OPERATOR’S RISK.

return to top

Walkways

Occasionally, emergency vehicles (police, fire, and/or Emergency Medical Service) may need to use walkways to gain closer access to buildings. In addition, some campus vehicles may need to use them when there is a direct work-related reason to do so, but only when vehicles are operated at slow speeds. Golf carts and other campus vehicles operated at an unsafe speed and/or driven recklessly is a danger for all pedestrians and particularly for students with disabilities. Violators are subject to fines and other disciplinary action.

Please be safe and courteous to fellow students and others by using only roadways for vehicular travel, and stopping to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. Driving on the walkways is a direct violation of campus motor vehicle regulations and New Jersey Motor Vehicle Statutes, and violators will be subject to fines and/or other disciplinary action. It is a particular danger to students with disabilities.

return to top

Driving on Campus

The operation of a motor vehicle on the Ramapo College Campus is a privilege. All persons who bring a motor vehicle on campus are subject to the rules and regulations of the College and the laws of the State of New Jersey. Residents are required to report all traffic/automobile accidents that occur on campus to the Public Safety Office. The speed limit for driving on campus is posted on all roads and parking lots; please refer to the Motor Vehicle Information, rules and regulations published by Public Safety for specific guidelines. Pedestrians always have the right of way; stop so that pedestrians may safely cross streets. Several roadways on campus have raised pedestrian crosswalks installed. Vehicles approaching those crosswalks must obey the posted 5 mph speed zone while crossing carefully over the crosswalks and stop to allow pedestrian(s) attempting to cross the roadway.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is strictly prohibited under New Jersey law. Driving without a current and valid driver’s license is also prohibited under New Jersey law. All cars must have valid registrations and be properly insured as required by law. Ramapo College adheres to all New Jersey State laws; vehicular violations may result in fines, RCNJ judicial action, and/or police involvement. (Refer to the sections on parking on campus, and see the yearly Public Safety Department publication “Motor Vehicle Information, Rules and Regulations.”) The Mahwah Police have the legal authority to arrest drivers on the campus or to issue municipal tickets for parking infractions, especially in handicapped parking spots or in prohibited areas.

return to top

Campus Safety

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Public Safety Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998 requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to disclose the reported instances of certain kinds of criminal activity on their campuses.

In compliance with this Act, the Public Safety Department provides a booklet entitled, Public Safety Department Policies and Practices and Campus Crime Statistics to anyone who requests a copy from the office. This same document is available to students online and can be viewed here. Printed copies are also available in the Public Safety Office.

return to top

Construction Sites

To ensure safety, only authorized contractors (and certain college officials) are permitted beyond or within construction barriers. These barriers are put in place for everyone’s protection. It is extremely important that students do not go beyond the construction barriers (e.g., fences) that surround these very dangerous construction areas. For construction areas where barriers have not been placed, students must still maintain a safe distance. Entering and/or throwing objects into and/or beyond these areas will result in a fine and serious disciplinary action. Should you ever see any hazardous situations at a construction site, please call Public Safety immediately at 201-684-6666.

return to top

return to top

Vandalism

Students are asked to immediately report any vandalism, destruction of property, or other inappropriate behavior to their Resident Assistant, hall office, and Public Safety (201-684-6666). If graffiti contains prejudicial statements or symbols, students are asked to call Public Safety. Bulletin Boards are located throughout the Residence Halls and areas. Bulletin Boards that are damaged or altered in any way will be considered vandalism and violators will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct.

return to top

Public Safety Escorts

The Public Safety Department will provide escort services when sufficient personnel are available to do so. Students should understand however, that given limited Public Safety Department personnel, escorts cannot be used for the purpose of simple social visitation or the completion of academic assignments. Public Safety Escorts will be provided from on-campus locations to a student’s on-campus residence or automobile.

Students should call Public Safety when danger is perceived to them, others, property, or if a serious health emergency exists. Suspicious persons and/or situations should always be reported to Public Safety at ext. 6666. In the event, the Mahwah Police’s emergency number is 9-911 (college extension) or 911 (non-college phone). Routine transportation to such locales as the post office, bank, train station, or grocery store is not provided by Public Safety. Consult the shuttle schedule or arrange separate transportation through a local taxi service.

return to top

Complaint Form for Reporting Incidents

The Ramapo College Public Safety Department and the Student Well Being Core ask for all students’ assistance in dealing with crime and other incidents, such as illegal bias incidents that occur on campus. Students who know of a crime that has occurred or is occurring should report it immediately. The Anonymous/Complaint Form is available through the Public Safety Department webpage. Students may also request a hard-copy of the complaint form in either the Public Safety office or the Student Well Being Core. All information may be reported anonymously and results in an investigation being initiated.

Policies and Procedures

This section of the Guide to Community Living covers the policies and procedures of the Office of Residence Life but does not encompass all rules and policies for students.  Information on Ramapo College policies and procedures can be found in the Student Handbook here.

return to top

Housing Selection Information

Eligible continuing residents may participate in the online housing selection process in the spring term. Commuter Students are not eligible to participate in this process. The process allows students to choose housing based on class status (determined by number of earned credits).  Residence Life is unable to guarantee all residents will receive their preferred housing choice. In order to participate in the online process, continuing residents must submit a $500 non-refundable deposit by the specified deadline.  Details pertaining to this process will be posted on the Residence Life website during the spring semester. Students who do not participate in the housing selection process will not be guaranteed housing for the upcoming semester.

return to top

Housing Deposit for Continuing Residents

Continuing residents who wish to reserve campus housing for the subsequent academic year will be required to submit a non-refundable $500 housing deposit. This deposit must be paid in order for a student to be eligible to participate in the online housing selection process. The deposit will be used as a credit against a student’s housing charges for the term in which housing is being reserved. Housing deposits are non-refundable and will be forfeited should a student withdraw from housing. Students who withdraw are encouraged to review their account online within 48-72 hours to see if the forfeited housing deposit has created a balance on their account or increased a current balance.

return to top

Housing Contract

Students who reside in campus housing are required to comply with the policies and expectations outlined in the Residence Agreement, which all residents sign prior to residing in campus housing. The most updated Residence Agreement will always be located here.

return to top

Guaranteed Housing

Students are guaranteed housing for eight consecutive semesters as long as they remain full-time students, are in good social and academic standing, satisfy all their financial obligations to the College, and follow published procedures regarding Housing Selection and the Spring Intent process.

return to top

Summer Housing

The area that summer school residents will reside in varies each year; placement information will be provided upon summer check-in. There are no “alcohol allowed” housing assignments available, regardless of age; all summer student housing assignments will remain “alcohol prohibited.” Meal plans will not be available; however, students may purchase Ramapo Dollars by emailing ramapodollars@ramapo.edu with their request. Summer housing is limited and placement is made on a first come, first serve basis.

Summer Housing is available to enrolled Ramapo College students who meet any of the following criteria:

• Registered for summer classes
• Ramapo College Student Employee
• Internship
• International Students
• Housing Insecure (Approval is required for this option)

Prior to being approved for summer housing, student records will be checked to ensure students are in good social standing with the College. Students who are not in good social standing will not be eligible for summer housing.

Students who work for Ramapo College are entitled to a 50% housing discount. To qualify for the employee discount, students must be employed by Ramapo College, work a minimum of 15 hours a week and their dates of employment must match their registered summer housing session. Student volunteers are not eligible for the 50% housing discount.

return to top

International Students

International Student Early Arrival Requests

Request for early arrival – Fall semester:

Continuing international students may request to be an early arrival at no charge. Arrivals prior to the all Summer housing move-over date will be charged based on a prorated Summer school housing rate, and only if the student’s residence assignment is ready for occupancy.

Request for early arrival – Spring semester:

Continuing international students may request to be an early arrival at no charge for check-ins occurring two days prior to the regular Spring check-in date. Arrival beyond two (2) days before regular Spring check-in will be charged based on a prorated Winter housing rate.

All early arrival requests must be submitted at least three weeks in advance to erylariv@ramapo.edu.

---

return to top

Housing Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities

Residents with a documented disability who wish to request housing accommodations in order to take full advantage of college programs and services must contact the Office of Specialized Services. For a student’s housing accommodation to be considered timely the student must complete the OSS affiliation process by the following deadlines:

                                                                    Fall                              Spring                         Summer

Continuing students:                           March 15th                  November 1st                   April 1st

First year students:                              June 1st                       November 1st

Transfer students:                               June 1st                      November 1^st

Students who miss the housing deposit or the OSS accommodation request deadline will be placed based on availability over the summer or during the room change process. Attempts will still be made to meet the student’s accommodation needs, however based on availability  arrangements may not be accommodated.

In some cases, a late OSS accommodation request will result in Residence Life’s inability to meet an approved accommodation request for the semester in which it was originally requested.

return to top

Themed Housing Options

GENDER INCLUSIVE HOUSING

Most housing assignments on Campus are made based on the same gender. Ramapo College seeks to provide a living environment welcoming to all gender identities; one not limited by the traditional gender binary. Gender Inclusive Housing (GIH) allows for same-gender, opposite-gender or other-gender identities to live together regardless of biological sex. This provides a living/learning environment where residents can learn about and explore gender identity and expression in a supportive environment.

Gender Inclusive Housing participants must commit to maintaining an inclusive and welcoming living environment free of discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Each resident accepted to live in Gender Inclusive Housing must agree to the Gender Inclusive Housing Agreement and will have a responsibility to develop and uphold standards for the community. Participants must also agree to take part in the assessment of the Gender Inclusive Housing program by participating in occasional surveys.

More info about Gender Inclusive Housing can be found on the Women’s Center website.

return to top

Full Time Status

On-campus residence is only available to students who are registered and actively attending as full-time (which is equivalent to 12 credits or more) during both fall and spring semesters of said academic year.  Students who drop below full-time status after the last day to drop classes with 50% tuition refund date (as per the published academic calendar) will receive notification from the Office of Residence Life that they have been granted a one-time only exception to stay in the residence area.  A student will only be granted this exception once in their college career.  If the student drops below full-time status again, they will receive a notice to vacate the residence area. 

Graduating seniors in their last semester, a resident completing the final classes in a minor or a resident unable to carry 12 credits for disability related reason will always be granted an exception to stay in residence area without being in full-time status.  Such persons must inform the Office of Residence Life in advance via email to reslife@ramapo.edu to receive approval to reside on campus with less than the minimum requirement.

Room Occupancy

Students may occupy their assigned residence hall room on the opening date announced prior to each semester. Failure to occupy a reserved room by the first official day of classes may result in forfeiture of the student’s room assignment. The space may be reassigned to students on the housing waitlist. Any student forfeiting a room assignment will need to reapply for any future housing requests. If a student needs to check in later than their area’s check in day, they must email their hall office by the date that they are originally supposed to check in with the date they plan to arrive in order to keep their housing assignment.

All residence halls/apartments/suites/rooms shall be vacated no later than 24-hours after the student’s last final examination or, at maximum, no later than the time designated in the closing letter. Students must follow the special directives issued by the Office of Residence Life regarding checkout, guests and all other matters. Exceptions may be granted to students on a case by case basis and should be communicated to your respective Residence/Area Director prior to the expected departure date.

return to top

Administrative Relocation Policy

The Vice President of the Student Well Being Core or their designee reserves the right to reassign any student to another space for reasons of discipline, safety, health, unresolved conflict, or to achieve maximum space utilization.

return to top

Room Consolidation

The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to reassign any student to another space for reasons of discipline, safety, health, unresolved conflict, or to achieve maximum space utilization. When a resident is left in a double occupancy room without a roommate, for whatever reason, the resident may be required to select a new roommate for their room (or one will be selected for the resident), or move in to another residence room that has a vacancy. Residents without roommates are not allowed to use their roommate’s furniture/space as someone may move in at any time to occupy the existing vacancy.

Ramapo College reserves the right to (a) authorize or deny room and roommate changes, (b) place additional students in a student’s assigned room, (c) consolidate vacancies, and (d) re-designate building assignments if it is in the best interest of the overall housing community. Students may be administratively reassigned by the Vice President of the Student Well Being Core (or designee) to maintain the best environment for learning.

return to top

Village Residency Requirements

Students who are 21 years of age or older may reside in a Village alcohol allowed housing assignment. Alcohol is prohibited in all apartments in the Village, unless the residents of the apartment have completed all required procedures for alcohol allowed housing and have received written acknowledgement from the Village hall office of their alcohol-allowed housing status. Students who are under 21 years of age may reside in a Village housing assignment that is alcohol prohibited.

There are designated alcohol allowed suites in Laurel on the 7th and 8th floors. Alcohol is prohibited in all suites in the Laurel Hall 7th and 8th floors unless the residents of those suites have completed all required procedures for alcohol allowed housing and have received written acknowledgement from the Laurel hall office of the alcohol-allowed status.

return to top

Check-in

On the first day of a student’s approved date to move into their housing assignment, students will report to their assigned residence hall area. Prior to arrival, students should complete the check in agreement as well as the emergency contact information. A mailbox number and combination will be issued at the time of check in. A resident’s suite door and the front entrance door are programmed for access using their student ID card. Residents who do not check-in within 24 hours of the opening of the Residence Halls/Apartments may forfeit their housing unless prior arrangements have been made for a late check-in. If a resident will be checking in late, they need to email their hall office to inform them of their late arrival prior to the scheduled check in date.

return to top

Check-Out Information

All residents must complete the check-out processes that are communicated by the Office of Residence Life prior to the end of the Fall and Spring semester in order to avoid an improper check-out fine, starting at $75.

Students who are approved for a room change are required to remove all personal items from their original housing assignment and complete check-out paperwork at the original hall office by the date and time communicated in their approval notice. Failure to check-out as directed may result in an improper check-out fine and further disciplinary action.

CLOSING INFORMATION WEBSITE POST CHECK-OUT BILLING WEBSITE

Check-Out Room Configurations

Upon check-out, it is the residents’ responsibility to ensure that all college issued furniture and/or other related college property are returned to its original location and properly assembled. Failure to comply with these expectations may result in damage billing charges and/or disciplinary action.

Check-Out Extensions

Students who need to remain in housing past the designated check-out date and time must complete the Check-Out Extension Request process. Requests for check-out extensions will not be granted for any non-academic related reasons including unavailable/late transportation and off-campus employment. Students who have approved check out extensions are not allowed to have guests during the approved extension period.

return to top

Housing Withdrawal Process

Students who wish to withdraw from housing must do so by following the online withdrawal process, online. The Withdrawal process is not complete until all belongings have been removed from their room/suite/apartment and all necessary paperwork has been completed. Failure to check-out properly may result in an improper check-out fee. Upon completion of your check-out, a damage assessment of the student’s room will be conducted. The hall/area office will submit the housing withdrawal form to the main Residence Life Office after the student has completed the check-out process. Please note: Filling out this form does NOT withdraw the student from classes; course withdrawals must be completed through the Registrar’s Office.

If you withdraw from housing and decide at a later date that you would like on campus housing, you must resubmit a commuter housing application with the required housing deposit to the Office of Student Accounts. Upon receipt of your commuter application, your name will be added to the commuter  list. Please note: housing is not guaranteed for those on the commuter list.

Students who voluntarily withdraw from housing, students who are administratively withdrawn from housing or students who lose housing as a result of a judicial sanction must reapply for any future housing requests, as their guaranteed housing status is no longer in effect. Once a student is withdrawn from housing, they are considered a commuter student and must reapply for future housing requests as their guaranteed housing status is no longer in affect.

Students who have been granted an approved Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA) must follow the withdrawal process outlined above. Students who intend to return to housing after the MLOA must obtain clearance through the Office of Counseling and Health Services. Although, students are guaranteed housing upon their approval of return, we are unable to guarantee a specific housing assignment. The student’s age as well as credits (on file at the time of placement) will be taken into consideration.

Students who are withdrawing from housing for Military obligations or a Study Abroad program through Ramapo College must submit a Temporary Housing Withdrawal Form to the main Office of Residence Life. Although, students are guaranteed housing, we are unable to guarantee specific housing requests. The student’s age as well as credits (on file at the time of placement) will be taken into consideration. Students will be responsible for all housing charges until they have officially completed all check out procedures and withdrawal processes. Students who do not properly follow the check- out procedures will be charged a $75 fee for an improper check-out.

No refunds will be issued for housing or dining plan changes after the 50% refund deadline. Please review the Critical Housing Dates & Deadlines Calendar for refund deadlines.

HOUSING WITHDRAWAL PROCESS WEBSITE

return to top

Abandoned Items

Personal belongings that are left in a residence hall after the resident has vacated, checked-out of, or when the resident is no longer entitled to access the housing assignment, items will be declared abandoned. The College is not responsible for any abandoned items. Such items may be disposed of immediately, including by housekeeping services or other persons. The College is not responsible for any items left abandoned in the laundry room. These items may be donated to the local shelter or discarded.

return to top

Damage Billing Procedures

Residents are responsible for any damage that is caused on College property or at a College-related event. At check-in, residents receive a Room Inventory via their Ramapo college email. The Room Inventory contains information about the condition of the campus residence to which the student is assigned. There is an opportunity to dispute what is contained on the Room Inventory, which will be communicated upon check-in. After this time, it is assumed to be an accurate assessment of the condition of the residence and its contents.

Residents are billed for damages, as they become known, often as a result of a room inspection. Damages are added to the student’s account. It is the student’s responsibility to see that damage bills are paid. (An outstanding balance on an account may result in a student’s inability to gain certain College services, to register, to obtain an official transcript, etc.). Malicious or repeated major damages may also result in disciplinary action in addition to charges for repair or replacement.

After residents check-out of the residence halls at the end of the term, the Residence Life Staff will make a final inspection of the residence and compare the facility’s condition to the original inventories. Facilities staff makes the determination of the cost to repair any damage/loss. Depending on the situation, outside contractors may be used or College staff (often on overtime) may be assigned to repair damage/loss. Damage charges are assessed as a result of depreciating the value of the item that belongs to the college; not necessarily to be able to replace something or repair it to its original value.

If more than one student occupies a space in which damage/loss occurs, the students will be held equally liable, unless one or more takes responsibility for the damage/loss. If damage/loss does occur, it is helpful if the residents notify the hall office (via email is recommended) to ensure that billing is correct and the circumstances surrounding the damage/loss known. More information about damage billing can be found on the billing website.

return to top

Room Changes

Our Room Change page contains our digital room change form, available during our room change periods.

Residents who are interested in a room change are encouraged to review this information before submitting their room change request form. Residents are encouraged to check the College’s academic calendar and Residence Life Events & Important Dates (Critical Housing Dates & Deadlines Calendar) to assist them in understanding the potential impact of their room change. Questions regarding the room change process should be directed to the hall office staff.

• Before the conclusion of the Fall semester, residents will be able to request a room change for the Spring semester during the communicated open room change request period. The room change request form is available online.
• Room change requests are not guaranteed as requests are contingent on spaces that are available at the time of placement as well as other considerations, including the discretion of the professional staff within the Office of Residence Life.
• Residents who require housing accommodations due to a disability must notify the Office of Specialized Services (OSS) at 201-684-7514 or via email at oss@ramapo.edu. OSS will provide the Office of Residence Life with the names of all residents with approved accommodations and they will be placed in housing accordingly, based upon availability. Roommates of residents with approved accommodations are not guaranteed accommodations.
• Residents who are approved for a room change are responsible for moving all of their belongings to their new housing assignment during the designated date and time specified on their approval notice.
• Students who are approved for a room change are required to remove all personal items from their original housing assignment and complete check-out paperwork at the original hall office by the date and time communicated in their approval notice. Failure to check out as directed may result in an improper check-out fine and further disciplinary action.
• The Office of Residence Life is unable to provide moving equipment such as carts or dollies.
• Residents who reside in traditional residence halls such as Bischoff, Laurel, Mackin, Pine, and The Overlook are not permitted to have household appliances, as per the prohibited items list. Residents who reside in The College Park Apartments or The Village are permitted to have most household appliances. All residents are required to comply with the prohibited items list.
• Residents who reside in traditional residence halls such as Bischoff, Laurel, Mackin, Pine, and The Overlook are required to have a meal plan. Only residents assigned to The Village and The College Park Apartments have the option of forgoing a meal plan. Residents relocated to The Village or The College Park Apartments during the room change period, have the option of dropping their meal plan (if applicable); these residents must email mealplan@ramapo.edu, no later than two days after they move, requesting to remove their meal plan. Residents relocated to Bischoff, Laurel, Mackin, Pine, or The Overlook are required to have a meal plan and must email mealplan@ramapo.edu, no later than two days after they move, with their meal plan selection; residents who do not select a meal plan will automatically be assigned a meal plan. Residents relocated to The Village or The College Park Apartments, after the semester deadline date to drop a meal plan, will not have the option of removing their meal plan if they have one.
• Residents who are approved for a room change will have their new housing charges and meal plan charges (if applicable) reflected on their student account five business days after they relocate. Residents will be charged a prorated amount for the time they resided in their old housing assignment in addition to a prorated amount for the time they will reside in their new housing assignment. Room and board costs are posted on the Student Accounts website: https://www.ramapo.edu/student-accounts.
• It is the responsibility of all residents to review their bill online after relocating to their new housing assignment to see how the room change may have affected their account. Residents who have incurred additional housing charges must immediately submit payment to the Office of Student Accounts. Questions regarding billing/refunds must be directed to the Office of Student Accounts by phone at (201) 684-7495 or via email at studentaccts@ramapo.edu.

Residents who are approved for a room change are responsible for updating their parking information (if applicable). Residents with current parking permits must go to the Office of Public Safety (ID room) to return their old parking permit for a new one. Residents requesting a parking permit for the first time must apply at www.thepermitstore.com. Questions regarding parking should be emailed to the Office of Public Safety via parking@ramapo.edu.

return to top

Noise and 24-Hour Courtesy Policy

A 24-hour noise courtesy policy exists throughout the residence community. Accordingly, residents are not permitted to play their stereo equipment, televisions, etc., to excess at any time. Music and other noises should be kept to a minimum at all times. Residents work, sleep, and study at varying hours of the day and night. It is important to be considerate of others. If a neighbor is making excessive noise, residents should politely approach those at the source of the noise to let them know that they are causing a disturbance. Loud music or other noise should not be heard from outside the residence halls. Playing musical instruments is not permitted in the residence halls or apartments.

Large exercise equipment (treadmills, or any similar equipment) is not permitted, in any way. Residents are encouraged to utilize the Fitness Centers located in the Lodge and Bradley Center to access such equipment.

return to top

Roadrunner Courts Noise Advisory

Please be advised that residents of Laurel Hall and Pine Hall may encounter events that may have live band music and/or a DJ in the Roadrunner Courts area, which is the quad area located next to Laurel Hall and the Basketball Courts. All permitted events that are in the Roadrunner Courts area have been approved by the Office of Events and Conferences. Events that take place in the Roadrunner Courts include but are not limited to Academic Classes, Greek Week, and Earth Week and should comply with normal quiet hours. Should you have any questions regarding reserving the Roadrunner Courts Area, please contact the Office of Events and Conferences.

return to top

Stereos/AUDIO EQUIPMENT

Students may bring stereo equipment into their suite/room/apartment at Ramapo, but they must use them responsibly. It is a good idea to consider purchasing a set of headphones so that the noise from stereos will not disturb other residents. Any students owning or operating a stereo are required to agree to reduce the volume of their stereo if it is disturbing others. Speakers may not be placed in windows. If a student does not voluntarily reduce the volume to an acceptable level upon the initial request, disciplinary action may be taken. In all cases of disciplinary action concerning the misuse of stereo equipment, a non-compliant resident may be required by the Office of Residence Life and/or the Office of Student Conduct to remove the stereo equipment from their suite/room/apartment.

return to top

Alcohol Allowed Housing Agreement

Student housing at Ramapo College is primarily alcohol prohibited. In alcohol prohibited suites, alcohol is prohibited regardless of the age of those in the suites. The College makes exceptions for certain apartments and suites located in the Village, certain suites located on the seventh and eighth floors of Laurel Hall only and graduate student housing. Ramapo College expects students to be positive members of our community. Most Ramapo College students are considerate of others within our community and avoid violating College policies. Students are encouraged to be a part of this majority so that alcohol-allowed housing privileges may continue to be offered on our campus.

All residents assigned to an alcohol-allowed housing suite must be 21 years of age or older, complete the online alcohol allowed agreement and post the alcohol allowed signage supplied by the Hall/Area office. A residence may lose its alcohol-allowed housing status by violating state laws and/or policies set by Ramapo College of New Jersey. If one or more resident(s) assigned to a residence is under 21 years of age at any time, the entire housing assignment is automatically designated alcohol prohibited, whether the housing assignment has this agreement posted or not. If a new resident, who is younger than 21 years of age, is ever assigned to the housing unit, it is automatically designated alcohol prohibited. Residents may not assume that a new resident is over 21 or that the housing unit will remain alcohol-allowed or become designated as such when a new resident is assigned to the housing unit. If any resident is not completely certain of the status of their housing unit, it is the responsibility of the resident to ask the Residence Life Professional Staff member in their hall/area office for a definitive answer via email.

New Jersey State laws allow for the purchase, possession, and consumption of beverages containing alcohol for persons who are 21 years of age and older, with certain restrictions. Ramapo College residents living in housing assignments that have been designated “alcohol-allowed” by the Office of Residence Life may obtain a stamped/approved alcohol-allowed housing agreement and thereafter be permitted to possess and consume alcoholic beverages within that housing unit, in a responsible manner. Refer to the Student Code of Conduct in the Student Handbook for information regarding New Jersey’s laws about alcohol and Ramapo College’s complete alcohol policies.

Residents living in alcohol-allowed housing assignments will be held responsible for guests who violate Ramapo College alcohol policies. Persons who are under 21 years of age are not permitted to be in the presence of beverages containing alcohol in any on-campus residence, at any time. Ramapo College policy prohibits anyone who is under 21 years of age from being in the presence of beverages containing alcohol, in any location on campus, including alcohol-allowed housing assignments. Residents of alcohol-allowed housing assignments are held responsible for verifying the identity and age of their guests/visitors whenever beverages containing alcohol may be present. Residents assigned to alcohol-allowed housing assignments may still be held judicially and legally responsible for their guests/visitors, even if false age identification is presented. Guests/visitors who are under 21 years of age are also held responsible for being in the presence of alcohol in residences. Guests who violate Ramapo College policies may be banned from the College. Please note that if guests/visitors of any residence become involved in an accident or become injured or cause injury to others due to the consumption of alcohol on-campus, the host(s) of the guests/visitors may face increased disciplinary action from the College and may be held liable. Residents are under no obligation to possess beverages containing alcohol in any housing assignments at any time. Alcohol-allowed housing is a privilege that residents must treat with the utmost care, maturity, and responsibility.

If there is a room change in a housing assignment that was originally designated alcohol-allowed, the status of the assignment may change, due to the age of the new resident. If there is a change in status, it is the responsibility of the residents to obtain an updated, approved alcohol-allowed housing agreement to post within their housing unit. This is done by visiting the residence hall office to obtain an alcohol-allowed housing agreement, which must be stamped and dated accordingly before it can be posted inside the housing assignment.

Ramapo College prohibits the advertisement of alcohol in any window on campus that is visible to the general public, including all residences. Displays using containers that likely contained alcohol (based on alcohol brand or label) are prohibited from all windows of on-campus residences. All beverages containing alcohol, including emptied and/or decorative containers of alcohol are prohibited in alcohol prohibited residences. Alcoholic beverages may not be seen outside of any appropriately designated alcohol-allowed housing assignment, anywhere on campus at any time; beverages containing alcohol (including alcohol bottles and beer cases) must be concealed whenever they are being transported outside of appropriately designated residences, while on campus. Kegs of beverages containing alcohol and very large quantities of alcohol are prohibited on campus. Public intoxication is also prohibited on campus. Drinking games such as “beer pong” and any game that can be considered to promote excessive consumption of alcohol are prohibited. Whether a game is actively in progress when College Officials arrived on the scene or not, reasonable evidence, such as a board or table set up with ping pong ball(s) and cups with or without any fluid inside them may be considered to be beer pong, which is a prohibited drinking game. Disciplinary actions may be taken against the persons involved.

Students who are found in violation of alcohol policies will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. College sanctions for alcohol violations include but are not limited to revocation of alcohol-allowed housing privileges, loss of on-campus housing selection privileges (if applicable), significant monetary fines, immediate housing reassignment, immediate loss of housing, and/or additional sanctions as deemed appropriate by the hearing officer and under the direction of the Office of Student Conduct. Residents who repeat violations of College policy may be administratively removed from housing at any time.

Alcohol is prohibited until after residents receive and post an approved Alcohol-Allowed Housing Agreement inside their suite, which must be dated, stamped “Approved” by Residence Life Hall Office Staff, and posted to the wall in the alcohol-allowed housing assignment by Residence Life Staff. This agreement must be posted to the wall at the immediate entrance of the housing assignment in the clear sleeve provided by the hall office and it must remain there during the entire semester unless alcohol-allowed housing is revoked. If alcohol-allowed housing is revoked, a Public Safety Officer or a Residence Life Staff member may be sent to remove the agreement from the residence. This agreement must remain visible to all guests/visitors of the housing assignment so they are aware of the housing status.

The residents assigned to any alcohol-allowed residence at Ramapo College of New Jersey, agree that their failure to comply with any of the College’s alcohol policies, including any of the rules provided herein, may result in their being removed from the alcohol-allowed residence and into another residence on campus, at the discretion of the Office of Residence Life.

return to top

Bed Bunking

Bunking beds which can be defined as the stacking of one bed on top of another is prohibited with the exceptions of specific rooms in Pine Hall. A listing of these rooms can be found on the Pine hall website.

return to top

Winter Weather

Snow and ice removal are handled by outside contractors as well as the Facilities Department. The Facilities Department does not shovel out private vehicles. There are a limited number of snow shovels that are available in each of the Residence Hall Offices. To borrow a shovel, residents should bring their student ID to their hall office during posted office hours. Students who do not return the shovel may have to reimburse the College. Students are also encouraged to bring their own shovel.

return to top

Snow Plowing

Students should not congregate on roads and walkways when snow plows are present. In some situations, students may be asked to move their cars to another lot to facilitate plowing.

return to top

Staff May Enter Occupied Residences

Authorized Ramapo personnel, which includes Residence Life Staff and Facilities Staff, may enter student housing assignments for the purposes of conducting Room Inspections, routine assessment of assignment occupancy and vacancy status, repair and maintenance, assessment of damages, inventory of College property, determinations regarding compliance with College policies, or emergencies where imminent danger to life, safety, health, or property is reasonably suspected. Prior notification to the assigned student resident(s) is not required for staff to enter student residences for these reasons.

return to top

Room Inspection Information

A Room inspection is a regularly scheduled procedure conducted by Residence Life staff to ensure that the condition of the College’s property remains clean, healthy, and safe. Authorized College personnel can enter student rooms for the purposes of conducting Room Inspections, repair and maintenance, assessment of damages, inventory of College property, determinations regarding compliance with College policies, or emergencies where imminent danger to life, safety, health, or property is reasonably suspected.

Residence Life staff will conduct three inspections during the fall semester, and three during the spring semester. The exact date and time of these inspections will not be posted. Please refer to the schedule below for the dates during which Room Inspections will take place. Please report any major damages or safety issues to your Resident Assistant as soon as possible.

Residents’ rooms/apartments can pass or fail the inspection based on the status of the apartment/suite/room, common area, bathroom, and bedroom. If the entire room/suite/apartment fails inspection, each resident will be fined $50.00 or more, depending on the specific conditions of the living areas. All fines will be billed to the resident’s College account.

Egregious room conditions may result in disciplinary action. including but not limited to additional fines, referral to the Office of Student Conduct for a disciplinary hearing, and/or sanctions including removal from housing. It is the resident’s responsibility to remember the time periods of monthly inspections.

Room Inspections Schedule

Please note that inspection weeks are unannounced with the exception of this general schedule. Dates are subject to change. All changes will be posted on the residence life Website . The New Jersey State Fire Inspector also completes unannounced safety inspections in all campus residences during both the Fall and Spring semesters. These inspections are separate from the Residence Life Room Inspections. However, students may still be documented and held financially responsible for any violations found by the NJ State Fire Inspector.

 

return to top

Room Inspection Guidelines

It is expected that:

• The room/suite/apartment, kitchen, bathroom, living room does not have any prohibited items. See list of prohibited items section and see Residence Life Agreement. There are extensive fines, irrespective of inspection fines, for possessing prohibited items. Residents will be charged for each prohibited item discovered in their unit.
• Residents may claim responsibility for prohibited items with their hall office; otherwise the entire unit will be assessed any and all applicable charges.
• Recyclables have been removed and placed in recyclable dumpsters.
• All garbage has been removed and wastebaskets have been emptied.
• Bathroom has been cleaned by sweeping and mopping the bathroom floor, wiping down the sink, shower and toilet areas.
• Kitchen and living room have been cleaned (if applicable) by sweeping and mopping floors, vacuuming carpet, washing all dishes and wiping down sink, counter and dining tables. All appliances such as microwaves and refrigerators must be cleaned.
• Bedrooms have been cleaned by vacuuming carpet, removing all garbage from all areas, wiping down desk and dresser.

Please note that damage charges are also assessed during Room Inspections. Conditions such as holes in the walls, appliances that appear abused or misused resulting in a repair or replacement, broken windows, damaged blinds, graffiti, nail holes, broken or missing screens and any other damaged items that are in the place of residence may also result in additional replacement/repair charges.

This is not an all-inclusive list but a set of guidelines to assist residents in preparing for your Room Inspections.

PROHIBITED ITEMS LIST

return to top

POSTING POLICY

The purpose of this policy is to establish a system for efficiently disseminating information, maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the college environment and ensuring that all postings are in accordance with the New Jersey State Fire Code.

DESIGNATED POSTING AREAS

The first floor “cores” between each of the academic wings has bulletin boards for the following purposes:

• AFT/CWA/Local 195 announcements
• Human Resources announcements (locked, glass enclosed boards)

In all buildings on campus:

• Academic wings have bulletin boards maintained by specific academic or administrative departments. Cork boards throughout all academic buildings next to faculty and staff offices are reserved for faculty and staff use.
• Roadrunner Design (RRD) in the Office of Marketing, maintains separate boards, and marked as such with signs, in various areas of campus for the following:
  • Events sponsored by campus entities with materials in various sizes, including, but not limited to, 8.5”x11”, 11”x17”, and 24×36”. 
  • Events sponsored by off-campus entities, a maximum quantity of five will be accepted, and the off-campus entity is responsible for printing and delivering to RRD.

DESIGN STANDARD

All publications wanting to be posted by a Ramapo College club, organization or office must follow the College’s design standard. Any posting that does not follow the standard will NOT be posted or will be removed from posting. For more information about the design standard please review the design standards on our website. RRD also has a design team, which can assist with designing posters and flyers in accordance with the College’s design standard.  RRD can be reached by visiting, the Roadrunner Design Website. Requests for design services should be submitted at least two weeks in advance of the date needed, via the RRD Project Request form.

FLYERS

For the purposes of this policy “flyer” refers to any document at the size of 8.5”x11” used to advertise, announce or promote an event, activity, or opportunity. If an individual or organization wishes to use a flyer at 8.5” x 11”, it must either: a) Be designed by Marketing; b) Be designed by RRD; or c) receive approval for hanging by the RRD team. Once one of these criteria is met, the posters will be posted by RRD and then removed in a timely fashion.

POSTERS

For the purpose of this policy “poster” refers to any document at  11”x17” or 24” x 36”. If an individual or organization wishes to use a poster larger than 11”x17”, it must either: a) Be designed by Marketing and Communications; b) Be designed by Roadrunner Design; or c) receive approval for hanging by the Roadrunner Design team. Once one of these criteria is met, the posters will be posted by RRD and then removed in a timely fashion. 

ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG IMAGES

To support Ramapo’s commitment to an alcohol-free social environment, materials will promote a healthy, normative environment and not contain pictures of alcohol or alcohol beverage containers for events both on and off campus. This policy applies to all campus locations. All persons and organizations, including non-members of the College and commercial establishments, are required to comply with this policy.

POSTING PROCEDURES

• Roadrunner Design completes the actual hanging of all flyers and posters.
• All flyers and posters must be approved by RRD and stamped before any flyer or poster will be posted.
• Only those flyers or posters that advertise, announce, or promote an event, activity, or opportunity applicable to Ramapo College students are eligible for posting.

• All flyers or posters sponsored by the College or by College-affiliated organizations must include:

• • Ramapo College Logo.
  • Disability Services Accommodations Information.
  • The name of the event or opportunity, the name of the sponsoring organization, and the date, time, and location of the event.

• A maximum of 20 – 8.5” x 11” and/or 11” x 17” flyers and posters and/or a maximum of 7 – 24” x 36” posters for Ramapo events will be posted in academic wings and the wall outside of the Center for Student Involvement (CSI). This covers all approved posting areas in the adjoining academic wings. 
• Flyers for Non-College members or commercial establishments (Non-College events) will be posted in designated areas per RRD, on boards in some of the academic areas as space permits.

• Flyers or posters for Non-College Events may not include any College logos or other indicia implying Ramapo College affiliation or sponsorship.
  • A maximum of 5 flyers will be posted.
  • As noted above, flyers and posters for non-college events or commercial establishments will not include marketing and promotion of alcohol and alcohol beverages both on and off campus.

• All flyers and posters will be posted for a 2 week period, unless otherwise approved by RRD for longer periods.
• Copies of all approved flyers and posters are available on Basecamp.
• Flyers and posters will be posted on the approved bulletin boards by the RRD posting staff each business day. 

• In the event the Bulletin Boards are filled to capacity, flyers and posters will be posted in the order in which they were submitted when space becomes available.

• Flyers and posters will be removed in a timely manner by the RRD posting staff.

• For Ramapo events only, flyers and posters may be distributed on campus by members of the College Community, having received prior approval from the RRD team and Events and Conferences.

• These flyers or posters are not required to have the aforementioned logos.

• Flyers or posters may not promote events or activities that are illegal or in violation of the College’s Code of Conduct.
• Any flyers or posters hung not in accordance with this policy will be removed.

• Organizations violating the posting policy may lose their right to post and may also lose additional club/organization privileges.
• Individual students who violate the posting policies may face disciplinary charges.
• Maliciously destroying/defacing others’ flyers will result in either administrative or disciplinary action.

RESIDENCE HALL SPECIFIC POSTING POLICY

• For distribution of flyers and posters in the Residence Halls, all approval policies, listed above, must be followed.
• Flyers and posters to be displayed in the Residence Halls must first be approved by the RRD team.
• After approval from RRD posting staff, the person submitting flyers will be notified via Basecamp when they are approved. RRD will drop off the flyers and posters to the Residence Life office and the flyers and posters will be posted by Residence Life staff. Residence Life is currently accepting 6 flyers or posters (one for each residence hall).

• There is no space available for non-college posting in the Residence Halls.

Questions or requests for additional information about the Posting Policy can be directed to Roadrunner Design at roadrunnerdesign@ramapo.edu or by visiting ramapo.edu/rrd.

Commercial Solicitation

Solicitation is prohibited in the residence halls. This includes door-to-door sales, distribution of flyers, collection of money, placement of menus in locks of doors or under doors, etc. Residents should report suspicious persons to Public Safety immediately.

return to top

Charity Drives and Dorm Storming

Going door to door for charity drives or promoting events is not permitted; this includes “dorm storming.” The offices of Residence Life and the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) have outlined the below policy to ensure that charity collections are handled ethically and professionally.

Food/Other Drives: 

Food/Item drives will be allowed as long as the requirements are followed. Food/Items must be collected at a table that is staffed at all times by the members of the club or organization sponsoring the drive. Tables must be arranged through the Office of Events and Conferences and authorization for the drive must be obtained through the Civic and Community Engagement Center (CCEC). Space in hall lounges or lobbies need to be reserved through each hall office for the buildings the drive will be conducted in. Advertising for the drive can occur as long as posting policies are adhered to. Only approved advertisements will be allowed to be posted in the Residence Areas.

return to top

Apartment Doors/Building Doors

Apartment doors and stairway doors may not be propped open or obstructed from closing (e.g. taped open to prevent the lock from engaging) at any time for reasons of fire safety and security. Disciplinary Action may result if any suite doors are found propped open or vandalized in any way.

return to top

Bypassing Entrance Doors

Gaining access to any building by bypassing security devices can compromise personal safety and/or cause structural damage to the building door and is strictly prohibited. Anyone found bypassing these devices will face disciplinary action and will be responsible for the cost of any repairs necessary. Bypassing includes: using any item to open entrance doors/activate door sensors, using any item to keep entrance doors from closing, forcibly holding/propping entrance doors open, and any other means of passing through entrance doors without swiping an assigned Ramapo College ID card. Only front entrance doors may be used to access residence halls.

return to top

Barbecue Policy

Fires may only be lit on stationary grills provided by the College. Charcoal is not permitted in each apartment or residence hall room. All ash and used charcoal briquettes must be disposed of in metal drums, which are provided at each barbecue area. College policies regarding noise/quiet hours, trash and alcohol must be observed at all times. Ramapo College Fire Safety, Mahwah Fire Department, and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety, Public Safety, Residence Life or an On Call Administrator may shut down a barbecue if appropriate. Students who leave charcoal briquettes or barbecues unattended may be prevented from further use of barbecues. Barbecues cannot be attended by an excessive amount of guests. Requests for outdoor events must go through Events and Conferences.

return to top

Bicycles, Rollerblades, Skateboards, and Scooters

Students are prohibited from using roller blades, skateboards, bicycles and scooters inside the residence halls.

return to top

Bicycle Racks

Due to space constraints, bikes may not be stored in Pine, Bischoff, Mackin, Overlook, or Laurel. Students should lock their bikes to the racks provided outside each of these buildings. Those living in the Village or CPA may store bikes in the bedrooms or closets of their residences (but not the common areas).

return to top

Littering

In the interest of protecting the environment, the disposing of any form of litter other than in designated receptacles, is prohibited.

return to top

College Property

Students may not transfer or move any college property, including but not limited to lounge furniture, computers, indoor and outdoor benches, tables, chairs, umbrellas, permanently attached items and/or unattached items from their original rooms or outdoor locations, for any reason. Outdoor furniture, such as benches, tables, trash bins, and other items, may not be moved at all. Outdoor benches have been placed in such a way as to accommodate many. They are not to be placed inside of apartments, on stairwells, or within 25 feet of the entrance of any building. This distance allows people to use the outdoor benches while smoking, avoiding a smoking policy violation and exposing others to unwanted secondhand smoke inhalation. The unauthorized transference of college property may result in disciplinary action and/or a fine for the person(s) responsible for moving the item(s). However, in the event that the specific person(s) responsible for the violation cannot be determined, residents assigned within the common area may be fined. The college may decide to remove certain college property if such violations persist.

return to top

Personal Furniture

Furniture must not impede egress from a room, suite or apartment. Residents’ personal furniture must have a label attached stating that it meets CAL133 fire safety guidelines. Residents will be responsible for removing any personal furniture during checkout. Any furniture left behind will be discarded and residents will be charged for removal.

return to top

Obstruction of Common Areas

In order to avoid potentially dangerous situations, hallways lobbies, stairwells and common areas must be kept free of obstructions at all times. For example: trash bags, bicycles, furniture, or other items may not be left in places where they might obstruct paths for entrance or egress.

return to top

Pets

All pets (with the exception of fish in a tank smaller than 10 gallons) are prohibited. Emotional support animals, however, may be present after approval through the Office of Specialized Services. If you would like to bring a service animal on campus, please also review the information concerning them through OSS. College staff living in campus residences may have certain approved pets.

return to top

Failure to Comply with Residence Hall Staff

Residents are required to follow the directions from Residence Life Staff who are acting in the performance of their duties. Failure to comply with such directions may result in disciplinary action.

return to top

Room Decorations

To avoid wall damage, residents should not use nails, masking tape, or scotch tape to hang posters and pictures. These items can result in damage charges. Fun-Tack is allowed but must be fully removed to avoid charges; however, it is not permitted in the Overlook or Laurel. Adhesives that are difficult to remove will result in residue charges at checkout.

Blocking egress with tapestries, drapes, or beads is a fire hazard and is prohibited. Heating units must remain unobstructed. Room doors, inside and outside, should not be covered with combustible materials; only 5% of the entrance doors may have papers, flyers, or pictures.

Room decorations must comply with fire safety regulations. At least 50% of wall space must remain free of posters, papers, and other hangings. Cardboard is not allowed on walls, and no decorations may hang from ceilings or windows.

Prohibited items such as wreaths, live trees, wired lights (including LED lights), and certain flammable furniture will be confiscated without compensation. For a full list of prohibited items, refer to the Prohibited Items List.

Residents under 21 or in alcohol-free housing cannot display alcohol containers or paraphernalia. Windows must not feature alcohol displays. These items will be confiscated, and residents will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct.

return to top

Screens

Screens may not be removed from residence hall windows. Throwing anything out of the room/apartment window is prohibited. Entering/exiting through any room/apartment window is also prohibited. A fine and judicial action may result for removing screens from anywhere in the residence halls, including rooms/apartments and common areas such as stairwells, lobbies, lounge, etc.

return to top

Trash/Garbage

Residents of apartment complexes are required to place all garbage in the dumpster located outside of the apartment complex. Residents of traditional residence halls should place garbage in the designated trash room within their building. Leaving garbage outside of an apartment, suite, room, in hallways, or in stairwells may result in fines charged to the residents of the entire residence area as a “common area” charge. Garbage found outside of an apartment building may be inspected by Facilities and Residence Life Staff to determine the individual(s) that may be responsible for the violation. If the responsible individual(s) are not determined, the entire apartment/building will be assessed fines. Repeated violations may result in further disciplinary action.

return to top

Recycling

The College, in conjunction with the Office of Residence Life and the Office of Facilities Management require recycling in each residence hall/area and campus wide. All common areas, rooms, and suites are fitted with a blue “Single Stream” recycling receptacle. These receptacles are to be used for recyclable items only. Items that must be recycled include: aluminum and steel cans, plastic bottles, paper, glass and cardboard. No need to bag or separate recyclables. DO NOT PUT PLASTIC BAGS IN RECYCLING. Residents are responsible for depositing their recyclables in the appropriate resident collection area, not in a bag. Residents found in violation of the College’s recycling policy will receive fines and may face disciplinary action. RECYCLING WEBSITE

return to top

Composting

Composting is available in select residence halls/areas. Upon request, rooms are equipped with a tan composting bin. Compostable materials include vegetable & fruit scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds & filters, tea bags, bread, and cooked rice. Do NOT compost meats, dairy, paper, plastic, or feces. Compostables should be deposited frequently in a campus approved compost collection area. Cleaning and maintenance of the bin is the responsibility of the student. For more information and for compost collection locations go to https://www.ramapo.edu/ramapo-green/composting/

Business from Residents’ Rooms

Residents are not permitted to carry on any organized business for the purpose of generating funds for personal profit from their room/apartment. They may not use their room phone numbers or data connections for business purposes. Anyone found conducting business from their room or using their Ramapo College phone line or Wi-Fi connection for organized business will be subjected to disciplinary action.

return to top

Roofs

Students are strictly prohibited from entering onto the roof of any campus building. Violators of this policy will be referred to Student Conduct.

return to top

Sports in the Residence Halls

All sports activities are prohibited inside and in the immediate vicinity of all residence halls, including but not limited to football, wrestling, boxing, hockey, soccer, basketball, baseball, frisbee, water balloon fights, and skateboarding. There are facilities available that are more appropriate for such activities. Residents may visit the Bradley Sports and Recreation Center to find out more about available sports activities (such as intramurals) in which they may participate, or contact a Resident Assistant regarding events involving sports/athletic activities.

return to top

Room Cleanliness

Housing assignments should be reasonably clean. Under certain circumstances, residents may be issued sanctions, including fines, if the assignment is deemed unhealthy or unsafe. If a student’s room is left unclean once it has been vacated, the student may be charged a room cleaning fee, as well as an excessive garbage fine, according to the amount of garbage or mess. Students are required to remove all belongings from their room/suite/apartment and common areas when they checkout. It is their responsibility to take any belongings that they no longer need or want to the dumpster. Students will be charged for garbage left in their room/suite/apartment area and for any other belongings left behind in the room/suite/apartment. In addition, students, and/or entire buildings may be fined for garbage left in the hallways, stairwells, lounges, and lobbies.

return to top

Cooking in Residence Halls

Pine, Bischoff, Mackin, Overlook, and Laurel Halls are not designed for major cooking in the rooms/common areas; therefore, students are not allowed to bring electrical appliances for cooking. Instead, residents of these areas must purchase a meal plan (see our section on dining for more info). However, all residents may warm up food or cook snacks in the microwave that is provided in each living unit. Residents should be extra cautious when cooking to not only prevent fires, but also to prevent inadvertent activation of fire alarm systems. Please be sure to turn on vents if available. More information about prohibited appliances can be viewed in our prohibited items list.

return to top

Misconduct and disciplinary referral

Disorderly conduct and behaviors such as abusive or vulgar language, physical altercations (fights), failure to comply with a College official, water/water balloon/shaving cream fights (horseplay) will not be tolerated. These behaviors will be addressed at the time of the incident and will be documented. These incidents will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and may result in disciplinary action and/or removal from the residence halls.

return to top

Insurance Claims Against The College

Ramapo College is an agency of the State of New Jersey and, as such, is covered by the New Jersey Tort Claims Act NJSA 59:1-1 et. seq., the New Jersey Contractual Liability Act NJSA 59:13.1 et. seq., and the availability of appropriations. The State of New Jersey does not carry public liability insurance, but the liability of the State and the obligation of the State to be responsible for tort claims against its employees and property are covered under the terms and provisions of the New Jersey Tort Claims Act. Ramapo College is represented by the State in legal matters.

Residents are strongly urged to carry renter’s insurance or be added to their parent’s homeowners insurance. The College DOES NOT have insurance that covers students’ belongings. There are several companies (National Student Services, CSI and Worth Avenue Group) that provide insurance for student belongings. Website information for each company is:

• www.nssi.com
• www.collegestudentinsurance.com
• www.worthavegroup.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

return to top

Fire Safety

I. Introduction to Fire Safety – Policies and Procedures

Fire Safety continues to be a top priority at Ramapo College. The College continues to be proactive in assuring a fire safe environment and improving our fire prevention and preparedness measures.

The fire safety information contained within and referenced throughout this document is intended to inform our resident students and staff about the following:

• The fire safe environment on campus, including the College’s fire protection systems and our partnerships with community emergency responders
• Fire safety preparedness and prevention information including the do’s and don’ts of your fire safety responsibilities
• Fire evacuation information including what do when you can and cannot get out, as well as assisting persons with disabilities
• Fire safety education and training resources
• Remedies for non-compliance with fire safety policies and procedures, including sanctions and confiscation of prohibited items
• Applicability of policies to resident staff and their guests
• Information on the use of emergency egress doors in residence halls

All resident students and staff are required to read this information and be familiar with all College policies and procedures. In the event of a fire or emergency, awareness of fire safety practices may help prevent injuries and save lives.

The College has a zero tolerance policy in connection with any infractions of the Fire Safety Policies and Procedures. Students and staff should direct any Fire Safety related questions to Evan Kutzin, Ramapo College Fire Marshal at ekutzin@ramapo.edu.

Note: The following information is also available on the Fire Safety section of the Environmental Health & Safety website: https://www.ramapo.edu/ehs/fire-safety/

return to top

II. FIRE SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The College employs a full-time Fire Marshal to act as a fire safety specialist for the campus community. Fire Marshal Evan Kutzin is available to assist students and staff with any fire safety questions or concerns that may arise. He can be reached at ekutzin@ramapo.edu or through Public Safety after business hours.

The Department of Environmental Health and Safety and the College Fire Marshal work in close partnership with resources on campus and throughout the community to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all students and staff.

A. Partner Resources

Public Safety:

• Public Safety responds to all trouble alarms, supervisory alarms, and fire alarms on campus. Public Safety assists with the orderly evacuation of the building, locating the cause of the activation, accessing the fire alarm panel, and logging all alarm reports.
• Public Safety Officers perform a fire watch function in buildings that have impaired fire alarm or fire sprinkler systems, in compliance with the NJ Uniform Fire Code.
• Public Safety acts as Liaison with the Mahwah Police Department during all emergencies.

Residence Life:

• Professional housing staff members periodically visit each student’s room to conduct Health & Safety inspections and to ensure compliance with the Prohibited Items List and all policies and procedures for student housing.

Facilities and Capital Planning:

• The Department of Facilities manages work order repairs and preventative maintenance in all campus buildings. Facilities staff maintain emergency lighting and exit signs, fire doors and hardware, and the campus fire hydrants.
• The Office of Capital Planning works on long-term and large-scale renovations, building improvements, and new construction. Capital Planning works closely with the College Fire Marshal and the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to review all plans and ensure compliance with all applicable building and fire codes.

Mahwah Fire Department:

• The College Fire Marshal works closely with first responders from the Mahwah Fire Department to help train and prepare firefighters to respond to emergencies on campus.
• The Mahwah Fire Department is dispatched to all fire alarms on campus.
• The College Fire Marshal responds to all fire alarms during business hours and anytime when his presence is requested during off hour emergencies.
• The College Fire Marshal acts as Liaison to the Mahwah Fire Department during all emergencies.

Mahwah Police Department:

• The Mahwah Police Department responds to all fire alarms on campus to assist Public Safety with the orderly evacuation of buildings.
• The Mahwah Police Department conducts periodic patrols of the campus and assist with large functions at the request of Public Safety.

New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (NJ DFS):

• The College Fire Marshal works closely with the NJ DFS to conduct annual fire safety inspections in all campus buildings. Certain buildings also require additional quarterly inspections based on their life hazard use.
• The College Fire Marshal submits all fire protection system annual reports to the NJ DFS as required.
• The College Fire Marshal submits all required permit applications to the NJ DFS and coordinates all permit inspections.
• The College Fire Marshal is required to report all fires on campus to the NJ DFS. A representative from the DFS may be dispatched to investigate the origin and cause.

New Jersey College and University Fire Safety Professionals Association (NJCUFSPA):

• The College Fire Marshal is the campus liaison to the New Jersey College and University Fire Safety Professionals Association, a group of campus fire safety specialists from around the State.

Fire Protection System Contractors:

• A licensed fire protection systems contractor annually inspects all fire suppression and detection systems. Any deficiencies found during the inspection and testing are repaired in accordance with the provisions of the appropriate National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
• All fire extinguishers are inspected monthly by a fire protection systems contractor.
• All fixed kitchen cooking locations are protected by fire protection systems. The systems are inspected regularly by a fire protection systems contractor and the ventilation hoods are periodically cleaned as required by code.

B. Fire Protection Systems

All residence halls and apartments are equipped with fire sprinkler, fire alarm, smoke/heat detection, fire extinguisher, and, where required, carbon monoxide detection systems. In addition, all other buildings on campus also include the required fire safety systems. The fire detection and suppression systems are monitored 24/7 by Public Safety and all fire alarm notifications are relayed to the Mahwah Police Department who then immediately dispatch the Mahwah Fire Department to campus.

In addition to the fire safety systems noted above, the College has a network of fire hydrants, fire department connections, and post indicator valves (PIV’s) that must be kept fully operational and clear of obstructions at all times in order to supply water to the fire suppression systems. All fire safety systems are maintained in accordance with the requirements of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code. Maintenance and inspection reports are reviewed annually by a representative of the NJ Division of Fire Safety.

The College Fire Marshal periodically visits each building on campus to inspect for safety related concerns and to ensure compliance with all mandatory fire safety measures.

The College Fire Marshal, in collaboration with College Administration, Residence Life and Public Safety, conducts four (4) fire drills per calendar year in on campus housing and two (2) fire drills in each of the academic and administrative buildings. The NJ Uniform Fire Code requires that a fire drill must be conducted within the first 10 days of each semester. The code further requires that at least 1 drill must be conducted after sunset and before sunrise. Inadvertent fire alarm activations do not count as part of the mandatory fire drill requirement.

1. Smoke Detectors are the first line of defense during fires. They are triggered by airborne smoke particles produced by a fire. Smoke detectors save lives by providing early warning and allowing for timely evacuation by building occupants.
2. Heat Detectors include pre-set temperature thresholds that sense heat from burning substances and activate the fire alarm when the threshold is met. Certain heat detectors may be triggered by a pre-set rate of temperature rise.
3. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors are placed where required by code. CO detectors are located throughout campus based on the presence of fuel burning appliances (such as boilers, hot water heaters, and laundry room driers). Carbon Monoxide detectors save lives by allowing for early warning and timely evacuation when the colorless, odorless by-products of combustion are present within a building.
4. Sprinkler Systems are an important line of defense for life safety. Sprinkler heads include pre-set temperature thresholds that sense heat from burning contents and burst the sprinkler head’s fusible bulb. At the onset of water flow through the sprinkler head, the fire alarm system also sounds, thus signaling for occupants to immediately evacuate the building. Sprinklers protect lives and property by quickly suppressing a fire and holding it in check until the fire department can respond. When activated, a single sprinkler head can release up to 50 gallons of water per minute into the room or space that it protects. During an activation, 1 or more sprinkler heads may activate, but the entire system of sprinklers will not discharge all at once (as seen in the movies). Ramapo College is fully compliant with the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code requiring that all residential facilities (dormitories) be protected by fire sprinkler systems.

All occupants shall immediately evacuate the building via the closest exit whenever the fire alarm sounds.

Students will be held accountable for inadvertently setting off these alarms or systems. The most common types of violations are for the use of aerosol products in close proximity to a detector, careless cooking, and producing too much steam from the shower. Resident students are responsible for knowing the fire safety policies and procedures as well as avoiding any prohibited items and/or student actions that might trigger a fire alarm activation.

return to top

III. FIRE SAFETY PREPAREDNESS AND PREVENTION INFORMATION

1. What are YOUR Preparedness and Prevention responsibilities?

DO:

1. Immediately report any information regarding intentionally activated false alarms to a Residence Life staff member, Public Safety, or the College Fire Marshal. Intentional false alarms are prohibited by law!
2. Avoid inadvertently activating the fire alarm by not using any prohibited items in the Residence Halls and other buildings. Refer to the Prohibited Items and Conduct List.
3. In the event of an odor of smoke, visible smoke condition, or active fire, students and staff shall immediately activate the fire alarm via manual pull station and report such condition to Public Safety at x6666 (201.684.6666); Public Safety will dispatch an Officer and immediately report the incident to the Mahwah Police Department to have the fire department dispatched. You may also dial 911 (9-911 from a campus telephone).
4. Contact Public Safety at x6666 immediately after a fire extinguisher is discharged. A report will need to be taken and a work order put in for Facilities to install a replacement as quickly as possible.
5. Report any suspected malfunctions of fire safety systems or equipment to a Residence Life staff member or to Public Safety at x6666.
6. Know exactly where the nearest exits are located. Count the number of doors between your location and the nearest exit so that you can find your way out even if visibility is impaired by smoke and fire. Always be aware of alternate exits in the event that your primary exit is blocked.
7. Prepare an emergency escape route to use in case of a fire or other emergency in the building. Know at least two ways out of the building.
8. Keep essential items readily available at all times: keys, wallet, College ID, any required prescriptions, cell phone, etc.
9. Treat every fire alarm as the real thing. EXIT the building immediately!
10. If your clothing should catch fire, remember STOP, DROP, and ROLL. Don’t run.
11. As you are exiting, check your kitchen to ensure that your stove and oven are off and all cooking appliances are unplugged before you leave the area. Don’t place yourself in any further danger to do so.
12. Keep all doorways and windows leading to exits completely clear at all times. A minimum of 36” clearance to exits shall be maintained.
13. Report any obstructions or accumulations of rubbish in the hallways, stairwells, or other means of egress to Facilities. Unabated obstructions should also be reported to the College Fire Marshal.

DO NOT:

1.  Tamper with any fire safety equipment – it’s against the law! Most of this equipment is electronically monitored and any sign of tampering will immediately notify Public Safety.
   • Fire safety equipment includes, but is not limited to:
     • Fire extinguishers
     • EXIT signs
     • Emergency exit lighting
     • Pull stations
     • Bells, speakers, and strobes
     • Smoke/heat/CO detectors
     • Hydrants
     • Fire department connections (FDCs)
     • Standpipe cabinets
     • Sprinklers and sprinkler pipes
     • Alarm panels
   • Tampering includes:
     • Covering devices with any item, including bags or plastic, food products, clothing, hats, shower caps or other materials.
     • Hanging items from devices.
     • Wrap or hang anything around or from sprinklers or sprinkler piping.
     • Blocking or interfering with access to devices.
     • Disconnecting or altering the function of any equipment.
     • The intentional activation or use of devices or systems.
     • Placing any items on or over electrical panels or circuit breaker boxes in your room or apartment (must maintain a minimum 36″ clearance).
2. Deliberately cause a fire alarm, maliciously report a false fire, intentionally set a fire anywhere on campus, possess and/or use fireworks or other explosive devices. These acts are a violation of the NJ Uniform Fire Code and will be referred to the appropriate College officials for adjudication and may result in disciplinary action, fines, suspension from residence privilege, and probation from the College. Furthermore, violators may also be subject to criminal prosecution and civil liability for damages.
3. Smoke inside any College buildings or vehicles or within 25 feet of any building.
4. Leave cooking unattended. “WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT!”
5. Attempt to put out a fire once it begins to quickly spread. Individuals who attempt to put out small, contained fires should make sure they have a clear path of retreat from the area. In the event that you find yourself in a situation where the use of a fire extinguisher becomes vital to your safety or ability to exit the fire area, remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle and Sweep across the flame.
6. Overload electrical outlets. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed. Do not repair with electrical tape.
7. Use extension cords for any reason. Use only power strips with circuit-breakers. Do not plug power strips into each other. Power strips must be plugged directly into an electrical outlet; a requirement of the NJ Uniform Fire Code.
8. Run electrical wires across the floors, ceilings or in front of room doors.
9. Block any exit with curtains, netting, or beads; including separations between bedrooms and hallways and entry areas.
10. Block exits with furniture or other items.
11. Storing items behind doors that would prevent them from opening to a full 90-degree angle.
12. Prop open fire doors or place any object in an area that would prevent fire doors from closing.
13. Taping over door latches to prevent doors from catching.
14. Hang any materials from the ceiling or windows
15. Hang any materials on the exterior of a building.
16. Hang banners or other decorative materials exceeding 50% of the aggregate wall area.
17. Wrap doors in decorative paper, such as holiday or birthday wrapping paper.
18. Hang mirrors from exit doors.
19. Leave any item in the hallway outside of a room or door.
20. Leave hair care appliances with heating elements (e.g. flat irons, curling irons) unattended when in use.
21. Use aerosol spray products in proximity to any fire detection device.
22. Overcrowd dorm rooms or hall lounges. Residence Life staff should be consulted as to occupancy limits for individual areas.

B. WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT

Unattended or careless cooking incidents are a leading cause of fire alarms and fires on college campuses across the country. Cooking is also one of the leading causes of fire alarm incidents at Ramapo College. For these reasons, a special section for cooking fire prevention is included below.

1. Stand By Your Pan

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking food.
• If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Check the food regularly and use a timer to remind you that the stove or oven is on.
• Keep anything that can catch fire—pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or curtains—away from your stove top.
• Clean up food and grease from burners, stovetops, and microwaves.

2. Micro-Manage Your Microwave

• Follow the cooking directions provided on the product packaging. Do not use preset buttons such as a popcorn setting.
• Avoid overcooking and possible smoke or fire by double checking the cooking time that you set.
• If the product begins to smoke or catches fire, KEEP THE MICROWAVE DOOR CLOSED and unplug the microwave.

 Special Note: Micro-Fridges and Microwaves. All Micro-Fridges are now equipped with a Safe-T-Sensor to prevent over cooked food in microwaves and unintentional fire alarms. Follow the instructions on the card located on the door of the microwave. For further information regarding the Safe-T-Sensor visit the following link:  http://universitylogistics.net/comm_ste_mo.html

 NOTE: TO AVOID FINES, DO NOT TAMPER WITH OR DISCONNECT THE SAFE-T-SENSOR!

In Case of a Stove, Oven, or Microwave Fire

1. Call Public Safety x6666 immediately so that the fire department can be notified. You may also call 9-911.
2. Turn off the stovetop burners. Slide a pan lid over flames to smother a grease or oil fire; and then leave the lid in place until the pan cools. It is not recommended that you try to carry the pan outside.
3. Extinguish grease fires with the fire extinguisher provided or use baking soda. Never use water or flour on grease fires.
4. Turn off the oven or microwave. Keep the appliances door shut to contain the smoke and heat.
5. A fire extinguisher is provided in every kitchen. Make sure that the fire extinguisher remains in the designated location. Remember PASS when operating the fire extinguisher. (Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle and Sweep across the flame).  Notify Public Safety at x6666 anytime the extinguisher is used.
6. All occupants shall immediately evacuate the building via the closest exit whenever there is a fire or the fire alarm sounds.

return to top

IV. FIRE EVACUATION INFORMATION

Before an emergency, identify the location of the two closest exits to your location. Do not assume your usual exit is closest, safest, or available during a fire or other emergency.

A. If a fire should occur:

1. ACTIVATE the fire alarm system; pull stations are usually located next to exits or by stairwell doors. Alert others to the fire, but avoid putting yourself in further danger.
2. GET OUT of the building and stay outside until help arrives.
3. CLOSE all doors as you leave to help prevent the fire from spreading. Don’t lock doors which will impede the fire departments response.
4. PROCEED to the Evacuation Assembly Area. Residence Life Staff will assist you to the location of your Evacuation Assembly Area (which are all marked with a sign). Please review the assembly areas for your building in advance of any incident.
5. NOTIFY Public Safety at x6666; then dial 9-911 to provide the fire dispatch with additional information. You or someone you designate should make the telephone call from a safe location as quickly as possible. Once you have given the dispatcher the information related to the emergency, wait until the dispatcher tells you to hang up – they may want you to stay on the line.
6. DO NOT GO BACK into the building or try to save your possessions. Clothes, books, and papers can be replaced – but you can’t be!

B. Fire Evacuation Procedures – When You Can Get Out

1. When the fire alarm sounds, leave the building immediately. Feel the doors and doorknobs with the back of your hand. If they are not hot, open the doors slightly to check the hallway for smoke or heat. If smoke or heat is present, attempt to crawl low to the floor. If the smoke is heavy, grab a wet towel or similar object and place it over your face (nose and mouth) and take short breaths through your nose.
2. Follow EXIT signs to the nearest egress from the building or fire stairwell. Do not use elevators.
3. Warn others by knocking on doors on your way to the closest exit. Assist any person in immediate danger, but avoid putting your safety at risk.
4. Close and leave doors unlocked. This will help to confine the smoke and fire to a smaller area and allow the fire department access to conduct search and rescue as well as fire suppression.
5. When possible, avoid exiting the building through the main entrance. Use the side or rear exits of the building. This will help keep the main entrance clear for arriving emergency responders.
6. Proceed to the designated Evacuation Assembly Area.
7. Do not delay exiting the building.
8. DO NOT re-enter the building until instructed to do so by Fire, Police, Public Safety or Residence Life Staff.

C. Fire Evacuation Procedures – When You Can’t Get Out

1. Call Public Safety at x6666 and then dial 9-911. Advise the dispatcher of your location and that you are unable to evacuate; do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.
2. Close the door to your room; the door can help hold back dangerous heat and smoke.
3. If the smoke is heavy, take a wet towel and place it over your nose and mouth. Stay low where the air may be cooler.
4. Using wet towels, sheets, or clothes, seal openings around doors and air ducts where smoke may enter.
5. Do not stay in internal rooms such as bathrooms or closets.
6. Stay close to the windows. Open them when you are sure there is no smoke or fire outside that could come into your room. Alert fire department personnel to your location by yelling and waving. Do not exit the window onto any ledge.
7. When safe to do so, exit your location as quickly as possible and evacuate the building.

D. Fire Evacuations for Persons with Disabilities

It’s important that the appropriate staff in the Office of Specialized Services (OSS) be made aware of any students or staff with disabilities that may limit their mobility, whether temporary or permanent. Attempting to carry a person with limited mobility is discouraged. Evacuation chairs are strategically placed throughout campus and are often located on the top floor of each building in the stairwells. If an alarm is activated, the following procedures should be followed when possible:

1. Students and staff with limited mobility who are not located on the ground floor should proceed into the stairwell and wait on the landing until additional assistance can be summoned.
2. If safe to do so, students and staff with visual impairments should be guided by bystanders through any evacuee traffic and then promptly assisted to the nearest exit.
3. Students and staff with hearing impairments may be unaware of the need to evacuate and should be advised of the situation. If safe to do so, bystanders should promptly guide them to the nearest exit.
4. When necessary to summon additional assistance, use the Emergency Phones to call for help and to report the location of person(s) in need of rescue.
5. Emergency Phones that connect you to Public Safety are located in the Academic Cores and in the elevator lobbies on each floor in all other buildings. Provide the Public Safety Officer with your location (i.e. Core 3, floor 2). You may also call 9-911 and report your location to the Mahwah Police; do not hang up until the Public Safety or Police Dispatchers tells you to.
6. If safe to do so, students and staff with other disabilities who may be unable to communicate should be provided assistance by bystanders and direction to the nearest exit.
7. The fire department will assist in completing the evacuation once they arrive on scene.

E. Procedures for Sheltering/ Protecting in Place

Buildings occupants that are not able to safely evacuate in the event of a fire or emergency should shelter or seek protection in place. This may include students or staff with limited physical mobility that limits their ability to leave. This may also include situations where there is fire, smoke, or other hazard blocking the exits. Severe/inclement weather or other hazardous conditions may also exist outside that may further endanger the occupants.

1. In the event of an emergency (or a drill simulating an emergency), seek a safe area to shelter and protect in place. This may include staying in your room, suite, or apartment.

2. If unable to leave an occupied space, such as a dorm room, ensure the door is closed.

3. Immediately phone Public Safety at x6666 from a campus phone or 201-684-6666 from a cell phone to inform them of your location, circumstances for not evacuating, intention for remaining in the building, and inform them if you are in immediate danger.

4. Provide a phone number/extension you are calling from.

5. Public Safety will have radio contact with officers at the scene and will provide you with updates on the situation via the phone number provided. At any time, you can also call back for an update.

6. In the event that your safety could be compromised, Firefighters will assist in your safe evacuation.

return to top

V. FIRE SAFETY EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Campus fire safety education and training is vital to helping prevent injury, loss of life and property damage on Campus.  Education and training are also components of the campus fire safety provisions of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEAO). Colleges and Universities throughout the Unites States are required to report on the fire safety training they are providing.

A.  Fire Safety education and training at Ramapo College is provided through the following:

1. The Guide to Community Living – provides information to students and staff living in Residence Life housing on campus.
2. The Student Code of Conduct – provides information to all students regarding the standards of behavior and prohibited conduct
3. The Student Handbook – provides information to all students regarding the sanctions for Code of Conduct violations
4. RCNJ Fire Safety Website– provides information to students and staff on fire safe practices, including policies, procedures, and registration forms for special events
5. Fire Safety presentations for students groups and residence life staff provided by the College Fire Marshal
6. Fire Safety hands on training for Public Safety and Facilities staff provided by the College Fire Marshal
7. Fire Safety training provided by the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute
8. First Aid training provided by the Bergen County EMS Training Center
9. Outside speakers and instructors (such as PSEG)

B.  The Ramapo First Responders Club is dedicated to E.M.T.s, firefighters, law enforcement officials, dispatchers, and anyone else interested in emergency services. The First Responders Club hosts events on campus including blood drives, lectures/discussions with local emergency service professionals, Stroke Awareness Month events, free classes, and many other events. It provides a forum where first responders and emergency services personnel can gather and share interests, knowledge, and passion for serving the community.

C.  Ramapo College encourages students to pursue additional firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training in the community. Local first responder agencies provide advanced training at the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute located only 1.5 miles from campus, as well as the Bergen County EMS Training Center in Paramus, NJ.

return to top

VI. FIRE SAFETY EXPECTATIONS

 

The College expects that students and their guests will abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the Guide to Community Living, the Student Code of Conduct, and Student Handbook.  The College is also bound by the provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and students are required to follow all applicable laws. Students and guests who fail to comply with the College’s rules and the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code regulations will be held accountable, may face disciplinary action from the Office of Student Conduct, and may be subject to civil or criminal charges.

A.  Prohibited Conduct

Sanctions for Fire Safety violations under the Student Code of Conduct can be found in the “Fire Safety on Campus” section under Policies and Procedures in the Student Handbook.

 Activating a fire alarm due to the use of a prohibited item or disregard of a published policy.

• Inadvertent fire alarm activation due to cooking, hair dryers, or steam from the shower
• Inadvertent fire alarm activation due to use of a prohibited item or disregard for published policy
• Use of cooking appliances outside of a kitchen
• Smoking of any substance inside any building or residence hall on campus (includes the evidence of smoking, including but not limited to, ash and/or butts in the window)
• Use of candles or incense
• Blocking means of egress

Failure and/or refusal to immediately evacuate from buildings and /or endangered areas or to follow instructions during a fire alarm.

 Intentionally or recklessly misusing fire equipment or other safety equipment, including fire alarm, fire detection, and fire suppression devices.

• Attaching items to the sprinkler system in an apartment or residence hall room
• Covering or attaching items to fire alarm equipment in a residence hall room, including but not limited to, smoke detectors, heat detectors, and CO detectors
• Misuse, deactivation, or damage to fire alarm, fire suppression systems, or firefighting equipment

*Fire safety systems and equipment include, but are not limited to: fire extinguishers, pull stations, bells, smoke detectors, heat detectors, hydrants, hoses, standpipe cabinets, sprinklers, sprinkler pipes, alarm panels, fire rated doors, signs and postings, fire lanes and zones, fire department connections etc.

Intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report or warning concerning:

a) The threat of fire

b) The presence of a bomb or of an explosion

c) Any other emergency condition

• Malicious activation of the fire alarm
• Malicious report of fire by pulling the fire alarm
• Malicious false report of fire by contacting emergency personnel (911 or Public Safety)
• Theft of fire alarm, fire suppression systems, or firefighting equipment
• Intentional setting fire and/or burning any object and/or place not intended to be burnt
• Negligent behavior resulting in a fire

 Unauthorized use or possession of fireworks, other incendiaries, or explosive devices.

• Including presence of gasoline, propane tanks, or other highly combustible items in residence housing

B.  Prohibited Items 

Residence Life Staff will address violations for possession of prohibited items.  When it comes to fire safety, certain items and actions can compromise the safety of the campus community.  If questions arise about a specific item or action, seek guidance from your Residence/Area Director who may seek guidance from the College Fire Marshall.

2.  CONFISCATION POLICY

In the course of conducting routine inspections or responding to alarms and  campus incidents, Public Safety, the College Fire Marshal, or a Residence Life staff member may confiscate any prohibited items found.  Rooms, suites, and apartments are subject to inspection at any time with or without advanced notice.  Confiscated items that are illegal may be referred to local law enforcement. Ramapo College reserves the right to amend the list of prohibited items at any time. Notice of changes will be provided to students via official Ramapo College email or other electronic communication or posting. STUDENTS SHOULD REVIEW THE PROHIBITED ITEMS LIST AND USE BEST JUDGMENT ABOUT THE ITEMS AND ACTIVITIES THAT ARE PROHIBITED IN THE RESIDENCE HALLS.

return to top

VII. RESIDENTS, FACULTY/STAFF IN RESIDENCE, AND GUESTS

The College expects that residents, Faculty/Staff in residence,  and their guests will abide by the College’s Policies and Procedures and all applicable provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code. The Prohibited Items list applies universally to all residents on campus.  Notice of changes will be provided to staff via official Ramapo College email or other electronic communication or posting. Any violations of the College’s Policy and Procedures by staff or their guests shall be administered in accordance with the applicable disciplinary policies and procedures in conjunction with the Department of Human Resources or other appropriate administrator.

return to top

VIII. EMERGENCY EGRESS DOORS

Resident students and staff are not permitted to enter or exit through the emergency egress doors and/or fire stairwell doors in residence halls unless there is an emergency or fire alarm. Entering or exiting through trash room or mechanical room doors is similarly prohibited. Resident students and staff are only permitted to enter residence halls through the main entrance where the ID card readers are located. Residents found entering or exiting as described in this section may face sanctions or disciplinary action.

return to top

Prohibited Items List

Prohibited Items and Conduct List

Academic Year 2024-2025

When it comes to fire safety, certain items and actions can compromise the safety of others within the campus community. If uncertain about a particular item or action, you are encouraged to bring such items to your Resident Director (for students) or Supervisor (for staff) who may refer you to the College Fire Marshal for additional assistance.

All residents are responsible for adhering to Ramapo College Fire Safety Policies and the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code. Students and staff living in residential housing on campus are expected to follow all policies. Residents may not have prohibited items in campus housing facilities and be aware of the possible sanctions for violations of the prohibited items list, including prohibited conduct. Staff includes RAs, professional staff in residence, and Faculty/Staff Licensees. In addition to sanctions imposed by the College, violators may also be responsible for fines assessed by the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety.

All residence halls and apartment units are subject to periodic fire and safety inspections and students are expected to cooperate in removing any found violations when requested by the Public Safety, the RCNJ Fire Marshal, the NJ Division of Fire Safety, or the College Administration. The College may require personal furniture or furnishings to be removed from any residence when it determines the situation to be a fire, safety, or health hazard. Under no circumstance should furniture restrict free and easy movement within the room, suite, hallway, or apartment areas, or block egress in any way.

Any prohibited items found in the possession of a student may be confiscated. Confiscated items may not be returned and students will not be compensated for confiscated prohibited items. Residence Life Policy states that:  Prohibited items will result in an immediate fine starting at $50.00 per item for each resident who is deemed to be responsible for the violation. Multiple items can increase the fine. Additional fines and other disciplinary sanctions may result if additional violations are found upon subsequent and/or follow-up inspections.

Test Your Knowledge by Taking Our Policy Quiz

Additionally, RCNJ reserves the right to have students or resident staff remove from campus any item that is not listed but deemed to be a fire or health and safety hazard by Residence Life, the Department of Environmental Health and Safety, the College Fire Marshal, and/or the State Fire Marshal.

*Policies are subject to change at any time by order of the RCNJ Fire Marshal, Student Conduct, and Residence Life.

 

return to top

Local Attractions

Ramapo has organized an extensive list of nearby things to do for our students, including attractions, restaurants, banking, and shopping locations. We encourage all of our students to explore the nearby area, or plan out some fun activities for themselves throughout the year, in addition to what is offered on campus.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Important Campus Telephone Numbers

To call any campus phone number from a campus line, simply dial the four-digit extension. From an outside line, dial (201) 684 and the four-digit extension for the office.

All general office phone numbers are listed online, here. Students may also search for individual staff members through this system.

CAMPUS PHONE DIRECTORY

return to top