Noise Policy
Activity and events should be held in suitable locations that take into consideration of the size, accommodations, traffic, noise, time, relationship to nearby area and activities, and other relevant facts and circumstances.
In consideration of disruption from noise to campus areas as well as surrounding residential area arising from events scheduled outdoors, amplification of sound outdoors must end by dusk unless specific written permission has been granted in advance through the appropriate scheduling authority. Noise levels must be maintained at a reasonable level (as determined by WMPD) or the event will be closed. Should a complaint be received regarding noise from an event, WMPD will visit the site to make a determination on the noise level. If it is determined the noise is creating a disturbance, the officer will direct that the level be lowered to a reasonable level. If the level intensifies and/or complaints continue even after the volume is lowered, the police officer has the authority to close the event.
Amplified music/voices or other sounds originating from within facilities on campus are subject to the same scrutiny as those as outdoor events. Campus Police officers and/or university staff will respond to complaints directly or by observation of excessive noise. Following an assessment of the situation, the officer or staff member may ask that the volume be lowered so as to minimize the disruption. If the group or individual fails to cooperate with the request, the officer or staff member may shut off the amplified sound and/or close the event. After normal ending times for social events, it is expected that any music/noise level will be dramatically lowered to the point that it would not disturb adjacent area. After an initial warning and request to bring the volume into an acceptable range, the WMPD officers and/or university staff may direct that the music be turned off.
