Party and Social Hosting Tips

Northwestern students work hard, and many choose to play hard as well. That can be a good thing, as long as it is done in a responsible and respectful manner. Remember that keeping the noise level down, following all City/University policies, and cleaning up after your party/social gathering goes a long way to being a good neighbor of the Evanston/NU communities.

If you are planning to host a gathering at your residence, please read up on how you can do so with these party and social hosting tips (Word doc).                          

Neighbors and community members will call the police if they feel that noise, trash or other disturbances are impacting their safety or quality of life. Many types of noise are citable offenses, and having the police involved for noise can often lead to other citations as well. Here are some tips for party antendees (Word doc) and Alcohol & Other Drug Resources.

As a member of the Northwestern community, you (and your guests and visitors) are expected to comply with all local, state, and federal laws, in addition to the University’s Code of Student Conduct. The Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution has jurisdiction for behavior off campus that is in violation of the Code which can be referred to the University for disciplinary action.

Most of the trouble students get into could be easily avoidable if they knew more about the rules and regulations and planned accordingly. Excessive noise and trash/littering are the two most common issues that initiate complaints. Here is a list of common party violations (Word doc) in the Evanston City Code of which you need to be aware.

Noise

One big concern among neighbors, students and non-students alike, is the noise from off-campus gatherings.

• What is "disturbing the peace?"
• Quiet hours
• Playing music
• People coming and going from your property

Alcohol

Many students choose to serve alcohol at off-campus gatherings, which presents a large set of risks to all involved. Make sure any alcohol is being served according to the rules.

• Age and identification
• Open container
• Emergencies

Cleanup

The host's job isn't over when the guests leave - you have to make sure to clean up or could be in trouble.

• Citable mess
• Neighborhood cleanup programs
• Students are expected to have the exterior and contiguous spaces to their rented property cleaned up no later than 10 am following any event. This is a reality for our students following Dillo Day and must be held to all year round.