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Off-Campus Residency Policy

Scope

This policy applies to commuter students enrolled at Rhodes College who reside in housing not owned, leased, or directly managed by the College, including privately rented houses, apartments, and other off-campus residences.

Policy Statement

Students living in off-campus residences represent both themselves and the College in the broader community. The College expects students to be respectful community members, comply with local, state, and federal laws, and uphold College Standards of Conduct while living off campus. The College does not regulate or manage behavior at private residences.  The college will address reported student behavior that violates the law. 

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Clarify expectations for students living in off-campus housing.
  • Promote positive relationships between students and their surrounding community.
  • Encourage responsible citizenship and respect for local ordinances.
  • Guide for students to be good neighbors and responsible tenants.

Definitions

  • Commuter Student: a college student who lives off-campus and travels to campus for classes, rather than living in on-campus housing.
  • Off-Campus Housing: Any residential property not owned, leased, or managed by Rhodes College.
  • Good Neighbor Guidelines: Standards of courtesy and responsibility that students are expected to follow in order to maintain positive relationships with neighbors and the broader community.
  • Local Authorities: City or county law enforcement, code enforcement, or other municipal agencies with jurisdiction over local ordinances and regulations.

Address Registration

Commuter students must register their off-campus local residential address and attend a mandatory safety workshop with Campus Safety. Additionally, if a student changes residences, they must re-register their address and check to make sure that the new residence is registered. 

Commuter students must register their address each year to comply with the policy and to ensure individual records are updated. The registered local address provided is valid for one academic year only. Additionally, if a student changes location of residency, they must re-register their address.

Good Neighbor Guidelines

Students living off-campus are encouraged to:

  1. Respect Noise Levels – Adhere to local noise ordinances and refrain from disruptive behavior.  Avoid excessive noise, especially during quiet hours, to prevent disturbances to other students and residents.  It is recommended that you limit the number of guests to manage the crowd effectively.   For more information, refer to the City of Memphis noise ordinances.
  2. Maintain Property Appearance – Keep yards, porches, and common areas clean and free of trash or debris.
  3. Be Mindful of Parking – Park legally, do not block driveways or sidewalks, and respect posted restrictions.
  4. Dispose of Trash Properly – Follow local guidelines for trash and recycling collection.  A clean property is a safer property.  The City of Memphis has rules for garbage pickup and recycling.      There are certain conditions under which the city will not collect specific items.  For more information, visit the City of Memphis Solid Waste or call 901-636-6500.
  5. Communicate Respectfully – Engage with neighbors in a courteous and respectful manner.
  6. Be a Responsible Host – If hosting guests or gatherings, follow local laws, avoid excessive noise, and ensure that guest behavior does not disrupt the community.
  7. Observe Local Laws – Follow all applicable city, county, and state ordinances, including those related to noise, alcohol, and occupancy limits.
  8. Address Issues Promptly – Respond quickly to maintenance issues, landlord communications, and neighbor concerns.

The College encourages community members and neighbors to report violations of ordinances and laws directly to local authorities and property owners/managers. 

Accountability

  • Students are required to update their local off-campus address annually with the College. Failure to provide accurate and timely information will result in a referral to the Office of Community Standards and may place a hold on registration.
  • Students are expected to comply with this policy, College policies, and local laws. Behavior that violates the College’s Standards of Conduct or the law may result in disciplinary action through the College’s conduct process.
  • The College does not intervene in landlord-tenant disputes. Students are expected to manage their rental agreements responsibly and in accordance with the law.