NMSU Guide to Residential Living 2
Contents
Letter from the Director .......................................................................................................................................... 3
Important Contact Information .............................................................................................................................. 4
Housing and Residential Life – Getting Started ..................................................................................................... 5
Our Team ................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Desk Assistant (DA) ............................................................................................................................................................... 5
Our Communities ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Our Amenities and Services .................................................................................................................................... 9
Housing and Residential Life Office .................................................................................................................................... 9
Events and Activities ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Keys and Access Cards.......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Maintenance & Custodial Services .................................................................................................................................... 13
Safety & Security ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Abandoned Property .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Animals ................................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Cleaning and Disinfecting Responsibilities ...................................................................................................................... 23
COVID-19 Health and Safety Regulations ......................................................................................................................... 23
Disruptive Behavior ............................................................................................................................................................. 23
Encroachment ...................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Failure to Comply ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
Physical Abuse/Threats....................................................................................................................................................... 25
Prohibited Items The following items are not allowed in any NMSU housing facilities: .......................................... 25
Quiet Hours & Noise ........................................................................................................................................................... 26
Trash and Recycling ............................................................................................................................................................ 28
Visitors & Guests ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
Welfare Checks .................................................................................................................................................................... 29
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 3
Letter from the Director
Dear Aggies,
On behalf of all of us at Housing & Residential Life (HRL), welcome to New Mexico State University! If you are a
first-time resident or an experienced returner to living on campus there is a community for you. We encourage
you to apply for housing as soon as possible once you are admitted and enrolled because rooms and
apartments fill up quickly. You will experience being an Aggie in an engaging, supportive and diverse living
environment. Having decided to be a member of an on-campus residential community get ready to enjoy the
varied programs, events and resources available to you as a campus resident.
Take time to read and review this Resident Handbook which contains practical information and important
guidelines that will help you understand what it means to be a member of your community and what you can
expect. Being a member of a community comes with a certain level of responsibility and accountability which is
all part of Aggie life. As an Aggie you are expected to actively practice civility and good will with everyone.
Our highest priority is the health and safety of our students and employees. With that in mind we have used
guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, New Mexico Department of Health, and our
own NMSU health experts to develop and adopt precautionary protocols and a university wide COVID-19 safety
commitment that we expect students and employees to adhere to. Once you arrive on campus you may find the
adjustment to living away from family a bit unusual, but after a few short weeks you will have connected with old
friends, made new friends and found your groove. We encourage residents to stay on campus and limit travel on
weekends. Traveling away from campus increases COVID risk to you, other campus community members as well
as those you travel to see. These are unusual times.
Living on campus and engaging in your community will provide you with opportunities to broaden your
perspective, expand your intellect and become part of something larger than yourself.
We look forward to your arrival. Go Aggies!!
Sincerely,
Ophelia Watkins
Interim Executive Director
NMSU Housing & Residential Life
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 4
Important Contact Information
Residence Halls
Garcia Hall Service Desk*
Garcia Lobby
575-646-1701
Garcia East Resident Director (RD) Office
Garcia East Lobby, Room 108
575-646-4412
Garcia West RD Office
Garcia East Lobby, Room 115
575-646-4466
Piñon Hall RD Office
Piñon B Lobby
575-646-1916
Rhodes Garrett Hamiel RD Office
Garrett Lobby
575-646-1505
Juniper Hall RD Office
Juniper Hall Lobby
575-646-7576
* Telephones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days of the year.
Apartment Complexes
Chamisa Village Service Desk*
Chamisa Club House
575-646-7109
Chamisa Village RD Office
Chamisa Club House
575-646-7134
South Campus Residential Life Office*
1410 Center Drive
575-646-5393
Cervantes Village RD Office
South Campus Residential Life
Office
575-646-2948
Vista Del Monte RD Office
South Campus Residential Life
Office
575-646-2948
Student Family Housing RD Office
South Campus Residential Life
Office
575-646-5369
Aggie Express Convenience Store
Vista Del Monte
575-646-7788
* Telephones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year
Housing and Residential Life
Housing and Residential Life Office
Corbett Center (CCSU) Room
230
575-646-3202
(housing@nmsu.edu)
University Police
Emergency
911
Non-Emergency/Lost & Found
575-646-3311
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 5
Housing and Residential Life – Getting Started
Welcome to New Mexico State University! You are now a member of the Aggie family and NMSU is your home. As
an Aggie you are part of a large, diverse and welcoming community at the finest university in the Southwest. This
resident guide will serve as a reference and resource for living on campus.
The Housing and Residential Life staff is committed to making your living environment focused on learning, social
awareness, and community development. You will find the staff open, welcoming, and professional.
Our Team
Desk Assistant (DA)
Desk Assistants are student staff members who work at the various Service Desks (Chamisa, Garcia, and South
Campus). They are responsible for sorting mail and packages, checking out equipment, answering questions,
directing residents to resources, and helping to provide a friendly and welcoming environment in our
residential areas.
Resident Assistant (RA)
Your Resident Assistant is an upper-division (sophomore or above) student staff member who lives in your
community and serves as a resource, support, and community-builder. You can expect your RA to host events
to help you get to know other residents, uphold University and Housing and Residential Life policies, ensure
the safety and security of our communities through duty rounds, and engage in conversations with you about
your student success at New Mexico State University. Your RA will also contact you throughout the year for
things like Occupancy Verification and Health and Safety Inspections. Your RA is one of the best people to go to
if you need help or have questions. Your RA will have signage on their door to help you identify where they live,
and they will be in touch frequently to see how you’re doing, tell you about upcoming events, and offer
assistance.
Senior Resident Assistant (SRA)
Senior Resident Assistants are student staff members who have served as RAs for a minimum of three
semesters and show exceptional leadership abilities. They have additional responsibilities, such as staff
development, administrative oversight of a programmatic area, peer-to-peer training, and mentoring. There is
one SRA per residential community.
Resident Director (RD)
Each campus community is overseen by a professional staff member who lives on campus in the communities
they oversee. The RDs supervise student staff, advise community councils, provide facilities management
support, adjudicate student behavior matters, respond to emergencies, and offer support for residents residing
in our communities. Many of our RDs hold master’s degrees in Higher Education Administration and have
chosen Student Affairs as their career.
Faculty Fellows (FF)
Faculty Fellows are dedicated faculty members from all NMSU colleges and Doña Ana Community College (DACC)
who create meaningful connections with students outside the classroom. Faculty Fellows provide one-on-one
and small group mentorship for campus residents who apply to be paired with a mentor. Students who make
connections with faculty outside the classroom are the most successful in college, so make sure to get to know
your Faculty Fellow!
Faculty in Residence (FiR)
Faculty in Residence are faculty members who live in our residential communities to help plan events and
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 6
activities for students. They are often found eating meals with students, attending programs, welcoming
students at move-in day, and sharing their expertise on academic success.
Residence Hall Association (RHA)
RHA is the governing organization for the on-campus residence halls and apartment communities. This
leadership group organizes large-scale events for residents, advocates for student concerns, develops campus
leaders, and makes decisions that affect campus residents. RHA general assembly meetings are open to all
campus residents. Representatives from each Community Council and NRHH represent their constituents as a
voting board. As a sophomore or above living on campus, you may consider running for an executive position
in RHA; the best way to learn about the organization and the positions is to attend meetings and events.
Hall/Community Council
A group of students who live in your community and are elected to organize events for your area, advocate for
student needs, and vote on decisions that affect your campus community. Early in the fall semester, elections
for your Community Council will be held, and every resident of your area is welcome to run for a position. If
you miss elections or don’t want to hold an executive position, and still want to be involved, contact your RD for
ways to participate.
National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH)
NRHH is an honorary student organization representing the top 1% of students who live on campus. To be
eligible, a student must have a 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA and be involved in leadership within the
residential community. Induction is by nomination only, and membership is considered a prestigious honor
nationally. Our chapter’s name is “Pete’s Elite,” and its focus is recognition.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 7
Our Communities
First-Year Residence Halls
There are five residence halls in four residential complexes at NMSU. Rhodes-Garrett-Hamiel (RGH), on the
New Mexico historic building registry, is charming and newly renovated. Originally three separate communities,
the university connected the buildings many years ago. Garcia East & Garcia West are mirror images of one
another and feature all suite-style configurations. Piñon Hall, opened in 2006, offers suite-style configurations,
and features a fitness center. Juniper Hall, our newest residence hall, opened in 2019. Juniper Hall was named
by the student body as it was under construction. All of the residence halls have onsite laundry facilities.
Apartments
Upper-division students living in apartment villages may choose from single or efficiency apartments, two
bedroom apartments with shared bathroom and four-bedroom, two bath apartments with shared bathroom.
We have three apartment complexes: Cervantes Village, Chamisa Village, and Vista Del Monte. NMSU
offers one-bedroom efficiencies (Cervantes), one-bedroom (Chamisa), two-bedroom (Cervantes, Chamisa &
Vista Del Monte), and four-bedroom (Cervantes & Chamisa) options. Chamisa Village has refrigerated air
conditioning while Cervantes Village and Vista Del Monte have evaporative cooling units. Apartments are
furnished.
Student Family Housing (SFH)
Affordable and convenient on-campus housing options are available to students with families. Offering individual
houses with yards and apartment style living, these neighborhoods offer great amenities with close proximity to
parks and picnic areas.
To qualify for SFH, there must be a registered student in the household as part of a family unit. Family units
include married couples, married couples with child(ren), single parents with dependent children, domestic
partners, and domestic partner with child(ren). Consideration is also given to non-traditional family units such as
adult siblings living together without parents, and/or the presence of extended family members. Please review the
NMSU Domestic Partnership guidelines to review qualification information.
Tom Fort and Sutherland Villages offer single-family homes with two bedrooms and one bath. They also have
enclosed backyards and driveways for each home, along with washer hookups and an outdoor clothesline.
Cervantes Village offers apartment-style homes with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. All SFH units are
cooled by evaporative cooling.
Living Learning Communities (LLCs)
Living Learning Communities are groups of students who live together and share a common interest or
academic major. Our LLCs are partnered with academic colleges and departments that provide a faculty
member who is involved with events in the community. Many of our LLC students also take a common
academic course their first semester together. For a list of all LLCs including common courses, locations, and
past activities, visit housing.nmsu.edu/llc.
Inclusive and Co-Ed Housing
In the first-year residence halls, our Inclusive Housing option allows students to reside in the same room and suite
as individuals who may be of another gender or do not identify along the gender binary. Interested students must
opt into the Inclusive Housing experience. For more information about this housing option and how Housing and
Residential Life supports an inclusive community, visit housing.nmsu.edu/inclusive.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 8
Apartment living at NMSU allows for students to have roommates of any gender. Co-Ed Housing is available in
all three apartment complexes. Roommates must mutually choose one another and space is available on a
first-come, first-served basis. Students choosing this option in order to live with significant other are
discouraged from using Co-Ed Housing. Housing and Residential Life will not authorize space changes due to
significant others breaking up.
Greek Life Housing
Cervantes Village is home to a Greek Life community where members of chartered NMSU Greek letter
organizations live together. For more information about this specialized housing, contact the chapter President
of the desired Greek letter organization or the RD for Cervantes Village Apartments.
Military and Veteran Housing
NMSU Housing and Residential Life offers US military or veteran student housing in Tom Fort Village. These
small houses are in Student Family Housing and provide greater independence and a sense of community
with other military and veteran students. Contact the Housing and Residential Life office for more
information.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 9
Our Amenities and Services
Housing and Residential Life Office
The Housing and Residential Life Office provides applications, contracts, and account billing for all residents.
Office staff are responsible for assigning residential spaces. Prior to move-in, the Housing office is the central
location for students and families to get information about housing. Once a resident has checked in,
questions or concerns can also be directed to either the Service Desk, RA, or RD for the student’s residential
community.
Services Desks
Each of our communities has a Service Desk that serves its residents with various services and supplies
depending on the needs of residents. Hours for each Service Desk can be found at
https://housing.nmsu.edu/contact-us/.
Garcia Service Desk
Located in the Garcia Hall lobby, this is where residents of Garcia East, Garcia West, Piñon, RGH, and
Juniper will pick up packages, borrow equipment (board games, billiards equipment, ping pong
paddles/balls, etc.), and check out spare room keys if they’re locked out. This is also a place you can
report a problem, get help submitting a work order, or ask for assistance.
Chamisa Service Desk
Located in the Chamisa Village Clubhouse, this is the main hub for all Chamisa residents. Chamisa
residents may pick up packages, borrow equipment (board games, billiards equipment, ping pong
paddles/balls, etc.), and check out spare room keys if they’re locked out. This is also a place you can
report a problem, get help submitting a work order, or ask for assistance.
South Campus Office
Located on 1400 Center Drive in Cervantes Village. Residents of Vista Del Monte, Cervantes, Tom Fort,
and Sutherland villages will visit this office to get help with questions, report problems, and check out
spare keys if they’re locked out.
Events and Activities
Throughout the year, Housing staff hosts events and activities – we call them “programs” – to help you get to
know other students and support your success in college. We design programs to deliver five outcomes that we
believe every Aggie should gain during their time at NMSU: Aggie Pride, Personal Safety and Wellness, World
Impact, Life Skills, and Academic Excellence. The semester will start with a series of Crimson Kickoff events
designed to help you feel at home on campus. Social distancing and other health safety protocols will be in place
during programs. Attending programs is one of the best ways to meet people, engage with your community, and
have FUN in college!
Keys and Access Cards
Upon check-in, you are issued keys and, in some cases, card-swipe access to your residential community.
These are provided solely for your personal use to access your residential area. It is a violation of Housing
and Residential Life rules to lend, share, sell, copy, or otherwise misuse keys, access cards, locks, or card
readers.
Broken or Lost Keys: If you break a key, bring the pieces to your appropriate Service Desk to report
the key broken and request a new key (charges will apply if you do not bring the broken pieces or if
the broken key is determined to be the result of misuse). If you lose your keys, you are required to
report it immediately to your Service Desk or RA so an emergency lock change can be ordered.
While there are charges applied for this service, your safety is the ultimate priority.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 10
Lock-Outs: If you are locked out of your room/unit, a staff person can assist you at the Service Desk
(even after hours). An RA will be called to escort you to your room. At your room, you will be asked to
show your keys to verify that you have them; if you do not have keys, a lock change will happen and you
will be charged for the new lock and keys. Your first lock-out is free (unless your keys are completely
missing); after that, you will be charged a fee for each lockout. The charge schedule, based on a one-
year contract period, is as follows: the 1st lock-out is free, 2nd lock-out is $20, 3rd lock-out is $40, 4th
lock-out and all subsequent lock-outs are $60. All fees will be billed to the student’s NMSU account.
Dining Services
NMSU Dining Services provides meal service in Taos Restaurant. A number of additional dining locations are
available on campus including Subway, Aggies Grill, Corbett Center Food Court, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Campus
Canteen, Panda Express, Zuhl Fuel, Frenger Food Court, and Pete’s Patio. View hours, menus, and more at
https://dining.nmsu.edu/. Meal plan options can be purchased through the ID Card Services Office. For
more information on meal plans, visit https://idcard.nmsu.edu/.
Utilities: Water, Air Conditioning/Heating, Trash Removal, and Electricity
All Utilities are included in the housing rates. To help keep costs low and promote sustainability, please
conserve energy when possible. You may not be paying your utilities bill directly, but yearly increases are
possible if residents participate in excessive usage.
Internet Connectivity
Your computer will need to be registered for the NMSU Residential Network and the NMSU Campus Network
(AggieAir). Detailed information is available at help.nmsu.edu/resident-internet-connection and
netreg.nmsu.edu. If you need assistance or more information, contact ICT at 575-646-1840 or
help@nmsu.edu.
Xfinity on Campus
You have access to Xfinity on Campus programming as a campus resident, even if you’re away from campus.
Stream live TV, watch thousands of shows and movies, and enjoy up to 20 hours of DVR storage. Plus, you can
take it on the go with the Xfinity Stream app. To get started, visit https://xfinityoncampus.com, enter New
Mexico State in the search field, log in using your NMSU credentials, authenticate, and start watching on your
compatible device. You may not independently contract with other cable providers or install any other cable
equipment in your unit, but you are welcome to upgrade your Xfinity programming package at your own
expense.
Compatible devices include: Roku streaming devices and Roku TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, LG and Sony Smart TVs,
any Apple TV compatible TVs, laptops and Chromebooks.
Laundry
Laundry facilities are located throughout our residential areas. Machines take coins or Aggie Cash. Machines
charge $1.25 per load to wash and $1.25 per load to dry. For our laundry rooms in Aggie Express and our
residence halls, we offer a service called LaundryView, which allows you to see what washers and dryers are
available, and how much time is left on the machines from your phone or computer. You can learn more at
laundryview.com/lvs.php?s=7859.
Mail and Packages
At the Garcia Hall and Chamisa Village Service Desks, we use a system called EZTrackIt for mail and package
tracking and delivery notification. Mail and packages are delivered to Service Desks of each area and you will
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 11
receive a text or email when a package has arrived if you have opted in to receive notifications.
In Cervantes Village, Vista Del Monte, Tom Fort Village, and Sutherland Village, your mailbox will be in US Postal
Service mailbox clusters located throughout your community. Packages are mailed directly to your unit.
Please remember to provide the Post Office and any important contacts with appropriate change of address
information when you check out.
If you live in Garcia, Juniper, RGH, or Piñon Hall* your mailing address is:
Your Name
Box # North Campus Housing (remove the word “box” when submitting mail digitally through USPS.com)
Las Cruces, NM 88003
*All mail will be retrieved at the Garcia Hall Service Desk
If you live in Chamisa Village your mailing address is:
Your Name
300 Chamisa Village, Box #
Las Cruces, NM 88001
If you live in Vista Del Monte your mailing address is:
Your Name
100 Vista Del Monte Apt # Bed Letter
Las Cruces, NM 88001
Example
Pistol Pete
100 Vista Del Monte K3A
Las Cruces, NM 88001
If you live in Cervantes Village A, B, C, D, or E, your mailing address is:
Your Name
200 Cervantes Village, Apt #
Las Cruces, NM 88001
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 12
If you live in Cervantes Village F, G, H or J, your mailing address is:
Your Name
200 Cervantes Village, Apt # Bed Letter
Las Cruces, NM 88001
Example
Pistol Pete
200 Cervantes Village, G3A
Las Cruces, NM 88001
Service Desk personnel make every effort to get special delivery items to the student the same day they are
received at the desk. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please do not send cash through the mail. Checks for large amounts
and important papers should be sent “Return Receipt Requested” just to be on the safe side. Package insurance
is recommended.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 13
Maintenance & Custodial Services
Housing and Residential Life is committed to providing a living environment that is safe, comfortable, and clean.
The Maintenance and Custodial Services staff primarily work 7:00 am - 4:00 pm with limited coverage on
weekends. Our Residential Life staff provide on-call coverage to address after hours emergencies. If you
experience a facilities issue in your room or apartment, contact your area’s Service Desk or an RA.
Submitting a Work Order/Work Request
If you are experiencing a problem with your room or apartment, you may submit an online work request at the
Housing website or you can visit http://housingonlineforms.nmsu.edu/WorkRequest.aspx.
Submitting an online work request gives NMSU maintenance and custodial staff permission to enter your unit
to remedy the problem. You will receive an email confirmation and should expect to have someone visit your
unit within three business days. If someone has not arrived in that time, please refer to the instructions in your
email confirmation.
Maintenance and custodial staff typically respond to work orders within three business days of the request
being received. In many cases, the issue will be corrected then. There are occasions when the complexity of
work, availability of repair parts, availability of staff, and time of year affects the ability to complete the work in
the desired time frame. Contact your RD if you need further updates on the progress of your work order after
the three-day period.
You may not be home when a maintenance technician or custodian arrives. As part of the Housing and
Residential Life Agreement, staff may enter your room or living unit under these conditions:
• To complete a work order that you have requested.
• When staff identify a safety concern (such as water or smoke coming from a residential area).
• When a larger facilities problem may require entrance to rooms adjacent to the area where the
problem was first reported (such as a leaking pipe in the wall between rooms).
• Scheduled Health & Safety Inspections.
• When a larger project requires entrance into multiple rooms or units. Housing and Residential Life
staff will send a notice via email to the affected residents. We try to schedule these projects to be
done as much as possible during semester breaks, but occasionally they happen during the
academic year.
For emergencies, please call the 24-hour emergency number in your area. If an emergency is suspected and
you are not present, we reserve the right to enter your space to address it, even if a work request was not
submitted, including facility problems that are affecting another space (major leak, etc.).
If you notice a problem in a common area (lobby, community center, parking lot, etc.), please notify your area’s
Service Desk, RA, or RD right away.
If it is determined that damages are related to vandalism, improper use, negligence, or reckless behavior on
your part, you may be charged for associated repairs and replacements.
If you have an approved animal in your unit, please ensure that your animal is secured and cannot escape,
otherwise maintenance and custodial staff may not enter your unit to complete your work order.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 14
Pest Control
Housing and Residential Life contracts with a local pest control company to treat residential areas. If you are
having a pest problem in your unit, submit a work request. Pest control services visit campus on Tuesdays
and also do regular treatment of common spaces and building exteriors throughout the year. If it is
determined that the condition of your unit is contributing to a pest problem, you may be charged for
treatment services. The chemicals used by our service provider are safe and effective, though due to laws
regulating use of chemicals, we are careful not to over-treat any interior or exterior residential areas, which
means we will not repeatedly spray the same area multiple times. Keep in mind that NMSU is located in the
desert southwest where some pests are common and may be seen from time to time even in the cleanest
households.
Reserving Common Spaces, Classrooms, Community Centers, and Outdoor Venues (Volleyball Courts or
Grills)
During the COVID-19 health emergency, facilities may not be available or use may be limited in order to
comply with ongoing changes in health and safety guidelines.
Conference Services located in the Corbett Center Student Union maintains a reservation system for common
area spaces in Housing & Residential Life. Because residential student rents and student fees pay for the
maintenance and upkeep of these facilities, they receive high priority when wanting to reserve a space for a
function. To reserve a space, you can visit
https://conference.nmsu.edu/facility-request-form/
The Housing & Residential Life departmental leadership is consulted before any reservation of a common space
is confirmed by Conference Services staff. Housing staff receive first priority to conduct official university
functions or events. Housing-affiliated leadership groups (Residence Hall Association, Community Councils, and
National Residence Hall Honorary) received second priority. Next, housing residents will receive priority
permission. Next priority goes to other NMSU-affiliated offices, departments, or recognized student groups.
Lastly, outside groups associated with university business or conferences services will receive last priority. As a
general rule, those reserving the space for a financial cost may bump non-paying residents or guests.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 15
Safety & Security
New Mexico State University Crimson Commitment
To minimize the risk to public health presented by the spread of COVID-19 while working and learning at NMSU,
students, staff, and faculty are expected to adhere to the following protocols outlined in the NMSU Crimson
Commitment:
I commit to myself and other Aggies, I will:
o Get vaccinated for COVID-19 by Sept. 30, 2021, or submit weekly proof of a negative COVID-19 test if I will
be on campus for any reason
o Monitor myself for symptoms of COVID-19
o Report to the Aggie Health & Wellness Center or another medical professional if I have symptoms of
COVID-19 or other communicable illness
o Wash my hands often with soap and water and/or use hand sanitizer
o Wear a mask and keep my distance as directed by the latest university guidance
o Stay home if I feel ill or have been around someone ill
o Report a positive case online at now.nmsu.edu and participate in contact tracing if called
o Keep up to date with the latest guidance from experts at NMSU, the NM Department of Health, and the
CDC.
I will abide by these practices throughout the year:
o I will not use vaccine status or mask-wearing to discriminate against my classmates, instructors, or NMSU
staff members in any way.
o I will follow instructions regarding seating in campus classrooms.
o I will speak to my instructor if I have concerns about social distancing or wearing a mask during class.
o If I am unable to attend an in-person class session due to symptoms of COVID-19 or another illness, I will
communicate with my instructor ahead of time.
If I am unwilling to comply with COVID-safe practices:
o I will talk to my academic advisor about enrolling in online course sections, if available, or disenrolling
from fall course work. (Disenrolling will impact financial aid, housing, etc.)
Anyone failing to meet any of these expectations may be subject to corrective action under university policies.
Recommendations relating to face coverings, monitoring, self-quarantine, and isolation will be updated in
alignment with guidance from the New Mexico Department of Health. Changes will be communicated to the
university community and will be available at now.nmsu.edu.
You are expected to follow the health protocols that will be communicated to you based on current health
guidelines. Failure to follow health protocols and guidelines may result in discipline under the Student Code of
Conduct.
Student Safety Responsibilities
Your safety is our number one priority. While we have several safety and security measures in place in our
residential facilities it is expected that you will share in the responsibility of keeping the community safe and
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 16
secure. Being aware of your environment, always closing and locking your door when you are not in your
room, reporting suspicious behavior or persons to Residential Life staff, and not propping exterior doors are
some common-sense ways you can improve your own safety and the safety of your community.
Personal Security Tips
You may have valuable possessions in your apartment or residence hall room. You must ensure that your
belongings are not vulnerable to theft or damage. These crime prevention tips may help prevent theft:
• Several campus housing units have cabinets or desk spaces that you can secure with a padlock
you bring from home. We recommend you place valuables in these lockable spaces.
• Immediately report lost keys to staff members, preferably a Service Desk.
• Always leave your doors closed and locked.
• Close and lock your windows when you are not in the unit.
• Store valuables out of sight.
• Be aware of strangers in your residential area, and notify UPD of any suspicious activity. Do not
allow strangers to access any facility, including holding doors to secure areas.
• Never prop exterior or interior doors.
• Keep an inventory of your belongings. Purchase renter's insurance or verify you are covered under your
parent/legal guardian’s homeowner’s insurance policy. Do not assume you are covered by someone
else or by university insurance.
Health and Safety Inspections
A few times each year, a representative of Housing and Residential Life will conduct a Health and Safety
Inspection of your unit. The purpose of these inspections is to ensure that rules and regulations related to
safety, security, and health are being followed. A few examples of inspection check points are: properly
functioning smoke detectors, window and door locks, reasonable cleanliness of space, and any major facility-
related problems or damages like leaks. Your RA will schedule the inspection with you and you may be
present at the time they conduct the check (the only exception is during winter break for all areas except
Student Family Housing). Any policy violations that are in plain sight or become visible during the course of
relevant activities of the inspection will be documented and referred to the student conduct process.
After-Hours Residential Life Staff On Call
Each evening, student and professional staff members are on call through the campus housing system. During
the academic year, there are always multiple student staff members, one full-time live-in professional, and
one leadership team member serving in the crisis response system for Housing and Residential Life. This
highly trained team responds to after-hours needs and emergencies. If you need after-hours assistance,
contact your area’s Service Desk to be connected to an after-hours staff person.
Public Safety Aide (PSA)
Housing and Residential Life employs Public Safety Aides (PSAs) to patrol residential areas and provide an
additional safety measure late in the evening. PSAs are employees of the NMSU Police Department, and are
tasked with ensuring public safety on the NMSU campus. PSAs patrol various areas of campus, including
residential areas and the libraries, looking for any suspicious activity or opportunity to assist the public. PSAs
are highly trained individuals who can assist in a wide variety of areas including: reporting suspicious activity to
police officers, being a highly visible deterrent for criminal activity, responding to fire alarms, responding to
medical or injured person calls, providing traffic control at the scene of a motor vehicle crash, taking theft
reports, providing perimeter security at a crime scene, assisting a person who is having vehicle trouble, giving
directions to students or visitors, etc.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 17
University Police Department (UPD)
New Mexico State University employs fully certified police officers responsible for the protection of life and
property in our campus community. Some of the services provided by UPD include law enforcement, crime
prevention events and trainings, motorist assistance, bicycle registration, and victim assistance and/or
advocacy. In an emergency, the police department can be reached by dialing 911 from any campus phone.
Cellular phone users and those not using an NMSU landline should contact (575) 646-3311. Those reaching the
Las Cruces Regional dispatcher from Las Cruces Police Department when calling 911 will be forwarded back to
NMSU when dealing with situations on campus. Additionally, NMSU Police and the Las Cruces Police
Department have an incredibly strong working relationship, and regularly provide back-up support related to
crime or event-related issues in Las Cruces. For more information on how UPD holds its officers to the highest
standard, read this recent statement to the NMSU community.
Emergency Notification System
All NMSU students are encouraged to sign up for the campus’ emergency alert system. This system will contact
you in the event of an emergency taking place on campus. You may sign up for emergency text, email, and/or
phone call notifications at etm.nmsu.edu.
Fire Alarms
When an alarm sounds, evacuate the building. Move calmly and quickly. Do not attempt to re-enter the
building until emergency officials or staff indicate it is safe. Failure to evacuate a building during an alarm
will result in disciplinary action and possible criminal charges.
Appropriate social distancing measures must be adhered to and masks must be worn indoors at time of
evacuation.
Remember:
1.
Feel the door for heat using the back of your hand. Do not open the door if it is hot
2.
Close all windows in your room, apartment or house
3.
If you cannot exit the room, stay calm
•
Call 911 and give them your location
•
Stuff wet sheets or clothing under the doors
•
Hang a sheet out the window or shout to attract attention
4.
If you leave the room, close the door behind you.
•
Stay low to the ground if smoke is present
•
Move calmly and quickly, but do not run
5.
Do not re-enter the building until permitted to do so by emergency personnel or university staff
Fire Safety
In the state of New Mexico, it is a criminal offense to set off a fire alarm without cause (reasonable evidence of
smoke or fire). NMSU takes false fire alarm pulls very seriously and will hold students judicially responsible for
violation of the NMSU Student Handbook and will press charges for criminal prosecution if the perpetrator is
identified.
Tampering with or disabling any part of the fire alarm system, discharging an extinguisher, registering a false
alarm or setting a fire can endanger life and property. Such behavior will be grounds for termination of your
housing contract (you move out, but you continue to pay the bill) and possibly criminal charges. All residents
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 18
are expected to evacuate if the fire alarm sounds. Smoke and heat detectors are installed in student rooms
and common areas. These must be kept in working order and may not be tampered with in any way. Please
report any malfunctions to the Service Desk associated with your community.
Missing Student Notification Protocols
NMSU has specific protocols related to students who are reported missing. It is the policy of the university to
coordinate the resources available from various campus offices in order to expedite the location of any resident
student suspected or reported to be missing, consistent with the notification and reporting requirements of the
federal Clery Act and corresponding regulations. You have the option to designate one or more “missing person
contact” person(s) who is different from the emergency contact you provide at check-in. If you would like to
update this contact, please contact your RD.
Active Shooter
While this is an unlikely scenario, the NMSU Police Department has provided some helpful tips should you ever
find yourself in a situation with an active shooter or other violent threat. A helpful way to remember these tips
is with the phrase, “Run, Hide, Fight.” If possible, escape from the area immediately and notify others you
encounter of the danger. Call 911 – if you are able to find a safe area, stay on the line and continue to provide
the emergency dispatcher with updated information. If unable to escape immediately, get to a room or office
as far away as possible from the shooting. Lock the door and cover any windows facing hallways or patios.
Keep quiet and do not answer the door; it may take a while for officers to get to you, as they will first focus on
stopping the shooter(s). Call 911 and tell the dispatcher where you are located and what is happening. Look for
means of escape or possible self-defense.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 19
Roommate Relations: Tips for Being a Good Roommate
• Set clear expectations from the start. You know your own preferences and idiosyncrasies, but your
roommate is just getting to know what it’s like living with you. Don’t expect them to be a mind reader. If
you can’t fall asleep with lights on, hate scary movies, have a particular snack you’re not willing to share, or
get grossed out by toothpaste in the sink, let them know from the beginning so you can work together on
what it means to be roomies and avoid a blow-up over unmet expectations that were never stated.
• Respect your roommate’s space and belongings. This is a major cause of roommate conflicts each year
that could be easily avoided with a quick discussion early in the year. People have different ideas about
what’s ok to borrow, share, or use, and how frequently. For example, borrowing your roommate’s bike
once because you’re late to class may be different than asking to use it four days a week, or worse, taking it
without asking. Each person varies in how comfortable they are with others sitting on their bed, using their
items, or sharing household goods. Don't be afraid to be honest about what you prefer not to share; it will
save a lot of heartache and conflict down the road. Discuss these things openly and honestly early in the
year to establish what’s ok and when.
• Be responsible for your guests. You may enjoy having lots of guests visiting, but your roommate may value
privacy. Pay attention to how often you invite friends and classmates over. If you and your roommate have
different preferences, try alternating which days or times that friends are welcome in the room and when it’s
time for quiet.
• Lock your doors and windows. Imagine how terrible you’d feel if one of your roommate’s prized possessions
got stolen when you were down the hall and left the door unlocked. How would you feel if the valuable item
stolen was yours, and your roommate was the one who stepped out? Locking your doors and windows is one
of the best ways to stay safe on campus and be a great roommate.
• It’s OK not to be best friends. Having a great roommate relationship does not depend on being friends. You
may end up close friends with your roommate, but having your own social circles can strengthen the
relationship you have with your roommate and prevent you from spending every hour of the day together.
• Keep an open mind. Your roommate may have different customs, beliefs, or ideas from you. Be open to new
experiences: learn about where they come from, what they believe, and what’s important to them, and share
these things about yourself. Learning about yourself and others is a big part of the college experience.
• Shift your perspective. Before you make assumptions about your roommate’s thoughts or intentions, take a
step back and try to imagine their point of view. Talk to your roommate and listen to what they have to say
about where they’re coming from. You may not always agree, but this will help you better understand each
other and open your mind to different opinions and experiences.
• Share responsibility for cleaning. People have different comfort levels with clutter, and the tidier you keep
your space, the more comfortable everyone will be. Especially during the COVID-19 health emergency,
frequent and thorough cleaning and disinfecting of your room and shared spaces will help keep everyone in
your suite, apartment, or home safe. Keeping the space clean is everyone’s responsibility, and keeping each
other healthy is one of the best ways to be a good roommate.
Roommate/Suitemate Agreements & Space Changes
All roommates and suitemates will be given the opportunity to complete a Roommate/Suitemate agreement
early in the fall semester. In the event of an interpersonal conflict, we expect that all students will abide by
the roommate/suitemate agreement, including having an adult conversation with their fellow residents,
before discussing the possibility of switching residential spaces. Room change options may be limited, and
are granted on a last-resort basis outside of our open transfer period each semester (see Room Transfers).
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 20
Resident Responsibilities (alphabetical)
Introduction/Overview
Residents of NMSU campus housing are subject to all state and local laws, the NMSU Student Handbook,
Housing and Residential Life Resident Handbook (this document), the Housing Agreement (refer to your
MyHousing portal to review your Housing Agreement), and any other applicable NMSU policies and rules
(parking, etc.). Housing rules are enforced through the Housing and Residential Life staff as well as
through the Dean of Students’ Office via the Student Handbook.
Part of college is learning to use good judgment and critical thinking, though sometimes students make
mistakes or poor decisions. If you are alleged to have violated any portion of the Housing and Residential
Life Resident Handbook or NMSU Student Handbook, your behavior will be referred to the conduct process,
which could result in disciplinary action up to removal from housing or suspension.
There are additional behavior expectations associated with residing in a communal living environment
which is also state-owned property. Housing and Residential Life expects the residents of campus housing
to act responsibly and be conscious of the effects or impact of their behavior on the greater community in
which they live.
As a federally-funded entity, NMSU participates in Clery Act and Title IX reporting to the US Department of
Education. All Housing and Residential Life staff are considered campus security authorities (CSAs),
mandatory reporters, and must say something when confronted with inappropriate or illegal behavior.
Consistent with this charge, and to ensure a safe and secure learning environment, Housing and Residential
Life partners with the NMSU Police Department to address all levels of illegal behavior. As a result, NMSU
residence halls and campus apartments remain some of the safest in the country with minimal critical
incidents compared with other universities of our size.
Below are some of the more common rules and regulations associated with living on campus. Every
student is expected to be familiar with and uphold the standards and procedures outlined in the Student
Handbook, which includes the Student Social Code of Conduct, Academic Code of Conduct, Grievance
Process, and additional policies and procedures. You can review the Student Handbook at
studenthandbook.nmsu.edu. Failure to comply with these rules may result in referral to the student
conduct process.
Abandoned Property
After you’ve checked out of your space, your contract has ended, or if you vacate your space without
authorization from Housing and Residential Life, any items remaining in your unit will be considered
abandoned and NMSU will donate or dispose of abandoned items. Removal of abandoned items and any
associated cleaning costs will be at the expense of the resident who abandoned the unit/property.
Alcohol
NMSU recognizes that the illegal use of alcohol interferes with the academic environment of this
institution and the personal growth of its students. Any use, possession, misuse, or distribution of
alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by law and university policy is prohibited.
• First Year Residence Halls (Piñon, Juniper, Garcia East, Garcia West, and RGH) are
designated as alcohol-free regardless of resident age. It is a violation of Housing and
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 21
Residential Life rules and regulations to possess, consume, or be in the presence of alcohol on
these premises, including the surrounding parking lots and outdoor areas. Additionally, guests of
residents in these areas may not possess or consume alcohol while visiting.
• Apartments: Students who are 21 years of age or older may possess and consume alcohol as
permitted by law in apartment communities and Student Family Housing. No underage
individual(s) may be present while alcohol is being consumed in apartment communities. If a
resident who is 21 or older has a roommate who is under 21, all alcohol must be stored in a
separate area that can be clearly distinguished as the property of the of resident who is over the
age of 21, and is not readily accessible to the underage resident.
• Rapid Consumption Devices: Kegs, drinking games, party balls, or common containers are not
permitted.
Animals
Animals, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed on campus except as may be permitted by
university policy. Emotional support animals (ESAs) must have prior written approval from the Student
Accessibility Services office and Housing and Residential Life before being allowed into a Housing and
Residential Life dwelling.
• Animal owners and handlers will abide by applicable local laws relating to the care and control
of animals.
• Students with approved assistance animals will complete a Housing and Residential Life
Animal Owner Expectations Acknowledgement Form and receive written approval before being
allowed to house an animal in university-owned housing.
• If you require an ESA, you will need to contact Disability Access Services to submit appropriate
documentation. ESAs will not be allowed in your housing unit without an approved
accommodation from Student Accessibility Services, and approval from Housing and Residential
Life. Specific regulations regarding ESAs will be explained to you upon approval.
Campus residents living in single student housing facilities (residence halls and apartments) may keep fish
in bowls or aquariums no larger than 10 gallons. The only pet permitted in residence halls and single
student apartment communities is fish – no other pets are allowed in these areas, regardless of size or
type (please note that other aquarium-dwelling animals like reptiles and rodents are prohibited). No
special approval is required for fish.
Campus residents living in student family housing may have a cat or dog as a pet, and must follow a pre-
approval process prior to bringing an animal to campus housing. These residents should contact the
Housing & Residential Life office for guidance.
Campus residents may not pet-sit or otherwise allow animals to visit their residential space.
Students who are found with unapproved animals will be documented for a conduct code violation and
will be responsible to the fees associated with removal of the animal and/or rehabilitation of the
residential space. Charges may include fumigation and complete replacement of soft surfaces,
upholstery, and/or flooring, especially carpeting.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 22
Campus Breaks
All residential areas remain open during Thanksgiving break, winter break, and spring break, as well as long
weekends throughout the academic year such as Labor Day and Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. There is no
additional charge to remain in campus housing during school breaks, unless they terminate their contract
between semesters and are thus billed at a daily rate for winter break.
During winter break, students do not need to check out of their rooms. You will return to the same space for
the spring semester and may leave your possessions in your room or apartment. You are reminded to bring
all necessary items with you when you leave for any break. It is always recommended to take valuables,
medications, important documents, and other necessities when you leave for any extended time away. You
should also unplug appliances, empty your trash, turn off lights and heaters, and lock your windows and
doors.
During winter break, Housing and Residential Life staff will enter campus spaces to conduct health and
safety inspections to ensure that the building is safe and secure as we close for the winter holiday. Any
damages or policy violations that are found during these inspections will be noted and you may be held
judicially and/or financially responsible. We may also enter your space if a safety concern or major facility
issue (leak, etc.) is suspected, or if an alarm is going off while you are away.
Students who travel away from campus should consult now.nmsu.edu and follow any current protocols
related to quarantine or testing upon return from travel. Campus residents who suspect they have been
exposed to COVID-19 or who have tested positive for COVID-19 should contact their primary medical
provider or the Aggie Health & Wellness Center at 575-646-1512 for guidance.
Check-In Procedures
You will sign up for a check-in appointment and check in with a student staff member. The student staff
member will check you in electronically and issue you keys to your room/apartment and mailbox (if
applicable). You will be required to complete a Room Condition Report immediately.
Please refer to the NMSU Academic Calendar for campus opening and closing dates. For Student Family
Housing residents, refer to your Housing Agreement for details on the check-out process.
Check-Out Procedures
All of our residence halls and single student apartment housing agreements are for an academic year
(nine months). At the end of the spring academic term, residents who do not complete a summer
housing agreement will follow the Express Check-Out procedure that will be detailed by email and
informational signage after students return from spring break. Check-out should occur within 24 hours
after a student’s last final exam of the spring semester. Anyone who has not properly checked out by that
time may be assessed an improper checkout fee.
If a student is not fulfilling the complete term of the housing agreement, the student is required to
submit a request for termination which must be approved by Housing & Residential Life before
completing any checkouts or they may be assessed an improper checkout fee. Housing agreement
termination is allowed under specific circumstances; moving out of a space without approval does not
constitute termination, and the student may be responsible for the cost of the room for the remainder
of the semester.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 23
A resident may request a late stay at housingonlineforms.nmsu.edu/LateStayRequest.aspx; these
requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and approval is not guaranteed.
Please refer to the NMSU Academic Calendar for campus opening and closing dates. For Student Family
Housing residents, refer to your Housing Agreement for details on the check-out process.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Responsibilities
Residents are responsible for keeping their living spaces (rooms, bathrooms, and common areas) clean. It
is recommended that shared surfaces be cleaned at least once a day, preferably before and after use by
each individual.
Residents are responsible for removing trash and placing it in parking lot dumpsters. Residents are
required to supply their own cleaning supplies and materials. Community spaces, including lobbies,
community bathrooms, patios, etc. will be cleaned by NMSU staff. Residents and communities that fail to
keep community spaces reasonably clean and free of trash may face sanctions and bills for the costs
associated with cleaning those spaces.
In addition to regular cleaning of room, bathroom, and common areas (where applicable), you should wipe
down or spray shower surfaces with cleaner on a regular basis and leave bathroom door(s) open for
ventilation to dry the bathroom. Steam from showers can cause mildew to form over time if the bathroom
is not cleaned and left properly ventilated to dry. If you notice mildew starting to form, a bleach-based
cleaner will help take care of the problem. Of course, use all proper precautions and follow manufacturer
instructions for any cleaning supplies.
COVID-19 Health and Safety Regulations
Campus residents are expected to adhere to public health recommendations that are put in place by the
Governor of New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Health, and/or the Administration of New Mexico
State University. As guidance is updated from these entities, you may find up-to-date information at
now.nmsu.edu.
You are expected to follow the health protocols that will be communicated to you based on current health
guidelines. Failure to follow health protocols and guidelines may result in discipline under the Student Code
of Conduct.
Disruptive Behavior
Any activity, individually or in concert with others, which causes or constitutes a disturbance, noise,
riot or obstruction which substantially interferes with the free movement of persons about the
campus or which interferes with the free, normal, and uninterrupted use of the campus for
educational programs, business activities and related residential, food service and recreational
activities.
Drugs and Paraphernalia
Violations of local, state or federal laws or campus policies, rules or procedures pertaining to drugs
including but not limited to:
• the use of substances defined by state or federal law as illegal drugs;
• selling or distributing illegal drugs regardless of age;
• hosting a party or event where illegal drugs are used; or
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 24
• abuse, misuse, sale, or distribution of prescription or over-the counter medication.
It is important to understand that there is no legal way to possess or use cannabis/marijuana at NMSU.
While possession and use of cannabis has been decriminalized in the state of New Mexico, possession and
consumption of cannabis products remain illegal under federal law, and are prohibited on NMSU campus
property.
• Use of cannabis products is illegal for everyone under federal law, for anyone less than 21 years of
age under state law, and prohibited by NMSU policy.
• Use or possession of cannabis may result in both legal and student conduct repercussions.
Encroachment
If you are not assigned a roommate or lose your roommate and elect not to pay the single
room/apartment rate (only available in some areas, and varies based on availability of space), you must
keep all items in your designated area of the room or apartment and leave the other portion clean and
ready for someone to move in. Housing and Residential Life may assign a new roommate at any point. If
the new roommate is unable to move in due to space being used or dirty, you may be subject to the
student conduct process and may be charged a single room fee effective to the date your room first
became a single. In some instances, certain rooms will be designated for single occupancy. If you are
assigned to one of these spaces, you are free to utilize the whole room and will not be assigned a
roommate.
Facility and Property Use
You are given access to common spaces and your assigned residential space as part of your License
Agreement with Housing and Residential Life. You may not allow access to unauthorized parties or
misuse access privileges to university premises, cause or allow unauthorized entry to or use of buildings,
including trespassing, propping or unauthorized use of doors for entry into or exit from university
buildings. The furniture, fixtures, or appliances provided in all common areas are designed for communal
use; it is a violation to move, vandalize or misuse University owned property. During the COVID-19 health
emergency, common areas may have reduced maximum occupancy. Exceeding the maximum occupancy
designated for a common area is a violation of this rule.
Failure to Comply
It is a violation of the Student Handbook to fail to comply with the reasonable directives of university
officials or law enforcement officers during the performance of their duties or failure to properly identify
oneself to those persons when requested to do so.
Lawn Maintenance
Student Family Housing residents in Tom Fort Village and Sutherland Village are responsible for the
regular maintenance of the back yard and side yard, which may be enclosed by a fence. NMSU staff will
mow and weed eat the FRONT yards only of units in these areas. Yards are expected to be kept tidy and
regularly maintained, as overgrown yards can invite pests and provide an unwelcoming appearance to
your neighborhood. Residents whose yards become unsightly may be subject to financial penalties and
referral to the student conduct process. Residents must supply their own lawn equipment for yard
maintenance. Student Family Housing residents living in Cervantes Village are not responsible for lawn
maintenance.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 25
Parking Permits
A parking permit is required for all vehicles parked in any campus parking lot or parked curbside on
campus streets, unless you are parked at a meter or in a designated “free” parking lot. Parking
regulations are enforced Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please visit https://park.nmsu.edu/
for all parking related questions.
Student Family Housing residents residing in Tom Fort or Sutherland Village may park one vehicle on the
driveway without a parking permit. All other vehicles must be parked on the street with the appropriate
parking permit or in a designated free lot.
Physical Abuse/Threats
Threats (Written or verbal conduct that causes a reasonable fear of imminent harm or injury to the health
or safety of any person or of damage to any property.) and abuse of any type will not be tolerated.
Engaging in abuse or threats may be grounds for immediate eviction from campus housing in addition
other charges and sanctions.
Prohibited Items
The following items are not allowed in any NMSU housing facilities:
• Alcohol (except where designated)
• Appliances or electronics that are not UL-listed
• Burners or Hot Plates
• Candles and incense
• Ceiling Fans
• Drugs and paraphernalia
• Electric Heaters
• Extension Cords
• Fireworks, Explosives, unsafe chemicals, flammable fluids
• Grills
– Apartments and Student Family Housing may have George Foreman type only in kitchen
– Student Family Housing residents may have outdoor grills and are required to follow all
safety precautions
– All grills, including George Foreman type, are prohibited in the first-year residence halls
• Halogen Lamps (any model or style)
• Pets (other than fish–10 gallon tank limit)
– Pets are permitted in Student Family Housing with prior approval
• Refrigerators over 6 cubic feet in size
• Toasters, toaster ovens and other open heating elements
• Television mounting equipment
• Waterbeds
• Weapons (including ammunition), guns (including air, BB, paintball, facsimile weapons, and pellet
guns), or other weapons or dangerous objects such as arrows, axes, machetes, nun chucks,
throwing stars, or knives with a blade longer than three (3) inches. Any object intended to be used
as a weapon.
• Window air conditioners
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 26
Property Insurance
All campus residents are encouraged to hold a renter’s insurance policy. Renter’s insurance is typically an
affordable way to help protect you in the unlikely event of loss or damage through water, smoke/fire, or
theft. NMSU is not liable for damage or loss in these instances, and renter’s insurance is an inexpensive
way to safeguard the investment you’ve made in your possessions.
Quiet Hours & Noise
Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. during the week (Sunday night through Friday morning)
and midnight until 10:00 a.m. on weekends (Friday and Saturday night). Residential community councils
may vote to establish longer quiet hours for specific facilities. During quiet hours, noise from your room or
apartment should not be audible from farther than three doors down in either direction. The right of
residents to study, sleep or otherwise enjoy a peaceful environment will always supersede the privilege to
create noise or disturb others. Residents will be required to comply with all requests to lower or cease
making noise regardless of time of day. We refer to this as 24-Hour Courtesy Hours. During finals week,
quiet hours extend to 24 hours to make it easier for residents to sleep or study at any time of day.
Room Amenities/Damage Charges
Your room/apartment includes university-owned furniture and common spaces that you and your
roommate(s)/suitemates will need to share and maintain. It is our expectation that you will establish
cleanliness standards (within reason), cleaning schedules, and other rules for use of these shared spaces.
When you check out of your space, any charges for extra cleaning and broken or missing items are split
equally between all roommates. We expect that residents will respect each other and keep the facilities in
good shape for everyone to enjoy. It is important that you leave your space as you found it to avoid damage
and cleaning fees. Upon check-out, in addition to removing all belongings and trash from your unit, please
arrange the furniture in your room to match the furniture map associated with the community you live in.
These maps are available at housing.nmsu.edu/move-out. Appeals for damage charges must be
submitted in writing within 30 days of billing to your student account.
Room Condition Report (RCR)
This is the description of the condition of your room and its contents upon move-in. It is important that you
read it thoroughly and report any discrepancies to your RA within 24 hours of checking in to your room.
This report will be used when you check out of your room to note any damages that have occurred while
you were living there. Charges may be incurred for items that are broken, damaged, or missing upon check-
out, which is why a thorough and accurate RCR at the time you move in is very important.
How to fill out your RCR within 24 hours of check-in:
1. Log into your MyNMSU account
2. Select the MyHousing option under the student tab
3. Select the More Tasks option from the tool bar at the top of the screen
4. Select the Room Condition Report (RCR) from the drop down menu
5. Review your RCR while carefully looking around your space
6. Select whether you agree or disagree with each item being in good condition
a. If you do not agree that an item is in good condition, list the items you wish to have re-
evaluated and a staff member will review the items in question with you
7. Be sure to Submit when you are finished
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 27
If you do not complete your RCR within 24 hours of receiving keys to your space, the form will default to
your agreement that all items are in good condition and you may be responsible for any damage that was
not reported on the RCR.
Room Renewal
Early in the spring semester, current residents will see advertising and receive an email regarding dates
and options for renewing your housing contract for next year. Students renewing into housing for the
following year will not need to complete a new housing application and may be eligible to roll over the
housing deposit fee. In your second year or above, you will be eligible to apply for apartment
communities.
Room Transfers
Room transfer are not allowed between move-in day and the campus census date. The census date can be
found at uar.nmsu.edu. Following the census date, Housing and Residential Life will offer an open
transfer period if space is available. You will be notified by email if you are eligible for open transfer.
Please also be sure to follow instructions thoroughly for your request to be considered. In a true
emergency, room transfer requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis outside of the open transfer
period. Room transfers are a last resort and are only granted in rare, specific circumstances. Only one
room transfer is permitted for the academic year.
Sales & Solicitation
In accordance with University policy, no door to door solicitation will be allowed in campus residential
facilities and neighborhoods, including leafleting or verbal proselytizing, voter registration, selling,
recruiting, or similar activities. Occasionally, printed advertisements and notices may be hung on building
bulletin boards designated for this purpose and only with the written consent of the Director of Housing
and Residential Life.
Space Optimization Process
Based on space and departmental needs, Housing and Residential Life may facilitate a room optimization
process. This means that you may be required to move at any time. Reasons for a possible required
transfer could include change in room designation, safety and security, consolidation, staffing needs,
major repairs or facility failures, temporary closures of facilities during breaks, in the interest of the
community, or other reasons that NMSU deems necessary. If this happens, you’ll be given notice and
instructions for how to proceed.
Sports & Recreational Activity
The use of bikes, skates, skateboards, hover boards, etc. is prohibited in residential facilities. Climbing or
rappelling on a residential facility (including entering a building or room through a window) is also
prohibited. Sports may not be played in patios unless designated equipment is provided by Housing and
Residential Life (for example, a volleyball net). Athletic activities like tossing a football, golfing, or hitting a
baseball – even when you’re being careful – can be dangerous to resident safety and have the potential to
cause accidents that may harm individuals or damage property. Residents must comply with all requests
to cease engagement in any other activities that become disruptive to the community and fellow
residents.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 28
Storage
Storage facilities are not provided by Housing and Residential Life. There are many self-storage
businesses in the Las Cruces community if you have items that need to be stored.
Sustainability
Housing and Residential Life is committed to sustainable living and endorses the triple bottom line of
sustainability. We have placed single stream (no sorting required) recycling dumpsters at all
communities and recycling totes in nearly all residential areas to allow students to separate their recycling
from their trash. We have placed bottle refilling stations in residence halls in conjunction with drinking
fountains to reduce the number of plastic water bottles being used. We have changed many lightbulbs on
campus to CFL bulbs and are moving toward LED lights to reduce energy consumption. Finally, we partner
with Aggie Recycling to provide can and bottle recycling bins in residential lobbies and common areas. It
our goal to make sure it as easy as possible for you participate in sustainable living while living in NMSU
Housing.
Tobacco and Smoking
Smoking of any kind (cigarettes, cigars, all marijuana consumption devices, pipes, hookahs, electronic
cigarettes, etc.) is not permitted inside campus housing facilities, including outdoor patios, or within
25 feet of building entrances or exits. Please dispose of used smoking materials responsibly.
Trash and Recycling
Residents are required to remove their own trash on a regular basis. Trash is to be thrown away in the
outdoor dumpsters. You may not leave bags or bins of trash outside of your unit; doing so may result in
financial and judicial charges. You may not dispose of your room/unit trash in public area trash cans in
lobbies, kitchens, lounges, etc.
The blue bin in your unit is to be used for recyclable items and dumped in the appropriate recycling
dumpsters. Items included in local single stream (no sorting required) recycling include: newspapers,
magazines, office paper, junk mail, milk and juice cartons/juice boxes, cardboard (please break down
boxes), paperboard like cereal boxes, etc., paper bags, water and soda bottles, milk jugs, detergent bottles,
rigid hampers and baskets, plastic tubs and jars, pots and pans, small electronics, aluminum cans, tin and
steel cans.
The following items are NOT recyclable: garbage, yard waste/leaves, garden hoses, clothing or textiles,
Styrofoam, pizza boxes, glass, light bulbs, batteries, sharp metal, or motor oil bottles.
Visitors & Guests
Short‐term guests are permitted to visit residents for no more than three consecutive nights provided that
the host’s roommate(s)/suitmate(s) agree.
• The rights of the roommate(s)/suitemate(s) must be given high priority with regard to visitation.
• The roommate should not be compelled to leave the room in order to accommodate a visitor, nor
should the roommate be placed in a situation that might cause embarrassment or inconvenience.
Guests must be escorted at all times by their host. Hosts are responsible for guest behavior and conduct at
all times, and may be held responsible through the student conduct process for policy violations of their
guests. Guests may not sleep in public or common areas. Providing access to any residential space not
assigned to you is prohibited.
NMSU Guide to Residential Living 29
Welfare Checks
Sometimes University staff are contacted by a family member or friend who is concerned for the safety
and wellbeing of a resident. In those instances, we may opt to conduct a welfare check. A
welfare/wellness check means that an NMSU Police Officer will come to your room and try to contact
you. This can include keying into your room to determine if you are present or not. We may also attempt
to contact you via phone, email, or social media. We will encourage you to contact the person who
requested the welfare check. Due to federal privacy regulations (FERPA), we are not allowed to share
details of the welfare check with the person who made the request; there is an exception for students
who have filed a privacy waiver.
