Be a Good Neighbor

Information for Students Living Off Campus

Many IU students choose to live off campus in rental homes and apartments. Students have rights and responsibilities as Bloomington community members.

Living off campus increases your personal freedom but also adds a new set of responsibilities to your day-to-day life. Aside from paying utility bills and buying groceries, you'll also need to be aware of the people living around you. In the residence halls, your neighbors were all other students. But now that you're off campus, it's important to remember that the people next door may have children, full-time jobs, and long-term investments in their property and neighborhood.

Take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. At the very least, familiarize yourself with the city of Bloomington's regulations and programs that affect you as an off-campus resident. The most relevant ones are outlined here for your convenience, but essentially, it boils down to being a good neighbor.

Learn about joining your neighborhood association or review the city tenant/landlord legislation. Find information about trash pick-up, recycling, parking permits, and alcohol laws. Get the latest information about the city's Quiet Nights Initiative to promote peaceful neighborhood environments.

If you choose to be inconsiderate and ignore the rules, you should know that there are penalties for your actions, ranging from jail time to substantial fines.

City Versus County

The majority of information on this site applies to students living within the Bloomington city limits. Individuals living outside of this municipal boundary are governed by Monroe County programs and regulations. If you are unsure if you are a city or county resident, ask your landlord. For more information, visit the Monroe County Government.

Common sense and courtesy should dictate your behavior as an off-campus student. If you are inconsiderate to those living around you, it's not only a poor reflection on you, but on the entire university.

In addition, the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct extends beyond the campus when students engage in certain acts of personal misconduct. Such behavior can leave students open to discipline by the university.