Policies relevant to free expression, assembly and protest

As of June 1, 2017, six University policies (contained in the University’s Business Policy and Procedure Manual) became effective. These include a combination of new policies and previously existing policies that were amended. Each of the six policies is listed below (with links to the full text) and is briefly summarized. For more information on the values underlying the policies and on how they should be interpreted, see our guiding principles.

Use of Facilities & Public Spaces

BPPM 6:050 Use of Facilities

This policy regulates the use of the University’s buildings and grounds. It begins by noting that University buildings and grounds are intended for use by students, faculty and staff in support of the University’s mission of teaching, research, service and economic development and that individuals, groups or organizations may use University buildings and grounds in accordance with University rules and regulations. The policy includes rules concerning scheduling and use of facilities, conduct of events/activities, and unscheduled expressive events and activities.

Illuminated Devices

BPPM 6:051 Illuminated Devices on Campus

Illuminated devices (including flashing or rotating lights, and illuminated signs) are allowed on campus without a permit if the illumination level is not disruptive and does not impair health or safety. The policy describes when a permit is needed, when it is not, and how to obtain a permit. Examples of lights that do not require permits include normal flashlights, bicycle lights, and camera flashes.

Sound Amplification Devices

Includes megaphones and PA systems

BPPM 6:052 Sound Amplification Devices

The use of sound amplification devices in buildings, on the campus, or on any site of the University, whether owned by the University or under its control, is not allowed unless a permit for the use is obtained. This policy applies to all University of Missouri employees, students, University affiliates, contractors, and visitors. The policy identifies requirements and process for obtaining a permit and exceptions in which a permit is not needed.  It also describes how complaints about amplified sound are addressed.

Posting Materials on Campus

BPPM 6:054 Posting and Distributing Materials on Campus

Posters, signs or other materials must be placed on bulletin boards or in designated areas.  They may not be attached to buildings (including windows or doors), light posts, telephone poles, trees, trash receptacles, or without appropriate approval described in this policy.  The policy identifies the separate rules for posting on exterior and interior bulletin boards – external bulletin boards are generally free for appropriate use, but interior bulletin boards should be used after the material has been coordinated by the department or building coordinator.

Distribution of non-University publications such as leaflets, handbills, and other types of written or digitally produced materials is permitted in outside areas of campus, although materials cannot be distributed from untended receptacles or piles or left on vehicles.  Distribution of such publications inside University buildings requires the approval of the Building Coordinator to ensure it does not detract from the building, and does not encourage waste or littering.  Whether outside or inside, materials may not state or imply they are connected with the University of Missouri and the distribution may not violate applicable state or federal laws

Chalking

BPPM 6:056 Chalking on Campus

Chalking on sidewalks or buildings generally is permitted on the campus, subject to certain reasonable limits, described in this policy.  The policy identifies circumstances and areas in which chalking is not permitted.  Defacing or erasing chalking done by others is not allowed, except University personnel may clean in the course of their usual and ordinary campus maintenance activities.

Camping

BPPM 6:095 Camping on Campus

Camping is not permitted on University grounds, in or under University structures, or in University buildings except under approved circumstances described in the policy.  The policy also defines what constitutes camping.