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Living off campus is a chance to build more independence and become part of the broader Boulder community. Getting to know your neighbors, understanding a few local rules and knowing what to do when you host friends can help you have a positive off-campus experience.Ìý

Whether you’re already living off campus or starting to think about housing for next year, here are five tips and resources to know.Ìý

1. Get to know your neighborsÌý

A quick introduction can go a long way. Say hello to your neighbors and consider exchanging contact information so you have an easy way to reach each other.Ìý

Connecting early can make it easier to communicate about everyday things, from a package delivered to the wrong address to a gathering that gets louder than expected. Keep in mind that your neighbors may include students, families and other community members with different schedules and lifestyles.Ìý

2. Make a plan before you hostÌý

Having friends over? A little planning can help the night go more smoothly for you, your roommates and your neighbors.Ìý

Talk with your roommates about the guest list, keep an eye on noise and let neighbors know ahead of time if you expect a larger gathering. You can also register your party with Off-Campus Life.Ìý

Party registration is free and can help reduce your chances of receiving a noise ticket. If a neighbor makes a noise complaint about a registered address, Boulder Police dispatch can contact you with a warning and give you 20 minutes to address the noise before police are dispatched. This gives you an opportunity to quickly address noise concerns and avoid conflicts with neighbors.ÌýFirst-time participants need to complete a brief orientation with Off-Campus Life.Ìý

Party registration is a warning system for noise complaints, not a noise permit, and registered parties can still receive citations for noise or other violations. Learn more about party registration and .Ìý

3. Know a few Boulder rulesÌý

Living off campus also means following city of Boulder ordinances. Knowing some of the rules that commonly affect students can help you avoid unexpected tickets and other issues.Ìý

For example, Boulder has ordinances related to noise, nuisance parties, trash, fireworks and outdoor furniture. Some properties also have requirements related to snow removal, lawn maintenance and bear-resistant trash containers.Ìý

Take a few minutes to review common Boulder ordinances for off-campus residents and check your lease to understand which property maintenance tasks are your responsibility.Ìý

4. Take care of the place you call homeÌý

Small habits can make your home and neighborhood a better place to live. Keep outdoor spaces tidy, put trash in the appropriate containers and clean up after pets and gatherings.Ìý

If you share a house or apartment, talk with your roommates about how you'll handle things like trash, cleaning, guests and outdoor spaces. Setting expectations early can help everyone take care of your home and be considerate of the people living around you.Ìý

5. Start exploring next year’s housingÌý

Thinking about where you’ll live next year? Fall is a great time to start exploring your options, comparing rental prices and learning about the Boulder housing market. Many students begin signing leases after winter break, so take your time researching properties and understanding your options before committing to a lease.Ìý

The is Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom. Stop by to meet landlords and property managers, explore hundreds of off-campus properties and start learning about your housing options. There will also be free pizza and prizes.Ìý

Off-Campus Life offers resources throughout the year to help with finding housing, understanding leases, navigating roommate and neighbor concerns and living in the Boulder community.ÌýÌý