Campus Use Rules FAQs
Thinking about hosting or attending a campus event?
Adherence to the Harvard University Campus Use Rules is essential for maintaining a safe, respectful, and secure campus environment for everyone. Be sure to review the policy and all the details on this page to ensure you are compliant.
Event Timing
Generally, individuals and organizations are not permitted to reserve space or host events, programs, or activities during reading or exam periods and other restricted dates and times designated by Harvard College, FAS, and Harvard University.
Photo, Video, and Recording Policies
Filming, videotaping, and photographing must comply with existing University rules and policies, including the Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policy, University-wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities, and University Policy on Photographing and Filming on Harvard Property. Please also refer to the policy regarding unauthorized recording in the Handbook for Students.
Community Standards and Accountability
Disregarding the campus use rules can lead to:
- Disciplinary action
- A referral to the Dean’s office
- Removal from campus by security personnel
Repeated or serious violations could result in further sanctions, such as restricted campus privileges or, for non-affiliated individuals, a prohibition from entering University property. Adherence to these rules is essential for maintaining a safe, respectful, and secure campus environment for everyone.
Harvard’s campus use guidelines and the Handbook for Students requires all students, staff, and visitors to provide identification upon request to verify their affiliation and ensure the safety and integrity of campus spaces.
Failure to comply may result in:
- Disciplinary action
- Referral to the Dean’s office
- In some cases, removal from campus by security officers or HUPD
Repeated or serious violations can lead to further sanctions, including restriction of campus privileges or, for non-affiliated individuals, a ban from University property. Cooperation with University officials is essential for maintaining a secure and respectful environment for all members of the campus community.
Yes, according to Harvard University policies and campus use guidelines, you must temporarily remove a mask or any face covering if asked by a University official, including HUPD, Securitas, or staff, for the purpose of identity verification. This requirement helps maintain the security and safety of campus spaces and ensures that only authorized individuals are present.
Refusal to comply may result in:
- Being asked to leave University property
- Disciplinary action
- Other sanctions in accordance with campus regulations
If you are instructed by a Harvard official, security officer, or a member of the Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) to leave a space, you are expected to comply immediately.
Refusal to leave when directed may result in:
- Disciplinary action
- Referral to the Dean’s office
- Removal from campus by security personnel or HUPD.
If you fail to identify yourself properly as a Harvard affiliate, or you refuse to vacate a space when instructed by HUPD, you may be issued a no-trespass order, which could lead to arrest.
Permitted and Prohibited Items
Alcohol is generally not permitted at events open to the entire campus community, especially if the activity is in an outdoor location. Exceptions to this policy may be considered on a case-by-case basis, and all alcohol use must comply with local, state, and federal laws, as well as University and School rules and policies.
No signs, banners, or posters (including as part of an exhibit or display) should be affixed to University property, including but not limited to the exterior of buildings, doors/access points, windows, fences, entry posts, gates, utility or flag poles, waste containers, lighting, furniture, equipment, walls, floors, walkways/pavers, steps, statues, flags, tents, existing signage, or authorized third party structures (e.g., temporary scaffolding), trees, or other live plants, except in designated locations or with prior written approval when registering your event.
- Signs, banners, or postings are subject to removal by, or under the direction of, authorized University or School personnel.
- Furthermore, the use of projection on the exterior of campus buildings is prohibited.
Temporary structures, including tents and other shelters, may not be installed without prior approval from the department that manages the space (for example, Common Spaces or Yard Ops) and required municipal permits. They must also comply with the policies of Harvard’s Office of Environmental Health & Safety.
The use of open flames is generally not permitted, except in extraordinary cases with advance written notice and approval. All approved use must comply with University Environmental Health and Safety guidance and fire and safety policies.
Demonstrations and Protests
Protests and demonstrations are generally permitted in designated outdoor areas, such as Harvard Yard. Guidelines for student organizations may be found in the Student Org Resource Guide.
Students can also visit the Student Organization Center Online (sign in at https://soco.college.harvard.edu/) to submit approval before organizing an event in Harvard Yard.
- Click on Campus Links and Resources for everything you need to know about holding an event in Harvard Yard. If you still have questions, email studentengagement@fas.harvard.edu.
- Certain spaces—including libraries, residential buildings, dining halls, and classrooms—are reserved for study, living, or teaching and do not allow demonstrations.
Always respect the rights of others and the rules of each location:
- For campus protests, check the Campus Use Rules on the Provost’s web site for up-to-date guidelines.
- For public demonstrations, contact the City of Cambridge for permitting requirements and instructions.
Yes, you can protest in Harvard Yard, but there are important guidelines to follow:
- Planned, advertised, or coordinated gatherings (including protests) that make use of a campus space such that it would preclude or interfere with competing uses or interfere with the normal operations of the campus require registration.
- Protests must not block or impede access to campus buildings, classrooms, administrative offices, or any campus spaces.
- Demonstrations are not permitted in residential buildings or dining halls, as these are considered students' homes and kitchens.
- Any protest must comply with University rules regarding noise levels, equipment use (like microphones and amplified sound, which require prior approval), and must not involve altering or damaging University property.
- If your event involves temporary structures, open flames, or filming, additional approval may be required.
Recognized student organizations in good standing with the College may begin the approval process by reading the Student Org Resource Guide. Student organizations must request approval via https://soco.college.harvard.edu/ before organizing an event in Harvard Yard. Click on Campus Links and Resources for everything you need to know about holding an event in Harvard Yard.
If you still have questions, email studentengagement@fas.harvard.edu. Also remember that the City of Cambridge has different standards for using public spaces such as Cambridge Common and city sidewalks.
No, protests and demonstrations are not permitted in library spaces. Libraries at Harvard are designated for study and research, and the University’s guidelines prioritize maintaining quiet and uninterrupted environments for all users. To respect the academic mission and ensure equitable access, demonstrations should not take place in libraries.
No, demonstrations are not permitted in residential buildings or dining halls, as these spaces are considered students' homes. The University’s guidelines are designed to maintain the privacy and comfort of these areas for all residents and diners.
No, demonstrations are not permitted inside academic buildings at Harvard, including hallways and classrooms. These spaces are reserved for study and teaching, and campus guidelines prohibit protests and demonstrations in indoor academic areas to maintain academic integrity and ensure a respectful environment for all.
Use of microphones and amplified sound during campus protests and other events is prohibited without prior approval from the University. This is to ensure that demonstrations do not disrupt classes, meetings, or other campus activities, and to maintain an environment conducive to learning and living. Remember that Harvard Yard and the Science Center Plaza are surrounded by students’ homes and learning spaces.