Procedures Governing Camping and Overnight Occupation of Public Space

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This policy governing camping and overnight occupation of public space on the Stillwater campus of Oklahoma State University (OSU) has been developed as an extension of the Oklahoma State University Policy and Procedures Letter #1-0107, entitled Availability of University Facilities.

CAMPUS

This procedure applies to all campuses within the Oklahoma State University system.

DEFINITIONS

Camping:
Defined as the use of any part of the campus for living accommodation purposes, including but not limited to:

• Establishment of temporary or permanent living quarters

• Sleeping outdoors between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

• Making preparations for overnight sleeping (including laying down bedding for sleeping)

• Storing personal belongings

• Using any tent or similar structure for sleeping

• Sleeping in, on, or under parked vehicles

• Setting up temporary or permanent sleeping areas outdoors or in structures not designated for human occupancy

Camping does not include the use of University Property that has been wholly or partially designated as sleeping areas.

University Property:
Includes all university campuses, grounds, facilities, and property owned, operated, or controlled by the university.

PROCEDURE

Except as set forth herein, camping on University Property is prohibited.

Camping may be permitted under the following circumstances:

• As part of tailgating activities undertaken in conjunction with a University sporting event

• In designated areas at Lake Carl Blackwell

• By students, faculty, or staff in connection with University events requiring overnight occupancy at the activity site, if approved in advance through the Pre-Approval Process

• Through the use of temporary hammocks or other sleeping or lounging devices while engaging in recreation or studying activities outdoors between sunrise and sundown

PRE-APPROVAL PROCESS

Any individual or group seeking to engage in camping activities on University Property must submit a formal request for pre-approval. Requests must include:

• An approved request form from Meeting and Conference Services (179 Student Union)

• A full description of the activity and its purpose

• Name of the sponsoring university organization or department

• Name and contact information of individuals planning the event

• Specific location details

• Plans for participant safety, including:

  • Security

  • Lighting

  • Medical emergencies

  • Severe weather response

• Plans for restroom facilities and garbage collection

• Plans for setup and cleanup, including a timeline

APPROVAL PROCEDURES

Requests for camping on campus must follow established event planning protocols and be approved by the Meeting and Conference Services office, located in 179 Student Union.

Approval may be withheld if the activity:

• Disrupts normal university operations

• Infringes upon the rights of others

• Disrupts scheduled or normal activities in campus buildings or areas

• Interferes with pedestrian or vehicular movement

Additional notes:

• External Organizations: Camping is not permitted

• Student Organizations: Contact Meeting and Conference Services

  • Email: meetings@okstate.edu

  • Phone: 405-744-5232

• Internal Faculty/Staff Departments: Same contact as above

ENFORCEMENT

• Students and employees who violate this policy may face disciplinary action

• Visitors may be asked to leave campus

• Repeat violations by an individual may result in a ban from campus

 

Questions? Contact Meeting & Conferences at (405) 744-5232 or meetings@okstate.edu.