Guidance for demonstrations

Where does the University allow demonstrations?

Below is a summary of when and how the University permits demonstrative assemblies and gatherings by University-sponsored, University-affiliated, and non-affiliated groups on campus:

Amplified sound

The University allows amplified sound in Carolina Union Managed Exterior Spaces at the following days and times, without any advance approval

However, any such use of Amplified Sound is subject to limitation if it conflicts with a scheduled use given priority under the priority rules in the Facilities Use Standard.

The use of Amplified Sound in Carolina Union Managed Exterior Spaces and the Rams Head Patio at times other than above requires advance approval by the Executive Director of the Carolina Union. Submit a request when you submit your reservation request. See Carolina Union’s Reservation page for more information.

The use of Amplified Sound in any other outdoor location at any other time requires advance approval by the AVC for Facilities Services.

Anyone authorized to use an indoor University facility may use Amplified Sound indoors that is sufficient to be heard throughout the room as long as they coordinate with the administrative head of the unit managing the space regarding any unit-specific requirements or limitations.

The use of any Amplified Sound must not materially and substantially disrupt University operations.

The University will not allow any Amplified Sound that does not comply with these rules, regardless of whether the use was initially authorized.

The Carolina Union ensures compliance with these rules in Carolina Union Managed Exterior Spaces.

The Office of Facilities Services ensures compliance with these rules in all other exterior spaces.

The local scheduling unit monitors and ensures compliance with these rules in all interior spaces.

Temporary structures

Temporary structures are not allowed in any outdoor University space without prior approval from the AVC for Facilities Services or the Carolina Union (for Carolina Union Managed Exterior Spaces).

Specific types of temporary structures also require a fire permit from the Department of Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS). These include the following:

• tents larger than 400 square feet,
• canopies larger than 700 square feet,
• stages larger than 120 square feet and/or holding 11 or more people,
• air-supported/air-inflated structures, and
• tents remaining in place for more than 30 calendar days.

Temporary structures used for an activity or event in a Major Open Space with an anticipated 200 or more attendees also need fencing approval from the Director of University Grounds Services.

Temporary structures:

• are never allowed under the dripline of trees;
• can never be secured with stakes;
• must not materially and substantially disrupt University operations; and
• must not obstruct any sidewalks, driving lanes, traffic flow, pedestrian walkways, or disability access routes.

The University may revoke any previously given approval and remove any Temporary Structure that is in violation of this policy.

The Carolina Union ensures compliance with these rules in Carolina Union Managed Exterior Spaces.

The Office of Facilities Services ensures compliance with these rules in all other exterior spaces.

Signage

No banners, flags, notices, advertisements, signs, posters, boards, paper, markings, or other forms of communication may be posted on any building exterior, exterior wall, exterior door, window (including both interior and exterior faces), lamppost, tree, monument, or other exterior surface, except for the following:

• Carolina Union “Cube” and general-purpose bulletin boards and other spaces provided at several locations on campus. These may only be used for information purposes and other purposes allowed by the Facilities Use Standard.
• Student election campaign materials. These may only be used if posted in ways that do not damage surfaces or impede pedestrian or vehicle passage or access.
• University-sponsored signage.

See the Facilities Use Standard for additional information.

Chalking

Chalking is allowed under the following conditions:

• Chalk may only be used on exposed exterior walkways.
• Only non-permanent sidewalk chalk may be used. No paint, spray/adhesive chalks, markers, or inks are allowed.
• Chalking must be consistent with the University’s Department of Environment, Health and Safety’s “UNC Outdoor Chalk Art Environmental Requirements.”

The University will clear chalk from exposed exterior walkways on a weekly basis.

Important safety reminders

• No alcohol or illegal drugs.
• No firearms, weapons, or other materials that pose a safety hazard as determined by UNC Police, including but not limited to metal pipes.
• No fireworks, bonfires, or open flames.
• No motorcycles, mopeds, or vehicles on McCorkle Place or other areas of campus not designated for traffic or parking.
• No wearing of masks, hoods, or other devices to disguise a person so as to conceal one’s identity on public property as required by N.C.G.S. § 14-12.8, unless exempted by N.C.G.S. § 14-12.11.
• Do not attempt to climb over or through crowd control barriers.
• Do not throw any objects during a demonstration or at any person or display.
• Do not damage or deface any public property.
• Do not block entrances or exits or otherwise interfere with the free flow of traffic into and out of campus buildings.
• All individuals must leave University spaces at their normal closure time (other than authorized occupants working after hours).
• Follow instructions provided by UNC Police, University administrators, and other safety personnel.
• University students, faculty, and staff must present their UNC One Card to any University official upon request.