2008 Woodie Awards
Good Neighbors: Winter Park Style!
So...What are you going to get in trouble for this semester?
Steve Neilson
Issue date: 2/4/05 Section: Life & Times
- Page 1 of 1
About this time of year, the City of Winter Park Police Department gets a number of complaints from citizens about the behavior of students leasing houses in the community. The police work with the residents and students to try to resolve differences. But many of the complaints are real, and sometimes they end up with students being arrested or cited for code violations.
Occasionally, students are aware of the local statutes and laws but just don't care; but frequently, they may not be aware of the local ordinances. Some of these more common ones include:
In the city of Winter Park, no single-family structure may contain over three unrelated people.
Vehicles may not be parked on lawns or street frontage - so only areas specifically designed for parking.
Noise. Police will respond to every complaint, verify the complaint and usually ask the person to stop. Especially true from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. A plainly audible sound at a distance of 50 feet helps define what constitutes a noise disturbance. An incident report is written up and after three reports; the Code Enforcement Board may fine you up to $250.00 per incident.
Alcohol:
Drinking age is 21-but you knew that one!
Unlawful to sell, give or serve someone under 21.
Unlawful to have an "Open House Party," a social gathering in a residence if the person having control of the residence knows alcohol or drugs is being consumed by minors.
Disorderly conduct - not too hard to figure out!
Disorderly intoxication - you can not drink alcohol in a public place or cause a public disturbance.
These are just some of the issues for students, police and neighbors. Sometimes, knowing makes the difference. Whether you live on or off campus, it's important to be a good citizen and a good neighbor. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Safety or the Dean of Student Affairs office.
Occasionally, students are aware of the local statutes and laws but just don't care; but frequently, they may not be aware of the local ordinances. Some of these more common ones include:
In the city of Winter Park, no single-family structure may contain over three unrelated people.
Vehicles may not be parked on lawns or street frontage - so only areas specifically designed for parking.
Noise. Police will respond to every complaint, verify the complaint and usually ask the person to stop. Especially true from 11:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m. A plainly audible sound at a distance of 50 feet helps define what constitutes a noise disturbance. An incident report is written up and after three reports; the Code Enforcement Board may fine you up to $250.00 per incident.
Alcohol:
Drinking age is 21-but you knew that one!
Unlawful to sell, give or serve someone under 21.
Unlawful to have an "Open House Party," a social gathering in a residence if the person having control of the residence knows alcohol or drugs is being consumed by minors.
Disorderly conduct - not too hard to figure out!
Disorderly intoxication - you can not drink alcohol in a public place or cause a public disturbance.
These are just some of the issues for students, police and neighbors. Sometimes, knowing makes the difference. Whether you live on or off campus, it's important to be a good citizen and a good neighbor. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Safety or the Dean of Student Affairs office.