Alcohol Policy

Title

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Alcohol Policy

Introduction

Purpose

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ("University") is a community committed to creating an environment that encourages personal responsibility and intellectual growth. The University's mission includes the goals "to serve as a center for research, scholarship and creativity and to teach a diverse community of undergraduate, graduate and professional students to become the next generation of leaders."

High-risk or dangerous alcohol consumption and associated conduct undermine the intellectual climate of the University. Moreover, high-risk, dangerous, or other misuse of alcohol inhibits the opportunity for maximum individual intellectual development, respect for the rights of others, and a sense of community and good citizenship. Studies indicate that the misuse and abuse of alcohol on college campuses is associated with diminished academic performance, an increase in vandalism and other destructive behaviors, a heightened risk of sexual assault and other forms of interpersonal violence, and an increased risk for short- and long-term dependency. There is a significant correlation between excessive alcohol use and the untimely interruption of a student's academic career. It is also well-established that significant alcohol-related health problems can result from chronic misuse of alcohol, as well as acute overconsumption and abuse. Finally, there is ample evidence that the behaviors associated with high-risk or dangerous alcohol use adversely affect other members of the University community through disruption of the academic or living environment or placing others at risk of physical or emotional injury.

The Alcohol Policy of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ("Policy") is designed to support the larger mission of the University, and to promote the values of honor and integrity, personal responsibility, dynamic learning, and community engagement. Through incorporation of a public health perspective, this Policy strives to cultivate an educational environment that encourages healthy and responsible behaviors, fosters academic and personal success, supports student, staff and faculty retention – including support for non-punitive self-seeking behaviors, and promotes the safety and well-being of all members of the University community. This Policy also seeks to foster a campus culture in which all members of the University community have a meaningful awareness of this Policy and of the resources available to address alcohol misuse.

The University relies on evidence-based, best practices in developing this comprehensive alcohol policy. The University also looks to existing campus policies1 and federal, state, and local laws to define and regulate the appropriate and legal possession, use, and service of alcohol within the University and the local community. The University reminds all students, faculty, and staff of their obligation to be responsible citizens by adhering to all laws regarding alcohol. As recommended by the U.S. Department of Education and reflected in this Policy, the University has adopted an environmental management approach built upon the following five pillars2:

  1. Offer and promote social, recreational, extracurricular, and public service options that do not include alcohol and other substances;
  2. Create a social, academic, and residential environment that supports health-promoting norms;
  3. Limit alcohol availability;
  4. Restrict marketing and promotion of Alcoholic Beverages;
  5. Develop and enforce appropriate campus policies.

Scope

This Policy establishes the standards and regulations regarding alcohol use at the University and by Campus Members.3 All Campus Members are responsible for knowing and for adhering to this Policy.

Moreover, this Policy applies to Students at all times until graduation or other separation from the University, both while on campus and as appropriate to any off campus conduct that has implications for University interests. The University retains jurisdiction over Students who take a leave of absence, withdraw, or who have graduated for any violation of this Policy that occurred prior to the leave, withdrawal, or graduation.

It is intended for this Policy to apply to Students and Student Organizations such that both terms are interchangeable throughout the provisions of this Policy, apart from Medical Amnesty, which is applicable only to individual Students.

This Policy applies to all employees and affiliates during the duration of their employment and affiliate status, both while on campus and as appropriate to any off campus conduct that has implications for University interests.

This Policy applies to all visitors to the campus at any time.

University Administrative Units and Student Organizations may supplement this Policy with more restrictive measures, as long as those measures do not conflict with the purpose or provisions of this Policy.

Policy

Policy Statement

Consistent with established University policies; local, state, and federal law; and applicable policies of the Board of Trustees and Board of Governors governing the consumption, possession, use and/or sale of Alcoholic Beverages:

  1. No person younger than 21 years of age may purchase, possess, or consume Alcoholic Beverages.
  2. No person 21 years of age4 or older may possess open containers of Alcoholic Beverages or consume Alcoholic Beverages on University Premises except in designated areas.
  3. No person, Student Organization, or University Administrative Unit may provide Alcoholic Beverages to a person who is younger than 21 years of age.
  4. No person of any age, Student Organization, or University Administrative Unit may possess, consume, provide, distribute, sell, and/or manufacture Alcoholic Beverages in violation of any local, state, or federal law.
  5. No person younger than 21 years of age may possess or use false identification (ID) for the purchase or procurement of Alcoholic Beverages, or to access an establishment that serves Alcoholic Beverages. This provision includes, but is not limited to, the following:
    1. possession or use of an altered ID,
    2. possession or use of a forged ID,
    3. possession or use of an ID belonging to another person,
    4. possession or use of any form of identification which misrepresents the bearer's true identity or date of birth.
  6. No person of any age may engage in behavior as a result of consumption or use of alcohol that is disorderly, disruptive, or jeopardizes the health or safety of self or others.
  7. No person, Student Organization, or University Administrative Unit may assist, aid, or otherwise facilitate another in committing a violation of this Policy or a violation of any local, state, or federal law regulating the use of Alcoholic Beverages.
  8. No person, Student Organization, or University Administrative Unit may use federal or state-appropriated funds to purchase Alcoholic Beverages.
  9. No person, Student Organization, or University Administrative Unit may manufacture and/or sell Alcoholic Beverages except as expressly authorized pursuant to this Policy and/or state statute.
  10. No Person, Student Organization, or Administrative Unit may use or possess a Common Source Container with alcohol: 
    1. on University Premises, except as otherwise provided in the Guidelines for Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises.     
    2. at off-campus events where these containers are in any way furnished, controlled, sponsored, or otherwise provided by Student Organizations or University Administrative Units.

      Common Source Containers may be used by a professional vendor or caterer to serve Alcoholic Beverages on University Premises that are designated or approved under the Guidelines for Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises, provided that the Common Source Container remains under the exclusive control of the vendor or caterer at all times (i.e. no self-service).
  11. In addition to complying with federal, state, and local laws and the provisions outlined above, Student Organizations and University Administrative Units must also adhere to the following:
    1. No Alcoholic Beverages, for use on- or off-campus, may be purchased with state-appropriated or federal funds, student activity fees, University-collected fees, funds deposited or administered through Carolina Union Student Organizations (CUSO), or with any other Student Organization funds or dues. Additionally, no Alcoholic Beverages may be purchased for a Student Organization or its members or guests in the name of or on behalf of the Student Organization (e.g., no passing the hat).
    2. No Student Organization or University Administrative Unit may hold an event on- or off-campus where the organization or unit profits from the direct sale of Alcoholic Beverages, including collection of a cover charge that defrays the costs of Alcoholic Beverages (e.g., donate to the cause and drinks are half off).
  12. No Alcoholic Beverages may be advertised or merchandised on campus except when done so in accordance with all applicable University policies.
  13. Failing to comply with any disciplinary sanctions or required interventions imposed pursuant to this Policy may also be considered a violation of this Policy.
  14. No Student, Student Organization, or Administrative Unit may engage in Retaliation against another person for reporting a potential violation of this Policy or participating in the adjudication process for a reported violation.

I. Consistency

In keeping with the goals set forth herein, including the promotion of a healthy campus environment and personal accountability, the University is committed to the consistent application and enforcement of this Policy.

II. Medical Amnesty

The health and safety of members of the campus community is of paramount importance. In certain circumstances, promotion of health and safety may be best served through education and support that is not disciplinary. We encourage students, faculty, and staff to seek out appropriate help as needed in situations that do not involve a potential policy infraction. This Policy is to be construed in a manner that encourages Campus Members to seek appropriate assistance in the event of an alcohol-related medical emergency or the treatment of an alcohol or substance abuse condition. Unless otherwise required by law, information disclosed in good faith by a Campus Member for the purpose of receiving treatment, counseling or other health assistance will not be used as a basis for establishing a violation of this Policy. Accordingly, amnesty from the disciplinary process and potential sanctions may be afforded to Students in circumstances as described in the Procedures for Adjudication & Response to Student Violations.

III. Non-Disciplinary Intervention

Participation in high risk or dangerous drinking or other alcohol-related behavior that places the person at risk of personal injury or jeopardizes the person's health and safety, and is not otherwise a violation of this Policy, may be addressed through requirements or recommendations for education, treatment, notification of parents/family members, or other interventions designed to address the underlying behavior or associated health risks.

IV. Location of Conduct and Reservation of Discretion

The determination of whether University interests are implicated, as well as determinations of whether such conduct should be addressed pursuant to this Policy, are reserved to the discretion of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs; Vice Chancellor for Workforce Strategy, Equity and Engagement; or the Vice Chancellor's designee. The determination of a University interest is not an explicit or implied element of any offense under this Policy.

A. Conduct of Students and Student Organizations

Conduct by Students on University Premises or on the premises of Student Organizations, as well as conduct by Students that occurs elsewhere may constitute offenses prohibited by this Policy if University interests are implicated.

University interests are generally implicated in situations including, but not limited to:

  1. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the Student or Student Organization presents a danger or threat to the health or safety of the Student, the members of the Student Organization, or other members of the local or campus community;
  2. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the Student or Student Organization impermissibly impinges upon the rights or property of others;
  3. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the Student or Student Organization unreasonably disrupts or disturbs the academic or working environment; functions or activities of the University or any of its organizations, personnel, or guests; or the personal living environment of others, whether on- or off-campus;
  4. Any situation involving the consumption of Alcoholic Beverages by a Student under the legal drinking age or the provision of Alcoholic Beverages to a person under the legal drinking age;
  5. Any situation where it appears that the Student's conduct is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of the University.
B. Conduct of Employees

Violations of this Policy by employees may be addressed in accordance with applicable personnel policies of the Office of Human Resources, the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, or any other University Administrative Unit and may result in a behavioral health intervention, and/or disciplinary action, up to and including termination from employment.

Determinations of whether conduct should be addressed pursuant to this Policy are reserved to the discretion of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost or designee for faculty members and the Vice Chancellor for Human Resources and Equal Opportunity and Compliance or designee for staff members and affiliates.

Conduct on University Premises or elsewhere by employees (including faculty, staff, and affiliates to the University) may give rise to offenses prohibited by this Policy if University interests are implicated. University interests are generally implicated in situations including, but not limited to:

  1. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the employee presents a danger or threat to the health or safety of the employee or other members of the local or campus community;
  2. Any situation where it appears that the employee's conduct is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of the University or where the conduct occurs during the course and scope of the individual's employment;
  3. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the employee impermissibly impinges upon the rights or property of others;
  4. Any situation where it appears that the conduct of the employee unreasonably disrupts or disturbs the academic or working environment; or functions or activities of the University or any of its organizations, personnel, or guests;
  5. Any situation involving the provision of Alcoholic Beverages to a person under the legal drinking age or otherwise in violation of this Policy.
C. Conduct of Visitors

Visitors are expected to adhere to campus policies and local, state, and federal laws as they pertain to alcohol. UNC Police at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provide all law enforcement services to the University campus. University Police are governed by N.C. General Statute 116-40.5 that gives University Police officers the same authority as municipal police officers. Officers also are under the direction of policies of the University as well as departmental policies.

Visitors may be charged by University Police with criminal violations or civil penalties as they pertain to alcohol laws and may be trespassed or face additional actions by the University (including loss of privileges to attend sporting events) based on behavior that violates this policy and other related policies.

V. Education, Prevention, Intervention & Recovery Initiatives

Pervasive high-risk, dangerous drinking inhibits campus safety and may be damaging to Campus Members' mental and physical health. High-risk, dangerous drinking is associated with a host of safety-related issues and encourages other high-risk behaviors that lead to accidents, assaults, and other serious injuries. Such drinking behaviors may also impact academic performance, exacerbate retention problems, divert University resources, and negatively affect the reputation of the University. As a result, the University affirms its commitment to a broad-based public health approach to addressing the impact of alcohol in the campus community. This comprehensive, evidence-based approach includes components of education, prevention, intervention, accountability, and recovery.  In support of these efforts, the University undertakes the following:

A. Campus Alcohol Task Force
  1. The University will establish a Campus Alcohol Task Force. The Campus Alcohol Task Force will be comprised of no less than nine (9) members which must include faculty, staff, and students who, by virtue of their professional responsibilities, research interests, or campus involvement have relevant knowledge or experience regarding alcohol-related issues. Appointments must be made by the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, in consultation with the Vice Chancellor for Workforce Strategy, Equity and Engagement and the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. Student members will be selected in consultation with the Student Body President and the President of the Graduate and Professional Student Federation.
  2. Appointments to the Campus Alcohol Task Force are for a term of one year, with no limitation on reappointment.
  3. The Campus Alcohol Task Force must:
    1. Oversee the implementation of this Policy;
    2. Assess the efficacy of educational efforts, interventions, and disciplinary actions taken in conjunction with this Policy;
    3. Advise the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, and Vice Chancellors regarding this Policy; best practices in the in the areas of alcohol education, health promotion, enforcement, interventions and recovery; and compliance obligations under state and federal law;
    4. Identify and advocate for resources needed for effective implementation of this Policy and related initiatives;
    5. Review and provide recommendations regarding locations that may sell or serve Alcoholic Beverages pursuant to this Policy; and
    6. Propose, review, and coordinate action on amendments or changes to this Policy as appropriate to increase its effectiveness.
  4. The Campus Alcohol Task Force must meet at least annually or more frequently as may be required to discharge its duties.
B. Resources for Comprehensive Planning and Response

The University must provide the requisite resources and appoint necessary personnel to support the implementation and enforcement of this Policy, including resources necessary to provide the following functions:

  1. Education and Prevention Programs - provide evidence-based programming to communicate with Campus Members about making safe and responsible decisions regarding drinking and the harmful effects of alcohol misuse or abuse. Such initiatives may include, but not be limited to, training of University faculty and staff, social norming campaigns, mandatory alcohol education programs for Students and families, sponsorship of alcohol-free events, and comprehensive education programs addressing the interrelationship between alcohol use and other issues of University concern, including academic success, individual mental health and physical well-being, and relationship or interpersonal violence.
  2. Training - provide significant training regarding alcohol and environmental management to members of the campus community with responsibilities for student activities, including resident advisors, student peer leaders, faculty members, advisors to Student Organizations, and student services professionals.
  3. Intervention Programs - provide assistance and support to Campus Members who engage in an alcohol-related offense or who identify as having an acute or chronic alcohol or substance abuse problem. Such initiatives may include counseling, referrals for assessment or education (e.g., BASICS - Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students), campus-based classes or workshops, referral and collaboration with campus or community-based resources, and case management.
  4. Accountability and Enforcement - provide for consistent and equitable treatment of violations of this Policy in a timely manner to include the use of sanctions designed to promote good citizenship and deter illegal and/or harmful behaviors.
  5. Treatment and Recovery - provide assistance and support to Campus Members in or seeking recovery, including maintenance of a campus recovery community and resources or referrals for ongoing treatment and counseling (recovery.unc.edu). Campus protocols for assisting students seeking leave and returning to campus after treatment can be found via CAPS and Student Wellness.

VI. Responsibility for Implementation and Enforcement

  1. All Campus Members are responsible for knowing and for adhering to this Policy.
  2. The Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs or designee is responsible for implementation and enforcement of this Policy as it applies to Students and Student Organizations.
  3. The Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost or designee is responsible for implementation and enforcement of this Policy as it applies to faculty.
  4. The Vice Chancellor, Human Resources and Equal Opportunity and Compliance or designee is responsible for implementation and enforcement of this Policy as it applies to staff and affiliates.
  5. UNC Police, with assistance from University Administrative Units, is responsible for enforcement of this Policy with respect to Visitors and on University Premises, together with all applicable local, state, and federal laws regulating the use of Alcoholic Beverages.

VII. Policy Dissemination, Review, and Amendment

The University affirms its commitment to fully comply with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act ("DFSCA") and the Drug Free Workplace Act, including all applicable administrative regulations. The DFSCA requires that "as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, an institution of higher education (IHE) must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees."5 

In accordance with these regulations, the University will:

  1. Annually notify each employee and student, in writing, of standards of conduct; a description of appropriate sanctions for violation of federal, state, and local law and this Policy; a description of health risks associated with alcohol and other drug use6; and a description of available treatment programs.
  2. Conduct at least a biennial review on the effectiveness of its alcohol and other drug programs and the consistency of sanction enforcement.
  3. Amend this Policy and related appendices as necessary to comply with all applicable regulations of Alcoholic Beverages.
  4. Comply with all federal laws and regulations related to the disclosure of crimes, including the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ("Clery Act").

Exceptions

None.

Definitions

When used in the Alcohol Policy of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or any of its appendices, terms have the following definitions:

Affiliate: Any person who requires University resources to work in conjunction with UNC-Chapel Hill who is not a student or employee. This includes volunteers, unpaid interns, visiting scholars, and independent contractors.

Alcohol Conduct Process: The process and procedures for adjudication of and response to reported Student or Student Organization violations of the Alcohol Policy of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as outlined in the Procedures for Adjudication & Response to Student & Student Organization Violations.

Alcoholic Beverages: Any beverage or other ingestible substance containing at least one half of one percent of alcohol by volume, as defined by the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Commission. For specific definitions, please visit the ABC Commission website.

Campus Member(s): All students, faculty, staff, and affiliates of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Common Source Container: Kegs, coolers, pitchers, punch bowls, bath tubs, trash cans, common shared refrigerators, or similar common source containers of Alcoholic Beverages intended to serve as a source of open access to Alcoholic Beverages at a party or other gathering.

Disciplinary Record: A record containing documents related to University disciplinary matters that may include, but is not limited to, the outcome and any imposed sanction(s) of any disciplinary action taken by the University against a Student or Student Organization.

Employee: Any faculty or staff member, including EHRA non-faculty employees, SHRA employees, and student employees, whether part-time or full-time, permanent or temporary, and includes post-doctoral scholars. University employees who are also students are considered students if their employment status requires them to be students (e.g. teaching assistants, resident advisors). An individual who is both a student and an employee whose position does not require them to be a student is considered to be an employee when acting in the course of their employee duties and is considered a student when acting in their role as a student.

Open Container: Any container of alcohol that is open or has at any point had the manufacturer’s seal broken and lid replaced. Examples include, but are not limited to, a solo cup, water bottle, open bottle or can containing any amount of Alcoholic Beverage.

Person: Considered to be used in this Policy as any Student, Student Organization, or Administrative Unit, and can be used interchangeably except regarding medical amnesty.

Policy: Except as otherwise noted, the term 'Policy' or 'this Policy' refers to the Alcohol Policy of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Retaliation: Actions or words directed against an individual for the purpose of impermissibly discouraging or intimidating an individual from reporting or participating in the adjudication of a potential Alcohol Policy violation.  Retaliation also includes actions or words directed against an individual for the purpose of punishing or harming an individual who has reported or participated in the adjudication of an Alcohol Policy violation.

Student: The term "Student" means any of the following7:

  1. a person who has applied for admission and been accepted into any academic program of study at the University;
  2. a person enrolled in or attending classes at or through the University, either at the University's main campus or at any remote location, including a person enrolled in online or distance education programs or a person participating in Study Abroad programs; or
  3. a person participating in any pre-matriculation orientation programs.

Student Organization: Any recognized group affiliated with or supported by the University or a University administrative unit (e.g., societies, clubs, student organizations including fraternities and sororities, athletic teams, or similarly organized groups in or recognized by the University.) A Student Organization also includes any group of students, whether or not officially recognized, that is affiliated with the University through the use of University Premises or University-sponsored programs.

University: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and all of its undergraduate, graduate and professional schools and colleges, and administrative units.

University Administrative Unit: A constituent part of the University, such as a department, division, program, college, or school.

University Premises: Buildings, property, or grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled, or supervised by the University.

University-Sponsored Event: Any event or activity on- or off-campus which is initiated, aided, funded, authorized, or supervised by the University or any authorized University official(s) (e.g., affiliated student, student organization or group, staff, faculty, department, athletic events, entertainment venues, development/fundraising function).

Visitor: Any person on University property or attending a University sponsored event who is not an employee, student, or affiliate

Related Requirements

External Regulations and Consequences

This Policy is intended to be consistent with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. The standards of conduct and the means of enforcement set forth in this Policy are adopted in furtherance of the University's interests and serve to supplement, rather than substitute for, the enforcement of applicable civil and criminal law. It is not double jeopardy for the University to address conduct that has previously been or may be sanctioned under local, state, or federal law.

I. Authority

The Code of the University of North Carolina, Section 502D(3), provides: "Subject to any policies or regulations of the Board of Governors or of the board of trustees, it is the duty of the chancellor to exercise full authority in the regulation of student affairs and student conduct and discipline. In the discharge of this duty, delegation of such authority may be made by the chancellor to faculty committees and to administrative or other officers of the institution, or to agencies of student government, in such manner and to such extent as may by the chancellor be deemed necessary and expedient."

University Policies, Standards, and Procedures

This Policy is intended to govern the conduct covered by its terms and does not preclude disciplinary or other actions to which an individual may be subject under separate policies of the University, including, but not limited, to:

Footnotes

  1. These policies include, but are not limited to: the Facilities Use Policy; The Instrument of Student Judicial Governance; Carolina Housing Community Living Standards; and the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment and Related Misconduct. For a comprehensive list of these and other University policies that may inform this Policy, please visit the UNC-Chapel Hill policy repository.
  2. See: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) College Task Force, Reducing Alcohol Problems on Campus: A Guide to Planning and Evaluation, (April 2002).
  3. Definitions for key terms (denoted by capitalization) used within this Policy and associated appendices may be found in the Alcohol Policy.
  4. In those jurisdictions where the legal drinking age is other than 21, the prevailing legal drinking age would be applied for the purposes of this Policy.
  5. See EDGAR Subpart A, Sec. 86.1 and 20 U.S.C. 1145(g).
  6. See the appendix "Alcohol & Other Drug Risks and Resources" for information and resources regarding alcohol and other drugs. Additional information available at alcohol.unc.edu.
  7. A Student who has not yet matriculated remains subject to applicable admissions policies in addition to or in lieu of this Policy.

Contact Information

Student Affairs

Jonathan Sauls, Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
jsauls@email.unc.edu
919-966-4045

Director of Student Conduct
919-962-0805

Carolina Housing
919-843-2782

Office of the Provost

Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
919-962-2198

Important Dates and Approval

Updates

February 2022

  • Restructuring the entire Policy into separate sections to conform with the desired University Policy Template.
  • Non-substantive edits including: corrected typos and reformatting multiple sections after the restructuring process.
  • Addition of Policy, Section IV. C. Conduct of Visitors; Standard, Section II.f. and Section II.g. (exceptions); and, Standard, Section I.B.b. (athletic facilities).
  • Edited definitions for Affiliates, Employees, and Visitors.

September 2019

  • Minor updates and clarifications; no substantive changes.

July 2019

  • Clarified the application of the Policy/Adjudication Processes to Student Organizations.
  • Corrected minor typos and erroneous numbering/lettering of various sections.
  • Added definitions of additional key terms.
  • Reorganized and clarified the sanctions/interventions applicable to Students and Student Organization.

September 2018

  • Format changed to incorporate Appendices into Policy, Standards, and Procedures:
    • Appendix A: Definition of Key Terms to Alcohol Policy.
    • Appendix B: Guidelines for Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises to Standards.
    • Appendix C: Adjudication & Response to Student Violations to Procedures.
    • Appendix D: Alcohol & Other Drug Risks and Resources to Standards.
  • Policy Statement J; additional clarification regarding Common Source Containers.
  • Guidelines for Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises II B; additional clarification regarding Common Source Containers.

August 2017:

  • Substantive Revisions:
    •  Updated title of "Appendix B" to include reference to serving alcohol on "University premises."
    • Updated "Appendix B" to clarify that tailgating for football games is permitted in designated areas on the UNC campus. (Appendix B, Section III, subsection B)

Document Creation and Initial Approval

August 2016

  • Effective Date: August 1, 2016
  • Approver: Provost/Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs 

 

Standard on Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises

Title

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Standard on Serving Alcohol at University-Sponsored Events or on University Premises

Introduction

Purpose

The following Standards have been developed to provide consistent and comprehensive information about applicable laws and University rules concerning service of Alcoholic Beverages at University-Sponsored Events. This represents the minimum standards for service of Alcoholic Beverages. University departments or officials may adopt more stringent standards as deemed necessary and appropriate.

Scope of Applicability

The following Standards apply to all University Administrative Units that wish to serve or sell alcohol beverages at University-Sponsored events.

Standard

I. Purchase and Sale of Alcoholic Beverages

A. Types of Funds Allowed to Purchase Alcoholic Beverages
  1. No State-appropriated or Federal funds may be used to purchase Alcoholic Beverages. Some funds that are classified as institutional trust funds may be used to purchase Alcoholic Beverages, but only if those funds are discretionary in nature and the fund authority is sufficiently broad to cover this purchase. Scholarship funds or funds handled through the Office of Sponsored Research are not discretionary in nature. Information about whether a particular trust fund may be used for the purchase of Alcoholic Beverages may be obtained from the Office of the University Controller.
B. List of Facilities on University Property Where Alcoholic Beverages May Be Sold

  1. The following facilities on University property meet the statutory requirements in N.C. Gen. Stat. §18B-1006(a) permitting Alcoholic Beverages to be sold in such facilities:

    1. The Carolina Inn
    2. George Watts Hill Alumni Center
    3. The Rizzo Center
    4. Finley Golf Course
    5. Memorial Hall
    6. Paul Green Theater
    7. Ackland Art Museum
    8. CURRENT Artspace + Studio

  2. Athletic facilities that meet the statutory requirements in N.C. Gen. Stat. §18B-1006(a)(10) and have been approved by the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees are eligible for the issuance of ABC permits.  The sale of Alcoholic Beverages is permitted in these facilities only as approved in advance by the Chancellor or designee.

    Each of the University facilities identified in Sections I.B.a. and I.B.b. must maintain and follow facility-specific procedures for the sale of Alcoholic Beverages at the facility, which must be designed to manage risk and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

  3. Alcoholic Beverages cannot be sold, directly or indirectly, at any other campus location other than those identified in Sections I.B.a. and I.B.b. of this Standard. This means that when a function is held elsewhere on campus, there can be no "cash bars," nor can there be a cover charge for an event at which Alcoholic Beverages are reportedly "given away." However, a set price for a reception or meal where the service of Alcoholic Beverages is incidental to the reception or meal is permitted, provided the facility where the event is held is otherwise authorized under this Standard to serve Alcoholic Beverages.

II. Service of Alcoholic Beverages

A. When Alcoholic Beverages May Be Served, Displayed, or Consumed at any University-Sponsored Event on University Premises

Subject to the exceptions described herein, no Alcoholic Beverages may be served, displayed, or consumed at any University-Sponsored Event on University Premises.

  1. Except for University holidays, no Alcoholic Beverages may be served at any campus location (with the exception of those campus facilities authorized to sell Alcoholic Beverages under Sections I.B.a. and I.B.b.) on a weekday until after 5:00 p.m. Only the Chancellor or Chancellor's designee may authorize an exception to this provision. In all cases where a rare exception may be granted, consideration for the effect on the academic environment, and the message to Campus Members, including particularly Students, should be critically and thoughtfully considered.

  2. Tailgating for football games is permitted on University Premises in designated tailgate areas, such areas to be designated in advance by the Chancellor or designee. Persons of legal age may possess open containers and consume Alcoholic Beverages in designated tailgate areas only.

    1. Whenever tailgate areas are designated, at least one tailgate location must be designated as alcohol-free and individuals must not consume or possess Alcoholic Beverages in the designated alcohol-free area.

    2. Common source containers (e.g., kegs, punch bowls, etc.) are not permitted at tailgating activities, unless provided by a professional vendor or caterer and the Common Source Container remains under the exclusive control of the vendor or caterer at all times (i.e. no self-service).

  3. It is a violation of North Carolina law and University Policy to serve Alcoholic Beverages to anyone less than 21 years of age. Service of any Alcoholic Beverages is strongly discouraged at University-Sponsored Events that are likely to be attended by guests less than 21 years of age. If a University Administrative Unit plans to serve Alcoholic Beverages at a University-Sponsored Event that will be attended by guests less than 21 years of age, it must submit, as part of the approval process outlined in the Procedure for Requesting Permission to Serve Alcoholic Beverages at University-Sponsored Events, a summary of the method by which it will determine which guests are over 21 and how it will assure that guests under 21 years of age will not be served or have access to Alcoholic Beverages.

  4. Alcoholic Beverages may be served, displayed, and consumed at invitation-only, private functions hosted by individuals that are held at:

    1. the Ackland Art Museum
    2. Paul Green Theater,
    3. the James M. Johnston Center for Undergraduate Excellence,
    4. the Friday Continuing Education Center,
    5. Kenan Center,
    6. George Watts Hill Alumni Center,
    7. Morehead Planetarium Building,
    8. Knapp-Sanders Building,
    9. the Rizzo Center,
    10. Gerrard Hall, Hyde Hall,
    11. FedEx Global Education Center,
    12. North Carolina Botanical Garden,
    13. designated parts of Carroll Hall,
    14. the Dean E. Smith Center,
    15. Koury Natatorium,
    16. CURRENT Artspace + Studio, and
    17. Memorial Hall.

    To the extent these facilities are available for use by other University Administrative Units, arrangements for University-Sponsored Events must be made with the particular facility. Each of these University facilities where Alcoholic Beverages may be served must maintain facility-specific procedures for the service of Alcoholic Beverages at the facility, which must be designed to manage risk and comply with applicable laws and regulations. It is the responsibility of the University Administrative Unit hosting the event to comply fully with the facility-specific requirements relating to service of Alcoholic Beverages.

  5. Any University Administrative Unit wishing to serve Alcoholic Beverages at a University-Sponsored Event that includes guests under the age of 21 and/or wishing to serve and allow for the display and consumption of Alcoholic Beverages in a facility or open space on University Premises other than those listed in Section II.A. d. above must follow the UNC-Chapel Hill Procedure for Requesting Permission to Serve Alcoholic Beverages at University-Sponsored Events.

  6. Where proper approval has been obtained, the following requirements must be met at all University-Sponsored Events where Alcoholic Beverages are served:

    1. In the case of an approved event at a campus location other than those identified in Section II.A. d. above, an event manager must be designated and present at all times while Alcoholic Beverages are being served. The event manager must be at least 21 years of age and must be knowledgeable of the Alcohol Policy and this Standard;

    2. Access to the event must be limited to invitees and controlled throughout the event. The event may not be open to the public. For outdoor events, special steps must be taken to control access and delineate the area for the event (e.g., tents with sides or other significant barriers);

    3. A sufficient amount of alternative, nonalcoholic beverages must be available at the same placement of the Alcoholic Beverages and featured as prominently;

    4. A sufficient amount of substantial, wholesome food (e.g., heavy hors d'oeuvres or dinner) must be served;

    5. Alcoholic Beverages must be served by a professional caterer or bartender with liability insurance in standard and customary serving sizes limited to one Alcoholic Beverage at a time per person;

    6. Self-service of Alcoholic Beverages is forbidden;

    7. A reception with Alcoholic Beverages that is followed by a full meal may last no longer than one hour. A reception with Alcoholic Beverages that is not followed by a full meal may last no longer than two hours; and

    8. Alcoholic Beverages must not be served to individuals exhibiting signs of impairment or intoxication.

  7. Special consideration for the use and/or provision of de minimus amounts alcoholic beverages in connection with religious observances held on campus will be made when the event:

    1. Is hosted or sponsored by a recognized Student Organization,

    2. Has an Advisor(s) and/or ordained clergy present, and

    3. Has a plan for alcohol control/management submitted to and approved in advance by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

  8. Special consideration for the use and/or provision of de minimus amounts of alcohol for University research and/or training will be made when such research/training:

    1. Has obtained appropriate IRB or other necessary approvals and

    2. Has been approved, in advance, by the Dean or Department Head responsible for the unit performing the research or training.*

      *A note on use for Training - there may be antiquated training approaches not supported by current research standards and efficacy. Use of alcohol for such trainings should not be used when more effective alternatives are available. Deans and Department Heads should consult with University Counsel before approving training exercises involving the use of Alcoholic Beverages.

  9. In addition to the above requirements, if individuals under 21 years of age will be attending a University-Sponsored Event where Alcoholic Beverages will be served, the University Administrative Unit hosting the event must take appropriate precautions to ensure that Alcoholic Beverages are not served to individuals under the age of 21. Such precautions may include:

    1. A sign on the bar or other location where Alcoholic Beverages are served that states "Must be 21" or other similar language and an instruction to the caterer or bartender to ask for proof of age whenever an individual appears to be less than 30 years of age.

    2. Color-coded nametags or place cards for guests under 21 years of age and instructions to the caterer or bartender as to the significance of the color-coding.

    3. Instructions to caterers, bartenders, or University staff in charge of the event to be alert to the possibility that guests over 21 may attempt to obtain Alcoholic Beverages on behalf of guests under 21.

      It is the responsibility of the University Administrative Unit hosting the event to be certain that Alcoholic Beverages are not served or provided to individuals under the age of 21.

  10. In addition to the foregoing, individuals, Student Organizations, and University Administrative Units are strongly encouraged to consider the following in conjunction with the service of Alcoholic Beverages at any event on- or off-campus:

    1. The University recommends that all Alcoholic Beverages be provided by a third-party vendor or that attendees bring their own Alcoholic Beverages (i.e., BYOB).

    2. If using a common source container to serve Alcoholic Beverages, the University recommends engagement of a professional vendor or caterer who maintains exclusive control of the Alcoholic Beverages at all times (i.e. no self-serve).

    3. Student Organizations or Administrative Units should only use appropriate funds to purchase Alcoholic Beverages. State-appropriated funds, student activity fees, University-collected fees, funds deposited or administered through the Carolina Union Student Organization (CUSO), or other Student Organization funds or dues should not be used to purchase Alcoholic Beverages.

    4. The University recommends individuals avoid purchasing Alcoholic Beverages on behalf of other guests at an event, or in the name of any Student Organization (i.e. passing the hat).

    5. The requirements set forth in this Policy are minimum standards. Organizations or University Administrative Units may adopt standards or protocols which are more stringent than the requirements of this Policy. Organizations or University Administrative Units that have adopted their own alcohol risk management policies must follow the requirements of this Policy as well as their own alcohol risk management standards.

Definitions

Please see the Definitions in the UNC-Chapel Hill Alcohol Policy, above.

Related Requirements

External Regulations and Consequences

University Policies, Standards, and Procedures

This Standard is intended to govern the conduct covered by its terms and does not preclude disciplinary or other actions to which an individual may be subject under separate policies of the University, including, but not limited, to:

Contact Information

Student Affairs

Jonathan Sauls, Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
jsauls@email.unc.edu
919-966-4045

Director of Student Conduct
919-962-0805

Carolina Housing
919-843-2782

Office of the Provost

Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
919-962-2198

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