Party: How to... in Kalamazoo
First First Thing:
What is Excessive Noise ?
City Ordinance 21-6 states that the intensity of the noise is anything that disturbs the comfort of other residents. Noise is monitored by the Department of Public Safety.
How Does the City Respond?
If the City receives a compliant on noise or a large party, a Public Safety Officer will respond to the scene and assess the situation. If there is a noise violation, the officer will either issue an appearance ticket, or make an arrest.
An arrest is made if participants are unco-operative, repeat offenders, fail to properly identify themselves, or because of the size of the crowd or intensity of the noise.
If you are arrested, this is what will happen to you:
Public Safety Officers don;t like to make arrests! But, they will if there is noise violation. Here's what will happen:
- You don't have to be read your rights.
- You will be searched, and "patted" down.
- You will be handcuffed.
- You will be taken to the City jail. You may be put in a "paddy wagon".
- You will be booked, including finger-printing and "mug" shots.
- Bond will be set (up to $500). If it is posted and you are not intoxicated,
you will be free to leave. If not, you will remain in jail.
- A court date will be set within 2 weeks.
Helpful Hints to Organize Your Party in Kalamazoo:
Planning Your Party -
How ever many your party is intended for, planning is critical. Good intentions can be ruined the moment others hear about it. Word spreads quickly when it comes to parties, so be prepared to turn people away. Remember, you are not only responsible for people when they are in your party, but also when they leave. Here are some helpful hints:
- Inform your neighbor that you are having a party, and encourage them to call if there is a problem. Leave your number with them.
- Make a verbal commitment to pick up[ any trash or debris by an agreed upon time.
During the Party:
- Be available to answer any calls from your neighbors.
- Patrol your party to ensure that noise do not disturb your neighbors.
- Keep your part inside! People gathering outside may cause an officer to arrive at your party.
- Organize a street patrol crew to discourage people from illegally parking. Remember that parking is not allowed between 2:00 am - 6:00 am unless signs specifically permit it. Front yard parking not only looks bad but is illegal.
- Don't let anyone leave your party drunk. The host can be held liable.
Responsibilities of the Party Goer:
If you are invited to a party, here are some helpful hints to be a good partier:
- When going to and from a party, keep the noise to a minimum.
- Don't consume alcohol when going to and from a party.
- If alcoholic beverages are being sold illegal, leave immediately.
- Always use the restroom at a party. Using the "great outdoors" is offensive.
- Respect your host's and neighbor's property, and please don't trespass.
- Do not litter.
These suggestions and statements of policy pertain to the City of Kalamazoo. Police Departments surrounding Kalamazoo have different policies. You should check out their policies as well.
Do It Right, The First Time!
Hosting a party is a BIG responsibility. As the host(s) you are responsible for the actions of those who attend your party. This guide is designed to help avoid problems concerning parties and "party goers."
Kalamazoo is known for its high quality of life. Residents throughout our City value "quiet" neighborhoods, and will do what it takes to "battle" noise.
Kalamazoo has one of the strictest policies on noise violations. If you are not familiar with this policy ands procedure ... it's in your best interest to read this information.
Kalamazoo has some of the best events in Michigan (the Wine and Harvest Festival and the Chap's concerts), but these are conducted in a controlled manner. Not all parties are ... so read on and we hope that you follow our suggestions for a GOOD PARTY IN KALAMAZOO.
It's Against the Law To:
- Furnish alcohol to any person, for any consideration !!! This includes charging for cups or entertainment and then providing free alcohol.
- Allow someone to use your premise to sell alcoholic beverages for any consideration.
- Sell or furnish alcoholic beverages under any consideration to anyone under 21 years of age.
- Loiter in a place where alcoholic beverages are being sold or bought illegally.
Questions regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages should be directed to the Department of Public Safety, 337-8139.
If You Need Assistance .. Here Are Some Important Telephone Numbers:
337-8120 Non-Emergency - such as accidents with no-medical emergencies, noise complaints, and other items not requiring immediate response.
911 Emergencies Only - such as fires, medical emergencies, crimes in progress, or other incidents requiring immediate response.
OFF CAMPUS LIFE
3510 Faunce Student Services Bldg.
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5077
Phone: (616) 387-2336
Fax: (616) 387-2325
Original HTML by Timothy Strunk