Getting together with friends is a great part of university life. When you host, it is essential to remember that you have a responsibility to guests, neighbours, and the community. As a host, be sure to educate yourself and others of local laws, bylaws, and the regulations set out in the University District Safety Initiative, Nuisance Party Bylaw and Administrative Monetary Penalties.
Host respectfully and safely:
- Inform your neighbours and invite them to come to you with any concerns.
- Stay sober so that you are able to handle any problems that may arise.
- Decide on a guest list ahead of time and stick to it.
- Have food and water for your guests.
- Keep guests off your neighbour’s property and clean up immediately afterwards.
- Try and avoid glass bottles and serve cans. If a glass bottle is broken, someone may get hurt.
- Know the regulations set out in the University District Safety Initiative and Nuisance Party Bylaw.
- Don’t be afraid to call 911, if it’s an emergency.
- For situations that don’t require a call to 911, call the Kingston Police Services non-emergency line 613-549-4660 for assistance.
- Hosts may be liable for the actions of their guests during and after a party even when guests bring their own drinks. Selling alcohol requires a special license, including cups at a keg party.
- Monitor your guests and ensure they are consuming responsibly.
Be considerate and mindful of noise levels at all hours:
- Keep singing, yelling, and music at a moderate volume and avoid slamming doors and honking horns.
- Keep social gatherings inside and close doors and windows to contain noise.
- Be aware of shared walls and the noise level of electronics and conversations.
- Review the Noise Bylaw.
- Review the City’s Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs) and be aware that an AMP is a fine issued by the City of Kingston for a Bylaw Violation that would usually be processed by the Provincial Offences Court.
It’s against the law to:
- Have open alcohol in public (including sidewalks and roads).
- Serve alcohol to an intoxicated person or someone under 19.
- Be publicly intoxicated.
If a neighbour, bylaw, or police officer comes to your door
Be co-operative and do what you can to resolve their concerns.