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University of Nebraska–Lincoln

University of Nebraska Policies

Committed to Excellence


Policy Governing the Use of UNL Facilities

The highest priority for use of all UNL facilities (buildings and grounds) is assigned to those functions necessary to carry out the basic missions of the University of teaching, research, and public service.

Use of UNL facilities for any purpose other than teaching, research, or public service functions is restricted to:

  1. Recognized student organizations.
  2. Recognized faculty and/or staff organizations.
  3. Other organizations where such use does not conflict with state statutes, University regulations, and the basic mission or programs of the University.

The individual in charge of the facility involved has discretion to make specific assignments, subject to the approval of the cognizant vice chancellor, after the basic missions of UNL are covered.

This policy is not intended to eliminate certain traditional faculty functions that include minimum use of University facilities. Any functions to the contrary or that exceed normal or traditional use must be accompanied by a completed contract signed by the client and approved by the Facilities Management Business Office.

Professional Liability Insurance

Any professional activity that involves the use of human subjects must be covered by adequate professional liability insurance which includes the University as an additional named insured and which has been approved by the Facilities Management Business Office.

Services Which Must Receive Prior Approval

The following services must be approved in advance by the University official responsible for that area:

  1. Selling of any type of goods or services.
  2. Solicitation of funds for any purpose.
  3. Free distribution of goods or services of any type.
  4. Posting of printed materials by any University or non University organization or individual (excluding departments of the University) on any and all University property.

Scheduling and Authorizing Use of Facilities

The person responsible for special use facilities will schedule and authorize their use under the direction of the cognizant Vice Chancellor. Use of all other facilities will be authorized under the cognizance of the Facilities Management Business Office. A list of special use facilities follows in this section.

Any use of University facilities or property (whether approved or unapproved) may be terminated by University officials when these activities interfere with:

  1. The educational and public service programs of the University.
  2. The rights of other groups within the University community.

When the actual usage exceeds the scope of the permission granted, the organization will be notified of the violation and will be requested to take appropriate remedial steps.

Failure on the part of the responsible organization to bring the activity into compliance as requested will result in the activity being terminated by University officials.

Bulletins, Posters, and Signs

Bulletins, posters, and signs may be affixed to bulletin boards. They will not be affixed to interior or exterior walls, pillars, doors, windows or any other part of campus buildings, trees, posts, light poles, existing exterior signs, sidewalks, benches or any other landscape feature. Paint will not be used. Specific exceptions may be granted by the Assistant Vice Chancellor Facilities Management and Planning for official information directed to all staff and students, such as class registration information and temporary directions.

Outdoor Sound Equipment

When there is outdoor use of sound equipment for any purpose, the University official in charge of that particular area must give prior approval. If the sound level is excessive, the University official will contact the responsible party for remedial action. In general, any outdoor use of sound equipment must not conflict with regularly scheduled classes or established policy.

Health, Fire, and Safety Codes

Any use of University facilities must comply with all health, fire, and life safety code requirements in the conduct of the scheduled activity.

Religious Purposes

Use of University facilities for religious purposes will conform to the existing policy of the Board of Regents.

Usage Fees and Proof of Insurance

A facility use fee plus other associated direct costs (if not included in the use fee) may be assessed against the organization utilizing the facility. The user group will also be responsible for all costs relating to repair of damage, or to the replacement of University property as a result of the use by the approved group. All obligations must be discharged by the responsible group prior to the approval for subsequent use of any University facilities.

Prior to Use of University Facilities

Any external users of University facilities, who create a risk for their group or others, will be required to present a certificate of insurance naming the Board of Regents as an additional insured for that particular activity.

A standard rate schedule for general use facilities is available from the Facilities Management and Planning Business Office at 472 4840 (all rates are subject to change without prior notice). Rental rates for special use facilities are available from the individual in charge of that facility.

Special Use Facilities

  • Housing Facilities.
  • Recreation Facilities.
  • Wick Alumni Center.
  • Sheldon Art Gallery.
  • Kimball Recital Hall.
  • Howell Theatre.
  • Intercollegiate Athletic Facilities.
  • Nebraska Unions.
  • Gymnasia and Swimming Pools.
  • Lied Center for the Performing Arts.

Individuals having questions on this policy are encouraged to contact:

Facilities Management and Planning
Business Operations
University of Nebraska Lincoln
1901 Y Street
Lincoln, NE 68588-0605

Phone: (402) 472 4840