Neighborhood Relations

One of the great things that comes with living off campus is the opportunity to connect with the local community. Many student rentals are in neighborhoods next to permanent residents, and it’s important to understand the different expectations involved. 

One of the best things to do is introduce yourself to your neighbors when you move in and swap phone numbers. Transparency about expectations and solid communication will make for a great school year.

Off Campus Student Life provides these helpful resources to help you build positive relationships with your neighbors: 

Good Neighbor Registration

Good Neighbor Registration (GNR) allows UMass students to register their address in order to get a warning regarding noise violations before a traditional police response. Gatherings can get loud, regardless of their size. If your Friday or Saturday night get-together gets a bit too noisy, this widely-used program is your simple solution to avoiding noise fines and keeping your neighbors happy.

This is not a license to party, but an opportunity to handle any noise calls yourself before police intervention. Regardless of participating in the program, police response can result in discipline from the Dean of Students. Additionally, officers can issue a verbal warning, a $300 citation, a Criminal Summons, or can even arrest any resident or party guest who is contributing to the unlawful noise.

Use this Google form to sign up! If you have any questions, please contact us at ocsc@sacl.umass.edu. 

Good Neighbor Grant Program

Launched in Spring 2022, the Good Neighbor Grant Program provides grants of up to $500 for collaborative projects jointly proposed by students and permanent residents in their neighborhoods with the goal of bringing neighbors together and building community. Projects can range from neighborhood cleanups, to block parties, to everything in between. 

Drop by the Off-Campus Student Center for more information!