• Seton Hall University
• Department of Student Life

Be A Good Neighbor

Living in a neighborhood is very different from living in a residence hall. You are sharing a community with young professionals, retirees, and families with children. Everyone deserves a peaceful home. With a little effort, you can earn your neighbors' respect and goodwill.

• Say hello. Whether a friendly wave or a formal introduction, take the first step toward a good relationship with your neighbor.
• Exchange contact info. A simple phone call can often avert or resolve problems between neighbors.
• Be invested. Take an active interest in your neighborhood. It's your home and community, too.
• Be considerate. Messy yards, loud music, and late-night noise are disturbing to others. Respect works both ways.

Fire Safety

Fires can ignite quickly and without warning. Remember these fire safety tips to save valuable time for you and your housemates in an emergency.

• When an alarm sounds, immediately evacuate the building. Do not assume it is a false alarm.
• Have an escape plan and practice it. Always know two ways out of every room.
• Never disable a smoke alarm or sprinkler system, or hang any items on them. Doing so is both dangerous and illegal.
• Make sure candles are in sturdy holders and never leave a burning candle unattended.
• If a fire starts in a microwave, keep the door closed and unplug the unit.
• Don't overload electrical outlets.
• NJ law requires fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms in all rental units. Alert your landlord if one is missing or not working.

Local Ordinances and Fines

Be aware that violation of local ordinances can carry steep fines and may require a court appearance.

• Failure to clear snow/ice from sidewalk – Fines apply
• Littering - $100 - $500 fine for 1st offense; up to $1000 for repeated offense
• Noise violation – Fines apply and referral to Student Conduct Office
• Open Container of Alcohol in Public - $200 fine
• Parking without a residential permit – Fines apply
• Underage drinking (under 21) - $500 fine / license suspension
• Urinating in Public – Fines apply

Parking

Parking in South Orange can be a challenge. If you don't have a driveway, make sure you know the street parking regulations for your neighborhood. The village can tow a car parked illegally or boot a car for unpaid fines.

• Renters within a residential-permit parking district in South Orange are required to have a tenant permit for street parking.
• Be aware of alternate-side-of-the-street parking regulations, snow-removal routes, and other local parking laws.
• Always lock your car doors and remove all valuables from view, including electronics and GPS devices.

Parties and Noise

Want to hear your neighbor's lawn mower at 7 a.m.? They feel the same way about your noise at 3 a.m. Your neighbors have different schedules than you do.

• Tell your neighbors in advance of any parties you plan to host. Agree to an end time and stick to it.
• Consuming alcohol under age 21 is illegal. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guests are of age.
• Noise ordinances are enforceable 24 hours a day and carry fines up to $1,250, along with referral to Student Conduct.
• Move speakers away from walls and turn down the bass. Sound travels farther than you think.
• If an unwanted guest arrives or your party gets out of control, call the police immediately. Do not take matters into your own hands.
• Open containers of alcohol in public are illegal and carry fines of up to $400.
• Never leave your drink unattended or accept one from someone you don't know.
• Do not let guests drink and drive. Use a rideshare or call a cab.

Personal Safety

Theft can happen in seconds. A few simple precautions can go a long way toward protecting yourself and your belongings.

• Do not leave valuables unattended or doors unlocked.
• Lock all first-floor windows, fire escape windows, and security screens. Use light timers to deter crime.
• Limit alcohol consumption so you can stay alert. Persons under the influence are much more likely to be victims of a serious crime.
• When returning home at night, always walk with friends and use well-lit paths.
• Report all crimes promptly to the South Orange Police Department at (973) 763-3000.

Pet Ownership

There's more to owning a pet than shaking paws and playing fetch. A pet is totally dependent on you — physically, socially, and financially — for its well-being. Make sure you are ready for the responsibilities that come with pet ownership.

• Before adopting a pet, discuss responsibilities with your roommates and agree on a division of labor.
• Check your lease for pet restrictions. Many South Orange rentals have size or breed limits.
• Always keep dogs leashed and clean up after your pet immediately. Pet violations carry fines of $50–$100.
• South Orange requires that dogs not bark for more than 15 minutes during the day and not at all at night. Violations are enforceable under local ordinance.
• Make a plan for your pet's long-term care before you graduate or move out of your current residence.

Property Upkeep

Well-maintained neighborhoods are less likely to attract crime. Check your lease to see who is responsible for taking out trash, lawn mowing, snow shoveling, and leaf raking. It could be you.

• Know the garbage and recycling schedule for your residence.
• Recycling is mandatory. Bottles, cans, and mixed paper go in the same container. Recycling placed in bags will not be collected.
• You are required to keep your property free of garbage and debris.
• Sidewalks must be kept clear of ice and snow. You may face a fine of $100–$150 if you don't shovel promptly.