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All incoming first-time students are required to live on campus for two academic semesters (fall and spring) unless they meet one of the following exceptions:

• Live with parents/guardians within a 60-mile radius of the campus
• Are 20 years of age or older
• Have previously lived in a residential school for at least a year (i.e., boarding school)
• Have prior military service
• Are married or are a parent

You must submit all exemption requests in writing and have them approved by the Director of Housing. If you apply for on-campus housing, are housed for the fall term, and do not request an exemption, you must reside on campus for the entire academic year. You can submit your exemption request online.

While common courtesy is expected at all times, these are the designated quiet hours:

Sunday - Thursday: 9 p.m.- 8 a.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 p.m. - 9 a.m.
Wednesday before Finals Week - End of the semester: 11 p.m. - 8 a.m.

All students with vehicles must obtain a current parking permit. Permits are issued by the Cashier’s Office or Police & Parking Services Office.

• Permit options: Available for the full academic year or by semester.
• Summer parking: No parking permit is required during summer months.
• Parking restrictions: Parking in fire lanes or metered areas during unloading is prohibited and will result in a ticket.

For detailed parking rules and additional guidance, visit the Police and Parking Services website.

Alcohol is not permitted in the residence halls, even if you are of legal drinking age. Alcohol may be permitted in the apartments if the resident is 21 or older. Persons caught violating this rule are subject to disciplinary sanctions that may include removal from housing and the College. Illegal drug use could result in the removal from the residence halls and possibly the College. Marijuana odor is sufficient cause for disciplinary action. Whether participating or not, being in the presence of either alcohol or illegal drugs may result in disciplinary action. 

Fort Lewis College is a smoke / vape free campus. Commercial smoking, vaping and the sale and use of tobacco products, vaping products, e-cigarettes, and hookahs are prohibited in all College owned buildings and grounds. 

Consider buying property insurance, especially for valuable items.

Many homeowners' policies may not cover belongings at college, so check with your insurance agency for options. You can also sign up for GradGuard renter's insurance through the housing application process.

Only fish in a 10-gallon or smaller aquarium are permitted in the residence halls and apartments. Due to health standards, limited space, and students with allergies, all other pets are not allowed in the housing facilities.