ucsc & santa cruz policies

at uc santa cruz 

University policy prohibits alcoholic beverages from being sold, furnished, possessed by or given to any person under the age of 21. In addition, no possession or transportation of open containers or consumption of alcoholic beverages is allowed in public areas by any person, regardless of age or college affiliation. Kegs or other "common source" containers holding alcoholic beverages are not allowed on campus and may result in termination of your housing contract. Private events hosted by students or registered student organizations may serve alcohol, but a permit from the Campus Alcoholic Beverage Policy for UCSC Sponsored Events is required before the event, and no guests under 21 may be served alcohol. This Campus Alcoholic Beverage Policy for UCSC Sponsored Events applies to all campus faculty, staff, students, and guests. Contact the Office of the Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor. 

The university must adhere to all federal and state laws as they pertain to illegal substances. Delivering, furnishing, transferring, manufacturing, using and possessing illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited at the university. Additionally, the university does not recognize the privileges associated with a medical marijuana (215) card. Drug paraphernalia is defined as all equipment, material and products intended for use or designed for use in growing, processing, harvesting, storing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling or otherwise introducing a controlled substance into the human body. Violation of these laws and policies will result in conduct action at the college level and may result in police and local, state and/or federal intervention. 

In accordance with university policy for a smoke-free environment, all university housing facilities and residences are smoke-free. Smoking is prohibited in all university housing facilities, including student rooms and apartments, community rooms, restrooms, lounges, common areas, cafes, and dining halls. Additionally, smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces at UC Santa Cruz - both academic and residential. The no-smoking policy also includes exterior stairways, decks, patios, and balconies. 

in santa cruz 

It is illegal to possess an open container of alcohol in public or to drink alcohol in public places (including the beach and parks). It is illegal for anyone under 21 to get someone to buy them alcohol. 

In california

Selling or giving alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 or to someone obviously intoxicated is illegal in California. It is also illegal for anyone under 21 to possess or drink alcohol in public. Having an open container of alcohol in a moving vehicle or drinking an alcoholic beverage while riding in or driving a motor vehicle is illegal, as is driving under the influence of alcohol. 

Growing or harvesting marijuana for sale, possession of marijuana for sale, and the sale of marijuana are felonies, which can result in serving time in a state prison. Possession of one ounce or more of marijuana for person use is considered a misdemeanor, which can result in fines and jail time. Possession of less than one ounce of marijuana for personal use constitutes a misdemeanor, the conviction of which could carry a fine. 

At The Federal Level

All sale, distribution, and manufacture of illicit drugs is considered a felony offense. Possession of all illicit drugs except marijuana is considered a felony. If you are convicted of a felony, your eligibility for the Title IV student financial aid is subject to suspension or termination. 

More Information 

For more information on university policy and local, state and federal laws concerning alcohol and drugs, see the Student Policies and Regulations Handbook.