Residence Halls Go Smoke-Free

Michigan State University is aware of the impact of smoking on the health of both smokers and non-smokers and has formally changed its smoking policy. Smoking will no longer be permitted in any residential space within the residence halls, including Owen Graduate Hall and Van Hoosen Apartments. In addition to student rooms, this change also affects guest and Residence Life staff apartments in the residence halls. The new policy will go into effect August 1, 2008 in residence halls and was made with the support of the residents, Olin Health Center, Residence Halls Association, Residence Life and University Housing. Specific buildings in Spartan Village and Cherry Lane apartments will be designated non-smoking with the goal of becoming completely smoke-free over time.

MSU is currently the only Big Ten University that still allows smoking in its residence halls. The elimination of smoking in all residential rooms and apartments located within the residence halls is consistent with two of the strategic imperatives contained in MSU’s Boldness by Design. Some MSU residence halls are already entirely smoke-free or restrict smoking to designated floors or rooms.

This change does not forbid residents from smoking. Per MSU Ordinance 29.00, smoking is permitted outdoors, twenty-five feet away from building entrances and windows. Smoking is not permitted on porches, decks and balconies. 

Information on tobacco cessation programs and other forms of support is available at health4u.msu.edu.