Office of Public Safety
Patrol and Security Services
Party Without the Police
Celebrate the End of the Year
Safely, Legally and Responsibly
A Message From
Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office
City of Ithaca Police Department
and
Ithaca College Office of Public Safety
The following information is provided to assist you in making responsible choices while celebrating the end of the school year.
The city is committed to protecting the safety and quality of life for all of its citizens by enforcing the law. As such, the City of Ithaca takes this opportunity to make it known that appropriate action will be taken against anyone determined to be in violation of the law.
Please review the following information and be aware that violation of city, town, state and federal law can result in fines, imprisonment, arrest, community service, or a combination of these consequences.
The purpose of these ordinances is to preserve the public health & welfare and by suppressing the making of excessively loud noise which is disruptive to the community. Click on the link above for specific information (and penalties) of common infractions incurred by students during the end of the school year, including:
§ Note on “Unreasonable Noise”: For an offense that occurs on private property, a "person" shall include any adult person or persons who live in or on the property that is involved in the offense.
§ Note on “Amplified Sound”: This section includes radios, musical instruments, TVs, stereos and amplifying equipment.
§ Regarding Parties and other Social Events: It is unlawful for any person in charge of a social event to allow a party or event to produce noise in a loud, annoying or offensive manner. Refer to the website provided for specific information defining a "person in charge of a party or other social event".
Prohibits selling or giving alcoholic beverages to a person less than 21 years old.
Aggravating factors in assessing fines include:
- A common source of alcohol such as a keg;
- A live band or disc jockey or other live entertainment;
- Amplified sound emanating from speakers placed or directed outside of the building;
- A charge to gain entrance into the premises or to consume alcohol.
Note on “Possession of Open Containers”: No person shall carry or have in his/her possession within or upon any public place in the City of Ithaca any open container containing liquor, wine, beer or other alcoholic beverage.
Other Common Violations of Concern
Public Urination, Littering and Disorderly conduct.
Act Responsibly. The law requires compliance with any arrest and the directives of the police. Resisting arrest or debating/arguing with the police aggravates the situation and may result in further charge.