05-01.30 – Chalking Policy

  1. Policy Statement:

    The use of sidewalk chalk by students is considered an acceptable way to promote campus events; to make announcements; and to share messages. Sidewalk chalking is a privilege granted to Towson University (the “University”) students, student organizations and departments. The intent of this policy is: 1) to describe expectations for students who wish to chalk on sidewalks; 2) to ensure chalking does not permanently or adversely impact the campus grounds, and 3) to ensure messages are consistent with the law and University policy.

  2. Definitions:

    1. “Chalk” is a hard, powdery substance traditionally used to write on surfaces.

    2. “Chalking” is writing with water-soluble, non-permanent chalk on surfaces permitted by this policy.

    3. “Chalk paint” is a type of paint used to create a chalky appearance. It is not chalk.

    4. “Overhang” is a projection of the roof or upper story of a building beyond the wall of the lower part, e.g., the Den at Paws patio.

    5. “Sidewalk” is a hard horizontal surface made of concrete, asphalt, brick. Patios are buildings, not sidewalks, for purposes of this policy.

    6. “Student Group” is a group of University students which is recognized by, sponsored by, or affiliated with the University, in accordance with University procedures.

  3. Responsible Executive and Office:

    Responsible Executive:
    Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and University Life

    Responsible Office:
    Campus Life

  4. Entities Affected by this Policy:

    This Policy applies to all members of the University community, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and third-parties.

  5. Procedures:

    Chalking has become a standard advertising and communication tool for student groups at the University. While the University supports student involvement, students, student groups, or departments wishing to chalk on campus must adhere to the following guidelines:

    1. Chalking must adhere to published University policy (e.g., 06-04.11 Policy on Time, Place and Manner for Expressive Activities).

    2. Chalking is allowed on sidewalks where rain or natural elements will wash it off (e.g., not under the lecture Hall, under the back patio of the Union, on the sides of buildings, on vertical risers (stairs) and patios connected to buildings).

    3. Chalking that includes discriminatory, threatening, harassing, lewd and/or obscene language and/or images is not allowed.

    4. Chalking must be done with water-soluble and non-permanent chalk.

    5. Chalking paint is never allowed on the sidewalks but may be considered on other surfaces after discussing and receiving special permission from the Assistant Vice President of Campus Life.

    6. It will be considered a violation of these guidelines if one removes or writes over another individual/group’s chalking.

    7. Students, student groups or departments found in violation of this policy will be asked to remove the writings within 24 hours and disciplinary action will be taken. If after 24 hours the chalking is not removed and Facilities Management cleans the surface, the group will be charged for the cost of their services.

    8. The University reserves the right to immediately remove anything that violates these guidelines and to bill the responsible individual or group.

    9. The University may determine a schedule for periodically cleaning sidewalks.

  6. Questions regarding these procedures or alleged violations should be directed to the office of Campus Life. 

Related Policies:
TU Policy 06-04.11, Policy on Time, Place and Manner for Expressive Activities

Approval Date: 2/22/2017

Effective Date: 2/22/2017

Approved By: President's Council 2/22/2017

Signed By: President’s Council

How to Request the Policy PDF

This online version of the policy may include updated links and names of departments. To request a PDF of the original, signed version of this policy, email the Office of the General Counsel, .