The University of California, Riverside updated its campus policy governing demonstrations, protests and other expressive activities in an effort to clarify rules surrounding free speech, public assembly and campus operations.
The policy, maintained by the university’s Chief Compliance Office, outlines when, where and how individuals may engage in expressive activities on UCR-owned property. The policy states that the revisions were made to reorganize and clarify existing time, place and manner restrictions, align campus regulations with directives from the University of California Office of the President and clarify how the policy relates to other university rules.
The revised policy first took effect on Sept. 3, 2024, on an interim basis with approval from the chancellor. Final revisions, including additional clarification regarding masking and identity concealment, became effective on Oct. 4, 2024.
According to the policy, UCR “embraces the free expression of ideas as a fundamental part of our public and academic mission,” while also maintaining campus safety and operations. The rules implement PACAOS 30.00, the University of California’s systemwide policy on speech and advocacy.
The policy applies to all individuals on campus property, including students, employees, visitors and non-affiliates, when participating in expressive activities. Covered activities include demonstrations, protests, rallies, vigils, picketing, speeches, leafleting and other forms of public communication intended to engage a larger audience.
The policy states that campus grounds such as lawns, plazas, patios, sidewalks and pathways are generally open for expressive activities, provided participants comply with university regulations and applicable laws. However, demonstrations inside campus buildings require prior authorization from Vice Chancellor for Planning, Budget & Administration Sandra Kim and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Brian Haynes.
UCR also has established time restrictions for expressive activities. Events are generally prohibited between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. without prior approval from university officials. Some campus locations may also have additional restrictions if spaces are reserved for university functions or events.
The policy further prohibits activities that block access to university facilities or interfere with campus operations. Demonstrators may not obstruct entrances or exits to buildings, parking structures, walkways, ramps or accessible pathways. The regulations also prohibit disruption of classes, university business or authorized campus events.
Sound amplification, including the use of bullhorns or amplified speakers, requires advanced scheduling and approval. The policy states that the restrictions are intended to prevent disruption to academic and administrative activities.
The policy, which was updated following student protests regarding encampments, also addresses camping and temporary structures on campus property. Camping remains prohibited under existing university policy. Tents, barricades, scaffolding, sound systems and other structures may be erected only with prior authorization. Unauthorized structures or encampments may be removed by the university.
One section of the policy focuses on identity concealment during demonstrations. While masks and face coverings are allowed when consistent with university policy and applicable laws, the policy prohibits concealing one’s identity to intimidate others or evade accountability for violations of law or university regulations.
The policy emphasizes that enforcement will remain content-neutral, meaning restrictions are intended to apply regardless of the viewpoint or message being expressed. University officials authorized to review requests for approval or exceptions include the vice chancellor for Planning, Budget and Administration and the vice chancellor for Student Affairs, or their designees.
Individuals who violate the policy may face disciplinary action under existing university conduct procedures. Students may be subject to disciplinary proceedings under the UC Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline, while employees may face corrective action under applicable university employment policies or collective bargaining agreements. Visitors and non-affiliates may also be ordered to leave campus under Regents regulations.
The policy references several related university rules, including policies on major events, temporary signage, anti-discrimination protection, violence prevention and the prohibition of camping on university property.
University officials said the updated regulations are intended to balance the protection of free speech and academic freedom with maintaining safety, accessibility and normal campus operations.
