5 Ways to Get Your Party

BUSTED

The Lincoln Police Department conducts targeted enforcement operations to reduce "wild parties," especially in the neighborhoods surrounding the NU campus.  Last year alone they gave out 240 citations to people who were at parties in houses and apartments around the city.  Truth is, there's no law against having a party.  The problem is when your party starts waking neighbors, destroying property, and threatening the safety of the community. Want to have your next party end with flashing lights and lots of fines?  Here are the most common mistakes:
1. Too many people, too little space. Word gets out there's a party and suddenly 200 people show up for a space made for 50.  The noise causes neighbors to complain.  Best bet:  no open invitations.  Monitor who attends. This also keeps out the riff raff that tends to get you in trouble.
2. The party moves outside. The noise alone will bring neighbors to their phones, and the potential for damage to other people's property is real. Keep it inside, and keep the music down. Police have yet to break up a party that can't be seen (or heard) easily from the street.
3. Toilets become optional. Gross as it sounds, a common complaint from neighbors is urinating in yards, alleys, and everywhere else BUT the toilet. Nature may call, but so will the police.
4. You charge at the door (or anywhere else) Selling alcohol without a license is a common citation.  Offering a $5 cup at the door, asking people to pay for the keg or pay for music all counts as a violation.
5. The crowd includes minors. They'll get an MIP, but you'll get a citation for procuring alcohol for a minor.  Monitoring who comes to the party and what they're drinking can avoid the fines and criminal charges.

3 ways to make the neighbors LOVE you
1. Get to know your neighbors. Go ahead -- stop over and introduce yourself. You'd be surprised how quickly you'll make a new friend, who'll be much less hasty to call the police and much more willing to communicate with you directly about any problems they experience.  The neighborhood association is a great place to meet others and become a part of the block rather than the problem of the block. 
2. Let the neighbors know your plans. Before the next party, let the neighbors know what you're planning.  That way, there are no surprises, and they can let you know their concerns right up front. You may even want to invite them to join the party.
3. Ask your guests to show respect. If your neighbors see you trying to keep guests from disturbing them, then you're just about ready for hero status.  Let guests know its not cool to park (or pee!) on someone else's property.  Keep your guests from spilling over the yard line or getting too loud after midnight.

Plan a party right.  Get the UNL Party Guide

Hosting a Party * Attending a Party * UNL Students as Great Neighbors Page                                        Return to ASUN Home

Making UNL Students Great Neighbors. NU Directions & ASUN. 2005.