Community Relations
CSU, Chico students have the special opportunity to interact on a daily
basis with the City of Chico. Students can learn how the city government
operates and what a citizen’s responsibility is to the community. Students
form a significant part of Chico’s population. It is important for students
to interact with the town in ways which are considerate and responsible.
The laws of the community do not allow actions that negatively affect the
public; these include making excessive noise and drinking alcoholic beverages
in public areas. The Chico Police Department endeavors to be understanding
of student actions. Students’ efforts to cooperate with the police will
minimize problems and thereby contribute to a healthy relationship between
students and the community. Responsible behavior in our special city will
help us all to live more enjoyable and constructive lives.
A selected list of city policies follows. In addition The University Catalog
features the chart “A Guide to Community Services,” which highlights many
of the attractions and services the Chico community and Butte County offer.
City Policies
For a complete listing of city ordinances, visit the Chico Police Department
at 1460 Humboldt (895-4900) or you can find a complete listing of the City
Municipal Code on the City’s Web page at www.ci.chico.ca.us. The following
are some key city policies and advice which may be of importance to you.
Alcohol
It is unlawful for any person to consume from an open container of alcoholic
beverage upon any public street, sidewalk, alley, parking lot, or, where
posted, on private parking lots. It is unlawful to possess or consume alcohol
in public parks. It is unlawful for a minor to be in possession of or consume
any alcoholic beverage.
Animal Regulations
Dogs must be licensed and they must be on a leash when in public areas.
No dogs are allowed in public swimming areas and pools. A dog license may
be obtained by contacting the City Finance Office at 895-4837.
Bad Checks
In Chico, the police, Chamber of Commerce, and individual merchants have
organized a check alert task force to combat bad checks. Consequences are
severe, including being barred from registration at CSU, Chico for bad
checks written to the university.
Bicycles
Bicycles must be licensed with the city. The license can be obtained on
the Chico State campus (University Police) or at the city’s Finance Office,
411 Main Street, first floor. Bicycle riding is prohibited on the sidewalks
of the central business district. Cyclists need to obey traffic rules and
use considerate, sound judgment. To avoid theft, always use good locks.
City Parking
Uncontested parking citations must be paid within twenty-one calendar days
by remitting payment to PO Box 3449, Chico, CA 95927. Failure to pay within
twenty-one days will result in a $30 penalty and may result in a lien being
placed on the vehicle at DMV.
Correction Citations
Proof of corrections may be obtained at the Chico Police Department between
9 a.m. and 5 p.m., M-F.
Crime Prevention
To avoid burglary, check with the Police Department Community Outreach
Unit for safety precautions.
Drugs
The city maintains a strict enforcement posture relative to illegal drugs.
There are various areas within the city specifically posted as “Drug Free
Zones.” These areas carry enhanced penalities for certain types of crimes.
Firearms, Fireworks, and Explosives
It is unlawful to discharge a firearm within city limits. See the Chico
Municipal Code for exceptions. Fireworks and explosives are illegal in
the City of Chico. This includes sparklers and fire crackers.
Neighborhood Watch
This program involves neighbors participating together to prevent burglaries,
sexual assault, and other crimes. For more information, phone the Community
Outreach Unit (895-4919).
Park Use
It is unlawful to possess or consume alcohol in public parks. Glass beverage
containers are prohibited in all City parks. No dogs are allowed in swimming
areas and pools. The use of vehicles is limited in Bidwell Park (see posted
signs or check with the Police or Park Departments).
Parties
When common sense and moderation are exercised by hosts and guests, parties
need not be a police concern. Common problems are excessive noise, illegal
parking, littering, public urination, open containers, and alcohol consumption
or possession by minors. All of these can and will be cited by City Police
and may involve severe penalties and fines.
Here are some guidelines:
-
develop a guest list and adhere to it;
-
notify your neighbors if you intend to have a party and discuss any concerns
with them;
-
set both starting and ending times for your party, and stick to them;
-
monitor the sound level by walking down the street to get an idea of the
noise level and keep your sound equipment locked up to prevent others from
changing the volume;
-
provide adequate trash disposal and bathroom facilities; and
-
call the police if you cannot control problems.
Sexual Assault and Drugs
Across the country sexual assault cases are being reported in which drugs
such as Rohypnol or “Roofies” and GHB have been used to render victims
helpless, unconscious, and unable to resist or escape a sexual assault.
Since the drugs are colorless and odorless, the victim is often unaware
that it has been put into his or her beer, mixed drink, soda, or water.
Rohypnol has already been implicated in several date rape cases, and in
1997 a North State student died after drinking alcohol with GHB. Please
report any suspicious activity of this nature to your local or campus police.
Tobacco
Smoking is prohibited in the enclosed areas of all public places located
within the city including bars and restaurants.
Traffic
According to a statewide survey, Chico has the fourth highest accident
rate per capita compared to ninety-six other California communities. Drive
SAFELY.
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