Time, Place and Manner Policy

The U.S. Supreme Court has said that public entities like CSUSM have discretion in regulating the “time, place and manner” of speech. The right to speak on campus is not a right to speak at any time, in any place, or in any manner a person wishes. The campus can regulate when, where, and how speech occurs to ensure the functioning of the university and to protect public safety.

These regulations are not designed to limit speech — in fact, they help protect it. Time, Place, and Manner policy ensures that individuals and groups can express their views without interfering with others' rights to do the same. It creates a fair and organized environment where diverse voices can be heard, events can be conducted safely, and the educational mission of the university can continue without disruption. This policy protects everyone’s right to free expression, even when views differ or conflict.

The need to consider time, place and manner regulations is the reason that we require student organizations to work with the Dean of Students Office when setting up their events.

Policy

CSU Time, Place and Manner Policy 
CSUSM Addendum to CSU Time, Place and Manner Policy

Resources

CSUSM Campus Resources

• Office of Inclusive Excellence
• Dean of Students Office Civility Campaign
• Elections
• Free Speech

Federal Resources

• Free to Learn: Leading Inclusive Learning Environments in Higher Education (PDF)
• What does free speech mean?
• Event Marshal Guide