What is Time, Place, and Manner?
Time, Place, and Manner- or TPM- refers to reasonable, content- and viewpoint-neutral guidelines governing when, where, and how expressive activities may occur.
These guidelines help CSUSB protect freedom of expression while also supporting:
- Campus safety
- Accessibility
- Access to classes, offices, and services
- The educational mission
- University operations
- The rights of other community members
TPM rules regulate the circumstances of expressive activity—not whether the university agrees with the message.
Public, limited, and non-public areas
University property may have different uses and levels of access.
Public areas may be available for assemblies, demonstrations, marches, protests, and debate, subject to applicable policies.
Limited areas may be available for certain activities but may require scheduling, reservations, or additional planning because of safety, access, or operational needs.
Non-public areas are generally reserved for university operations and are not available for expressive activities except as authorized.
[Link to CSUSB Campus Addendum (and if available campus map)]
Scheduling and reservations
Some expressive activities may occur without advance scheduling. Other activities may require reservations or coordination, particularly when they involve:
- Amplified sound
- Tents, tables, stages, or other structures
- Large gatherings
- Facilities or equipment
- Events in limited areas
- Activities that may affect access or university operations
Contact the appropriate campus office if you are unsure whether your activity requires coordination.
Disruption
CSUSB supports peaceful expression while also protecting the ability of the campus community to access buildings, attend classes, receive services, and participate in university activities.
Disruption may include conduct that substantially interferes with university operations, prevents access, threatens safety, damages property, or prevents others from exercising their rights.
The university seeks to respond fairly, reasonably, and consistently to concerns involving disruption.
Viewpoint neutrality
CSUSB may not restrict expressive activity simply because university officials or community members disagree with the viewpoint being expressed.
Rules must be applied consistently, regardless of the political, religious, social, or cultural message involved.
Relevant resources
(all should be linked)
- CSU Time, Place, and Manner Policy
- CSUSB Time, Place, and Manner Addendum
- CSUSB Speech and Advocacy Policy
- Student Code of Conduct
- CSUSB Educational Programming Plan (?)
- CSU Freedom of Expression FAQs
CSUSB’s current policy materials identify campus areas, scheduling expectations, expressive activities, and educational programming responsibilities.
FAQ
Do I need permission to express an opinion on campus?
No. The university does not approve or disapprove viewpoints. However, certain activities may require scheduling or coordination based on location, equipment, access, safety, or operational needs.
Can I distribute flyers?
Non-commercial materials may be distributed in accordance with applicable campus guidelines. Materials may not be left unattended or used to obstruct access.
Can I use amplified sound?
Amplified sound may require advance reservation or coordination. Contact the appropriate campus office before planning to use amplification.
Can the university cancel an event because the message is controversial?
The university may not cancel or restrict an activity simply because its viewpoint is controversial or unpopular. It may respond to neutral concerns involving safety, access, substantial disruption, or other applicable policies.