Responsible Hosting Guide

University of Central Missouri | Community Safety Initiative

If you are considering hosting a house party in the Warrensburg community, it is essential to understand your responsibilities. As a host, you are accountable for everything that happens on your property.

This guide was developed collaboratively by the UCM Student Government Association, Greeks Advocating Mature Management of Alcohol (GAMMA), the Office of Violence and Substance Abuse Prevention, and the Campus Alcohol Board.

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⚖️ Understanding Your Liability

Planning ahead is the best way to decrease potential problems and minimize your legal risk. Under Missouri law and local ordinances, a host can be held legally liable for incidents occurring at their party—even if they were unaware of them at the time.

Hosts may be held accountable for:

• Underage Drinking: Providing alcohol to minors or allowing it to occur on your premises.

• Illegal Drug Use: Any controlled substance use within your home or on your property.

• Fights & Physical Harm: Injuries resulting from altercations or unsafe environments.

• Property Damage: Damage to your rental unit or neighboring properties.

• Noise Violations: Disruptions to the peace of the surrounding neighborhood.

Disclaimer: The creators of this guide are not lawyers. This information is intended for educational purposes and should not be taken as formal legal advice.

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📋 Tips for a Safer Event

• Control the Guest List: Know who is in your home. Open parties are much more likely to result in legal or safety issues.

• Monitor the Door: Ensure that minors are not entering with alcohol and that intoxicated individuals are not permitted to enter.

• Provide Alternatives: Always have non-alcoholic beverages and plenty of food available.

• Be a Good Neighbor: Notify your neighbors in advance, keep noise levels reasonable, and ensure guests don't litter or park illegally.

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📂 Resources & Full Guide

For a comprehensive look at how to protect yourself and your guests, including checklists for pre-party planning and post-party cleanup, please access the full document below.

🔗 View/Print the Full House Party Guide (PDF)