Accommodations in USU Housing

Utah State University (USU) recognizes the importance of providing reasonable accommodations in its housing policies and practices where necessary for individuals with disabilities to fully participate in the University housing program. This Policy explains the specific requirements and guidelines that govern requests for reasonable accommodation in University housing. Utah State reserves the right to amend this policy at any time as circumstances require.

The Disability Resource Center (DRC) is responsible for evaluating whether to grant or deny requests for reasonable accommodation in University housing. In evaluating the request, the DRC may consult with University Housing and Residence Life, Student Health and Wellness, and Counseling and Psychological Services as necessary, to determine whether the requested accommodation is necessary and reasonable. Individuals with a disability who reside or intend to reside in University housing who believe they need a reasonable accommodation must contact the DRC.

The DRC will accept and consider requests for reasonable accommodation in University housing at any time. The individual making the request for accommodation should contact the DRC as soon as practicably possible before moving into University housing. However, if the request for accommodation is made fewer than 60 days before the individual intends to move into University housing, USU cannot guarantee that it will be able to meet the individual’s accommodation needs during the first semester or term of occupancy. If the need for the accommodation arises when an individual already resides in University housing, he/she should contact the DRC as soon as practicably possible. USU cannot guarantee that it will be able to meet the accommodation needs during the semester or term in which the request is received.

If the individual's disability and the necessity for the accommodation are obvious, the individual need only explain what type of accommodation he/she is requesting. No third-party verification of disability and/or necessity is required under these circumstances. If the disability and/or necessity for the accommodation are not obvious, the DRC will require the individual to provide documentation from a reliable third party who can verify that the individual has a disability and that the requested accommodation is necessary to provide the individual an equal opportunity to participate at the University.

If the third-party documentation does not contain sufficient information for the DRC to determine whether an accommodation is necessary, the insufficiency and any request for additional information will be communicated in writing within ten business days of receiving the documentation.

The DRC may deny the requested accommodation if it is unreasonable. An accommodation is unreasonable if it: (1) imposes an undue financial and/or administrative burden; (2) fundamentally alters University housing policies; (3) poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others or would cause substantial property damage to the property of others, including University property; and/or (4) is otherwise unreasonable to the operation of the University.

Animal Accommodations in USU Housing

In order to accommodate animals in USU housing, additional information must be provided. Please see the Emotional Support Animal Approval Process or the Service Animal in Training Notification Process for more information.