Rules and Policies

Activity Center and Rec Center West

The Activity Center (AC) and Rec Center West (RCW) are places of enjoyment for the university community. Appropriate behavior is required.

  • All UT Dallas students, faculty, staff and alumni must present a valid university ID.
  • Accepted forms of ID include: Comet Card, driver's license, passport, other university ID or the Get mobile application.
  • Members may sponsor one guest per day.
  • Users whose behavior creates unsafe, hostile or otherwise disruptive conditions will be asked to leave.
  • Instructions from facility staff must be followed.
  • Facility and Activity Center natatorium hours are subject to change.
  • UT Dallas cannot accept responsibility for lost or stolen property or injuries sustained while participating.
  • Proper athletic attire is required when using our facilities.
  • Proper athletic shoes, NO CROCS, are required in our multipurpose rooms.
  • Personal items (bags, cell phones, etc.) should be stored in a locker. We are not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.
  • Patrons must adhere to the policies of RCW and the AC.
  • On Friday and Sunday, volleyball and badminton have priority in the AC Main Gym.
  • Indoor soccer has priority in the AC Auxiliary gym on Tuesdays from 10 p.m.–Close and Sundays from 12-2 p.m.
  • Volleyball has priority in the AC Auxiliary gym all day Sunday if the main gym is unavailable.
  • The RCW main gym has net priority at all times, unless reservations are in place.
  • View the rules for:

Natatorium (AC)

  • Swim only when lifeguard is on duty.
  • Diving is allowed in 9'0" section only.
  • Shower before entering pool.
  • Proper swimming attire is required.
  • Follow all instructions from lifeguards.
  • During peak hours, users may be required to share lanes.
  • If you hear one long whistle blast, exit the pool immediately.

Fitness Centers (AC and RCW)

  • No one under the age of 17 is permitted in the fitness centers.
  • Exercise caution when using all fitness center equipment to avoid injury to yourself or others.
  • Ask the attendant for assistance if you are not familiar with the proper use of any equipment.
  • Athletic attire is required.
    • Athletic shorts or pants — no jeans.
    • Athletic shoes — no sandals or crocs.
  • Spotters are strongly recommended in the free weight area.
  • Collars/clamps are strongly recommended when using free weights.
  • All bags, clothing, etc. must be stored along wall or in lockers.
  • No food or drink allowed in the fitness centers. Plastic water bottles are allowed.
  • All patrons are encouraged to help keep the fitness centers clean by wiping the equipment down after each use. Cleaning materials are provided throughout the fitness centers.
  • Re-rack weights and accessories after use.
  • Set weights down gently - do not drop.
  • Keep weights clear of windows and mirrors.
  • Weight belts may not be used on select equipment.
  • Time limits may be enforced during busy periods.
  • Use the equipment only for its intended purpose.
  • Follow all instructions from the attendant. Attendants have the authority to ask individuals not abiding by the established policies, or those creating an unsafe condition, to leave.

Climbing Wall (AC)

All participants must check in at the climbing desk with a valid ID and fill out a waiver. Our staff will then:

  • Determine the patron's climbing status;
  • Inform/remind patron(s) of climbing wall rules, or inform them of new rules/concerns;
  • Issue the appropriate equipment.
General Climbing Rules
  • You must be 17 years of age to climb on the climbing wall.
  • The climbing wall supervisor has the authority to ask anyone to leave if behavior is deemed unsafe or in violation of the rules.
  • No personal items, cell phones or electronic devices (i.e. head phones/iPod), cutting devices (knives/keys), food or drink, gum or tobacco are allowed in the climbing area at any time.
  • Shoes are required at all times when climbing. No bare-foot climbing allowed. Hiking boots and sandals are not allowed while climbing.
  • Only UT Dallas climbing wall staff may provide instruction at the wall.
  • No personal equipment other than harness, shoes and chalk bag are allowed while climbing. Note that loose chalk is not allowed.
  • Do not step on ropes at any time.
  • Holds may spin. Check the tightness of a hold prior to weighing it. If you notice a spinning hold, alert a staff member who will fix it immediately.
  • Lastly, climb safe.
Bouldering
  • No body part of the climber shall exceed 12 feet.
  • Crash pads are recommended if bouldering on the climbing wall.
  • Climbers who are bouldering must give the right-of-way to roped climbers.
Roped Climbs
  • You must pass the Introduction to Climbing Skills Check to top-rope belay.
  • Climbers must have a belayer. Solo climbing is not permitted and all climbers must be protected by a top-rope belay unless bouldering.
  • Keep off the top of the wall.
  • If a climber desires to use his or her own harness, it must be approved by the climbing wall staff.
  • Harnesses must be double-backed at the waist and at the leg loop buckles (if harness has this feature) when worn.
  • All top-rope climbers must clip, with carabiners opposite and opposed, into the harness belay loop.
  • All belaying of top-rope climbers must be done using a UT Dallas Gri-Gri belay device, attached to the belayer's belay loop on their harness by means of a UT Dallas locking carabiner.
  • Always double check the climber's knot, harness and belay system before each climb. If in doubt, ask a climbing wall staff member for an inspection prior to climbing.
  • Belayers must not allow excess slack in the belay rope.
  • Do not touch or hang from lead climbing anchors (bolt hangers, quick draws, carabiners, etc.).

Equipment Checkout

  • Equipment can be checked out from the control desk with a valid membership card.
  • Patrons will be assessed a $5 per day late fee for equipment not returned by closing on the day of checkout, unless previously specified.
  • Patrons will be charged for lost, stolen or damaged equipment.

Child Usage

  • Children under the age of 17 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Violators will be asked to leave.
  • No children under the age of 17 are allowed in the Fitness Center or on the Climbing Wall.

Non-Member Usage

  • Non-Members must present a valid photo ID. All sales are final. No refunds.
  • Non-Members cannot play basketball and must remain with their sponsor at all times.

Facility Reservations

  • Facility space for each event must be requested by submittal of a University Recreation Facility Reservation Request.
  • Requests for facility use should be submitted at least 10 business days prior to the event. Allow three business days for a response.
  • The user group must return a signed copy of the Letter of Confirmation. In some cases, email confirmation will suffice. No space is reserved without confirmation from University Recreation.
  • Non-university events will be mailed a final invoice within 10 days upon completion of the event. Any payment required is due 30 days after the event.
  • For on campus groups and departments, a cost center is required when submitting the request form. An auto JE will be submitted quarterly (i.e. An auto JE will be submitted in December for events held in September, October and November).
  • Non university groups are required to maintain public liability and property damage. Minimum amounts apply and proof of insurance is due before the event.
  • All members of the user group(s) are required to follow all rules and regulations of UT Dallas during their usage of UT Dallas facilities.
  • User groups are responsible for the actions of all members of the group and will be responsible to make restitution for any damages to UT Dallas property.
  • UT Dallas cannot accept responsibility for lost or stolen property or injuries sustained while participating.

Locker Usage

  • Patron is responsible for any damage or defacing to the locker assigned to him/her.
  • Patron understands he/she must either renew or clear assigned locker on or before the clearance date.
  • Patron understands the combinations will be changed on all lockers that are not renewed by the clearance date.
  • University Recreation is not responsible for items left in lockers after the clearance date.

Raquetball Court Reservations

  • Maximum of one day in advance.
  • Minimum of one hour in advance if a court is not in use.
  • One hour only - begins on the hour.
  • Reserve at the control desk or by calling 972-883-2090.
  • Reservations are held for 10 minutes only.

Outdoor Facilities

  • All UT Dallas students, faculty, staff and alumni must present a valid university ID when using any of the outdoor facilities.
  • If you do not have a valid university ID, you will be asked to leave.
  • If there is no reservation, the tennis courts, basketball courts, disc golf course, multipurpose field and softball fields are available on a first come, first served basis.
  • Use of the soccer fields is available only by reservations, made via the university Athletics Department.
  • Lights are not left on past facility hours.
  • View the Disc Golf Map.

Basketball Courts

  • Basketball courts are open only to UT Dallas students, faculty and staff.
  • Proper workout attire and court shoes are required.
  • No smoking, food, drinks or pets permitted on court.
  • Any misuse of the basketball facility will result in loss of privileges.
  • Rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, motorized vehicles are not permitted on the basketball court.
  • The court lights will be turned off when the Activity Center closes.
  • Any activity other than basketball must be approved by the University Recreation Department by calling 972-883-2090.

Tennis Courts

  • Tennis courts are open only to UT Dallas students, faculty and staff.
  • Proper workout attire and court shoes are required.
  • No smoking, food, drinks or pets permitted on court.
  • Any misuse of tennis facility will result in loss of privileges.
  • Rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, motorized vehicles are not permitted on the tennis court.
  • The court lights will be turned off at 11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
  • Reservations or any activity other than tennis must be approved by the university Athletics Department by calling 972-883-4497.

Slacklining Area

Slacklining is a practice in which a participant walks across a tensioned length of nylon webbing, intended for climbing, slacklining, or similar load-bearing purposes. The webbing runs parallel to the ground and is affixed firmly at each end. It is brought to tension by a responsible individual with either a pulley system or a purpose-specific ratchet. Any such activity practiced on UTD grounds or with UTD property is regulated by the following policy.

Assumption of Risk

Any person walking a slackline, or any person setting up or taking down a slackline, assumes inherent risks. Such risks may include, but are not limited to, injury, paralysis and death. Participants take full responsibility for both following these guidelines and using their slacklining equipment safely.

General Procedures
  • Any slackline is to be affixed by a knowledgeable operator. Furthermore, it is to be set up strictly on a temporary basis. When not in use, the slackline must be taken down. Equipment will be removed without notice and stored by University Recreation, if abandoned.
  • Slacklines may only be affixed from dawn until dusk; darkness is not a suitable condition for safe practice.
  • Slacklines are available for free check out at the control desk in the Activity Center. A valid photo ID is needed to check out a slackline.
  • The slackline equipment kit comes with the line, ratchet, ratchet cover and instructions for assembly, anchoring and dismantling.
  • Inspection of the equipment kit will be conducted before check out and after return. Users may be held responsible for any damages to equipment.
  • It is the sole responsibility of the participant to ensure all personal equipment is maintained properly and kept in working condition. Using equipment that is not maintained or regularly inspected may increase one’s risk while practicing the sport.
  • It is strongly recommended that any participant have a spotter.
  • The only anchors to which slacklines may be attached on campus are the wooden poles located south of the Activity Center and Lot J, and just north of the varsity softball field.
How to Slackline Graphic
Unsanctioned Activity
  • University Recreation and UTD Police reserve the right to enforce this policy, for both the safety of others and the functionality of the university. Disregarding or disobeying this policy may result in violations of the student code of conduct or criminal charges.
  • No more than one person may walk on a slackline at any given time.
  • No running on the slackline at any time.
  • An un-weighted slackline may not rest higher than 3 feet off the ground.
  • Slacklines may not exceed 35 feet in length.
  • Buildings, light posts, fence posts, bike racks, benches, trees, or other such unapproved anchors may not be used. The only suitable anchors are the aforementioned poles.
  • A participant may not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To do so assumes great risk.
  • Slacklines may only be strung above grass and dirt. A slackline is never to be set up that crosses over, or passes within 15 feet of a sidewalk, paved walkway, road, or similar surface that carries pedestrian, bicycle, or automobile traffic.
  • Stunts or tricks involving flips are strictly prohibited.
  • UTD reserves the right to direct that any slackline equipment be taken down immediately, for any reason.

Camping Equipment Policies

  • All rental equipment is available to current UTD students and University Recreation members upon presentation of an active Comet Card. Non-members are not permitted to check out equipment.
  • Equipment can be rented from the control desk at Rec Center West and is available on a first come, first served basis and subject to availability. Reserving rental equipment is not allowed.
  • Equipment may be rented for a maximum of seven days.
  • The individual signing the Rental Agreement accepts responsibility for the equipment and any fees or charges that may incur.
  • Payment in full is expected at the time of pick-up. Credit card is the only form of payment accepted; no cash, check or UT Dollars.
  • No credit or refunds will be issued for items rented but not used or for early returns.
  • Daily rates are determined by a 24-hour period.
  • Individuals abusing equipment or not following procedures may be ineligible to rent equipment in the future.
  • Returns and fees:
    • To return equipment, please visit the control desk in Rec Center West during normal operating hours (at least 30 minutes prior to closing). Equipment returned to the Activity Center will not be accepted or considered as returned equipment.
    • Equipment is to be returned in a clean and operational condition. Items returned soiled or excessively wet will be charged a cleaning fee.
    • Damaged or lost equipment will be assessed fees at the current retail rate for repair or replacement.
    • Equipment returned late will be charged late fees.

General Care and Recommendations

University Recreation recommends that renters have prior knowledge and experience about using outdoor camping equipment.

Before You Go
  • Check for proper equipment and its function before you leave.
  • Research the activity area. Know the terrain, weather and conditions to be encountered.
  • Have an emergency plan. Let someone not attending the activity know the destination, expected return and the plan, just in case.
  • Know your limits and abilities. You cannot rely on being just a phone call away from help.
  • Take care of natural areas. Follow Leave No Trace minimum impact guidelines.
Upon your return
  • Notify staff of any damage or missing pieces.
  • Do not attempt to repair equipment in your possession, as this may cause further damage.

Tent Usage

  • Check tent for proper parts prior to using.
  • Never allow a tent to come into direct contact with heat sources (i.e. fire, stove, gas lantern, etc.). Tent material is highly flammable.
  • Do not wear shoes/boots or allow pets inside tent. This may cause rips and tears to the floor.
  • Do not store food in the tent. Animals attracted to food can cause serious damage.
  • Do not smoke in tents. Nylon is flammable and will absorb the odor.
  • Be gentle. Do not force zippers, straps and buckles.
  • Secure the tent to the ground. Wind can cause serious damage to an unsecured tent.
  • Keep tent and storage bags organized.
  • Do not allow the shock cord to snap the pole sections together as this can cause damage to the poles.
Before Returning:
  • Check that all parts and pieces are included.
  • Tents and tent parts should be returned, organized and in the individual storage bags.
  • Clean and air-dry tent to avoid additional fees. To clean, wipe with a damp cloth or sponge.
  • Do not wash tent in washing machine.
Retail Replacement Costs
  • Camping tarp - $15
  • LED lantern - $15
  • Ice chest - $45
  • Hammock and straps - $105 (hammock-$70/straps-$35)
  • 2-person tent - $70
  • 4-person tent - $130
  • Sleeping bag package - $130 (Bag-$70/Liner-$40/Pad-$20)

Intramural Sports

ID Policy

Each participant must present his or her current, valid Comet Card prior to each contest in all Intramural Sports and events. Intramural Sports staff may conduct random in-game identification checks. Therefore, each participant shall be able to present his/her Comet Card at the game site upon request. Participants may also be required to supply additional identifiable information (class schedule, driver’s license, etc.) in order to verify their identity for participation in an intramural game or event. If it is determined that the given information or Comet Card is invalid, the game may be forfeited for use of an ineligible player.

Forfeits

Game-time is forfeit time. Teams must be signed in and ready to play at game time. A forfeit is recorded as a loss and results in a sportsmanship rating of "0." The first forfeit will result in the loss of the forfeit fee and the second forfeit will result in the team being dropped from that league.

If a team/individual forfeits once during the regular season, they may regain playoff eligibility with a one time, playoff reinstatement payment of $30. This payment must be made before 5 p.m. on the following business day.

Defaults

Due to the busy schedules of most students, there will be times when a team or individual will not be able to make their scheduled game. In this instance, the team or individual may communicate to the Intramural Sports office via email or phone that they will not be present. This must be done by 5 p.m. on the day of the scheduled game to allow enough time to call the opposing team or individual and to make any other personnel changes that may result. In the event of a default, the team or individual will:

  • Receive a loss
  • Not to be assigned any sportsmanship rating
  • Still be eligible for the playoffs
  • Be eligible to get their forfeit fee returned

Rainouts

Games that are rained out are not guaranteed to be rescheduled, but may be rescheduled at the discretion of the assistant director of Competitive Sports. In the event a game cannot be rescheduled, each team will receive a win for the scheduled contest. In case of inclement weather, messages will be sent from administration through email and text via IMLeagues and announcements will be shared on University Recreation social media handles @utdurec for Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Alcohol and Tobacco Policy

Absolutely no alcohol or tobacco is allowed in the Intramural playing areas. If either is present, the contest will not be played and will be considered a forfeit. This policy includes spectators. The supervisor and/or officials have the authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding students who are not permitted to play. University Police may be notified.

Sportsmanship | Participation is a privilege, not a right.

The Sportsmanship Rating System

The Sportsmanship Rating System is intended to be an objective scale by which teams' attitude and behavior can be assessed throughout the Intramural Sports league and playoff seasons. Behavior before, during and after an Intramural Sports contest is included in the rating. The team captain is responsible for educating and informing all players and spectators affiliated with his/her team about the system.

Teams are responsible for the actions of their individual team members and spectators. The team captain's efforts in assisting officials/staff to calm difficult situations and to restrain troubled teammates are imperative to controlling team conduct.

Sportsmanship is vital to the conduct of every intramural contest. In order to encourage proper conduct during games, officials, administrative personnel and supervisors shall make decisions on whether to warn, penalize, or eject players, spectators, or teams for poor sportsmanship. These decisions are final. The Intramural Sports administrative staff will rule on further penalties as a result of unsportsmanlike conduct.

Each participant should choose his or her team members carefully, as all team members will suffer the consequences of any disciplinary action taken by the Intramural Sports staff against the team for violation of the Intramural rules and sportsmanship guidelines.

Intramural Sports reserves the right to amend any policy without prior notice. Any policy not mentioned herein is left to the discretion of the assistant director of Competitive Sports. For items not including in this section, please review Intramural Sports Policies and Procedures.