Weapons and dangerous instruments

The purpose of this policy is to establish restrictions regarding the possession or use of weapons and other dangerous instruments on campus or at a university-sponsored activities or events.

Lynn University recognizes the importance of a safe and secure environment for all persons on university premises. Accordingly, the possession and/or use of weapons or other instruments that can be used as weapons are strictly prohibited on university premises, including university parking lots, or at any other location while engaged in university business regardless of whether the person is licensed to carry a weapon or not. This policy applies to all university employees, students, visitors, customers, and contractors on university property, regardless of whether they are licensed to carry a concealed weapon or not. The only exceptions to this policy are security guards or other persons who have been given explicit consent by the university to carry a weapon on the property and law enforcement officers. This policy also prohibits unauthorized weapons at any university-sponsored function.

Violators of the university’s weapons policy are subject to immediate corrective discipline, including termination or expulsion as applicable.

Weapons and dangerous instruments—examples of prohibited conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Possessing, storing, and/or using fireworks, combustible materials (i.e., lighter fluid, propane and other dangerous chemicals), any item or combination of items when combined could create an explosive device, or other dangerous items or substances, anywhere on Lynn University property;
2. Possessing, storing, and/or using any firearms or weapon, as well as any type of ammunition, anywhere on Lynn University property. This includes but is not limited to rifles, shotguns, machine guns, B.B. guns, dart guns, pellet guns, airsoft guns, paintball guns, and other firearms; stilettos, razors, and other knives capable of inflicting harm; tasers; slingshots; and other items which are designed to resemble a weapon or firearm. Tools required for engagement in a university sponsored academic course in which a student or employee is would be permitted, specifically precision art knives and scalpels;
3. Using non-lethal defense weapons, such as pepper spray, inappropriately. These items may only be used for their intended purpose; and
4. Using any item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens, or causes reasonable concern to others.

Individuals with questions about whether an item is covered by this policy, have the responsibility to contact Campus Safety.

University property—includes, without limitation, all university owned or leased buildings, and surrounding areas such as sidewalks, walkways, driveways, and parking lots under the "university’’ ownership or control. University-owned or leased vehicles are covered by this policy at all times regardless of whether they are on university property at the time.

I. Exceptions

Approval for possession and use of firearms or other dangerous instruments is limited to specific situations and must be obtained in writing from Campus Safety.

To learn more about this policy or the supporting procedures, please contact Campus Safety.