Appendix XI: Texas A&M Rules on Freedom of Expression

(Revised: 2026)

I. General Expressive Activity Information

Texas A&M University is committed to protecting freedom of speech and other constitutionally protected expressive activity. In accordance with Texas Education Code § 51.9315, Texas A&M University System Policy 08.02 (Expressive Activity on Campus), and Texas A&M University’s Rule 08.02.99.M1, all outdoor common areas of the university campus are traditional public forums unless otherwise designated in Texas A&M University Rule 08.02.99.M1.

The university encourages the open, robust exchange of ideas. Ideas or opinions expressed during expressive activities belong solely to the participants and do not reflect the official views, policies, or endorsement of Texas A&M University, its administration, or the Texas A&M University System.

The university maintains the authority to enforce content- and viewpoint-neutral time, place, and manner restrictions to ensure that expressive activities do not disrupt normal university operations, endanger public safety, damage property, or impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

II. Campus Areas & Forum Definitions

Traditional Public Forums: Outdoor common areas (sidewalks, plazas, lawns) generally accessible for spontaneous or planned expressive activity by individuals and groups, subject to applicable university rules. See applicable reservation requirements in Section III

Limited Public Forums: Spaces opened for expression subject to defined limits on eligible participants or subjects to preserve university hosted, sponsored, or approved events and activities. Applicable access conditions are established through the university’s rules or written-use policies.

Designated Public Forums: Campus spaces the university opens for expressive activity. A space’s designation does not, by itself, establish an advance-reservation requirement. Applicable reservation requirements are addressed in Section III.

Non-Public Forums: Facilities reserved strictly for official university operations that are closed to public expressive activity, including classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, residence halls, libraries, and medical facilities.

III. Advance Reservations & Scheduling

While outdoor common areas are open for expressive activities, a reservation is strongly encouraged – and may be required – to guarantee access to specific spaces, utilities, or equipment.

  1. When Advance Reservation Is Required
    Advance reservation through the University Center & Special Events (UCEN) scheduling process is required for:

    • Expressive activities near intersections and/or in close proximity to academic buildings at any time classes, and/or study activities, and/or research are taking place.
    • Any activity requiring university-provided equipment, staging, or dedicated utilities (e.g., electrical hookups, sound amplification).
    • External client events for which an advance reservation is required under University SAP 24.99.99.M0.02.
  1. Priority & Processing
    • Requests should be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled event.
    • Individuals or groups who are either required to make a reservation or those individuals or groups who otherwise wish to make a reservation on main campus in College Station must request use of the space through the Event Services Office on the second floor of Rudder Tower. Please be aware that additional collaboration and coordination may be required from a building/space proctor.
    • Space is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to university-sponsored academic and administrative functions.
    • Reservation decisions are based strictly on objective, viewpoint-neutral criteria (space availability, safety compliance, and operational impact). Reservations will never be denied based on the content or viewpoint of the proposed expression or expected audience reaction.
    • For recognized student organizations, an officer of the sponsoring organization must be present at the event and during the entire course of the event to hold the reservation
  1. Required Information for Requests
    • Name of the sponsoring individual or organization and contact information for an individual who will be present throughout the event.
    • Location, date, and time requested for the event.
    • General purpose of the event.
    • List of planned activities (i.e., speech or rally, march with signs, distribution of literature, sit-in).
    • Special equipment requested.
    • Anticipated attendance.

IV. Guidelines for Expression & Conduct

All individuals and groups participating in expressive activities on campus must comply with federal, state, and local laws, as well as university rules and policies.

  • Non-Disruption: Expressive activity must not materially and substantially disrupt university operations (including classes, labs, examinations, administrative operations, research, or previously scheduled university events) or interfere with others’ lawful exercise of expressive rights.
  • Reasonable Access: Participants must not block, impede, or delay pedestrian or vehicular traffic, nor obstruct entrances or exits to campus buildings and facilities.
  • Amplified Sound: Sound amplification equipment is permitted only in designated areas during approved hours provided volume levels do not interfere with nearby academic or administrative activities.
  • Structures & Encampments: Temporary structures, tents, displays, or encampments are prohibited in outdoor common areas without explicit, prior administrative approval through the reservation process. Overnight camping or sleeping is prohibited.
  • Signs & Literature: Handheld signs, banners, and literature distribution are permitted in outdoor common areas provided they do not pose a physical safety hazard or leave uncollected litter. Whether indoors or outdoors, signs and banners must not obstruct attendees’ views of a speaker, performance, presentation, or other planned activity in a manner that materially and substantially interferes with their ability to observe or participate in the event or activity. Attachment of signs to university buildings, trees, or property is strictly prohibited without prior authorization.
  • Identification: In accordance with state law and university policy, individuals on university property must present valid identification upon request by a university official or law enforcement officer acting in the performance of their duties.
  • Force, Violence, and Property Damage: Any threat or use of force, violence, intimidation, or intentional damage to university or personal property is prohibited and subject to immediate law enforcement action and disciplinary prosecution.

V. Enforcement & Appeals

Failure to abide by these guidelines may result in immediate removal from university property, criminal citation, and/or referral to the Student Conduct Office, Human Resources, or the appropriate administrative authority.

Appeals: Denials of reservation requests or time/place/manner decisions may be appealed in writing to the Vice President for Student Affairs (or designee) within three (3) business days of receiving notice. Appeals will receive prompt, content-neutral review.