MIT prohibits in any building, space, or grounds used for Institute purposes, including in any residence hall or FSILG, or in any motor vehicle on property or vehicles used for Institute purposes, all weapons and other objects that can be used to cause physical harm, that can be used to threaten physical harm, or that, by their appearance, could reasonably be perceived as weapons or objects that could be used to cause physical harm (e.g., replica firearms).
Illustrative examples of prohibited objects include, but are not limited to:
- shotguns, rifles, pistols, revolvers, and other firearms (including ammunition therefor);
- hunting knives, switchblades, swords, and other dangerous blades;
- air rifles/pistols, air-soft rifles/pistols, and b.b. guns (including ammunition therefor);
- bows, crossbows, and arrows;
- tasers; martial arts-type weapons; mace or pepper spray; and explosive or flammable materials (including recreational fireworks).
Questions concerning whether a particular object is covered by this policy may be submitted to the Chief of the MIT Police or their designee, whose determination shall be final. This policy does not apply to the MIT Police or other law enforcement agencies. Exceptions to this policy may be allowed for organized athletic events, physical education classes, sanctioned activities of recognized student clubs, dramatic performances, and other legitimate uses in furtherance of the educational mission of the Institute. Approval of such uses must be obtained in advance from the Institute official supervising the organization or sponsoring the activity, who shall consult with the Chief of the MIT Police or their designee.