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SEC-016: Prohibition of Cut Trees in all State-Owned and Leased University Facilities

Date: 08/02/2005 Status: Final
Last Revised: 10/01/2024
Policy Type: University
Oversight Executive: Associate Vice President for Safety & Security and Chief of Police
Applies To:

Academic Division and the Medical Center.

Reason for Policy:

To protect life and property by reducing fire risks posed to UVA buildings and occupants from the use of live cut trees (e.g., Christmas trees).

Definition of Terms in Statement:
  • Terms:There are no terms that require definition.
Policy Statement:

Due to the significant risks associated with live cut trees (dry texture coupled with extreme fire loads), the University prohibits live cut trees from being erected in all State-owned and leased facilities at the University.

Artificial Christmas trees are permitted as long as they are UL listed and maintain the specified fire ratings as prescribed by National Fire Protection Association and the International Fire Code.

Compliance with Policy:  
Failure to comply with the requirements of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion in accordance with relevant University policies and may result in prosecution in accordance with state and federal law. This includes complying with the applicable adopted version of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code along with the associated legal proceedings to restrain, correct, or abate such alleged violation.

Questions about this policy should be directed to the Department of Safety and Security, Office of Fire Safety.

Procedures:

Any exceptions must be approved by the Office of Environmental Health & Safety.

Policy Background:

This is the first version of this policy.

Major Category:
Safety, Security and Environmental Quality
Next Scheduled Review:
01/13/2026
Approved By, Date:
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, 08/02/2005
Revision History:

Updated Contact Ofc & Oversight Exec 10/1/24; Confirmed 1/13/23; Confirmed 10/25/19; Reviewed 9/28/11, 8/25/08.