McMaster students warned to avoid disruptive parties this St. Patrick's Day weekend, or face large fines

McMaster University is warning students there will be "zero-tolerance" for unsafe, disruptive parties thisSt. Patrick's Day weekend.

The City of Hamilton and police are implementing the "University District Safety Initiative"surrounding McMaster,said the universityin a statement. The neighbourhoods include the western section of Westdale and Ainslie Wood.

The initiative will beginjust before midnight on Thursday, March 14 through St. Patrick's Day on Sunday, March 17, in an effort to crack down on out-of-control parties.

"When socializing with friends this St. Patrick's Day weekend, please stay safe and take care of each other," saidSean Van Koughnett, associate vice-president and dean of students. "Avoid fines by keeping gatherings small and respectful."

Property owners or anyone attending or hosting a disruptive party could face fines up to $10,000 for a first offenceunder the nuisance party bylaw, says the city's website. Subsequent offences can result in fines up to $25,000.

Partygoers may also be required to cover costs related tofirst responder andbylaw officers attending the scene, and could also faceadministrative penalties ranging from $300 to $500 depending on the offence.

There will also be an increased police presence, which McMaster said it will pay for.

McMasterhas used this enforcement approach the last couple of years in September and Octoberand around St. Patrick's Day to deter unsanctioned parties.

Council passed the nuisance party bylaw in 2022, following a destructive homecoming the year before.

Some 5,000 people crowdedthe Ainslie Woodarea and reportedlytrespassed throughbackyards, ripped out street signs andthrew alcohol bottles at each other. One student saw her car smashed and flipped over.

The bylaw says a "nuisance party" is a gathering that results in public intoxication, unlawful distribution of alcohol, damaging property, public brawls or fights, oroutdoor public urination or defecation, among other activities.