As New Orleans becomes filled with tourists, Residential Life has begun to implement its Mardi Gras policies.

According to Res Life, no more than three people may stay in a residence hall room for the extended weekend. If two students live together, only one will be allowed a single overnight guest.

Res Life Mardi Gras policies also say that if someone’s roommate is away for the extended weekend, the student staying in the dorms will be allowed up to two overnight guests.

“I appreciate the safety,” said Mary Erler, criminal justice sophomore, “and I don’t really like people running around in the dorm because then I don’t feel as secure.”

Normal dorm visitation rights will be suspended for both freshmen and upperclassmen.

“I understand they don’t want it to become a hotel,” said Caitlin Smith, English freshman. “Also, it discourages anyone from coming.”

Guests of the roommates will be allowed to stay between noon on Friday,, Feb. 1 and noon on Wednesday, Feb. 6. Any time before or after these specific dates, residents must follow regular visitation policies.

Res Life has also implemented a fee for overnight guests in the dorms. Early registration, which charged $100 for each guest, started on Jan. 9 and ended Jan. 25. Any resident who missed the early registration period and has an overnight guest will be charged $200.

Res Life said the reason for the registration fee is to help cover extra costs for the additional staff needed for the holiday, as well as the extra cleaning from the weekend.

Rachel Funel can be reached at [email protected].