How to Be a Great Neighbor in Harrisonburg: Smart Tips to Start the Fall

September 15, 2025

Whether you’ve moved into your first apartment or you’re a returning student settling into a new lease, September sets the tone for your year ahead. Between football games, new roommates, and weekend plans, it’s easy to overlook something: you’re officially part of the Harrisonburg community now.

Here’s how to start strong — with safety, respect, and a little local flair.

Hosting Without Headaches

Thinking about a party or get-together? Awesome! Just keep a few things in mind so everyone can have fun without the stress.

• Noise Ordinance: If music can be heard more than 100 feet away or across property lines, you could be fined. Keep the volume to a level that stays friendly with your neighbors.
• Gathering Permits: Hosting over 100 people? You’ll need a Mass Social Outdoor Gathering permit. Smaller gatherings need to be registered with the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Emergency Communications Center.
• Alcohol Laws: No underage drinking, no open containers in public, and no fake IDs. These can cause serious issues with the city and JMU!

Learn more about Social Gatherings and Noise Ordinances.

Pro Tip: If you’re hosting at a Matchbox property, please designate a sober host, keep things indoors, and don’t let strangers crash. You’re responsible for what happens on your lease, including the behavior of your guests and damage they cause, whether they’re invited or not.

The Best Impressions Start with Clean Spaces

Being a great neighbor often comes down to simple things — like keeping your space clean and welcoming!

• Take trash straight to the dumpster or bin. Leaving bags outside your door attracts pests and isn’t allowed.
• Know your trash pickup day and always use city-approved bins.
• If your property has a dumpster, place everything inside. If it’s full, hold off until the next collection instead of piling trash on top or around it.
• After hosting, do a quick cleanup of the yard, sidewalk, and common areas. Clear away trash, bottles, broken glass, or party leftovers.
• City guidelines require event spaces and nearby areas to be cleaned by 11 AM the following day. Matchbox portfolio managers will also walk properties starting at 9 AM on the next business day after a large gathering.
• Keep porches, patios, and stairwells neat.
• Leave hallways and entrances clear — no bikes or furniture blocking the way. Remember, inside furniture belongs indoors.
• Be mindful of quiet hours, especially during the week, early mornings, and exam periods.

Why It Matters: Keeping things tidy shows respect for your neighbors, your community, and your home. It’s the easiest way to avoid complaints or fines — and it helps everyone enjoy their space a little more.

Maintenance Matters

If something breaks, don’t wait — send in a work order request through your Tenant Access portal so we can get it fixed quickly.

• Pro Tip: The more details, the better. Instead of “toilet issue,” write “toilet in Bedroom 2 is leaking from the base” and include a photo if you can.
• Emergencies After Hours: Call (540) 434-5150 and press 7.
• Avoid Fees: Have pets? Please crate them or keep them in another room during maintenance visits. If not, a trip charge may apply!

Get Involved and Give Back!

Looking to give back or meet new people? Volunteering is a great way to connect with the community, build your resume, and make a real impact.

• United Way of Harrisonburg & Rockingham County: Join over 800 volunteers helping with fundraising events, workplace campaigns, and community investment teams.
• Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA: Help socialize pets, assist with adoptions, or foster animals in need.
• Cat’s Cradle: A downtown rescue focused on cats and kittens. Volunteers help with cleaning, socializing, adoption events, and fostering.
• Harrisonburg Parks & Recreation Youth Sports: Volunteer as a coach, referee, or event helper for youth leagues in soccer, basketball, volleyball, and more.
• On the Road Collaborative: Support middle and high school students through after-school programs, mentoring, and career enrichment.

Welcome to the Neighborhood

Being a good neighbor isn’t just about avoiding fines — it’s about building a better experience for yourself and those around you! Respect the rules, take care of your space, and explore the city you now call home.

Need help or have questions? Reach out!