KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Sample #3: Public and Private Spaces

Adapted from the original by Capitol Hill Lutheran Church in Des Moines, Iowa.

[Congregation Name]

Public and Private Spaces Policy
[address here]

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to clearly define the areas of [our congregation] at [address] that are considered public versus private spaces, ensuring the safety, confidentiality, and well-being of our congregation, staff, volunteers, and those we serve. This policy also outlines the procedures for access and the legal protections applicable to different areas of the church property.

Definitions

  • Public Spaces – Areas that are open and accessible to the public during designated times, such as worship services and community events.

  • Private Spaces – Areas that are restricted to authorized individuals, including church staff, volunteers, and designated personnel. 

Public Spaces

The following areas are designated as public spaces during worship hours and designated community events:

  • Sanctuary 9:30am - 11:30am, every Sunday morning 

  • Lobby - 9:30am - 11:30am, every Sunday morning

  • Fellowship Hall - 9am - 10am, every Sunday morning

  • Restrooms in Public Areas - accessible to those attending worship from 9am - 11:30am every Sunday morning

  • Church Grounds and Parking Lot - accessible to those attending worship 9:30 am - 11:30am every Sunday morning

While these areas are open to the public during worship, church leadership reserves the right to manage access as needed for safety, security, and the well-being of the congregation.

Private Spaces

The following areas are designated as private spaces at all times, requiring prior authorization or a valid church-related purpose for their use. In some cases, access may also require a background check:

  • Church and Staff Offices

  • Classrooms (including Sunday School Rooms)

  • Nursery and Play & Pray Areas

  • Storage Areas

  • Kitchen(s)

  •  Meeting Rooms (unless designated for open events)

  • Chapel (unless designated for open events)

  • Areas where pastoral care, counseling, or confidential meetings occur

  • Restrooms (outside of Sunday morning worship)

  • Fellowship Hall (unless designated for open events outside of Sunday morning worship)

Access to Private Spaces

  • Only authorized staff, volunteers, or individuals with specific permission may enter private spaces.

  • Law enforcement or any government officials seeking entry into private areas must present a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Staff and volunteers are not authorized to grant access without consulting church leadership [and legal counsel - only include here if you have it] first.

  • Private areas will usually be clearly marked with appropriate signage indicating restricted access. We recognize that in the spirit of welcome we do not want these signs to be off-putting to people attending our church and have determined the size/style/frequency of signage by taking that into consideration.

Confidentiality & Privacy

  • Staff and volunteers are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding the individuals they serve. No personal information about members, visitors, or program participants should be shared without explicit consent.

  • Conversations regarding sensitive topics should take place in private areas to protect confidentiality.

Enforcement & Compliance

  • Certain ushers and designated security volunteers will be responsible for monitoring access to private areas during worship and events. 

  • If unauthorized individuals attempt to access private areas, they should be politely directed to remain in public spaces.

  • Any concerns regarding access violations should be reported immediately to church leadership.

Conclusion

This policy reflects [Church Name]’s commitment to creating a welcoming, secure, and respectful environment for all who enter our space. By designating public and private areas, we seek to balance hospitality with the need for confidentiality, safety, and order.

For questions or further clarification, please contact [Church Leadership Contact Information].

Approved by: [Vestry/Rector/Leadership Team]
Date of Approval: [Date]