Welcome to NYFurs, where we celebrate the vibrant furry community in New York through our events. To ensure a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all attendees, we have established the following Code of Conduct. By participating in any NYFurs event, you agree to abide by these rules and contribute to creating a positive environment for everyone.

By attending any NYFurs events, you agree to abide by the code of conduct below.

1. Compliance to Local Laws

Strict adherence to local laws, regulations, and event rules must be followed. Any violations of local laws or event policies may result in legal consequences for individuals involved. NYFurs disclaims responsibility for any legal repercussions resulting from individual actions stated in our Code of Conduct and outside of it.

2. Payment Guidelines

Please note our events require payment unless stated otherwise. The event's cost is typically predetermined, and by agreeing to RSVP for the event, you acknowledge your responsibility to cover the associated expenses.

When you RSVP for an event, you are making a commitment to attend and fulfill your financial obligation. Failure to commit to the event after reservations are closed may result in exclusion from future events.

Refund policies may vary for each event. You must be familiar with the specific refund policy outlined by the event organizer. Requests for refunds must be submitted within the specified timeframe and according to the stated policy. Money should be transferred by the event’s stated deadline to attend the event. 

The event is considered paid for when the total, minus transaction fees and tax, has been transferred in full. If you are making a payment through a method that charges an additional tax/fee for the transaction (ex. PayPal’s Goods and Services program, Venmo without marking as friends and family), you assume full responsibility for these expenses. Therefore, fees or tax associated with your transaction do not count towards the money you owe for the event. The event host will always encourage you to make transactions that have no fees associated (ex. Cash or Cashapp), but will still be responsible for a refund.

You agree to adhere to all payment deadlines based on the event or event organizer. Your RSVP may be canceled if you do not pay for an event in time.

3. Transaction Records

By attending a NYFurs event, you agree to have us collect payment information.

The only information we will collect from you upon these events includes:

• Your Discord username

• Your real-life name (with notice)

• The amount you have paid on events

• The amount you owe for events

• Your attendance

Disclaimer: Your payment information never includes sensitive information (card info, address, etc). We never disclose any payment information to anyone else, or use payment history for any other reason. We prioritize the privacy and security of your financial details, and access to these records is restricted to NYFurs event coordinators and the NYFurs creator only.

Your entry to an event may be contingent upon confirmation of payment. Having accurate transaction records allows for efficient verification at the event. If you owe money from a prior NYFurs event, you will not be granted permission to attend another event until the outstanding balance is paid for.

You are responsible to let hosts know for any event you want to RSVP. Typically it is best to let them know 24 hours beforehand. This is so the host can coordinate best for the events you want to attend. If you cannot attend an event make sure to un-RSVP by un-marking the event as interested. No-shows without reasonable prior notice will lead to a warning.

4. Photography Guidelines

The privacy and comfort of all NYFurs members are of utmost importance to us. As such, taking photographs of any individual, group, or gathering within NYFurs events without their explicit consent is strictly prohibited. Consent must be clearly given, either verbally or in writing, before any photos are taken. This policy applies to all members, guests, and participants within the event space.

4a. Respecting Privacy

Attendees should always respect the personal boundaries of others. If someone requests not to be photographed or expresses discomfort with being in a photo, that preference must be honored immediately. Even in public or open areas of NYFurs events, individuals retain the right to refuse photography.

Even with consent, be mindful when sharing photos on social media or other public platforms. Ensure that those in the photos are comfortable with their images being shared online and respect their wishes regarding tagging, captioning, or posting.

4b. NYFurs Photographers

To ensure that all memories of the event are captured professionally and with respect for members' privacy, NYFurs employs official event photographers. These photographers are trained to seek consent before taking photos and to handle sensitive situations with care. We strongly encourage attendees to allow the NYFurs photographers to take event photos, as they are aware of the community’s values and are committed to capturing the event in a way that respects all participants.

4c. Photography Request

If you wish to take photos during NYFurs events, seek permission from the NYFurs host. Depending on the circumstances, you may be granted limited permission to take photos in certain areas or of specific activities, provided that you adhere strictly to the consent policy outlined above.

4d. Consequences of Unauthorized Photography

Any violation of this photography policy, including taking photos without consent, may result in immediate disciplinary action. This could include removal from the event, revocation of membership privileges, and/or a ban from future NYFurs events. The NYFurs team will request that any unauthorized photos be deleted immediately.

4e. Event Photography Opt-Out

Members who do not wish to be photographed at all during the event should inform NYFurs staff upon arrival. NYFurs will make every effort to accommodate these requests and ensure that photographers are aware of individuals who prefer not to be included in any event photography.

5. Disclaimer of Liability

NYFurs and its organizers, volunteers, and affiliates (collectively referred to as "NYFurs") assume no responsibility for any personal injury, damage to property, or other losses that may occur during any NYFurs events (virtual, in-person, or online), meetups, or related activities. NYFurs endeavors to create a safe and enjoyable environment, but participants acknowledge that certain risks are inherent in attending social events, and such risks are voluntarily assumed by each participant.

By participating in any NYFurs events, you acknowledge and agree that:

1. Participation is voluntary and undertaken at your own risk.
2. NYFurs cannot guarantee absolute safety or security. Any risks, including those arising from interactions with other participants or the general public, are assumed by each participant.

3. NYFurs is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal belongings, including fursuits, props, electronic devices, or other valuables, whether left unattended or otherwise. You are solely responsible for the security of your property at all times during an event.

4. NYFurs cannot be held responsible for any legal repercussions or consequences that may arise from your actions during an event, including violations of local laws or ordinances. This includes, but is not limited to, any issues related to wearing masks or costumes in public spaces, trespassing, or engaging in any other behavior that may be restricted or regulated by law. It is the responsibility of each participant to familiarize themselves with and abide by all relevant legal requirements in the area where the event is held.

Furthermore, you acknowledge that NYFurs does not provide any form of insurance coverage for participants. You assume all responsibility for any legal or medical costs incurred as a result of your participation.

By attending NYFurs events, you agree to release and hold harmless NYFurs from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action that may arise, whether directly or indirectly, in connection with your participation in any NYFurs event. This waiver of liability applies to any and all claims, including those arising from negligence, and extends to all risks and damages, whether foreseen or unforeseen.