San Luis Obispo Revokes Permits for Two Fraternity Houses

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The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission voted to revoke the conditional use permits for two Cal Poly fraternities, Alpha Epsilon Pi and Lambda Chi Alpha, following years of conflicts between students and local residents. Both fraternities had received multiple noise violations and complaints prior to the commission's decision.

Why it matters

The revocation of the fraternity house permits highlights the ongoing tensions between the university's Greek life organizations and the surrounding community in San Luis Obispo. It raises questions about the ability of fraternities to operate in residential areas and the role of local government in regulating student behavior off-campus.

The details

Alpha Epsilon Pi, a Jewish fraternity, received three noise violations during the past academic year. The fraternity president acknowledged the citations were unacceptable, but argued the number was lower than the previous year. Lambda Chi Alpha did not have anyone speak on their behalf during the meeting. Ultimately, the commissioners voted to revoke the conditional use permits for both fraternities, though members can continue living in the houses, just without being able to hold official fraternity events.

• On March 11, 2026, the San Luis Obispo Planning Commission voted to revoke the permits.
• Alpha Epsilon Pi received three noise violations during the past academic year.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Even though the city revoked the fraternities' conditional use permits, members can continue to live there, though they are barred from holding official fraternity events at the site.