Guidelines & Rules

1. Abstinence

Residents must remain completely abstinent from all mood- or mind-altering substances. This includes alcohol, illegal drugs, synthetic substances, and over-the-counter medications containing alcohol such as mouthwash or cold medicine. Using or possessing any prohibited substances will result in immediate review and possible dismissal.

2. Behavior

All residents are expected to maintain respectful and lawful conduct. Harassment, violence, theft, or illegal behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Respect for fellow residents and staff is a core expectation at all times.

3. Recovery Meetings

Residents are required to attend all scheduled house meetings and participate actively in their recovery. Each resident must attend at least five recovery-based meetings per week, with one being a women’s-only meeting. Residents must also obtain and maintain a 12-Step sponsor and engage regularly with their recovery community.

4. Curfew

Curfew times are determined by the phase or program tier a resident is in. Unless otherwise approved by staff, residents must be inside the home by the designated curfew. Curfew extensions are earned through accountability and progress.

5. Medications

Residents may self-administer approved, prescribed medications as directed by their physician. Sharing medications is strictly prohibited. Over-the-counter medications must be approved by the house manager before purchase or use.

6. Phone Use

Personal cell phones are permitted but must be used responsibly. Each phase of the program outlines its own guidelines for phone use to ensure focus on recovery and community engagement.

7. Confidentiality

Residents must respect each other’s privacy and confidentiality at all times. Sharing another resident’s personal information, phone number, or the house address with outsiders is strictly prohibited. What is shared in the home stays within the home.

8. Overnight Passes

Overnight passes are earned through accountability and phase progression. Requests must be submitted to the house manager at least 48 hours in advance and require approval. Residents must maintain compliance with all program rules to remain eligible.

9. Visitation and Family

Visitors must be approved in advance by staff. Guests showing signs of substance use or intoxication will not be permitted on the property.
Residents who are mothers may request visitation with their children after 15 to 30 days in the program. Overnight stays for children may occasionally be approved by both staff and the community.

10. Chores and Housekeeping

Each resident is responsible for maintaining her personal space and assigned weekly chores.
Chores must be completed daily before 9:00 PM. Residents must wash their own dishes, keep shared areas tidy, and participate in weekly house cleanups. A posted chore list ensures that responsibilities are fairly distributed and consistently maintained.

11. Personal Property

Serenity Sisters is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged property under any circumstances. Residents are encouraged to secure valuables and maintain an inventory of their belongings.

12. Smoking and Fire Safety

Smoking and vaping are allowed only in designated outdoor areas. The use of candles, incense, or any open flame is prohibited inside the house. Residents must comply with all safety protocols to prevent accidents or fire hazards.

13. Drug and Alcohol Testing

Residents agree to random drug and alcohol testing. Refusal to take a test will be considered equivalent to a positive result. Any resident may request a peer to be tested if reasonable cause exists.

14. Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, residents must first call 911, then immediately notify the house manager or director. Serenity Sisters is not responsible for personal medical expenses incurred while in the program.

15. Program Fees

Residents must remain current on all program fees as outlined in their admission agreement. Falling more than two weeks behind may result in changes to privileges or program status until the balance is resolved.

16. Relapse or Dismissal

If a resident relapses or must leave the program, staff will ensure belongings are safely inventoried for pickup. Support will be offered to help the resident connect with treatment or another safe recovery option. Returning residents may be considered once proof of sobriety is established through a clean drug screen.

At Serenity Sisters, these rules serve a single purpose — to protect your recovery, safety, and progress. By choosing to live by them, you’re choosing accountability, growth, and the community that comes with sober living.