Prayer Hall Guidelines:

1. Maintain Silence: Please observe silence at all times inside the prayer hall to preserve a peaceful and meditative environment.
2. Remove Footwear: Footwear is strictly prohibited inside the prayer hall. Please leave shoes in the designated shoe racks.
3. Respect the Sanctity of the Space:  Refrain from loud talking, laughing, or disruptive behavior in the prayer area.
4. Modest Attire Required:  All devotees are requested to dress modestly and respectfully when entering the prayer hall.
5. Children Must Be Supervised:  Parents or guardians must supervise children at all times. Running or playing inside the prayer hall is not allowed.
6. No Food or Drink:  Consumption of food or beverages is not permitted inside the prayer hall.
7. Prasadam Offering Guideline: In accordance with Hindu Agama, nivedyam (food offerings) must be prepared and offered exclusively by the temple priest. Devotees’ prasadam offerings are accepted as offerings to the deity but will not be used as nivedyam. All food offerings must be strictly vegetarian and prepared without onion or garlic.
8. Prasadam Distribution Guideline: Devotees who bring prasadam for offering to the god, are responsible for picking up and distributing it to other devotees afterward. The temple management does not take responsibility for the distribution, handling, or cleaning of vessels used for prasadam.
9. Offerings other than flowers and fruits, such as milk or grains, will not be accepted as deity offerings for any puja.
10. Offerings Should Be Placed in Designated Areas: All flowers, fruits, or other offerings must be placed in the designated trays or locations only.
11. Mobile Phones on Silent: All mobile phones and electronic devices must be silenced or turned off inside the prayer area.
12. Altar Area is Restricted: Only authorized individuals (priests and designated volunteers) are allowed inside the altar/sanctum area.
13. No Unauthorized Rituals:  Personal rituals, offerings, or ceremonies must be approved by temple authorities before being performed in the prayer hall.
14. Photography/Videography: Taking photos or videos inside the prayer hall is not allowed without prior written permission.
15. Do Not Touch Deities or Offerings: Please do not touch the idols, offerings, or any items placed on or near the altar.
16. Maintain Cleanliness: Kindly help keep the prayer hall clean. Dispose of any personal items or waste in designated bins outside the hall.
17. Enter and Exit Quietly: Please enter and leave the prayer hall quietly to avoid disturbing others engaged in prayer or meditation.
18. Seating Etiquette: Sit in an orderly and respectful manner. Avoid reserving seats unless necessary for elderly or special needs individuals.
19. Follow the Instructions of Temple Staff: Devotees are requested to follow any directions given by temple volunteers or staff, especially during crowded events or festivals.
20. Do Not Block Aisles or Entrances: Keep walkways, aisles, and doorways clear at all times for ease of movement and emergency access.
21. Respect Ritual Timings: Please be punctual for scheduled aartis, pujas, or bhajans. Avoid entering or leaving during key ritual moments unless necessary.
22. No Solicitation or Distribution of Materials: Distributing flyers, pamphlets, or promoting personal services inside the prayer hall is strictly prohibited without temple approval.
23. Use Personal Prayer Items Respectfully: If you bring prayer books, malas, or personal items, please use them quietly and do not leave them behind.
24. Respect Other Devotees’ Space and Practices: Be mindful of others’ personal space and prayer preferences. Avoid interrupting or engaging in conversation during their worship.
25. Pets Are Not Allowed: Animals are not permitted inside the prayer hall, except for approved service animals.
26. Emergency Exits Must Remain Unobstructed: Ensure emergency exits are never blocked by shoes, bags, or seating arrangements.

Services and Donations

1. Temple Services Are Not Donations: Temple services — including in-temple or off-site rituals, temple-organized pujas, special events, or food offerings — with specified fees are treated as service fees and are not considered donations. Only voluntary contributions made toward specific areas or items are recognized as donations.
   
2. Service Fees Are Non-Refundable: Service fees collected for rituals or events are non-refundable once the service is scheduled or performed.
   
3. Use of Priests: Temple priests are assigned by temple management for services. Devotees may not bring external priests for temple-conducted rituals without prior written approval.
   
4. Designated Donations Only: Donations made toward specific projects (e.g., building fund, annadanam, deity ornamentation) will be allocated solely for those purposes and are non-refundable.
   
5. Voluntary Contributions Only: Contributions made through fundraising campaigns or sponsorships are considered voluntary and are acknowledged accordingly by the temple.
   
6. Fundraising Authorization Required: All fundraising activities in the name of the temple must be authorized in writing by the Executive Committee. Unauthorized fundraising is strictly prohibited.
   
7. Non-Cash Donation Policy: All non-cash donations must be pre-approved by the Executive Committee before being accepted.
     ➤ Email for approval: econtact@iowahindutemple.org
   
8. Item Donation Approval: All item donations — including god idols, god pictures, jewelry, kitchen items, puja supplies, food, appliances, furniture, or decorative items — must be pre-approved by the Executive Committee.
9. Cash Donations Must Be Deposited Securely: All cash donations must be placed in the official temple hundi (donation box) or handed to authorized personnel.
10. Anonymous Donations: Anonymous donations are accepted via the hundi only. If a receipt or tax documentation is required, donor information must be provided.
    
11. Event Sponsorship Acknowledgment: Sponsors of temple events or services will be acknowledged in a manner approved by the temple. Promotional materials, personal banners, or advertisements are not permitted without prior approval.
    
12. Donation Refund Policy: Donations, once made, are generally non-refundable. Exceptions may be made only under extraordinary circumstances and require written approval from the Executive Committee.
    
13. Digital and Online Donations: Donations made through the temple’s online portal must include the donor’s name and intended purpose (if designated). Anonymous online donations will be treated as general funds unless specified.
    
14. Donor Recognition: The temple reserves the right to recognize donors in newsletters, plaques, or digital screens. If a donor wishes to remain anonymous, they must request so in writing.
    
15. Temple Event Decorations and Supplies: Devotees wishing to donate decorations, flowers, or supplies for specific festivals or events must coordinate in advance with the temple’s event coordinator or committee lead.
    
16. Advertising and Business Promotion Prohibited: No individual or organization is allowed to promote personal businesses or distribute promotional materials on temple property without prior written permission.
    
17. Volunteer Service Is Not a Donation: Time or volunteer services are deeply appreciated but are not considered monetary or tax-deductible donations unless tied to a documented and approved sponsorship arrangement.
    
18. Misuse of Temple Name: No person or group may use the temple’s name, logo, or reputation for personal, religious, or commercial gain without formal written authorization from the Executive Committee.

Safety and Legal Responsibility Guidelines

1. Emergency Exits: All emergency exits must remain unobstructed at all times. Devotees and visitors should familiarize themselves with exit locations.
   
2. Fire Safety Compliance: The temple adheres to local fire safety codes. Fire extinguishers and alarms are installed and regularly maintained. Tampering with safety equipment is strictly prohibited.
   
3. Capacity Limits: The maximum occupancy limits of all temple areas, including the prayer hall and event spaces, must be respected to ensure safety.
   
4. No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere inside the temple premises, including parking areas.
   
5. Alcohol and Drugs: Consumption or possession of alcohol or illegal substances on temple property is forbidden.
   
6. Slip and Fall Hazards: Visitors should be cautious of wet floors, especially near entrances, kitchen, and washroom areas. Warning signs will be posted when floors are wet.
   
7. Use of Electrical Equipment: Only authorized personnel may operate electrical or sound equipment. Unauthorized use may lead to hazards and will be addressed by temple management.
   
8. Child Safety: Children must be accompanied by adults at all times. Running, climbing, or playing in unsafe areas is not permitted.
   
9. Incident Reporting: Any accidents, injuries, or unsafe conditions must be reported immediately to temple staff or management.
   
10. Security Measures: For the safety of all, security cameras may be in operation. Unauthorized access to restricted areas is prohibited.
    
11. Parking Regulations: Vehicles must be parked only in designated areas. Blocking emergency lanes or fire hydrants is strictly prohibited.
    
12. Pet Policy: Only service animals are allowed inside the temple premises. All others must remain outside.
    
13. Use of Candles and Lamps: Open flames are permitted only in designated areas and must be supervised at all times.
    
14. Insurance Disclaimer: The temple’s insurance covers property damage only. Visitors enter at their own risk regarding personal injury.
15. Prohibition of Weapons: Carrying any weapons or sharp objects inside temple premises is strictly prohibited.
    
16. Crowd Control: During festivals and large gatherings, devotees are requested to follow instructions from temple volunteers and security personnel to maintain order.
    
17. First Aid Availability: Basic first aid kits are available at designated points. In case of emergencies, please contact temple staff immediately.
    
18. Use of Stairways: Please use handrails on stairways.
    
19. Lost and Found: Personal belongings left unattended may be collected by temple staff and held in the lost and found. The temple is not responsible for lost items.
    
20. Waste Disposal: All trash and recyclables should be disposed of in the designated bins. Littering on temple grounds is prohibited.
    
21. Prohibition on Unauthorized Entry: Devotees and visitors must not enter temple offices, storage rooms, or other restricted areas without permission.
    
22. Sound Levels: Please keep noise levels respectful and avoid loud conversations, music, or shouting on the premises.
    
23. Prohibited Use of Drones: Flying drones or any remote-controlled devices on temple grounds is not allowed without prior approval.
    
24. Maintenance of Walkways: Please report any damaged flooring, broken tiles, or hazards on walkways to temple management immediately.
    
25. Respect for Electrical Panels: Access to electrical panels and utility rooms is restricted to authorized personnel only.
    
26. Compliance with Local Laws: All visitors and event organizers must comply with local laws and regulations while on temple property.
    
27. No Solicitation: Soliciting money, selling goods, or distributing pamphlets on temple grounds is not permitted without prior approval.
    
28. Use of Masks and Health Protocols: During health advisories, visitors must follow all recommended safety protocols, including wearing masks and social distancing.
    
29. Incident Documentation: All incidents involving injury or damage must be documented and reported to the Executive Committee promptly.

Kitchen Area Guidelines

1. Access Restrictions: Only authorized kitchen volunteers and staff may enter the kitchen area.
2. Sacred Cooking Area: The area used for preparing food is strictly reserved and should not be entered without permission.
3. Food Preparation: Only fresh, vegetarian ingredients approved by temple guidelines are to be used.
4. Hygiene Standards: Volunteers must wear clean clothing, head coverings, gloves, and wash hands before cooking or serving.
5. Cooking Utensils: Use only the utensils provided by the temple. Personal kitchenware is not permitted.
6. Waste Management: Organic and dry waste must be disposed of in separate bins as marked.
7. The kitchen should be cleaned thoroughly after use.
8. Fire Safety: Please ensure all gas stoves and electrical appliances are turned off after use. Report any hazards immediately.
9. Storage Use: All items must be stored in designated areas and properly labeled. Spoiled or expired items should be reported and discarded.
10. Respectful Conduct: The kitchen is a sacred and service-oriented space. All volunteers are expected to maintain discipline and devotion while serving.

Dining Area Guidelines

1. Prasadam Distribution: Prasadam is served after offerings to the deities. Please wait patiently and accept it with both hands in a respectful manner.
2. Seating Arrangement: Please follow seating arrangements as directed by temple volunteers, whether floor seating or table seating.
3. Cleanliness: Devotees are requested to leave their eating area clean and dispose of plates and leftovers in the designated bins.
4. Hand Washing: Please wash your hands before and after eating. Handwashing stations are provided near the dining entrance.
5. Food Restrictions: Only vegetarian food is served, outside food is not allowed in the dining area.
6. Volunteer Service: All food is served by trained volunteers. Please allow them to serve to maintain order and hygiene.
7. Silence and Devotion: Kindly maintain a quiet, respectful environment during meals. Devotional music may be played in the background.
8. Children Supervision: Parents are requested to supervise children to prevent accidents and maintain cleanliness.
9. Allergen Warning: Some food items prepared and served at the temple may contain nuts or be prepared in facilities where nuts are handled.
10. Labeling: Where possible, prasadam and meals containing nuts will be clearly labeled. Please read all signs before consuming food.
11. Allergy Disclosure: If you or your child has a nut allergy, please inform temple staff or kitchen volunteers before accepting any food.
12. Cross-Contamination: While efforts are made to prevent cross-contamination, the temple cannot guarantee a nut-free environment.
13. Bringing Food: If you bring food from home to share, please clearly label any items that contain nuts or were prepared in environments with nuts.
14. Emergency Preparedness: Individuals with severe allergies are advised to carry their EpiPen or medication and inform companions of its use.
15. First Aid: In case of an allergic reaction, please contact temple staff immediately. First aid kits are available at designated points.

Organized Cultural Activities Guidelines

1. Purpose of Use: The cultural center is intended for religious, cultural, educational, and community enrichment activities aligned with Hindu values and temple traditions.
2. Reservation Policy: Use of the cultural hall is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations must be made in advance through the temple office.
3. Booking Process: All reservation requests must be submitted in writing and approved by temple administration. Dates are confirmed only upon written approval.
4. Performer Selection: Performers and speakers for any public event or program must be pre-approved by the temple cultural committee.
5. Content Guidelines: All performances, speeches, or presentations must align with Hindu dharma, uphold respectful values, and maintain cultural sensitivity.
6. Hall Use Time: Please adhere strictly to your allotted time slot. Overruns may affect other scheduled activities.
7. Equipment Usage: Use of sound systems, projectors, lighting, and stage must be coordinated in advance. Mishandling may result in loss of future privileges.
8. Clean-Up Requirement: All users are responsible for cleaning the hall and returning equipment and seating to original positions after their event.
9. Dress Code: Modest, culturally appropriate attire is expected during all cultural center events.
10. Food & Drink: Only pre-approved vegetarian food may be served in the cultural center. Strictly no non-vegetarian food or alcohol permitted.
11. Respectful Behavior: All attendees are expected to behave respectfully and cooperatively. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
12. Children Supervision: Children must be supervised by parents or guardians at all times during events.
13. Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation, please notify the temple office as early as possible to allow other groups to utilize the space.
14. Event Approval: All cultural events must be reviewed and approved by the temple’s cultural committee prior to announcement or promotion.
15. Decorations: Only temporary decorations are allowed. Please use removable adhesives and avoid nails, staples, or tape that damages walls or fixtures.
16. Rehearsals: Rehearsal time must be scheduled in advance and is subject to availability. Priority will be given to approved performance events.
17. Stage Access: Only authorized individuals are allowed on the stage during programs. Children are not permitted on stage unless performing.
18. Green Room Use: Green rooms are provided for performers only. Please keep these areas clean and vacate promptly after use.
19. Sound Check: All sound checks must be completed at least 30 minutes before the start of the event to avoid delays.
20. Photography and Videography: Photography or video recording must be approved in advance by temple management. Flash photography may be restricted during certain events.
21. Noise Level: Please keep the volume of music and microphones at a respectful level. Loud or disruptive behavior is not permitted.
22. Public Announcements: Only authorized personnel may make announcements from the stage or sound system.
23. Parking for Events: Please park only in designated areas during cultural programs. Avoid blocking driveways or emergency exits.
24. Vendor Policy: No external vendors are allowed to sell food, crafts, or merchandise during cultural events unless specifically approved.
25. Community Events: Priority will be given to programs that serve educational, spiritual, or cultural enrichment for the broader community.
26. Respect for Sacred Spaces: Please ensure that all activities conducted in the cultural hall are in harmony with the temple’s spiritual environment.

Community Center Rental Guidelines

1. Purpose of Use: Temple facilities may be rented for religious, cultural, educational, and community events that align with Hindu values and respect the sanctity of the space.
2. Application Requirement: All rental requests must be submitted via the Temple Facility Rental Application Form and approved by temple administration.
3. Approval Process: Rental approval is subject to availability, suitability of the event, and final decision by the temple management committee.
4. Reservation Deposit: A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve the space. The full payment must be made before the event date.
5. Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit may be required to cover any damage, overtime use, or cleaning charges.
6. Rental Time Slot: Rented time includes setup and cleanup. Overtime charges apply if time exceeds the booked duration.
7. Use of Space: Renters are allowed to use only the spaces specified in their agreement (e.g., cultural hall, dining area, kitchen, or classrooms).
8. Decorations: Decorations must be temporary and non-damaging. Use of nails, staples, or glue is strictly prohibited.
9. Food Policy: Only pure vegetarian food (no meat, fish, eggs) is allowed. All food must be prepared or catered following temple guidelines.
10. Prohibited Items: Alcohol, tobacco, non-vegetarian items, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited anywhere on temple grounds.
11. Respect for Sacred Spaces: The main temple area and deity sanctum are not available for rental or secular events and must be respected at all times.
12. Behavior Standards: All attendees are expected to behave respectfully. Loud music, inappropriate language, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
13. Children Supervision: Children must be supervised by adults at all times.
14. Security and Safety: Renters are responsible for crowd control and safety during their event. Fire exits must be kept clear at all times.
15. Volunteer/Staff Access: Temple staff and volunteers must be granted access at all times for inspection, support, or emergency.
16. Clean-Up Responsibility: Renters are responsible for cleaning the space after the event, including trash disposal and returning furniture to its original location.
17. Waste Disposal: All waste must be placed in appropriate bins (compost/recyclable/landfill) as labeled.
18. Damages: Any damage to temple property will be deducted from the security deposit. Additional charges may apply if costs exceed the deposit.
19. Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be made at least 7 days in advance to receive a partial refund. No refund for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event.
20. Force Majeure: The temple reserves the right to cancel any event due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, full refunds will be issued.

Classrooms Rental Guidelines

1. Temple classrooms may be rented for educational, cultural, or spiritual programs such as language classes, music and dance instruction, yoga, scripture study, or workshops that align with the temple’s mission and values.
2. Application Requirement: All classroom rental requests must be submitted via the Classroom Rental Application Form and approved by temple administration.
3. Approval Criteria: Programs must align with Hindu values. Secular or non-religious classes may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to review.
4. Reservation Basis: Classrooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
5. Rental Duration: Rentals may be one-time or recurring (weekly/monthly), and must clearly state the schedule during application.
6. Rental Fee: Classroom rental fees are based on size, duration, and frequency of use. Fee schedule is available at the temple office.
7. Security Deposit: A refundable deposit may be required to cover damages, overtime, or extra cleaning.
8. Payment: Full payment is required prior to the start of the rental period. Recurring renters may pay monthly in advance.
9. Permitted Use: Only pre-approved activities are allowed in the classroom. No commercial, political, or personal parties permitted.
10. Class Size Limits: Occupancy must not exceed the posted classroom capacity.
11. Furniture Use: Tables, chairs, whiteboards, and AV equipment must be used respectfully and returned to original setup after class.
12. Decorations/Posters: Any wall posters, decorations, or charts must be temporary and removed after each session unless prior approval is granted.
13. Food Policy: Only dry, vegetarian snacks are allowed. No full meals, meat, or beverages (except water) permitted without prior permission.
14. Shoes: In classrooms used for yoga or traditional learning, shoes must be removed before entry, based on class nature.
15. Instructor Responsibility: Instructors are responsible for the conduct and safety of all participants during their rental period.
16. Respectful Behavior: All students and teachers must observe respectful language and behavior. Loud or disruptive conduct is not allowed.
17. Supervision: Children under 18 must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
18. Clean-Up: All materials must be removed after use. Floors and desks must be kept clean and free of debris.
19. Damages: Any damage to classroom property must be reported immediately. Repair costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
20. Waste Disposal: All trash must be disposed of in designated bins.
21. Cancellation Notice: A minimum of 72 hours’ notice is required for cancellations. Late cancellations may result in forfeiture of rental fee.
22. Change Requests: Any changes to schedule, participants, or type of class must be submitted for re-approval.

Administrative & Communications

• Information Collection & Use

• What is Collected:
  • Name
  • Email
  • Phone
  • Address
    (No sensitive data like Social Security or passport info is collected/stored)
• Usage: Used only for official Temple communication—not shared externally.

• Email Policy:

• Max of 1 email/day or 3/week.
• Sent by Chairperson, PR, or Secretary for Temple-related communication.
• Can include nonprofit event announcements that benefit the community.
• Temple events always take priority.

Recognition Guidelines

• Patron of the Year: Selected by the Executive Committee and Board for exceptional service.
• General Recognition: Individuals or families may be acknowledged for their contributions.
  • Final decision rests with the Executive Committee.
• Memorials: Deceased contributors may be honored at the committee’s discretion.
• Financial Rewards:
  ➤ Volunteers may be recognized.
  ➤ Financial rewards are capped at $50 and not guaranteed.