Remove SharePoint folders/files from a computer without deleting from the cloud?

If you delete a SharePoint folder or file on your computer that is under the OneDrive - University of Maine System folder, then on the next sync, it will delete it from the cloud as well. 

NOTE: DO NOT use delete to remove OneDrive/SharePoint folders or files from your computer if you do not intend to delete them from the cloud as well. If you accidentally did, reach out to the site owner as soon as possible so they can restore the files from the site's Recycle Bin in SharePoint online. 

NOTE: Information Security Note: Sync should only be used for data that is not restricted per the UMS data classification, or disallowed by the individual's department.  Questions may be directed to the Information Security Office.  

Instructions  

Options

• Instead, right-click on the item and select Free Up Space from the menu that appears.
  • The folder/files will still be listed in the directory on your local computer but will have a cloud for the sync status icon because it no longer is stored on your local computer. 
• Configure OneDrive client for On-Demand Sync to no longer sync the folder/file before deleting
  1. In OneDrive client, Help & Settings, Preferences, on the Account tab, click Choose Folders. 
  2. Then uncheck any folders you do not want to sync and click OK.
  3. Once a folder/file is no longer syncing, then delete it locally on your computer.
• Have the owner remove your permissions to the folder or file first and then delete it locally.

Environment

• Windows 10 1803 or higher, macOS 10.15 or higher with OneDrive client, SharePoint