Alternative Vehicle Use

This policy for Sonoma State University (University) was developed in accordance with regulations set forth in Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, the Education Code, the California Vehicle Code, the University parking policy and rules listed in the Parking & Traffic Information brochure.

The purpose of this policy is to regulate, provide guidance and address growing concerns of the use of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, in-line skates, ‘heelies,’ scooters, small vehicles, and to establish regulations/procedures on dealing with the safe application and use thereof while on-campus.

1. Authority: Title 5 California Code of Regulations Sections §42200 - 42202
   California Education Code Sections §89030 & 89031
   California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section §21113
2. Definitions and clarification: For the purpose of this policy, the terms of various alternative vehicles are defined as follows:
   1. “roller skates” are shoes or boots that have small wheels affixed by brackets, which also include in-line skates and ‘heelies.’ “Heelies” is a term used to refer to shoes that consist of a single wheel that protrudes from its heel, sole or both. 
   2. A “bicycle” (including unicycle and tricycle) is a device upon which any person may ride, propelled exclusively by human power through a belt, chain, or gears, and having one or more wheels.
   3. A “scooter” is any two-wheeled device that has handlebars and is designed to be operated in a standing or sitting position, and is powered by either human propulsion or a motor.
   4. A “skateboard” is a small board with wheels like those of roller skates, for riding on while standing.
   5. “Small vehicles” are vehicles, which are powered by a battery or small combustible engine and used primarily by campus service and maintenance personnel.
3. Policy:
   1. Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller Skates and Scooters
      1. Bicycles, skateboards, roller skates and scooters shall be used on campus only as an alternative mode of transportation and in a manner that is consistent with public safety. Riding through breezeways, under eaves, on paths or sidewalks intended exclusively for pedestrians, exceeding 5 miles per hour in other areas designed for pedestrians, or at speeds exceeding the campus speed limit for other vehicles is strictly prohibited.
      2. Pedestrians have the right-of-way on campus sidewalks and paths at all times. 
      3. The use of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates and scooters is not permitted in campus buildings.
      4. The on-campus operation of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates and scooters shall be in compliance with University regulations (above) and California laws.
      5. Performing tricks or stunts with the use of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates and scooters is strictly prohibited, except during University sanctioned events designed for such exhibition.
      6. Bicycles shall be secured only to approved bicycle racks. Bicycles secured to objects or structures other than approved bicycle racks are subject to impound.
   2. Small Vehicle Use Small vehicles as referenced in this policy pertain to electric carts, small service vehicles, and other small, non-traditional motor-driven vehicles designed to transport people, equipment or materials throughout the campus.
      1. Small vehicles are not permitted on sidewalks or pathways that are too narrow to accommodate both vehicles and pedestrians, on paths that are too close to buildings, or in areas where such operation would compromise public safety.
      2. Pedestrians have the right-of-way on campus sidewalks and paths at all times. Small vehicles shall yield to pedestrians.
      3. The maximum speed on campus sidewalks for small vehicles is 5 miles per hour.
      4. Landscape and turf areas are off limits to all vehicles except for approved landscape maintenance equipment.
      5. Small vehicles shall not be parked on sidewalks so as to block or restrict pedestrian travel. Small vehicles are permitted to park in designated service vehicle or regular vehicle parking spaces.
      6. Only authorized personnel shall operate state-owned vehicles and only for official University business.
      7. Passengers in small vehicles shall be seated. Vehicle operators shall not permit passengers to ride in an unsafe manner (e.g., standing in the cargo area, in tow, or riding in an attached trailer).
      8. Vehicle operators must immediately report to their department supervisor and Police and Parking Services any vehicular accident or incident that results in injury to persons or damage to property.
      9. Keys shall be removed from vehicles when unattended.
      10. Vehicles shall not be operated if the service (foot) brake, parking brakes, or other critical components are inoperable or defective.
      11. Ladders, pipes, or freight on vehicles shall be flagged or otherwise marked at ends that extend beyond the vehicle body.
      12. Department supervisors are responsible for identifying small vehicle operators, ensuring that the operators are familiar with this policy, and for providing small vehicle operators with specific instructions and training in the use of small vehicles on campus, including maintenance and safety procedures.
4. Enforcement
   1. Police and Parking Services shall be responsible for the enforcement of this policy.
   2. In the interest of public safety, and after consulting with the President or his designee, the Chief of Police may ban alternative vehicle use from a specific area of campus that is deemed unsafe to accommodate such vehicles and pedestrians.

Updated October 29, 1999 by SSU.policies@sonoma.edu