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POLICY #5.65 
SUBJECT: Operating Regulations for Personal Transit Devices


I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this Policy is to establish regulations governing the safe and courteous operation of personal transit devices (PTDs) on property owned or controlled by Southern Utah University (SUU) or University.


II. REFERENCES

  1. Southern Utah University Policy 11.2 Student Conduct Code

III. DEFINITIONS

  1. Personal Transit Device (PTD): Every motorized or non-motorized device consisting of one or more wheels affixed to a frame, platform, or footboard on which the operator rides. PTDs include, but are not limited to, bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, in-line skates, scooters, Segways, hoverboards, and similar transportation devices.
  2. Large PTDs: Include, but are not limited to, bicycles, scooters, and Segways.
  3. Small PTDs: Include, but are not limited to, skateboards, roller skates, in-line skates, and hoverboards.

IV. POLICY

  1. Operating Guidelines
    1. PTDs used for a disability or medical condition are excluded from this Policy unless a particular type of PTD cannot be accommodated due to safety requirements.
      1. Employees with a disability or medical condition who wish to use a PTD on campus, are encouraged to consult with the Human Resource office.
      2. Students with a disability or medical condition who wish to use a PTD on campus, are encouraged to consult with the SUU Disability Services.
    2. PTDs are only allowed as transportation on outdoor University walkways and other outdoor thoroughfares.
    3. The use of PTDs, as defined by this Policy, is prohibited inside any building on campus.
    4. Operators of PTDs shall ride their device in a controlled manner and shall exercise due care and reasonable caution to prevent injury to others, to self, or to property.
    5. Operators of PTDs riding in any pedestrian accessible area shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at all times.
    6. PTDs are only allowed on campus as a mode of transportation or when involved in an activity or event that is part of a University-sanctioned competition or function where the course has been specified and pre-approved by the Executive Director of Risk Management, Compliance, and Safety representing the University.
    7. PTDs are not allowed on grass, shrubbery, flower beds, stairs, stair railings, benches, retaining walls or any other campus structure other than University outdoor walkways or other outdoor thoroughfares.
    8. All state and local laws pertaining to PTDs are in full force and effect on property owned or controlled by SUU. In particular, improper usage of such devices resulting in injury to other persons or property damage may subject the user to criminal prosecution or civil liability under applicable laws, in addition to any sanctions provided for under this Policy.
    9. PTDs must not be ridden two (2) or more abreast on sidewalks or walkways and shall not carry more persons than the manufacturer has intended.
    10. PTDs must not be parked where they would impede free and clear access to University facilities, including emergency exits. Large PTDs should be locked or parked in available bike racks. They shall not be parked anywhere outside of a bike rack (i.e., attached to a fire hydrant, standpipe, building, service equipment, handrail, seating, trash receptacle, light pole, tree, shrub, etc.). Small PTDs carried into a building must be stowed where they would not impact pedestrian pathways or emergency exit routes.
    11. Employees who occupy a private office on campus may store large or small PTDs in that location provided ingress and egress are not impacted.
    12. The charging of PTDs with lithium batteries inside campus facilities is prohibited.
  2. Sanctions
    1. A violation of this Policy will be addressed under other applicable University policies (e.g., SUU Policy 11.2) or applicable laws. 
    2. Violators will be responsible for all costs associated with any incident or accident, including but not limited to bodily injury, damage to personal property, or damage to University-owned or controlled property.
    3. PTDs may be subject to impound for the following reasons:
      1. Two (2) or more unresolved violations.
      2. Attaching the PTD to any University structure other than a bicycle rack (i.e., fire hydrant, standpipe, building, service equipment, handrail, seating, trash receptacle, light pole, tree, shrub, etc.).
      3. Placing the PTD in an area where it constitutes a hazard to others, or any other unsafe condition.
      4. Unsafe and discourteous use of the device.
      5. Abandonment.
    4. If impounded, the PTD will be released upon proof of ownership. The University shall bear no responsibility for any damage or personal loss incurred that may be caused to the PTD or any securing device during removal or impoundment.
  3. Registration

    Any student, faculty, or staff parking a PTD on University property is encouraged to register that device, obtain a permit, and place it on the PTD in a visible location. Permits for PTDs do not expire and are for the protection of the owner as much as for the University. Permits are available through the Guest Services and Parking Office.

VI. QUESTIONS/RESPONSIBLE OFFICE

The responsible office for this Policy is the Vice President for Finance.


VII. POLICY ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT DATES

Date Approved: May 3, 2018

Amended: N/A