With thousands of faculty, staff, and students on campus each day, Virginia Tech encourages the use of alternative transportation options and is proud to be at the forefront of reducing our carbon footprint and embracing sustainable modes of transportation. The safe usage of these alternative transportation options is critical to maximizing their benefit to our campus community. With the increase in the use of personal transportation devices, including electronic personal assistance mobility devices (EPAMDs) on campus, including electronic bicycles, scooters, and skateboards, it is important that they are operated in a safe manner and in accordance with university regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Policy 5005 revised?
University Policy 5005: Bicycles and Other Personal Transportation Devices has been revised to reflect a broader approach to addressing newer forms of personal transportation, with greater emphasis on safety, compliance with state laws, and the university’s sustainability goals. The policy outlines safe practices when choosing to use these devices on campus and applies to Virginia Tech faculty, staff, students, and visitors.
What are the most important guidelines from the policy for operating bicycles and other personal transportation devices?
Please note the following guidelines from Policy 5005:
On roadways, all persons operating personal transportation devices must follow all laws of vehicular traffic and parking regulations.
The policy contains a list of devices that must be, registered free of charge, with Parking Services.
E-bicycles, E-unicycles, motorized scooters, E-scooters, motorized skateboards, electric skateboards, hoverboards and EPAMDs are not permitted, for operation, storage, or charging in university owned or leased buildings, including residence halls.
Bicycles, e-bicycles, EPAMDs, motorized skateboards and motorized scooters must be equipped with a headlight on the front and a red reflector on the rear when in use between sunset and sunrise.
Earphones cannot be used while operating a personal transportation device.
Pedestrians have the right of way and personal transportation devices must yield to pedestrians at all times.
Why can’t I store my EPAMD or E-Scooter in any university building, including my office or residence hall?
As a fire-safety precaution, E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be stored inside any university-owned or leased buildings.
Why can’t I charge my EPAMD or E-Scooter in any university building, including my office or residence hall?
As a fire-safety precaution, E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be charged inside any university-owned or leased buildings. These devices are also not permitted for charging at any exterior outlets on university-owned or leased facilities. Charging for these devices will need to be done off-campus.
Where can I store my electric scooter?
E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be stored inside any university-owned or leased buildings; therefore, for continued compliance, students living on campus can campus lock their devices on a bike rack, store them off-campus, or at home. For students off-campus students, you may lock your devices on a bike rack and store them off-campus or at home.
What if I need an electronic personal assistance mobility device for medical purposes?
I count on my electric scooter to get me quickly across campus. What are my other options?
Blacksburg Transit operates buses and shuttles to help you maneuver on campus. Non-motorized transportation, like bicycles, may be another sustainable option.
What is the consequence of not adhering to Policy 5005?
Violations of Policy 5005 may result in a citation, the device being removed or impounded, and/or referral to the student conduct process. Violations of this policy may also subject the user to disciplinary action and potential restitution for any damage(s) caused.
