Purpose

Miami University is committed to creating a safe campus. As part of these efforts, Miami University regulates the use of electronic transportation devices on university property.

Definitions

Electronic Transportation Devices (ETD)- small, electric-powered, or assisted vehicles used for personal mobility. These include electric bicycles (Class 1, 2), low-speed micromobility devices like e-scooters (under 100 lbs), e-skateboards, and other electric personal assistive mobility devices. 

Policy

1. The University provides no facilities for the storage or charging of personal ETDs. The presence, storage, and charging of all ETD and their batteries are strictly prohibited within all university residence halls, other campus buildings, and anywhere on university property.  Charging ETDs on university property is a violation of safety protocols and may result in immediate confiscation of the ETD or its battery.
   • Exception:  ETDs that are purchased for research purposes must have storage and battery charging locations pre-approved by the University Fire Marshal.  Miami University Police Department must be apprised of all approved campus locations for the storage or charging of ETDs for research.
2. ETD may only be operated in bike lanes. ETD is not permitted to be operated on any sidewalk on University property at any time with the exception of the bike lane incorporated into the sidewalk along Patterson Avenue.
3. Maximum speed on campus roads is 15 mph and 8mph (roughly a jogging pace) when sharing space with pedestrians.
4. Parking lots and garages are “no ride” zones.  ETDs must be dismounted and walked to an outdoor bike rack.  Parking outside of racks is prohibited.
5. University employees may not operate ETD on University property while on University business and will not be reimbursed for any ETD use.
6. Operators must not carry passengers.
7. Operators must not be under the influence of alcohol when operating an ETD.
8. Operators must not race ETD, other personal transportation devices or vehicles.
9. Operators may not wear headphones.
10. Operators may not transport packages
11. Pedestrians have the right of way at all times.
12. ETD found in residence halls or left unattended anywhere on University property other than an established bicycle rack pad may be impounded by University Police

Citation and Impoundment

When any ETD (excluding those approved through Student Disability Services or Human Resources) is determined to be in violation of this ETD regulation, it is subject to $25.00 citation, impoundment (Impound fee is $75.00), or both, at the owner’s expense. A $5 daily storage fee will accrue until the E-Scooter is retrieved. Miami University is not responsible for damage to ETD. Devices will be released to the registered owner or their duly authorized agent only after all the following conditions are met:

1. All outstanding citations and impoundment fees are paid. 
2. A picture I.D. is presented. 
3. Proof of ownership or retrieval authorization is presented.

Appeals of Citations/Impoundment

Appeals should be addressed in writing within 5 calendar days to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, 164A, Cole Service Building, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056. Appeals must include all pertinent information and supporting documentation needed to allow the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, to make an informed decision. Appeals should contain a complete and full explanation of circumstances or claim.

Individual Responsibility

Individuals will be held personally responsible for any damage caused to University property as a result of the operation of an ETD on University property. Individuals assume the risk of personal injury and death and will be held responsible for any injuries to themselves or others as a result of any violation of this Policy or the improper operation of any ETD on University property.

Safety tips

• Wear a helmet.
• Maintain a three-foot minimum distance from pedestrians.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Watch the road for uneven surfaces and debris.
• Be wary of puddles and leaves that may hide potholes.
• Dress to be seen and do not operate at night.
• Share the Road and never ride against traffic.
• Eliminate distractions.  Do NOT text while riding!

The recommendations included above are intended to increase safety when riding an ETD but are not intended to be an exhaustive list of safety precautions or to guarantee operator safety. Operators are expected to review and abide by any terms and conditions agreed to in order to ride the ETD. As with any device used for transportation, users operate at their own risk.

Related Form(s)

Not applicable.

Additional Resources and Procedures

Not applicable.

FAQ

Not applicable.

Policy Administration

Next Review Date

7/1/2027

Responsible Officers

• Miami University Police
• Sr. Vice President of Finance and Business Services

Legal Reference

• ORC 4511.55
• ORC 4511.71

Compliance Policy

No

Recent Revision History

New October 1, 2019, Revised April 2026

Reference ID(s)

• OAC 3339-16-19

Reviewers

• Miami University Police
• Sr. Vice President of Finance and Business Services