SA0003-M – Prohibited Use of Motorized Personal Transportation Devices in University Buildings

  1. PURPOSE

    This procedure minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries within university buildings, protects the physical infrastructure of the university from potential damage, and upholds fire safety regulations as recommended by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
  2. PROCEDURE

    The use of motorized personal transportation devices (including but not limited to mopeds, electric scooters, hoverboards, and bicycles) inside any university building is strictly prohibited. This procedure is established to ensure the safety of all university community members and to maintain the integrity and security of university property.

    Prohibition of Use: The use of the specified motorized devices is forbidden within all university buildings. Devices must be powered off and securely stored prior to entering any building. Self-powered devices, such as skateboards and bicycles, may not be ridden in any university building but may be carried or stored inside if they do not present a hazard to others.
    Facility Procedures: In accordance with the ban instituted on July 1, 2016, motorized personal transportation devices are not allowed in any university residence hall or apartment. Additionally, devices cannot be ridden, stored, charged, or left unattended in a university facility and must not cause a disruption or block entrances, exits, and pathways.
    Enforcement: University Public Safety officers and other designated staff are responsible for monitoring compliance with this procedure. Violators will be asked to remove the device from the building immediately.
    Exceptions: The University of Tennessee at Martin recognizes the need for persons with a disability to use a motorized wheelchair in university buildings in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Persons with a disability who need to use other power-driven mobility devices inside a university building should consult with the Department of Public Safety, which will determine according to ADA regulations whether such device may be safely used inside the building. A person seeking an exception to this procedure for any other reason should seek approval from the Department of Public Safety.
  3. SCOPE AND APPLICATION

    This procedure applies to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors at the University of Tennessee at Martin. It prohibits the use of motorized and electric vehicles in all university buildings, including academic buildings, administrative buildings, and other facilities. It aligns with existing regulations that prohibit the storage and use of these devices in university residences and other facilities due to fire safety concerns.
  4. DEFINITIONS
    Motorized Personal Transportation Devices: Any motorized (electric or otherwise) device used for individual transportation in lieu of walking including, but not limited to, mopeds, electric scooters, hoverboards, and bicycles
    Hoverboards: Electrically powered boards with two wheels, as defined by the CPSC.
    Bicycles: Conventional or electric bicycles not used for mobility under the ADA.
  5. PENALTIES/DISCIPLINARY ACTION FOR NONCOMPLIANCE
    Individuals found violating this procedure may face confiscation of the device or other disciplinary measures as outlined by university regulations, which may include warnings, fines, or other penalties appropriate to the severity of the infraction.
  6. RESPONSIBLE OFFICIAL AND ADDITIONAL CONTACTS
    Contact Department of Public Safety at 731.881.7777 for questions about the procedure or monitoring.
SA0003-M – Prohibited Use of Motorized Personal Transportation Devices in University Buildings
Version: 1 // Effective: 07/09/2024
PDF icon Downloadable PDF