E-Scooters and Policy PS03

One area that continues to generate questions is the use of electric scooters, commonly known as e-scooters.

Under Policy PS03, e-scooters are classified as motor-driven devices that do not meet Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requirements for operation on public highways and are prohibited on University property, including roadways, sidewalks, bike paths, shared-use paths and inside buildings.

Transportation Services and UPPS work collaboratively through educational initiatives such as the Bicycle Education and Enforcement Program (BEEP), which helps educate community members about transportation safety and regulations. First-time violators of certain transportation-related offenses may have opportunities to complete educational programming designed to promote safer travel habits. (The BEEP program does not apply for anyone receiving state motor vehicle citations.)

Individuals who currently own e-scooters are encouraged not to bring them to campus and to review University regulations before using any transportation device on Penn State property. 

Members of the Penn State community can learn more about transportation regulations and alternatives by reviewing Policy PS03, referring to the FAQs below, and visiting the Transportation Services website. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Penn State Policy PS03?
Policy PS03, formerly known as SY16, is Penn State's policy governing bicycles and personal mobility devices on University property. The policy establishes rules and regulations for bicycles, scooters, skateboards, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and other transportation devices used on campus.

Are e-scooters allowed on Penn State campuses?
No. E-scooters are prohibited on Penn State property, including roadways, sidewalks, bike paths, shared-use paths, and inside University buildings. Penn State classifies e-scooters as motor-driven devices that do not meet Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requirements for operation on public highways.

Why are e-scooters prohibited?
The prohibition is intended to support campus safety and promote compliance with Pennsylvania law and University policy. Concerns include pedestrian safety, crowded walkways, potential collisions, device speed, and challenges associated with safely operating motor-driven devices in high-density campus environments.

What does PS03 mean by "motor-driven devices"?
Under PS03, motor-driven devices include transportation devices propelled by battery, internal combustion, or other mechanical means that do not meet Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requirements for operation as motor vehicles on public roadways. Examples of those that do not meet requirements include e-scooters and many e-skateboards.

Isn’t an e-scooter an EPAMD (Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device)?
A common misconception is that e-scooters are classified as EPAMDs; however, this is not the case. An EPAMD is a self-balancing, electrically powered transportation device designed to carry a single person. It typically has two non-tandem wheels, although some newer devices feature a single wheel, and is capable of speeds up to 20 miles per hour. Common examples include Segways and Onewheels. 

Can I ride my e-scooter on campus roads if I stay off the sidewalks?
No. The prohibition applies across University property, including roadways, sidewalks, bike paths, shared pathways, and buildings.

Can I store my E-scooter in my residence hall or another campus building?
No. E-scooters are prohibited on University property, including inside buildings. Students should not bring E-scooters to campus.

Are E-bikes also prohibited?
Not necessarily. Policy PS03 distinguishes e-bikes from e-scooters. Bicycles, including e-bikes that meet applicable legal definitions, are addressed separately under the policy. Riders should review PS03 and applicable Pennsylvania laws to determine whether their device is permitted.

What happens if I am caught operating an e-scooter on campus?
Violators may receive a citation and be referred to the Bicycle Education and Enforcement Program (BEEP). Depending on the circumstances and prior violations, and at officers’ discretion, penalties may include motor vehicle fines and other enforcement actions (if motor vehicle fines are given, a referral to the BEEP program will not be possible).

What is the BEEP program?
The Bicycle Education and Enforcement Program (BEEP) is an educational program administered through Transportation Services. For certain first-time violations that do not include state motor vehicle fines, individuals may have an opportunity to complete educational training in lieu of paying a fine. Revenue generated from citations supports continued transportation safety education.

Is Penn State actively enforcing the E-scooter prohibition?
Yes. University Police and Public Safety continues to use a combination of education and enforcement to promote compliance with PS03. UPPS regularly reminds students about the prohibition prior to the start of semesters and during major campus communications campaigns.

Are electric skateboards allowed?
No. Electric skateboards and similar motor-driven devices are prohibited under the same regulations that prohibit e-scooters.

Where can students learn more about transportation rules on campus?
Students can review:

Penn State Policy PS03 (formerly SY16)
Transportation Services bicycle and mobility resources
Pennsylvania's Micromobility Fact Sheet

These resources provide detailed information about permitted transportation devices, safety expectations, and enforcement.

What transportation alternatives are available instead of e-scooters?
Students may consider walking, CATA bus service, bicycles, approved e-bikes, campus shuttles, and other transportation options provided through Transportation Services. Students should ensure any transportation device used on campus complies with University policy and state law.

Who should I contact if I have questions about e-scooters or transportation regulations?
Questions regarding transportation options and regulations may be directed to Transportation Services. Questions about enforcement or University policy may be directed to University Police and Public Safety.

Does the policy apply to visitors, faculty, and staff, or only students?
PS03 applies to all persons operating covered transportation devices on University property, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Is this a new policy?
No. The policy has existed for several years. PS03 is the current designation for the policy formerly known as SY16, and it continues to govern the use of bicycles and personal mobility devices on University property.