Electric scooters have grown in popularity as a convenient mode of transportation in urban areas, including college campuses. At the University of Chicago, electric scooters are allowed, but their use is subject to specific rules and regulations to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.

The university encourages students, faculty, staff, and visitors to follow the City of Chicago’s guidelines and ordinances regarding electric scooters. Users must operate scooters in a manner that respects pedestrian right-of-way and complies with traffic laws.

Electric scooters should be ridden on the roadway and bike lanes where available, rather than on sidewalks, to maintain pedestrian safety. When riding on the road, scooters must follow the same rules as bicycles, including signaling turns and stopping at traffic signals and stop signs.

Parking electric scooters on campus requires attention to proper etiquette and regulations. Scooters should be parked at designated bike racks or parking areas without obstructing walkways, ramps, building entrances, or emergency access routes.

The University of Chicago may have additional guidelines specific to campus property, and users are advised to check with the university’s Department of Safety & Security or Transportation & Parking Services for the latest policies and recommendations related to electric scooter use.

For those bringing personal electric scooters to campus, it is recommended to lock them securely when not in use and to be aware of the range and battery life to avoid being stranded with a dead scooter.

Electric scooter-sharing services might also be available, offering additional transportation options for individuals on campus. Users of these services should abide by the service provider’s rules and the university’s guidelines when utilizing shared scooters.

It should be noted that these regulations can evolve, and users are responsible for staying informed about the current rules governing electric scooters at the University of Chicago. It is advised to periodically review the university’s official communications and any updates from the City of Chicago for potential changes to electric scooter policies.