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Micromobility & E-Scooter Safety at UC Merced

UC Merced is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our entire campus community. As micromobility options like electric scooters, e-bikes and skateboards become more popular, it's important for all users to understand and follow the rules of the road, both for personal safety and community responsibility.

This page provides essential guidelines on operating electric scooters and micromobility devices in accordance with California law and UC Merced campus policies.

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For additional details on micromobility rules or campus vehicle regulations, please read the notification to campus regarding the Interim Micromobility Device Policy (10-13-25): 
 

 

INTERIM MICROMOBILITY DEVICE POLICY NOW IN EFFECT FOLLOWING INCREASE IN COLLISIONS

To: All campus

October 13, 2025



To the campus community:

In the first weeks of the semester, UC Merced has experienced a significant rise in collisions involving micromobility devices—such as electric scooters, e-bikes and skateboards—resulting in injuries that required medical attention and ambulance transport. While these devices are a sustainable and convenient way to travel short distances, their growing presence on campus has created safety risks for both riders and pedestrians.

To address these concerns, the University has issued an Interim Policy on Micromobility Devices, effective October 13, 2025. This policy establishes clear expectations for the use, parking, storage, and charging of micromobility devices on campus, in alignment with California law and UC systemwide safety standards. The policy will guide campus behavior immediately while the University seeks feedback to help shape the final version.

Although this is an interim measure, compliance is required and enforcement has begun. Riders who violate policy provisions—including operating devices on sidewalks or in pedestrian zones, exceeding the 15 mph campus speed limit, or parking in unauthorized areas—may face citations, fines up to $500, impoundment of devices, and possible disciplinary action. These measures are necessary to protect the safety and accessibility of all members of our community.

At the same time, UC Merced invites thoughtful input from students, faculty and staff to ensure the final policy reflects our collective values of safety, accessibility and sustainability. Comments may be submitted anonymously through this survey by January 12, 2026. Additional educational resources and a dedicated website are being developed to help the community understand and follow the policy.

We ask all members of the UC Merced community to carefully review the full Interim Micromobility Devices Policy and observe its requirements. Questions may be directed to Campus Risk Manager Cindi Zimmerman at czimmerman3@ucmerced.edu or 209-386-3079.

By taking these necessary precautions, we can foster a campus environment that is safe, sustainable and respectful for all who learn, work and visit here.