Getting Around Campus

 

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.

What is a Motorized Scooter?

According to California Vehicle Code (CVC) 407.5(a), a motorized scooter is defined as:

  • A two-wheeled device
  • Equipped with handlebars and a floorboard to stand on
  • Powered by an electric motor
California Laws for E-Scooter Riders

Under CVC 21235, all motorized scooter riders in California must:

  • Hold a valid driver license
  • Ride on the road only — scooters are not permitted on sidewalks
  • Park scooters without blocking pedestrian paths
  • Do not ride with passengers — one person per scooter

Note: Under CVC 21221, motorized scooters are required to follow all standard traffic laws, just like cars.
Violations may result in traffic tickets and points on your driver license.

Parking & Impound Policy

Scooters must be parked only in designated areas. Do not block:

  • Sidewalks
  • ADA pathways or ramps
  • Building entrances
  • Stairways

Scooters locked to ADA ramps or pathways will be impounded immediately.
Owners may be subject to fines and penalties.

Safe Riding Tips
  • Helmets save lives. Always wear a helmet when riding.
  • Obey traffic signals — stop at red lights and yield to pedestrians.
  • Stay off sidewalks and never ride through crosswalks.
  • Walk your scooter in designated dismount zones.
  • Park scooters in approved racks or zones only.
Charging Your Personal E-Scooter

If you own a personal e-scooter, please follow these charging safety guidelines:

  • Use scooters that meet UL 2272 safety certification.
  • Never charge unattended or overnight — only while you're present.
  • Don’t charge immediately after riding — wait at least 30 minutes.
  • Keep away from direct heat or sunlight while charging.
  • Use the manufacturer’s charger — avoid third-party options.
  • Turn off your scooter while it's charging.
Additional Safety Reminders
  • Stay alert — you may not be seen or heard by other vehicles.
  • Ride defensively and use caution.
  • Use common sense — scooters are motorized vehicles, not toys.

Need More Info?

For additional details on micromobility rules or campus vehicle regulations, please read the notification to campus regarding the Revised Micromobility Device Policy (03-03-26): 
 

 
 

REVISED MICROMOBILITY DEVICE POLICY NOW IN EFFECT

To: All campus

 

To the Campus Community:

 

Campus safety is a shared responsibility, and creating an environment that is safe, accessible, and respectful for all requires collective awareness and action. As micromobility use continues to grow, the campus has been closely monitoring an increase in collisions involving these devices and implementing mitigation strategies to address related safety concerns. The Micromobility Devices Policy is one component of this broader effort.

 

As of March 2, 2026, the final Micromobility Devices Policy is now in effect.

 

This policy, developed with input from the campus community, establishes clear expectations for the responsible use, parking, storage, and charging of electric scooters, e-bikes, skateboards, bicycles, and similar devices. It aligns with the California Vehicle Code and UC safety standards and is intended to reduce injuries, preserve accessibility, and mitigate fire risk associated with improper charging and storage.

 

While the policy provides important structure, it is only one part of a comprehensive approach to safety. Meaningful improvement depends on a shared commitment to responsible behavior. Riding at safe speeds, respecting pedestrian-only areas, parking in designated locations, and charging devices properly are actions that directly impact the well-being of others. A safe campus environment requires consistent, collective participation.

 

Compliance with the policy is required. The campus will prioritize education and outreach to support awareness and voluntary compliance; however, enforcement has begun and will escalate for repeated or hazardous violations. Actions may include citations, fines, impoundment of devices, and referral through applicable student or employee conduct processes.

 

All members of the UC Merced community are encouraged to review the full Micromobility Devices Policy and incorporate its expectations into daily practice. Questions may be directed to Campus Risk Manager Cindi Zimmerman at czimmerman3@ucmerced.edu or 209-386-3079.

 

By working together, we can ensure that micromobility remains a sustainable and convenient transportation option while maintaining a campus that is safe, accessible, and respectful for all.