Powered Personal Transportation Devices (June 2024)

Policy

Villanova University Public Safety Department

Policy Manual

Powered Personal Transportation Devices

507.1 PURPOSE Powered Personal Transportation Devices including, but not limited to, self-balancing one- or two-wheeled boards (commonly called Hoverboards and/or One-Wheels) and motorized scooters, skateboards, and similar devices, are a significant source of safety concerns. Their use presents physical hazards to users and pedestrians. Consumer advocacy groups and the National Fire Protection Association recognize that some battery-operated Powered Personal Transportation Devices are fire hazards during use, in storage, and while charging. Villanova University has developed this policy to protect students, staff, faculty, and visitors from hazards associated with these devices. 507.2 SCOPE This policy applies to all Villanova University students, employees, and visitors. This policy does not apply to the use of powered mobility aids for people with mobility impairments. This policy does not apply to motor-assisted bicycles. 507.3 DEFINITIONS Electric Scooter: Any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, has a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding, and is powered by an electric motor. Electric Skateboard: A four-wheeled device with a platform on which a rider stands. They are operated with a remote control with the rider shifting body weight to steer. Hoverboard: A self-balancing two-wheeled board, or self-balancing electric scooter. They typically consist of two wheels arranged side-by-side, with two small platforms between the wheels on which the rider stands. They are operated hands-free, with the rider shifting body weight to control the direction and speed of the hoverboard. Mobility Aid: A device designed to assist walking or otherwise improve the mobility of people with a mobility impairment. Examples include motorized wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and seated walking scooters. Motor-Assisted Bicycle: Bicycles that require use of pedals to move and use battery- powered motors to assist with movement. Powered Personal Transportation Device: Any Electric Scooter, Electric Skateboard, Hoverboard, or similar micromobility device which relies on electric or fuel propulsion and is designed to transport an individual. 507.4 POLICY STATEMENT It is the policy of Villanova University that Powered Personal Transportation Devices are banned from use and storage in all Villanova University buildings, roadways, parking lots, and grounds, effective August 1, 2023.

Powered Personal Transportation Devices - 1

Villanova University Public Safety Department

Policy Manual

Powered Personal Transportation Devices

Motor-Assisted Bicycles are permitted to be used on campus by persons 16 years of age or older in accordance with Pennsylvania law. Helmet usage is required by riders or passengers under the age of 12 pursuant to Pennsylvania law.

507.5 ENFORCEMENT This policy is enforced by the Department of Public Safety. • Powered Personal Transportation Devices found on Villanova University property will be impounded by Public Safety. • Owners of impounded Powered Personal Transportation Devices must pay a fee of $50 for return of the device. • Violations of this policy by faculty or staff will be referred to the Office of Human Resources. • Violations of this policy by students will be referred to the Dean of Students Office.

Published by Villanova University Public Powered Personal Transportation Devices - 2 Safety Department