Micro Mobility Device Policy

E-Scooters, E-Skateboards & Hoverboards

Safety and Security have long been top priorities at Harvard Business School. In an effort to maintain a safe campus HBS has developed a plan for campus use of MicroMobility Devices (MD). MDs are commonly referred to as “power or E” hoverboards, skateboards, razors, wheels, Lime or Bird scooters, and more. Use of MDs has become more popular in recent months, which makes it necessary to incorporate a safe usage policy for our campus. Our hope is to provide a safe balance between the convenient use of MDs on campus and keeping a safe pedestrian environment for all.

Before you Ride

  • Inspect your device for any damage, including the handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, cables, and frame.

  • Follow the manufacturer guidelines, including weight and age restrictions.

  • E-scooters are designed for adult use due to their size and speed. Accidents can be dangerous, and children may lack adult caution and judgment.

Operation & Safety

  • Register your device with HUPD.

  • Micromobility devices may only be used in areas where bicycle traffic is allowed, may only travel in the direction of bicycle traffic and must follow all vehicular rules and regulations.

  • Helmet use is strongly encouraged while operating micromobility devices.

  • Micromobility operators must yield to persons with disabilities, other pedestrians and bicyclists.

  • Micromobility operators must not exceed 5 mph while travelling on campus pathways which includes any non-vehicular path or road on the HBS Campus.

  • Micromobility device shall not be operated while under the influence of intoxicants.

  • Micromobility devices may not be operated inside any campus building or tunnel.

Parking & Storage

Improperly stored devices may be removed for safety purposes.

  • Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions.

  • Whenever possible, store scooters and bikes outdoors.

  • If you must store them indoors, keep them away from doors, windows, and stairways.

  • Park in a designated parking area, a rack, or your dorm room.

  • Park devices upright, and don’t park in a way that obstructs accessible pathways, building entrances and exits, driveways, fire safety equipment, or emergency egress paths.

When storing lithium-ion batteries and the devices they power:

  • When possible, store them at room temperature.

  • Don’t leave them in a hot car, direct sunlight, or freezing temperatures.

  • Keep them away from combustible materials.

Batteries & Safe Charging

All batteries on campus must meet underwriters’ laboratory (UL) standards.

Aftermarket and generic accessories can cause serious lithium-ion battery fires.

To mitigate this risk:

  • Only use the charger that came with your device, designed specifically for it. This includes the battery, charging cable, and power adapter.

  • Only use approved replacement battery packs.

  • Never use a device with a battery pack that’s modified or reworked by unqualified personnel, or with re-purposed or used cells.

  • Dispose of lithium batteries by taking them to your local battery recycler or hazardous waste collection center. Don’t dispose of them in the trash or general recycling.

  • Don’t charge shared devices, including Lime and Bird scooters, on HBS property or inside Harvard-owned or operated buildings.

To safely charge your device:

  1. Read and follow the manufacturer's charging instructions.

  2. Plug the charger directly into a wall outlet. Don’t plug it into a power strip or extension cord.

  3. Place your device on a hard, stable surface while charging. Don’t charge devices on beds, couches, or pillows.

  4. Don't leave the device unattended while charging. Don’t charge devices while you are sleeping.