Mobility Policy
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 micromobility devices and motorized bicycles. Our campus is primarily pedestrian in design, and we know that advancements in technology are bringing a wide range of personal mobility devices to the market. This policy seeks to provide a safe environment for all users of campus pathways and roadways.
What devices fall under this policy?
Motorized bicycles: A pedal bicycle, as defined by Massachusetts general law, with a helper motor, or a non-pedal bicycle which has a motor, with a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission, and which is capable of a maximum speed of no more than thirty (30) miles per hour (mph).
Micromobility Devices: Micromobility devices are small, lightweight vehicles designed for individual transportation, typically for short distances. These include e-bikes, electric scooters, and other compact motorized or human-powered devices.
Campus Pathways and Roadways
Pathways (White on campus map): Paths designated for pedestrian and light micromobility use, such as sidewalks or designated bike lanes. They are shared by pedestrians and motorized micromobility devices like bicycles, scooters, and skateboards. They are generally narrower and often restrict access to larger vehicles.
Roadways (Gray and White on Campus Map): Streets and routes intended for motor vehicle traffic. Note: White Roadways have restricted vehicular access.
Operation and Safety
We recommend that you register your devices with HUPD and always wear a helmet.
Under Massachusetts law, mopeds/motorized scooters are classified as 'motorized bicycles' (with or without pedals) and are regulated by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. To operate a motorized bicycle or moped, individuals must hold a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license.
Motorized Bicycles:
May only be driven on vehicular campus roadways: Gordon Road, Batten Way and parking lot.
Cannot be driven on any campus walkways or restricted roadways.
Must follow all speed limits and vehicle operating regulations for the campus.
Micromobility Devices
Micromobility users must yield to pedestrians.
The devices may not be operated inside any campus building or tunnel.
Must not exceed 5 mph while travelling on campus pathways.
Parking & Storage
"Parking” for motorized bicycles is only available at the dedicated location near the parking lot (see map below).
Improperly stored micromobility devices may be removed by HBS Operations for safety.
Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions.
Whenever possible, store scooters and bikes outdoors and properly lock the device.
Park in a designated parking area, a rack, or your residence hall room.
Park devices upright, and don’t park in a way that obstructs accessible pathways, building entrances and exits, driveways, fire safety equipment, doors, windows, hallways, stairs, or emergency egress paths.
When storing lithium-ion batteries and micromobility devices they power keep them away from hot cars, direct sunlight, freezing temperatures and combustible materials.
Batteries & Safe Charging
To safely charge your micromobility device:
Read and follow the manufacturer's charging instructions. 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. All batteries on campus must meet Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL) standards.
Don’t charge dockless, shared micromobility devices on HBS property or inside Harvard-owned or operated buildings.
Plug the charger directly into a wall outlet. Don’t plug it into a power strip or extension cord.
Place your device on a hard, stable surface while charging. Don’t charge devices on beds, couches, or pillows.
Don't leave the device unattended while charging. Don’t charge devices while you are sleeping.
Dispose of lithium batteries by taking them to your local battery recycler or hazardous waste collection center. Don’t dispose of them in trash or general recycling.
