Students are encouraged to register their bicycle with the Vanderbilt University Police Department. Batteries for electric bicycles or non-medical personal electric transportation vehicles, such as electric scooters, are prohibited inside University facilities for riding, storage, or charging.
All battery-operated mobility devices (e.g., electric scooters, e-bikes, hoverboards) must be registered through the University prior to use on campus. This policy is in place to ensure safety, security, and proper storage. Instructions for registration can be found at www.vanderbilt.edu › moving-around-campus.
Bicycles or other transportation devices should only be locked at bike racks, never fences, posts, or other structures. Bicycles or other transportation devices locked improperly will be removed and relocated. U-locks or heavy chain locks are recommended over cable locks. View a map of bike amenities on campus including bike parking, bike repair stations, and shower facilities.
Bicycles that are deemed abandoned—such as those that are left in disrepair, unmoved for an extended period, or parked in unauthorized areas—will be tagged with a notice indicating potential removal. After 30 days, the university may remove and store the bicycle. Removed bicycles will be held for a period of 30 days from the date of collection. During this time, owners may reclaim their bicycle by providing a valid description and proof of ownership. To inquire about or claim a removed bicycle, contact the Vanderbilt University Public Safety office.
Helmet usage is highly encouraged. Helmets and lights are available for free while supplies last.
E-mail movevu@vanderbilt.edu for more information.
Tennessee bicycle laws apply both on and off campus for safe travel. Vanderbilt policy concerning the use of bicycles on campus is as follows:
- Cyclists riding on sidewalks must yield to pedestrians, and must provide audible notice before passing pedestrians.
- The bicycle speed limit on campus roads is 10 miles per hour.
- Riders on Vanderbilt pathways must ride single file, and no more than two abreast on roadways.
- Cyclists on roadways must ride with traffic as close to right edge of the roadway edge as practicable, except under one or more of the following circumstances:
- when the lane is not wide enough to accommodate both a driver and a rider,
- when overtaking and passing a vehicle going in the same direction,
- when preparing for a left turn,
- when avoiding obstacles or hazards, or
- when there is a designated bicycle lane.
To support safe charging practices, Vanderbilt University is launching a pilot program for designated battery charging lockers in select outdoor locations. These lockers are designed to provide a secure and fire-safe environment for charging battery-operated mobility devices.
Availability of lockers is on a first-come, first-served basis. Users must comply with all posted guidelines for locker use.
Additional information can be found on the Transportation & Parking website.