Use of Skateboards and Similar Devices

Policy 304.2

Introduction

1.1 The safety of Appalachian State University students and employees, as well as the safety of visitors, is the highest priority of the University administration and Board of Trustees. The University recognizes the use of skateboards, roller skates, scooters, or similar skating devices as sustainable, alternative forms of transportation. Respect and consideration for others is necessary to ensure a safe environment for pedestrians, to reduce the risk of personal injury to pedestrians and device operators, and to prevent damage to facilities and grounds caused by inappropriate use of these devices. This policy is intended to balance these interests.

Scope

2.1 All Appalachian State University students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Definitions

Skateboard

A non-motorized device consisting of two or more wheels affixed to a platform or footboard upon which a rider stands and which does not have steering capability or brakes that operate on or upon the wheels of the skateboard. It also includes every device generally recognized as a skateboard.

Roller Skates

A device consisting of a shoe with a set of wheels attached for skating or a metal frame with wheels attached that can be fitted to the sole of a shoe worn by a person. It includes in-line skates, rollerblades, and every device generally recognized as roller skates.

Scooter

A non-motorized device consisting of two or more wheels affixed to a platform or footboard upon which a rider stands and which has a handle or other mechanism for holding or guiding the device. It also includes every device generally recognized as a scooter. It does not include mopeds, whether operated with or without motor power.

Skating Device

Any non-motorized device with wheels designed or used for riding by one or more persons including any skateboard, scooter, or roller skates, as defined above. The term "skating device" does not include a wheelchair or similar device when being used for transportation by any person with disabilities, a baby stroller or similar device when being used for transporting any child, or bicycles.

Hoverboard

A two-wheeled motorized board consisting of a platform for feet, battery operated motor and steered by varying weight distribution.

Appalachian State University Property

Buildings, grounds, and land that are owned or controlled, via leases or other contractual arrangements, by Appalachian State University.

Policy and Procedure Statements

General Policy

Responsible use of alternative transportation methods including skateboards, roller skates, scooters, and other similar devices is allowed on campus as a way of reducing reliance on motorized transportation and promoting healthy exercise. Persons may operate these devices upon any sidewalk used for pedestrian purposes, subject to the following restrictions:

4.1.1 Operators must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at all times. When in an area of congested pedestrian traffic, or in the case of any doubt of safe and untouched passage by a pedestrian, operators shall dismount and walk.

4.1.2 Skating devices must not be operated at excessive speeds and the user must remain in control of the device at all times. Riding skating devices down steep grades or hills, including sidewalks adjacent to Stadium Drive and Locust Street, is prohibited.

4.1.3 Skating devices are not vehicles and their use is prohibited on portions of roadways passing through or immediately adjoining Appalachian State University Property, in parking lots, and inside parking garages.

4.1.4 Skating devices shall not be ridden upon any stairway, wall, bench, fountain, railing, or other structure or facility or on or over landscaping, shrubbery, grass, or flower beds. Performing tricks, stunts, jumps, racing, etc. is strictly prohibited. All wheels of the device must remain in contact with the ground at all times.

4.1.5 The use of skating devices is prohibited within any building, on the sidewalks running through or adjacent to Sanford Mall, in the Academy Street Pedestrian Zone, and at Founders Plaza.

4.1.6 No person operating a skating device shall attach, for the purpose of being towed, to any moving vehicle, including bicycles and automobiles.

4.1.6 No skating device shall be left unattended on or at ramps, building entrances, hallways, stairwells, classrooms, etc.

4.1.7 Electronic skateboards, including hoverboards, and other similar types of equipment (e.g. Segways) are banned for use, storage, and charging on University property.

4.1.8 Like any other method of transportation, the use of skating devices involves inherent risks that can lead to injury or death of the operator or bystanders. Appalachian State University strongly urges operators to fully understand the inherent risks and how best to manage such risks. Wearing protective equipment while operating skating devices is strongly recommended.

Sanctions

Any violations of this policy by members of the Appalachian State University community (faculty, staff, students, or volunteers) will be dealt with in accordance with applicable University policies and disciplinary procedures.

Violations of this policy by anyone not a member of the Appalachian State University community will result in removal from Appalachian State University property. The University will also pursue appropriate legal remedies, such as trespass, to prohibit the physical return of such violator(s) to campus.

Those persons causing damage to persons or property while engaged in the use of these devices will be held financially responsible and may be subject to civil and criminal penalties.

Suspected violations of law will be referred to law enforcement and may result in criminal penalties.

Authority

1. The UNC Policy Manual, The Code, Chapter V, Section 502, Chancellors of Constituent Institutions
2. Town of Boone, Code of Ordinances § 71.01, Special Provisions for Non-Motorized Wheeled Vehicles, Including Bicycles, Skateboards and the Like, and Motorcycles
3. Town of Boone, Code of Ordinances § 100.01 Rules and Regulations Governing the Use of Town Parks, Including the Town Greenway
4. Town of Boone, Code of Ordinances § 100.02 Hazardous Recreational Activities Within the Town

Contact Information

Director of Public Safety, (828) 262-2150, [email protected]

Original Effective Date

7/14/2021