Electric scooters

Commuting to the University of Nevada, Reno using alternative transportation methods, including bicycles and micromobility devices such as electronic scooters, benefits the environment and can provide cost savings to the individual. In accordance with Nevada Revised Statutes and City of Reno Administrative Code, riders of electric scooters and electric bicycles must follow all the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles.

For more information on electric scooter use at the University, consult the guidance below and section 5,450 of the University Administrative Manual.

Rules for scooter operators

  • Obey all rules of the road, including traffic signs and signals. Operators must follow all applicable state and local laws, ordinances and University policies.
  • The speed limit on internal campus roadways is 15 mph.
  • Scooters are not permitted to be operated on paths designated for pedestrian use, including walk zones.
  • Scooters must be operated at a low speed in the presence of pedestrians.
    • Maintain a distance of at least 3 feet from pedestrians.
    • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • Scooters cannot be used for racing, stunt or trick riding.
  • Scooters may not be operated inside any University building.
  • Operators of scooters must not carry passengers.

Safety tips

  • Wear a helmet.
  • Watch the road for uneven surfaces and debris.
  • Be wary of puddles and leaves that may hide potholes.
  • Dress to be seen. Use lights and reflective clothing or gear at night.
  • Share the road and never ride against traffic.
  • Eliminate distractions. Do not text while riding. Do not wear headphones or earbuds.

Parking, storage and charging guidelines

  • Be mindful of where the scooter is parked to ensure that campus pathways remain accessible and safe for the entire University community.
  • Upon arriving at your destination, remember to dismount as you exit the roadway and walk the scooter to the rack.
  • Park scooters at bike racks or in designated scooter parking zones.
  • Scooters may not be parked in pedestrian pathways, vehicle parking spaces, including ADA spaces, on ADA ramps, in stairwells, within classrooms, corridors, doorways or other areas where they block access to an area or impede building egress.
  • Only charge scooters or other battery-powered equipment using the original charger provided by the manufacturer or an approved replacement.
  • Discontinue use of any device that exhibits signs of battery damage, including bulging, swelling, excessive heat, strange or chemical odors, leaking or other visible damage.

Bird e-scooters

In 2022, the City of Reno launched an e-scooter share option with Bird in Downtown and Midtown Reno, including the University of Nevada, Reno main campus. To use a Bird scooter, download the Bird app for your smartphone. Operators must be 18 years old and have a valid driver's license.

Bird scooter pricing

As of August 2026, Bird scooter rentals are priced as follows:

  • $1 to unlock the scooter
  • $0.54 per minute, plus tax and fees

For more pricing options, visit the City of Reno's e-scooter information page.

Operators are expected to review and abide by any terms and conditions agreed to in order to ride the motorized scooter. As with any device used for transportation, users operate at their own risk.