Let’s be real: nobody wants to be late for class because they’re stuck in traffic or hunting for a parking spot. Whether you’re cruising to a 9 a.m. class on an e-scooter or riding across campus on an e-board, Boise State is all about getting you where you need to be on time.
Electric mobility devices, like e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and self-balancing devices (aka electric uniwheels), are a popular way to get around campus.
Being a pro-commuter is about more than just speed. It’s about sharing the space and knowing your options. Your personal e-wheels are a vibe, but they’re part of a bigger system that includes:
- The Bronco Shuttle: Your go-to ride when the weather turns cold, snowy, or just unpredictable. Free and easy around campus.
- Lime Scooters: A quick and convenient option for getting across campus when you need to move fast.
- Valley Regional Transit: When you’re heading beyond campus, this is your link to the rest of Boise and beyond.
To keep the paths safe and stress-free for everyone, we’ve put together the ultimate “Playbook” for riding, parking, charging, and registering your electric gear. Think of these guidelines as your toolkit for a smoother, safer campus experience.
Riding guidelines and safety
Campus-wide rules
Planning to bring an electric mobility device like an e-bike or electric scooter? Make sure you’re following Policy #12170, Pedestrian and Personal Conveyance Safety.
- Park it outdoors on a bike rack. Your device must stay out of buildings.
- Do not bring batteries indoors, as lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire risk.
- Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended, even if it is not required.
- Ride following the direction of traffic.
- Follow the three-foot passing rule when overtaking others.
- Use a bell or your voice to alert pedestrians as you pass.
- The campus speed limit is 15 mph for all bikes, scooters, and other personal mobility devices, including electric devices.
Prohibited areas
E-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and other similar devices cannot be ridden in the following locations.:
- Parking garages, including Lincoln, Brady, Osprey, and University Plaza Broadway.
- The Quad.
- Campus housing walkways and doorways.
- Any area where use could block pathways and/or limit ADA access.
Additionally, these devices are not permitted inside any campus buildings, including residence halls and the library, due to potential fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Parking guidelines
Parking requirements
Park responsibly to keep campus safe and accessible for everyone.
- Do not store e-bikes, e-scooters, or similar transportation indoors due to potential fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries. Park upright and fully outside of walkways.
- Use designated bike racks whenever possible.
- We encourage using a high-quality U-lock to protect your device.
- Keep all pedestrian walkways, ADA access routes, curb ramps, and building entrances clear.
- Use bike barns in the Lincoln and Brady parking garages for long-term storage.
- There are bike barns located in the Osprey parking garage as well. These barns are limited to residents of the Osprey Residence Hall.
- Follow posted signage for short-term and long-term parking areas.
Abandoned devices
Devices left in prohibited locations or stored for extended periods may be considered abandoned. The university may tag, remove, and impound abandoned devices in accordance with campus procedures.
Charging infrastructure
Current charging locations
Need to charge up? Boise State offers convenient options to keep you powered and moving. Charging is only allowed in approved locations.
- Outdoor charging stations and outlets are available near all campus residence halls.
- Availability and access may vary by location, so be sure to follow posted hours and guidelines.
- Use the Interactive Campus Map to find charging stations across campus.
Charging etiquette
Help keep charging stations safe and available for everyone.
- Use charging stations responsibly so others can access them.
- Keep charging cables tidy to prevent tripping hazards and blocked walkways.
- Report damaged or non-functional chargers as soon as possible.
- Please reach out to Bike Help at (208) 780-9743 or bikehelp@boisestate.edu to report charging station issues.
How should i charge an e-bike battery?
Charging your e-bike, e-scooter, or other battery-powered ride the right way helps keep you and your surroundings safe. Keep these tips in mind:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging your battery.
- Only use the charger provided or recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid counterfeit chargers.
- Do not use aftermarket batteries.
- Avoid overcharging. Try to keep your battery between 20% and 80% charged.
- Never leave a battery unattended while charging, and never charge it overnight.
- Do not charge batteries in extremely hot or extremely cold temperatures.
- Charge your battery before it fully loses power.
- Keep your battery dry and free of debris, especially during the winter months.
Device registration and permits
Registering your e-bike, e-scooter, one-wheel, longboard, hoverboard, or other similar ride helps prevent theft and makes it easier to recover if it is lost or stolen.
- Bike Index is a free service used by the Department of Public Safety’s campus security team, the Boise Police Department, and many local bike shops.
- Each registered device receives a unique identification number and a QR code sticker that can be placed on a bike, scooter, or other personal conveyance vehicle.
- Registration helps confirm ownership if your vehicle is found and returned.
- Your registration stays active even after you leave Boise State.
- You can file a theft report, adding your item to a shared database of stolen property visible to Bike Index partners and users.
How to register
- Visit the Cycle Learning Center with your electric device for in-person help.
- Email bikehelp@boisestate.edu for help with registration or questions about the process.
Resources and support
Boise State has on-campus resources to help you ride safely, take care of your bike or scooter, and find answers about electric mobility.
Bike help
Have questions about electric mobility or campus transportation policies? Bike Help is here with answers. Anyone on campus can reach out by email or phone for support or guidance.
Bike Help Can:
- Answer questions about campus policies and safe use of electric bikes, scooters, and similar transportation.
- Receive reports of issues with charging stations, bike pump stations, and storage racks.
- Assist with lock cutting when a key is lost or a lock stops working.
- Map out commutes to help you choose good routes.
- Help connect you with after-hours support when available.
Contact Bike Help:
Email: bikehelp@boisestate.edu
Phone: (208) 780-9743
Cycle Learning Center
The Cycle Learning Center provides hands-on support and education for all personal transportation on campus, including bicycles, electric bikes, scooters, longboards, and one-wheels. They can assist you with:
- Repairs and maintenance
- Access to tools and equipment
- Safety classes and educational resources
- General questions about use and care
We’re here to help!