Sonoma State University

Tenets of Safe Operations of Powered Carts

The following applies to both gasoline and electric powered carts:

  1. Only employees authorized by Sonoma State University (SSU) shall be permitted to operate powered carts.  The only exception is authorized third party users.
  2. Drivers must have a current driver’s license and have completed the SSU Defensive Driving training course within the past 2-years before they are authorized to operate a powered cart on campus.
  3. Cart operators and passengers shall be familiar with, and observe all established traffic laws. 
  4. Pedestrians have the right of way at all times.  When driving in areas frequented by pedestrians, your speed shall not exceed 5 mph.
  5. Carts equipped with seatbelts MUST be worn by vehicle occupants at all times.  The maximum number of passengers is equal to the number of seatbelts in the vehicle.  All passengers must be in a seat while the cart is move – NO exceptions.  Drivers violating this safety rule may have their driving privileges suspended or revoked.
  6. Cell phone or other mobile device use, is prohibited while operating any moving powered cart.  Carts shall be parked in a safe location while operating a cell phone or other communication device, such as a walkie-talkie or smart watch.
  7. The use of ear buds when worn in both ears is prohibited at any time while operating a cart.  One earbud can be worn for the purposes of hands-free communication.  Headphones are prohibited at all times.
  8. Operators and passengers shall keep arms and legs inside the cart at all times and shall not jump on or off moving vehicles.
  9. Carts are not toys – “joy riding” is specifically prohibited.
  10. Powered carts should be driven on campus streets whenever possible.  Powered carts, except Landscape Maintenance vehicles, shall not be driven on lawns at any time.
  11. Parking is prohibited near building entrances and exits.
  12. Carts shall not be operated at night without properly working headlights and taillights.
  13. Carts shall not be driven off campus unless they are appropriately equipped (i.e. street legal) for registration with the CA Department of Motor Vehicles.
  14. Cart users may not “lend” a cart of any non-authorized person.  A cart user is responsible for ensuring the security of the cart to prevent this type of use.
  15. Materials and equipment shall be properly secured so that they will not shift or fall off of moving carts.