Bicycle Registration and Safety
All bicyclists must operate under Texas Motor Vehicle Laws while on public roadways. This is just a summary of some of those laws and University Regulations. To get more information on the laws pertaining to bicycles in the Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 551, click here.
- A bicycle may not be ridden, parked or stored on any campus lawn or other areas where pedestrians may walk. Pedestrians have the right-of-way on all sidewalks. Bicycles are not permitted where official signs prohibit parking or riding.
- The operator of a bicycle must give the right of way to pedestrians at all times.
- Bicycles may not be secured to any tree, shrub, or plant, including average step railings, or any structure NOT designated as a bicycle rack or locking facility. An exception is a chain-link fence.
- Bicycles may not be left unattended on any sidewalk, street, driveway, loading zone, fire lane, building, porch or patio, or pedestrian mall.
- Violations of these regulations will result in the removal of the bicycle by the SMU Police Department; the owner may retrieve it after showing proper identification.
- All violations of campus bicycle regulations are considered minor traffic violations and fines will be assessed accordingly.
- State law requires bicycle riders to obey all traffic control devices, stop signs, etc.
- To register your bicycle with the SMU Police Department use our Bicycle Registration Form.
Bicyclists must use hand gestures to signal their intent to stop, turn left, or turn right.
- STOP - Extend the left hand and arm downward
- LEFT TURN - Extend the left hand and arm horizontally
- RIGHT TURN - Extend the left hand and arm upward, OR extend the right hand and arm horizontally
For recommendations on bicycle locks and how to properly secure your bike visit below site:
https://thebestbikelock.com/how-to-lock-your-bike/