Rules of the Road and Campus

Campus Rules

According to the SJSU Presidential Directive 2007-06 [pdf] [pdf], bicycles are allowed on most pathways except where appropriate dismount signs are posted, or when there's no clear path due to crowding. Bicyclists are expected to follow these "common courtesy" rules: 

  1. Always yield to pedestrians.  
  2. Drive at an appropriate speed according to existing conditions, not to exceed the campus speed limit for all vehicles of five (5) mph.
  3. Drive in an appropriate manner that does not interfere with pedestrians or campus facilities vehicular traffic.
  4. Walk vehicle when there is no clear path ahead, such as when a walkway is too crowded with pedestrians or other obstructions.
  5. Do not ride in an acrobatic or stunting manner, i.e. activities causing one or more sets of wheels to leave the ground or other surfaces intended for pedestrian or vehicular travel.  
  6. Do not ride on stairs; ramps, railings, vegetation, benches, tables, planters, or other surface not intended for vehicular travel.
  7. Do not ride inside University buildings.
  8. Dismount and walk vehicle where appropriate signs are posted. Posted dismount areas will be in high pedestrian traffic areas with small or obstructed pathways.

City of San Jose

  1. Cyclists are not allowed to ride on sidealks.
  2. Bicycles left unattended must be securly locked. 
  3. Bikes should be parked on racks at all times. In blocks without bicycle racks, bikes can be parked on the outside edge of the sidewalk in an upright position and independent of other bicycles.
  4. Bicycles are also considered vehicles and they must follow all of the same rules as cars. 

Here in the Bay Area, we have excellent bike advocacy organizations that have amazing rescources. We suggest visting the SV Bicycle Coalition website to learn more about California bike laws.