Carry-Ons
- Carts, strollers, luggage and oversize backpacks are allowed if they can be folded, stowed or personally held (setting in adjacent seat is not proper) without blocking aisles (FDOT Reg. 392.62). If items block the aisles or cannot be properly stowed, then service may be denied.
- DO NOT bring any items of a dangerous nature on board buses including weapons (pistols, rifles, knives or swords); flammable liquids; dangerous, toxic or poisonous substances; vessels containing caustic materials, chemicals, acids or alkalis; vehicle batteries or any other item deemed by RTS to be unsafe or prohibited for transport.
- No pets are allowed on RTS buses unless they are in a carrier. Service animals are allowed.
- Bringing bags onto an RTS bus is allowed; however, an Operator is not allowed to touch the bags or carry them into homes. Riders may be refused if the individual is attempting to board with more bags than they can reasonably carry. Bags or packages must be kept clear of the walkway/aisle and cannot occupy another seat. Bags must not be leaking or otherwise contributing to unclean conditions.
- RTS will transport battery-powered bicycles in the bicycle rack.
- Bike wheels must fit securely in the rack and be secured by the support arm as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Bike accessories, baskets, etc. must be secure and not obstruct the view of the Operator. Removing the battery is optional.
- Battery-powered bicycles are limited to one per rack. If the rack is full, customers should be prepared to wait for the next bus or choose a safe location to lock up their bicycle.
- Battery-powered or standard bicycles that fold and can be kept out of the aisles may be brought onboard.
- Battery-powered or standard two-wheeled scooters that fold and can be kept out of the aisles may be brought onboard.
- Bike wheels must fit securely in the rack and be secured by the support arm as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Gasoline-powered bicycles, scooters, and skateboards are not allowed on the bike rack or on the transit vehicle.
On Bus and At Stop
- Congregating or loitering on a bus near the doorways and aisles, or at a bus stop, in a way that causes an inconvenience to other passengers or blocks entry and exits to a bus is prohibited.
- Smoking, e-cigs and vapes are not permitted on RTS buses or at stops/shelters. (Ord. No. 150406, § 2, 3-16-17)
- Buses only stop at designated bus stops.
- Enter at the front of the bus and if able exit from the rear door.
- Have exact fare, your pass, ID card, ADA card, Gator 1 or Santa Fe ID, ready when the bus stops and the doors open. As you board, show your ID card or digital pass, activate/swipe your pass, scan code on verifier, or drop the correct fare into the fare-box. Remember, bus operators don’t carry change, so Change Card for future RTS purchases will be provided. Change Cards are non-refundable.
- ALWAYS stay behind the yellow line at the front of the bus.
- Do NOT distract the bus operator while he or she is driving, do not talk to the bus operator while the bus is moving.
- Ride in an upright position with feet on the floor or if you must stand always hold on to a support.
- Conversations and other noise should be kept at a level that does not disturb other passengers or the operator.
- Sound-generating electronic devices – like cell phones or portable disc players can only be used on our buses if you are using earphones.
- The use or display of obscene, threatening, or degrading language or images is not allowed.
- Disorderly or inappropriate conduct which is inconsistent with the orderly and comfortable use of buses for their intended purpose is prohibited.
- Customers are asked to refrain from distributing unsolicited religious or political information, pamphlets and other materials. This is commonly referred to as proselytizing.
- The private distribution of promotional materials, or attempting to buy or sell products or services, is not allowed.
- Inform bus operator BEFORE you remove your bike from rack.
- Do NOT damage the bus, bus shelters, bus stops or any transit property.
- Refrain from touching other passengers and service animals.
- Riders shall maintain appropriate, reasonable personal hygiene. All containers of body fluids must be empty and capped. If riders have offensive odor, open or seeping sores, leaking bodily fluids, or have clothing containing blood, urine, feces, or vomit RTS can refuse service until the situation has been contained or corrected.
- Shirt, shoes, and bottom attire are always required.
- Spitting, defecating, or urinating is prohibited.
Violation of any or part of this Code of Conduct may result in removal from the bus and trespass from Gainesville Regional Transit System properties.