Public Safety

University Police

Cal Poly Maritime Academy Police Department

Bicycle Registration Program

The Cal Poly Maritime Academy Police Department offers a free, voluntary bicycle registration program. Registration discourages theft and improves the chance of identifying and recovering a stolen bicycle.

Register Your Bicycle

Complete the Bicycle Registration Form and return it to the Police Department, or contact University Police Dispatch at (707) 654-1176 to request service from an officer.

Benefits of registration:

  • Increases the likelihood of recovery if your bicycle is stolen.
  • If you forget your combination, lose your key, or your bike lock malfunctions, the Police Department can remove your lock free of charge after verifying ownership.

It is also recommended that you keep your purchase receipt, serial number, manufacturer information, and a photograph of your bicycle.

Rules for Bicycles on Campus

Bicycle riding on roadways at Cal Poly Maritime Academy is subject to the same laws as any other vehicle (CVC sec. 21200–21210). Bicycles used in the line of duty by Police Department personnel are exempt from the bicycle regulations.

  • Speed limit near pedestrians is 5 MPH.
  • Park only in campus bicycle racks. Do not park inside buildings, classrooms, or on stairways; do not secure to lamp posts, trees, or across sidewalks.
  • Do not leave your bicycle on campus during semester breaks — it will be considered abandoned.
  • Bicycles left unused or impounded and unclaimed for three months may be disposed of or sold at auction.

California Vehicle Code Highlights

  • Bicyclist Rights (CVC 21200): Bicyclists have all the rights and responsibilities of vehicle drivers.
  • Alcohol and Drugs (CVC 21200.5): It is against the law to ride a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Headphones (CVC 27400): Bicyclists may not wear earplugs in both ears or a headset covering both ears, except hearing aids.

Riding Safely

  • Always ride with traffic.
  • Signal your turns and moves.
  • Use the bike lane if one is available.
  • Ride defensively and stay alert — use your eyes and ears.
  • Wear a bicycle helmet.
  • Watch for and avoid road hazards.
  • Be visible. A headlight is required by law for night riding; use a red rear reflector, two side reflectors on each wheel, and reflector pedals. Light-colored, reflective clothing is recommended.

Bicycle Rack Locations

  • Lot-C near Pier
  • Front of Laboratory Building
  • Behind Administration Building
  • Front of Library Annex
  • Front of Student Services
  • Front of Dining Center
  • Northwest corner of Upper Residence Hall
  • East side of McAllister Residence Hall
  • Front of PE/Aquatic Center

Theft Prevention

Proper locking is the first defense against bicycle theft. No method is 100% guaranteed, but the layered approach below is recommended:

  • Secure the rear wheel with a small, hardened-steel U-lock inside the rear triangle.
  • Make sure the U-lock is secured to an immovable object.
  • Use a secondary metal lock (cable or another U-lock) on the front wheel.