Rules for Riding

Your role as a rider

Transit vehicles and facilities are shared spaces, and come with shared responsibilities. Our Code of Conduct applies anytime you use the transit system, and ensures a clean, safe experience for all. 

 

REQUIRED

 

 PAY YOUR FARE

Pay as you get on the bus or be prepared to show proof of having paid the correct fare on a METRO line. If you don't, you risk being issued a citation. You can pay with a Go-To Card, a Metro Transit app ticket, or cash. If paying the fare is a burden, you may qualify for $1 rides through the Transit Assistance Program.

 WEAR SHIRTS, BOTTOMS, AND SHOES

Just like in stores and other businesses, customers without proper attire will be refused service.

ONE FARE = ONE SEAT

Your bag belongs on your lap, not taking up the seat next to you.

DRINKS MUST BE COVERED

You’re welcome to bring your morning coffee with you. Just make sure it’s in a container with a sealed lid – and take the container off with you when you leave.

ANIMALS MUST BE KEPT IN A CARRIER

Pets are welcome on buses and trains as long as they are kept in animal carriers. Service animals are exempt.

FARE PAYMENT NOTICE

Starting Sept. 1, 2026, Metro micro will begin enforcing fare payment.

  • Riders who do not pay their fare twice within a 14-day period will receive a warning notification.

  • A third unpaid fare within the same 14-day period will result in a 14-day suspension from Metro micro service.

To avoid service interruptions, please be sure to pay your fare for every trip.

If you need help paying your fare, you may be eligible for the Transit Assistance Program. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply.

These items apply specifically to Metro micro service:
NO-SHOWS

A Metro micro customer with three no-shows within 30 days will receive a warning communication via text and email. Any additional no-shows in the subsequent 30 days will result in suspension from Metro micro services for the next 30 days.  

PACKAGES

Packages should fit in the area around you without taking the space of others. Customers may bring up to four grocery-sized bags.

Failure to adhere to this code of conduct will result in a formal warning via text and email. A second violation will lead to a two-week suspension of service. Continued non-compliance after the suspension will result in permanent suspension from Metro micro service.

ILLEGAL ACTIVITY

Violators can be removed from transit property. Actions may result in added penalties.

  • Interfering with the operator / movement of vehicle 
    Do not bother the operator or hold up vehicles. They're trying to get you to your destination safely and on time. This includes holding doors open on trains.
  • Vandalizing / littering 
    Respect your bus stop, station, bus, or train by putting your garbage in appropriate containers. Vandals who are caught damaging transit property can be arrested. 
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Smoking / vaping / illegal drug use 
    It's illegal and simply not allowed – onboard or at stops and stations – including e-cigarettes. If you must smoke, leave the bus shelter or platform area.
  • Threatening / spitting on others 
    This applies to your behavior with transit personnel as well as with fellow riders. 
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Pooping or peeing 
    Transit property is not a public restroom. 
  • Sexual assault 
    Sexual contact without consent is forbidden.
  • Walking on tracks / trespassing 
    Stay within the Paid Fare Zone at METRO stations. Tracks are dangerous and not to be toyed with; only cross at designated crossings.

NOT ALLOWED

Violators can be removed from transit property. 

  • Sexual or discriminatory harassment
    Do not harass anyone while waiting for or riding transit.
  • Phone calls or music played on speaker
    If you talk on a phone, be mindful of your language, keep your voice low, and your call brief. Listen to your music but don't share it with others; please use headphones!
  • Soliciting / Gambling / Panhandling / Loitering
    All of these activities are prohibited onboard buses and trains as well as at stops and stations. 
  • Flammable or other hazardous items
    Metro Transit prohibits flammable, explosive, radioactive, and hazardous items onboard. This includes gas-powered scooters, car or motorcycle batteries, and gasoline/fuel containers.
  • Large items that block the aisle 
    Keep the aisles of buses and trains clear of things including shopping carts for the safety of yourself and other customers. While strollers are allowed onboard, please keep them out of the aisle while riding.
  • Riding bikes / skating / skateboarding
    Especially on METRO station platforms.
  • Vulgar language
    Using profanity or derogatory statements is not tolerated on buses or trains or at any transit facility. 
  • Eating
    No eating on buses or trains. Wait until you reach your destination.