Passenger Code of Conduct
The Central Ohio Transit Authority’s highest priority is the safety, security and prosperity of its passengers and operators. We aim to deliver efficient, effective service to customers in an environment that is welcoming, comfortable, and above all, safe.
If you have any feedback or questions concerning the safety and security of COTA buses, shelters, bus stops or facilities, please contact Customer Service at 614-228-1776, TTY/TTD 614-275-5878, cotacares@cota.com or cota.com/contact/. If you see something that you believe requires immediate attention from the police, fire department or ambulance, please call 911.
Remember: If you see something, say something.
The Passenger Code of Conduct outlines acceptable behaviors while riding a COTA bus or while visiting any COTA shelter or facility. To keep our passengers safe and comfortable, COTA reserves the right to deny service to those not in compliance with the following rules:
PLEASE BE READY FOR YOUR RIDE
Plan your trip by visiting cota.com, contacting Customer Service at 614-228-1776 or using Transit App. Please be at your stop five minutes before the scheduled departure time. Please have your exact cash fare or correct fare media such as day pass, transfer, mobile phone, Connector SmartCard or ID card ready before boarding the bus.
PLEASE HAVE PROPER FARE
COTA fareboxes do not issue change, but will issue vouchers for amounts $2 or greater upon request. Vouchers may be redeemed at the COTA Pass Sales Office at 33 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215. Your operator may deny service if you do not have proper fare or improperly use fare media, such as using someone else’s ID card or using expired passes.
WE WELCOME STROLLERS AND CARTS
Strollers and carts are permitted on the bus. Please ensure that your child is secured and the wheels are locked. For your safety, operators must keep aisles and doorways clear and may request that you fold/collapse your stroller or cart or move to the rear of the bus with your stroller or cart.
WE WELCOME SERVICE ANIMALS
Service animals trained to assist people with disabilities are welcome on board. Please keep your service animal on a leash and ensure they remain well behaved throughout the ride. Other animals or pets can ride only if they are inside a cage or case that fits on your lap.
PLEASE SECURE YOUR AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) MOBILITY DEVICE
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that any ADA mobility device on board a bus be secured to protect your fellow passengers and yourself. The operator will secure your device. Passengers are asked to move from the priority seating area by the door to give seats to seniors and people with disabilities. Please cooperate with your operator to ensure everyone has a safe ride.
NO MOTORIZED DEVICES
Motorized devices, such as scooters and Segways, are prohibited on the bus. Motorized devices do not include ADA mobility devices.
PLEASE DO NOT DISTRACT THE OPERATOR
Your operator’s first concern is to ensure you arrive to your destination safely. Please avoid prolonged conversations with the operator while the bus is in motion.
BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS
Loud and disruptive behavior affects everyone. Avoid foul language or gestures, running and yelling. Throwing objects, spitting or fighting also is prohibited. Assaulting, harassing or intimidating the operator or other passengers could cause you to be arrested or banned from the bus.
TURN DOWN THE VOLUME
Use a low speaking voice during cell phone conversations and avoid using offensive words. Use headphones with sound-producing electronic devices such as cell phones. Headphones should be kept at a low to moderate volume. Your favorite playlist should be a private experience.
KEEP IT CLEAN
No feet on the seat. Do not leave trash behind. Shirt and shoes must be worn while riding. COTA requires that its customers maintain acceptable hygiene when riding the bus. Refrain from exposing other passengers to bodily fluids of any kind or odors that may present serious health or safety risks.
NO SMOKING
Smoking, using any type of tobacco product or using e-cigarettes is prohibited. Please exhale all smoke before boarding. You cannot smoke on any COTA property such as bus shelters, terminals and buses.
NO EATING OR DRINKING
Passengers are not permitted to eat or drink when riding. Any food or drink brought on board must be completely covered.
NO DRUGS OR ALCOHOL
Using drugs or drinking alcohol on any COTA property violates COTA policy and Ohio law.
NO ILLEGAL WEAPONS
Illegal weapons are forbidden on any COTA property.
NO DANGEROUS EQUIPMENT
Dangerous equipment that may cause a fire or explosion on the bus such as car batteries, gas cans, lawn mowers or paint thinner is not allowed on the bus.
NO SOLICITATION OR PETITIONING
Soliciting, panhandling, canvassing, selling or distributing any material is prohibited on COTA property including the bus.