Sidewalk Access
Purpose
To preserve the safe and pedestrian-friendly nature of the Notre Dame campus, the University maintains a permit system to restrict vehicle operation on sidewalks and pathways. Only specially-permitted vehicles are allowed to use sidewalks to conduct approved University business. The permit system is the key provision of the Pedestrian Safety Procedure (pdf, 325 KB) developed by Notre Dame’s Safety Operations Committee.
Only vehicles possessing a valid sidewalk access permit or exemption may operate on pedestrian sidewalks. Vehicles operating on Campus sidewalks must be conducting University business. Unless permitted by Parking Services, over-the-road vehicles, such as Kubotas are prohibited on sidewalks.
Golf carts are not covered under this policy and do not require a Sidewalk Access Permit. Transportation Services will continue to register golf carts. Only trained operators are allowed to drive golf carts.
Applying for a Sidewalk Access Permit
Parking Services will issue permits on a temporary, annual or ongoing basis with the approval from the Deputy Chief of Police. Once issued, the permit must be displayed on the lower right portion (passenger side) of the vehicle’s windshield. Notre Dame Police Department enforces the permit requirements. Sidewalk Access Permits can only be requested by active faculty and staff of the University.
Please note, any department requesting a sidewalk permit for a food truck, vendor or non-university entity, must ensure their event is approved by Campus Safety and University Operations (CSUO) prior to applying for the sidewalk permit. Please contact Kara Edwards (khuff@nd.edu, 1-9701) to request approval for your event. Sidewalk permits are not required for large special events designated by the VP for Campus Safety such as student move-in and move-out days.