CATA Carry-On Policy

In keeping with CATA’s goal to provide safe and enjoyable public transportation, the following are required of each passenger using CATA services. Violation of any part of this policy, whether a single severe violation or repeated violations, may result in action ranging from a verbal warning, to immediate removal from a CATA vehicle, to temporary and/or permanent suspension from the use of CATA services. In addition, certain acts may be subject to fines and/or prosecution.

The following apply to all CATA services:

1. All items brought on board must either be held on the person’s lap or must sit on the floor at their feet.
2. When seating is available, items may be placed on the seat next to the passenger or in the priority seating area on CATABUS. If seating is needed for other passengers, items must be relocated to the passenger’s lap or onto the floor at their feet; the passenger may alternatively exit the vehicle with the items.
3. Items may not block the aisle or entrance/exit doors, including the lift area.
4. A passenger must maintain an adequate hold on all items to not pose a physical threat or harm to other passengers.
5. Except for on CATARIDE as described below, vehicle operators will not load or monitor a passenger’s items. Exceptions will be made for recognized ADA mobility devices (walkers).
6. ADA mobility devices will be secured according to CATA’s securement procedures.
7. If a passenger has an oxygen tank or other medical aid, all items must be secured, prevented from shifting under normal travel conditions, and kept out of the aisles or walkways. Passengers are responsible for ensuring they have sufficient aid to last the duration of their trip, recognizing that excess quantities of compressed gas or other hazardous materials may be excluded in the event they pose a safety risk;
   • Oxygen cylinders must be secured to prevent shifting and leakage, held upright or braced laying down flat;
   • Oxygen cylinder nozzles must be closed and capped;
   • If a cylinder is in a cart, it needs to be secure within the cart and the cart must be under control of the passenger. CATARIDE vehicle operators must secure the cart for CATARIDE passengers.
8. No item shall be placed on the wheel well of any vehicle.
9. Items may not be left unattended at any time.
10. All Department of Transportation specified hazardous materials are prohibited, including gasoline and batteries.
11. Full-size bikes are not permitted inside the vehicle, unless they can either be folded or maintained in the same manner as described above regarding the spaces that may be used for items.
12. Service animals are permitted on the vehicle; non-service animals are permitted if properly muzzled or contained in an approved pet carrier, do not pose a risk to other passengers, and do not disrupt normal operations.
13. Weapons for which a passenger has a carry permit must remain concealed. Weapons for which a passenger does not have a carry permit are prohibited.
14. Items that pose a threat to safe vehicle operation or cause a disruption to normal operations will not be permitted.
15. CATA is not responsible for stolen, damaged, or lost items.

Additional specifications for CATARIDE service:

1. Each passenger/companion/personal care attendant (PCA) is permitted a maximum of 6 grocery bags or packages that may be carried on the vehicle in one trip.
2. The CATARIDE operator will help with carrying bags or packages on one trip from the store to the vehicle and on one trip from the vehicle to the passenger’s doorstep. CATARIDE operators may not take packages into a passenger’s home.
3. The CATARIDE operator will secure strollers or carts so that they may not pose physical threat or harm or other passengers.
4. Passengers must inform CATARIDE of the need to use a cart when the trip reservation is made.
5. The CATARIDE operator reserves the right to place items in an alternate location in the vehicle, dependent upon ridership and available space.

CATA Carry-On Policy (PDF)