Open Stroller Policy

September 28, 2023

Beginning October 1, 2023, open strollers are no longer restricted based on time of day but will be dependent on space.

This new policy is apart of SEPTA's Micromobility Playbook under the SEPTA Forward Strategic Plan.

The playbook is an update to the agency’s Cycle-Transit Plan of 2015 created with actions to make using micromobility with transit seamless and convenient for people in our region.

The plan includes recommendations for improving systemwide access to transit stops, expanding station amenities, vehicle accommodations and connections to the transportation network and providing a framework to increase ridership by better accommodating riders that use micromobility. Micromobility devices are here to stay and SEPTA - along with our partners - are proactively changing policies, operations, infrastructure, and passenger communication. 

Micromobility is any small, low-speed, human/electric-powered transportation device: bicycles, scooters, electric-assist bicycles, electric scooters, (e-scooters), and other small, lightweight, wheeled conveyances.

SEPTA supports families - caregivers and our youngest riders by allowing open strollers onboard buses and trains. Strollers now may be in the open position while riding - boarding and exiting SEPTA vehicles. Beginning mid- 2024 - new buses will have a designated open stroller parking spot, separate from priority seating areas.

In a crowded bus (full seated load) - operator may ask that a stroller be moved or folded.

Open strollers are not permitted on trolleys at this time due to accessibility constraints.

SEPTA Stroller Guidelines

• In vehicles without special stroller accommodations - park open strollers in priority seating areas and use flip-up seats.

• Yield priority seating spaces to persons with mobility limitations.

• Secure child within the stroller.

• Engage stroller brakes.

• Hold stroller while on-board.

• Keep the aisle and doorways clear.

Strollers on the Bus

• You may request the driver to kneel the bus or use of the access ramp at stops that permit curb access. Not all bus stops permit curb access.

• To avoid tipping your child out of the stroller - board the bus forward and leave the bus backwards.

• Make sure your stroller width is 24” or less to clear the aisle.

• In priority seating areas - use flip up seats by pulling the yellow handle of seat toward you.

Strollers on the Train

• When possible - board at doors with ADA signage

• Boarding trains from a low platform requires strollers to be folded.

• Strollers cannot use escalators in stations. Check elevator availability at stations.

For more information on the Micromobility Playbook and other sustainability initiatives - click here.