Vehicle Regulations at Burning Man
At Burning Man, the variety and creativity of personal transportation vehicles (PTVs) bring a unique flair and functionality to Black Rock City's landscape. However, given the importance of safety, environmental considerations, and the event's cultural ambiance, certain regulations guide which types of vehicles are permitted within the event's boundaries.
Electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) are allowed, with an emphasis on adhering to a 5 mph speed limit to ensure pedestrian safety. Stand-up electric scooters and uni or bi-wheeled electric platforms, like e-unicycles and Segway-type devices, provide individuals with mobility options. These electric mobility tools must meet specific criteria, such as weight limits and speed capabilities, ensuring they are safe and align with the event's ethos.
Wind-powered vehicles capture the spirit of innovation while also respecting the environment. These vehicles, characterized by features like mechanical braking systems and a certain weight limit, offer a blend of artistry, physical engagement, and environmental consciousness. It's essential for these creations to adhere to the defined characteristics to be allowed, avoiding fixed masts or configurations that position the operator in a sitting or reclining posture.
Whether utilizing the breeze to traverse the playa or pedaling an e-bike, participants contribute to the dynamic atmosphere of Black Rock City, each respecting the guidelines that ensure everyone's safety and the preservation of the collective experience.
Substance and Consumption Policies
Burning Man is dedicated to maintaining a safe and lawful environment, particularly concerning substance use and distribution. The event operates under strict adherence to all federal, state, and local laws, making it clear that the use and possession of illegal drugs as well as drug paraphernalia are legal violations.
Given the unique jurisdiction of Black Rock City, situated in the Black Rock-High Rock National Conservation Area, specific attention is drawn to the discrepancies between Nevada state laws and federal regulations. This especially applies to marijuana; despite state decriminalization for medical or recreational purposes, the federal government does not recognize these laws1. Thus, possession or use of marijuana, even with a medical card, is unlawful within the bounds of the event.
To combat potential illegal substance use and distribution, strict measures are implemented, including:
- The prohibition of any distribution without proper licensing.
- Prescription drugs must be transported with the prescription and kept in the original bottle to avoid any legal misunderstanding.
Burning Man emphasizes that in order to participate in the event's self-expression and participatory nature, all attendees must adhere to the law, ensuring their behavior does not jeopardize the collective experience or future of the event.
Leave No Trace and Environmental Stewardship
At the heart of Burning Man's ethos is its commitment to the principle of Leaving No Trace, exhibiting respect towards the environment. This guiding principle is not just a policy but a practiced ritual that every participant is expected to embody, ensuring that the playa is returned to its original state after the event.
Attendees are encouraged to plan their visits in a manner that:
- Minimizes waste
- Prioritizes sustainability
- Considers the environmental impact of their presence
Emphasis is placed on using biodegradable and recyclable materials, managing waste through comprehensive sorting and reduction techniques, and collective responsibility towards cleanup efforts.
Burning Man's Leave No Trace policy extends beyond waste management; it also encompasses structures, campsites, art installations, and even footprints left upon the land. Participants are instructed to set up their camps in a manner that prevents MOOP (Matter Out of Place), securing all items to withstand high desert winds and ensuring that nothing is left behind2.
Following the event, extensive sweep operations are undertaken, with teams dedicating hours to meticulously scour the playa for remnants of habitation. This effort ensures that the desert landscape is left undisturbed, safeguarding its natural beauty and integrity for future generations.
- Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 812 (2018).
- Burning Man. (n.d.). Leave No Trace. Retrieved from https://burningman.org/event/preparation/leaving-no-trace/
