Can you take a pet on the train?
Do you need to take your feline friend to the vet and don’t have a car available or just want to bring your labrador into the office for the day?
Can pets ride the rails with you or jump on the bus? Find out below.
Animals on public transport
In short, no you can’t bring your furry friends on public transport in South Australia. In recent years there has been a push to allow people to bring pets on board, following in Victoria’s footsteps where it’s legal.
That hasn’t stopped some people bringing animals on public transport, with a rail passenger caught bringing his pet python on the train in 2019. However, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport warns passengers who bring animals on public transport risk a fine of up to $750.
Assistance animals, such as guide dogs, are allowed to travel free on all Adelaide Metro services. They need to be either accredited under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995, an accredited assistance animal and/or trained to assist a person with disability.
What else can and can’t you bring on public transport? Here are a few items and what you need to consider before jumping on board.
Bikes
Bikes and e-bikes can’t be taken on buses or trams, but they’re allowed on trains. There are a few rules to keep in mind before and after you board the train with your bicycle.
Seniors can take their bicycle on the train for free at any time as long as there’s space available.
All other passengers must buy a separate concession ticket for their bike before 9am and between 3pm and 6pm on weekdays. At other times during the day and on public holidays and weekends, it’s free to bring your bike on the train if there’s room.
Folding bicycles can be taken on buses, trains and trams for free if they’re folded and fully enclosed in a bag no bigger than 90cm x 60cm x 40cm. Motorised bikes containing fuel can’t be taken on any form of public transport.
Scooters
Foot-powered scooters can be taken on board public transport, but they must be folded and fully enclosed in a bag no bigger than 90cm x 60cm x 40cm. Electric or motorised scooters can’t be taken on buses, trams or trains.
Surfboards
Heading down south to catch some waves, but don’t have car? Grab your surfboard and jump on the Seaford train. You can take your board on board, but you’ll need to buy an extra concession ticket.
Unfortunately, surfboards aren’t allowed on buses or trams, but you’re unlikely to find any waves down at Glenelg anyway.
Luggage
Going on holiday and decided to catch public transport to the airport? Luggage can be taken on public transport, but it can’t be any bigger than 90cm x 60cm x 40cm.
Luggage must be stored in the designated luggage area or next to you.