Bus and O-Train Vehicles
The bus was too warm/cold, can I ask the bus operator to adjust the temperature?
Operators can turn the bus heating system “on” or “off”; however, drivers cannot adjust the thermostat to regulate the temperature in the passengers’ cabin. The heating system in the passenger compartment is thermostatically controlled and set for 16 degrees Celsius to achieve a reasonable passenger comfort level for all periods of the day and night. This is preset in the garage prior to the cooler weather; however, the actual setting can vary throughout the winter as it can be affected by outdoor temperature and humidity.
Do all buses have air conditioning?
The majority of our fleet is equipped with air conditioning. We are regrettably unable to retrofit our old fleet with air conditioning due to the high cost involved.
Can I bring large objects such as strollers, suitcases, skis, etc. on the bus?
Customers are asked to hold large objects securely and not block the aisle. An operator may require strollers to be folded or ask the customers to move to the back if required for safety. Drivers are not required to assist passengers with packages or other large objects.
Large items like suitcases, skis, skates and snowboards are not prohibited, but will only be allowed when there is less than a seated load and a passenger carrying these items will be asked to move to the rear of the bus. The Transit By-law states that large objects are permitted on the public transit vehicles as long as they are not a safety hazard. This is fully at the discretion of the operator.
The back doors did not open for me, why?
Different mechanisms exist on our buses depending on the model and manufacturer. Please be sure you read the signs posted at the door, which describe how the door is meant to operate.
Rest assured that every type of bus and door design has successfully passed a rigorous safety and operating check. Please ask the operator for assistance if you encounter difficulties with the door mechanism.
On the new OC Transpo low-floor “Invero” buses, the mechanism for activating the doors is inside the yellow bars attached to the doors. Please ensure you continue to hold this bar until you’ve exited the bus. Once the doors are open the passenger controls the amount of time they remain open. They will not remain open on their own. This allows the doors to close after the minimum amount of time so the bus can continue in service without delay.
Who do I contact to report Litter/ garbage / graffiti or damage on the bus?
If you would like to report damage, litter, garbage or graffiti on the bus, please call customer service or fill out this Customer Service Form. We will ensure the issue is dealt with as soon as possible.
How can I tell if the bus has a Low-floor ramp?
A low floor bus has a blue and white wheelchair symbol in the upper corner on the front of the bus. Low floor buses can accommodate mobility aids up to 27 inches wide. These buses have a ramp and can “kneel” to facilitate embarkment.
If you had a problem with the ramp working on the low floor bus, please fill out this Customer Service Form.
Who do I contact to report an idling bus?
Our current policy is that there should be no excessive idling - that is, idling for longer than one minute. If a vehicle is “in-service” or if it’s prone to not starting easily, then idling of greater than one minute is acceptable. Also, in extreme heat or cold the bus may require idling to allow a reasonable level of comfort for the driver. Idling may also be required to get the air braking system up to pressure.
If you think the bus idling policy is not being followed, please fill out this Customer Service Form and provide a description of the problem.
Who is responsible for advertising on the buses?
All ads inside and outside OC Transpo buses are handled by an advertising agency contracted by The City of Ottawa. This agency books the space and ensures that ads conform to the Canadian Advertising Standards before accepting them. OC Transpo normally gets involved only if we receive complaints about specific ads.
For advertising on our buses, please contact Pattison Outdoor Advertising at 613-521-1001.
Can I bring my pet on the bus?
The Transit By-Law No 2007-268 states that only a service animal may be allowed on the transit system, to assist a person with a disability. The service animal must be trained by a recognized organization for that purpose. Only registered service animals can be brought on the bus.
See something? Say something!
Help keep our transit system safe and secure.
If something looks suspicious, let us know or CALL 310-2828.
Fares
New transit fares are in effect as of March 1st, 2010.