LADOT Pulls 'Don't Poop on Buses' Video Campaign After Backlash

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) has scrapped a video campaign that begged passengers not to defecate on city buses. The six video clips, which were housed on a standalone LADOT YouTube channel, have been removed from the website and YouTube after the agency claimed they were never intended for public viewing. LADOT said the "See Something, Do Something" videos were meant for on-board viewing to inform riders how to report inappropriate behavior, but the campaign sparked backlash from passengers who found the content distasteful and disruptive.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the challenges public transit agencies face in addressing inappropriate passenger behavior, from fare evasion to public health concerns. LADOT's decision to pull the controversial videos suggests the campaign may have backfired, raising questions about the agency's approach to rider education and enforcement.

The details

The "See Something, Do Something" video campaign featured messages reminding passengers to buy tickets, not smoke or drink, and importantly, "don't poop on the bus." LADOT claimed the videos were never meant for public viewing on its website or YouTube channel, but were intended for on-board display to inform riders how to report misconduct. However, passengers said the videos played in a continuous loop, making already tiresome bus trips even more unpleasant.

• The standalone LADOT YouTube channel featuring the videos was created in August 2025.
• The videos were pulled from LADOT's website and YouTube channel in February 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

LADOT has not indicated whether it plans to revise or relaunch the campaign in a different format. The agency may need to reevaluate its approach to addressing passenger misconduct and find more effective ways to educate riders and encourage appropriate behavior on public transit.