Are bicycles allowed on sidewalks?
Sometimes, but this depends on the city or part of the city you’re in.
California does not have a statewide law on whether bikes and e-bikes are allowed on the sidewalk. Instead, the state leaves these decisions up to local counties and governments. Some places allow cyclists on sidewalks, some do not, and others have specific exceptions.
What Does California State Law Say About Riding Bikes and E-Bikes on Sidewalks?
According to California Vehicle Code 21960, local authorities are allowed to regulate whether bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on the sidewalk.
This means that cities and counties throughout California can have different laws on whether bicycles are allowed on sidewalks. Many of these local regulations focus on pedestrian safety, types of roads that are nearby, the local biking infrastructure, and other factors specific to that part of California.
Bicycle and Sidewalk Laws for Different Cities in the Bay Area
Since different parts of California have their own laws regarding biking on the sidewalk, here are a few examples of these rules in the Bay Area.
- Redwood City Rules for Biking on Sidewalks: In Redwood City, the municipal code prohibits people from riding their bicycles on sidewalks.
- San Francisco Rules for Biking on Sidewalks: In San Francisco, the transportation code states that you cannot ride your bike on the sidewalk unless you are a child under the age of 13.
- Marin County Rules for Biking on Sidewalks: In many parts of Marin County, you cannot ride your bike on sidewalks if you are 14 years old or older. In business districts, riding on the sidewalk is prohibited for cyclists of all ages.
- Oakland Rules for Biking on Sidewalks: In Oakland, you cannot bike on the sidewalk if your bike is standard adult size (i.e., wheels bigger than 20 inches).
- San Jose Rules for Biking on Sidewalks: In San Jose, adults and minors can ride their bikes on sidewalks, with exceptions by neighborhood or part of the city (e.g., Willow Glen and sections of downtown).
Are There Legal Penalties for Riding a Bicycle or E-Bike on the Sidewalk?
Yes. If a city or county prohibits riding a bike on the sidewalk, you may be subject to fines. More serious penalties may arise if you injure a pedestrian or damage property while you are riding a bike or e-bike on the sidewalk.
There is no set fine amount in California since these sidewalk biking laws vary from city to city.
Should I Ride on the Sidewalk or in the Street If There Is No Bike Lane?
Generally speaking, it’s best to ride your bicycle or e-bike safely in the street if there is no bike lane present. While riding in the street, be sure to travel in the same direction as the flow of traffic. Be cautious around parked vehicles, intersections, and any driveways while on your bike.
If you are allowed to ride on the sidewalk based on local ordinances, feel free to do so, but ride with caution. There may be a risk of pedestrian traffic and other cyclists, especially in busy areas of your city. If you are on an e-bike, you should be extra careful given the top speeds you can reach on these kinds of vehicles.
If you feel it is unsafe to bike in the street or on the sidewalk, dismount your bicycle or e-bike and proceed to walk your bike on the sidewalk until you can get back on and ride.