Mobility & Curb Rules in Memphis, TN: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Memphis or are thinking about moving there, mobility & curb rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Memphis has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of mobility & curb rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Bike Lane Rules

The Memphis Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan and the Big River Crossing on the Harahan Bridge anchor a growing on-street bike network where motorists must yield in marked lanes and at protected crossings.

Key details: Passing distance: 3 feet minimum. Big River Crossing: Harahan Bridge. Enforcement: MPD. Topic: Bike Lane Rules.

Citation for parking in a bike lane runs roughly $50 plus tow risk. Unsafe passing or failure to yield at a crossing is enforced under Tennessee state traffic statutes.

Shared E-Scooter Rules

Shared electric scooter operators in Memphis must hold a city permit, cap fleet size, geofence prohibited zones, and respond to relocation requests from city staff within set time windows.

Key details: Permit type: Shared mobility. Fleet cap: Set by permit. Geofencing: Required. Topic: Scooter Shared.

Operators face permit suspension or fines for fleet over-deployment or slow rebalancing. Riders may be cited under traffic code for sidewalk violations or riding while intoxicated.

The Bottom Line

Memphis's mobility & curb rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Memphis is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Memphis's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.