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Mobility & Curb Rules

Mobility & Curb Rules in Winston-Salem, NC: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Winston-Salem 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. Winston-Salem has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of mobility & curb rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Shared E-Scooter Rules

Winston-Salem caps shared scooter and dockless bike permits at two per company each year and bans riding stand-up scooters on any public sidewalk, greenway, park, city parking deck, or in Old Salem.

Key details: Permit cap: Two permits per device category yearly. No-ride zones: Sidewalks, greenways, parks, decks, Old Salem. Civil penalty: $250.00 per violation. Impound fee: $50.00 per day, per device. Minimum rider age: At least 16 years old.

Operating without a permit or violating the ordinance triggers a $250.00 civil penalty per violation, plus daily impound fees of $50.00 per device and possible permit revocation or denial.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Winston-Salem actively enforces its shared e-scooter rules requirements.

Bike Lane Rules

Winston-Salem cyclists on public roadways must ride as near the right-hand side as practicable and may not ride more than two abreast, with sidewalk riding barred downtown and on two named street segments.

Key details: Roadway position: Ride near right-hand side. Group riding limit: No more than two abreast. Sidewalk riding: Banned downtown & 2 corridors. Code sections: § 42-285, § 42-286.

Riding more than two abreast on a roadway, failing to keep right where practicable, or riding a bicycle on a sidewalk in a banned zone (downtown, part of Sunset Drive, part of Liberty Street) violates the code.

The Bottom Line

Winston-Salem'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 Winston-Salem is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Winston-Salem's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.