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Austin, TX Mobility & Curb Rules: Bike Lane Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Passing distance
3 feet cars, 6 feet trucks
Code reference
Austin Code Ch. 12-1
Plan
Austin Bicycle Plan
Sidewalk riding
Banned downtown
State law
TX Transportation Code 545

Summary

Austin Code Chapter 12-1 and Texas Transportation Code combine to require motorists to give cyclists at least three feet of passing distance, six feet for trucks and buses, while bicycles must yield in protected lanes per Austin Bicycle Plan.

Sec. 551.101. RIGHTS AND DUTIES. (a) A person operating a bicycle has the rights and duties applicable to a driver operating a vehicle under this subtitle, unless: (1) a provision of this chapter alters a right or duty; or (2) a right or duty applicable to a driver operating a vehicle cannot by its nature apply to a person operating a bicycle. Sec. 551.103. OPERATION ON ROADWAY. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person operating a bicycle on a roadway who is moving slower than the other traffic on the roadway shall ride as near as practicable to the right curb or edge of the roadway.

Source: Austin Bicycle ProgramView official code

Full Breakdown

Austin's vulnerable road user ordinance, City Code 12-1-35, requires motorists passing cyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable road users to give at least three feet, increased to six feet for trucks and commercial vehicles. The Austin Bicycle Plan, adopted 2014 and updated periodically, designates an All Ages and Abilities network of protected bike lanes, neighborhood bikeways, and shared-use paths. City Code 12-1-3 prohibits riding on most downtown sidewalks but allows it on residential sidewalks where signed. Contraflow bike lanes, two-way protected lanes, and bike boxes follow National Association of City Transportation Officials guidance. Drivers parking in or blocking bike lanes face citations; doors must yield to cyclists.

Violations & Fines

Three-foot passing violations carry fines up to $500 under City Code 12-1-35, escalating after injury. Blocking a bike lane is $200 plus tow under Code 12-3. Riding on prohibited sidewalks downtown costs about $100.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much space must Austin drivers give cyclists?
At least three feet when passing in a passenger car, six feet for trucks and commercial vehicles under City Code 12-1-35. The driver should change lanes when feasible. Failing to give space is a citable offense.
Can I ride my bike on Austin sidewalks?
Mostly no in downtown commercial districts under City Code 12-1-3, where signs prohibit it. Residential sidewalks generally allow careful bicycle use, yielding to pedestrians. Always check posted signs and use the street or protected lane when available.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Austin

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All Austin rules

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