Chicago Municipal Code Ch. 9-52 governs bicycle operation, while CDOT's Streets for Cycling and Chicago Cycling Strategy build a network of buffered, protected (Class IV), and neighborhood greenway lanes with strict no-blocking rules for motor vehicles.
Cyclists in Chicago follow MCC 9-52, which mirrors Illinois Vehicle Code rules: ride with traffic, obey signals, use lights and rear reflectors at night, and yield to pedestrians on sidewalks where riding is allowed (downtown sidewalk cycling is generally prohibited). CDOT's Chicago Cycling Strategy and the 2020 Complete Streets policy guide installation of protected (Class IV) bike lanes, buffered lanes, and neighborhood greenways. MCC 9-40-060 prohibits driving, standing, or parking in any marked bicycle lane, including stopping for deliveries or rideshare pickups. Doors must not be opened into the path of cyclists, codified as the Dutch Reach norm. Divvy bike-share is regulated under separate franchise rules.
Driving or parking in a bike lane is a $250 ticket on first offense rising with repetition under MCC 9-40-060. Dooring a cyclist carries up to $1,000 fine and personal injury liability. Cyclists violating signals face $50 to $200 fines.
Chicago, IL
Chicago's TOD Ordinance MCC 17-10-0102 reduces parking minimums and allows higher density and FAR bonuses for residential and mixed-use projects within walki...
Chicago, IL
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See how Chicago's bike lane rules rules stack up against other locations.
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