Houston, TX Mobility & Curb Rules: Bike Lane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Bike Plan adopted
- 2017
- Network goal
- 1,800 miles
- Safe passing
- 3 feet for cars
- Commercial vehicles
- 6 feet passing distance
- CBD sidewalks
- No bike riding
Summary
Houston Bike Plan 2017 establishes a 1,800-mile bikeway network. Chapter 45 traffic rules govern bicycle operation and require motorists to provide three-foot passing distance, while bayou trails offer separated multi-use paths citywide.
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, unless:(1) the person is passing another vehicle moving in the same direction;(2) the person is preparing to turn left at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway;(3) a condition on or of the roadway, including a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, pedestrian, animal, or surface hazard prevents the person from safely riding next to the right curb or edge of the roadway; or(4) the person is operating a bicycle in an outside lane that is:(A) less than 14 feet in width and does not have a designated bicycle lane adjace
Full Breakdown
Houston adopted the Bike Plan in 2017 with a goal of becoming a gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community. The plan identifies high-comfort routes, protected bike lanes, and shared-use bayou trails connected through Bayou Greenways. Chapter 45 of the Code of Ordinances requires motorists to maintain a three-foot safe passing distance from cyclists, increased to six feet for commercial vehicles. Cyclists must follow traffic signals, ride with traffic, use lights at night, and yield to pedestrians on shared trails. Sidewalk riding is prohibited in the central business district. The Houston Public Works Bikeway Program continues building protected lanes and intersection improvements funded through METRO and federal grants.
Violations & Fines
Motorist passing-distance violations carry fines up to 500 dollars. Cyclist signal violations and prohibited sidewalk riding face fines up to 200 dollars under Chapter 45.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride on sidewalks?
Are bayou trails separated?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas mobility & curb rules overview
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