Lincoln, NE Mobility & Curb Rules: Bike Lane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- LMC § 10.14.050(b)-(c)
- Crossing bike lane
- only as far as needed to exit
- Parking/stopping in lane
- unlawful, no course-change defense
- First-offense fine
- up to $100 (§ 10.06.160)
- Repeat offenses
- up to $300, each day separate
Summary
Lincoln bars motorists from driving, parking, stopping, or standing in a bicycle lane, letting a vehicle cross it only as far as needed to reach a parking spot or travel lane.
b. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any motor vehicle within any portion of a bicycle lane for a distance greater than is necessary to lawfully enter the closest lane or area designated for motor vehicle traffic or parking, unless otherwise permitted by the Lincoln Municipal Code or ordinance.
c. It shall be unlawful for any person operating a motor vehicle to park, stop, stand, or interfere with the use of a bicycle lane. It shall not be a defense to this section that the operator of a motor vehicle was attempting to change the course of his or her vehicle. (Ord. 21239 §3; March 21, 2022: Ord. 18776 §3; July 31, 2006: Ord. 15634 §5; July 9, 1990: P.C. §10.32.020: Ord. 8282 §34; December 16, 1963: Ord. 5699 §702; April 12, 1954).
Full Breakdown
Lincoln Municipal Code § 10.14.050(b)-(c) makes it unlawful to operate a motor vehicle within a bicycle lane for any distance beyond what's necessary to lawfully enter the nearest motor-vehicle lane or parking area, and separately bars parking, stopping, standing, or otherwise interfering with bike lane use. Claiming a mid-lane course change is not a defense to either subsection. Violations of Title 10 without a more specific penalty are punished as a traffic infraction under § 10.06.160.
Violations & Fines
Traffic infraction under § 10.06.160: up to $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second within a year, and $300 for a third or later offense, with each day a separate violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive through a bike lane to reach a driveway or parking spot?
Can I stop briefly in a bike lane to load or unload?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lincoln
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