Louisville, KY Mobility & Curb Rules: Bike Lane Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Fine
- $25 to $100 per violation
- Enforced by
- Metro Code Enforcement Board
- Exception
- Metro maintenance vehicles only
- Covers
- bicycles, e-bikes, powered micro-mobility
Summary
Louisville Metro designates bikeways for the exclusive use of bicycles, e-bikes and micro-mobility devices. Driving or parking a motor vehicle in one is a civil offense, not just a courtesy violation.
No person shall operate a vehicle other than those authorized pursuant to paragraph (B) of this section, including, but not limited to, motor vehicles, powered bicycles, any vehicles with a combustion engine or any electric vehicles that do not meet the definitions of a powered micro-mobility vehicle or electric bicycle, on bikeways designated by the Director of Public Works and posted as herein set out. However, motorized maintenance vehicles of any kind that are owned and operated by Metro Government or contracted through Metro Government are excepted from this provision. The drivers of such Metro Government vehicles shall act in good faith to preserve the integrity of the bikeways and reduce harm to infrastructure related to the bikeways. (1999 Lou. Code, § 74.03) (Lou. Ord. No. 72-1979, approved 5-30-1979; Lou. Am. Ord. No. 144-1982, approved 8-11-1982; Lou. Metro Am. Ord. No. 176-2004, approved 11-24-2004; Lou. Metro Am. Ord. No. 157-2021, approved 11-11-2021) Penalty, see § 74.99
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-47: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ordinances passed by the Council and approved by the Mayor as of July 1, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Metro Code § 74.04 lets the Director of Public Works designate and post bikeways for bicycles, electric bicycles, roller skates, skateboards and powered micro-mobility vehicles. Once posted, § 74.04(B) bars motor vehicles, powered bicycles, combustion-engine vehicles and other electric vehicles that don't qualify as e-bikes or powered micro-mobility devices from operating in the lane. Metro-owned or Metro-contracted maintenance vehicles are the only exception, and even they must act in good faith to protect the bikeway.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 74.04 is a civil offense enforced through the Metro Code Enforcement Board under § 32.275 et seq. Fines run $25 to $100 per § 74.99(B).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive or park in a Louisville bike lane?
What's the fine for driving in a Louisville Metro bike lane?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Louisville
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