Does Richmond, VA have its own bike lane rules ordinance?

No. Richmond, VA does not appear to have a local bike lane rules ordinance, Virginia state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Va. Code §46.2-839.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Richmond

Richmond, VA Mobility & Curb Rules: Bike Lane Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

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

Key Facts

Passing clearance: 3 feet minimum
Capital Trail length: 52 miles
State law: Va. Code §46.2-839
Lane block fine: $50-$100

Summary

Richmond has expanded protected bike lanes along Franklin Street, Brook Road, and Floyd Avenue under its Strategic Multimodal Transportation Plan, with motorists prohibited from parking, stopping, or driving in marked lanes.

Any driver of any motor vehicle overtaking a bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, moped, animal, or animal-drawn vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall pass at a reasonable speed at least three feet to the left of the overtaken bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, moped, animal, or animal-drawn vehicle and shall not again proceed to the right side of the highway until safely clear of such overtaken bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, moped, animal, or animal-drawn vehicle. If the lane of travel is not wide enough to allow the overtaking motor vehicle to pass in the manner required in this section while in the same lane as the overtaken vehicle, the overtaking vehicle shall change lanes.

Source: Va. Code §46.2-839View official code

Full Breakdown

Richmond's bicycle network has grown substantially since hosting the 2015 UCI Road World Championships. Chapter 38 traffic regulations, supplemented by Va. Code §46.2-839 (three-foot passing) and §46.2-905 (cyclists' rights), require motorists to give bicycles at least three feet when passing and prohibit obstruction of marked bike lanes. Cyclists may ride two abreast in a single lane, must use front and rear lights at night, and yield to pedestrians on shared paths. The Virginia Capital Trail connects downtown Richmond to Jamestown along 52 miles of paved off-road path. Brook Road's protected lane was contested by some council members but ultimately retained.

Violations & Fines

Stopping or parking in a marked bike lane is a $50-$100 fine plus tow; failure to provide three-foot passing clearance can result in reckless driving charges if a cyclist is injured.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride on the sidewalk?

Sidewalk cycling is generally permitted outside the central business district, but cyclists must yield to pedestrians and travel at safe speeds. Within downtown, sidewalk riding is banned.

Are e-bikes allowed in bike lanes?

Yes. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (pedal-assist or throttle, capped at 20 mph) are permitted in bike lanes. Class 3 (28 mph) e-bikes have additional restrictions on shared paths.

Sources & Official References

[1]Va. Code §46.2-839

Other rules in Richmond

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome Restrictions Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome Restrictions Shared E-Scooter RulesSome Restrictions Red-Light CamerasSome Restrictions E-Bike ClassesSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower RulesSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSignificant Restrictions

All Richmond rules

Compare Richmond to another location·View the Virginia mobility & curb rules overview

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