Novato, CA Public Conduct: Skateboarding Rules (2026)

Section 18-6.2 of the Novato Municipal Code sets three street rules. No person can ride or operate a skateboard, in-line skates, scooters, toy vehicles or any similar device on a roadway except in designated bike lanes, or, where there is no bike lane or sidewalk, on the roadway facing traffic in compliance with Vehicle Code Section 21956.

On private property open to the public, such as a shopping mall, shopping center or parking lot, the ban applies where signs are posted. Each sign must be conspicuous, measure not less than 17 by 22 inches with lettering not less than one inch high, state that the activities are prohibited on the property and cite the subsection number or municipal Code section. The code adds that nothing in it precludes using these devices as a means of transportation to a mall or shopping center. The section names no business district; its private-property rule turns on the posted signs.

On sidewalks and other pedestrian facilities, the ban applies where signs approved by the city council are posted.

In city parks, § 10-20.010 prohibits operating, driving or riding any skateboard, in-line skates or skates, bicycle, unicycle, horse or other animal in any park or park area except in areas posted and designated for such use. The Novato Skatepark is designated a public recreational park in which skateboarding, in-line skating and skating are permitted (§ 10-20.020). At the Skatepark, or any other designated recreational park or area where these activities are permitted, it is unlawful to ride without a helmet, elbow pads and knee pads (§ 10-20.040).

Park rules sit in Chapter X under the director of parks and recreation, while street rules sit in Chapter XVIII on traffic.