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Cycling in Richmond

Cycling Regulations

Under the law, cyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of vehicles. This means cyclists must obey all traffic signs and right-of-way rules, including traffic signals and stop signs. Knowing and obeying the rules of the road will help cyclists protect their safety in traffic and gain more courtesy and respect on the road.

Provincial Motor Vehicle Act
Section 183 of the provincial Motor Vehicle Act identifies the rights and duties of a cyclist when riding on the roadway. Important rules to remember are:

  • No Sidewalks: cyclists are not permitted to ride on sidewalks unless otherwise posted by the City.

  • No Crosswalks: cyclists are not permitted to ride in crosswalks unless otherwise posted by the City.

  • Hand Signals: cyclists must signal all turns as well as their intention to stop or slow down.

  • Ride on the Right: cyclists must ride as near as practical to the right of the roadway. However, you may wish to occupy a full lane when you are travelling at the same speed as other traffic to make yourself visible to motorists.

  • Single File: cyclists are prohibited from riding side-by-side on the roadway.

  • Lights: all bicycles used between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise must be equipped with a front light, a red rear light and a red rear reflector.

Section 184 of the provincial Motor Vehicle Act requires all cyclists to wear a bicycle helmet of an approved standard.

Section 182.1 of the provincial Motor Vehicle Act enables adults 16 years of age and older to use a bicycle with a small electric motor (a motor assisted cycle or MAC) without requiring a special licence. ICBC has a MAC Fact Sheet that details regulations and requirements for MACs as well as motorized scooters and skateboards.

Several Motor Vehicle Act Regulations restrict cyclists from riding on certain designated provincial freeways or in tunnels in the province and require cyclists to ride on the sidewalks of certain designated bridges. Visit the section on Regional Cycling for more information on regional bridge crossings.

The Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure's Cycling Policy seeks to integrate bicycling by providing safe, accessible and convenient bicycle facilities on the Provinces highways and to support and encourage cycling.

ICBC's Learn to Drive Smart book (formerly RoadSense for Driver) covers the rules of the road for both drivers and cyclists. 

City of Richmond Traffic Control and Regulation
Part VII of the City of Richmond Traffic Control and Regulation (Bylaw 5870 1992) identifies bicycle regulations with respect to:

  • Safety Equipment: all bicycles must be equipped with brakes in proper working order and reflectors.

  • Safe Conduct: cyclists must ride with both hands on the handlebars. Carry your personal items or packages in a backpack, panniers or a bicycle trailer.