Ju
ne 2018
Bike Parking Guide
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Contents
INTRODUCTION ..............................................................5
Why is Bicycle Parking Important? ........................................................................................ 5
What is a Bicycle Parking Space? .........................................................................................5
REQUIREMENTS ..............................................................6
Development and Zoning Requirements .............................................................................. 6
How Much Bicycle Parking is Required? ...............................................................................6
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS ................................ 8
Signs ......................................................................................................................................8
Maintenance .......................................................................................................................... 8
Bicycle Rack Design ...............................................................................................................8
Long-term Bicycle Parking .................................................................................................. 11
Short-term Bicycle Parking .................................................................................................. 12
Layout Dimensions .............................................................................................................. 14
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ..................... 18
APPENDIX ...................................................................... 19
DC Zoning: Chapter 8 Bicycle Parking ................................................................................ 20
CONTENTS
|
3
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
INTRODUCTION
|
5
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
1 Ralph Buehler with Andrea Hamre, Dan Sonenklar, and
Paul Goger, Virginia Tech, Urban Affairs and Planning, Final
Report, 08/2010-11/2011, “Trends and Determinants of
Cycling in the Washington, DC Region” https://ntl.bts.gov/
lib/47000/47100/47120/VT-2009-05.pdf
Why is Bicycle Parking
Important?
The District of Columbia promotes bicycling as an
efficient way of getting around. The District is well-suited
for bicycling and more people are using their bikes
for commuting, shopping, and general transportation.
Enhancing and promoting sustainable transportation is a
cornerstone of the District’s policies.
Providing bicycle parking encourages people to use their
bicycles for transportation. Research shows that people are
more likely to use a bicycle if they are confident that they
will find convenient and secure parking at their destination.
1
Providing a designated area for bicycle parking gives
a more orderly appearance to a building and prevents
people from locking their bikes to unacceptable fixtures,
such as trees, benches, or railings. However, if a bicycle
rack appears insecure, does not function well, or is poorly
located, people will not use it. These guidelines are
intended to provide information on approved rack design,
location, and quantities to ensure that racks serve the
public’s needs.
What is a Bicycle Parking
Space?
A bike parking space is an area where one bicycle may
be securely stored with both wheels resting on a stable
surface, and conveniently accessed and removed without
requiring the movement of other parked bicycles, vehicles,
or other objects.
6
|
REQUIREMENTS
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
REQUIREMENTS
2 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, Title 18, Chapter 12 (https://www.dcregs.dc.gov)
Development and
Zoning Requirements
All new and existing buildings in the District require bicycle
parking. Locations and types of bicycle parking must be
shown in building site plans and be approved by DDOT
during the development review process. There are several
regulations governing bike parking in the DC Municipal
Regulations: Title 11 (Zoning), Subtitle C, Chapters
7 and 8; Subtitle K, Chapters 3, 6 and 9; and Title 18
(Traffic), Chapter 12. In these regulations, bicycle parking
requirements vary by the type of building.
How Much Bicycle
Parking is Required?
Existing Residential
Building: Title 18, Chapter 12
All existing residential buildings with eight or more units are
required to provide a reasonable number of bicycle parking
spaces within thirty days after written request from one or
more tenants or property owners.
A reasonable number shall be defined as the lesser of
either one bicycle parking space for each three residential
units; or enough bicycle parking to meet the requested
demand. All substantially rehabilitated buildings with eight
or more units shall have at least one secure bicycle parking
space for each three residential units or the same number
of secure parking spaces as were in the building before the
rehabilitation, whichever is greater.
Some exemptions apply. For more information, please see
Title 18, Chapter 12 BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS.
2
New Development:
Title 11, Chapter 8
Table 1 summarizes the zoning requirements for typical
land uses. For more detail, see Title 11 of the District
of Columbia Municipal Regulations. When calculating
the required number of long-term or short-term bicycle
parking spaces for a particular use, round up to the
nearest whole number.
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
7
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Use
Long-Term Spaces Short-Term Spaces
Agriculture, Large None 2 spaces
Agriculture, Residential None None
Animal Sales, Care and Boarding 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Antennas None None
Arts Design and Creation 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft.
Basic Utilities 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Chancery 1 space for each 5,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Community-Based Institutional Facility 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Daytime Care 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Eating and Drink Establishment 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Education, College/University 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Education, Private School 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Education, Public 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Emergency Shelter 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Entertainment, Assembly, and Performing Arts 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Firearm Sales 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Government, Large-Scale 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Government, Local 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Medical Care 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
Institutional, General 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft.
but no less than 8 spaces
Institutional, Religious 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft.
but no less than 8 spaces
Lodging 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Marine None 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Motor Vehicle-related 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Ofce 1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Parking None None
Parks and Recreation None
1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Production, Distribution, & Repair 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Residential House
Residential Flat
None None
Residential Apartment 1 space for each 3 dwelling units 1 space for each 20 dwelling units
Retail 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Service, General 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Service, Financial 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Sexually-based Business Establishment 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Transportation Infrastructure None None
Waste-related Services 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Table 1: Minimum Number of Bicycle Parking Spaces
8
|
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
3 District of Columbia Zoning Code (DC Zoning Code), Subtitle C, Chapter8, Section 801.1
4 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DC Regs), Section 2910
5 DC Zoning Code, Section 801.2
6 DC Zoning Code, Section 801.3
7 Ibid.
Signs
When bicycle parking spaces are required, signs must
be posted in a prominent place at each entrance to the
building or structure stating where bicycle parking spaces
are located.
3
The sign must have a white background with
black lettering that is at least 2 inches in height.
4
Maintenance
A property owner shall provide and maintain all required
bicycle parking spaces for as long as the structure that
the bicycle parking spaces are designed to serve exists.
Maintenance of required bicycle parking spaces shall
include keeping all racks and spaces clear of snow, ice, and
any other obstructions.
5
Bicycle Rack Design
There are a variety of designs for bicycle racks produced by
many manufacturers. Bike racks can be purchased as single
units, with a capacity of locking 2 bikes (one on each side),
or as multiple units attached together, with a larger capacity.
However, not all manufactured bicycle racks meet the
District’s standards. Common rack styles that are acceptable
include the “Inverted U” and “Post and Ring” racks (see
Figure 1). Custom designs and “artistic” racks can also
be used, provided they meet the following performance
criteria for bicycle racks and are approved by DDOT.
Product advertising is not permitted on custom bike racks.
Bicycle Rack Requirements
Bicycle racks must meet the following requirements:
• The frame and one wheel can be locked to the rack with
a secure U-shaped lock (“U-lock”) without removing a
wheel from the bicycle.
6
• The frame can be supported in at least two places so it
cannot be pushed over or easily fall.
7
• The rack must be securely anchored.
The following are additional features of acceptable bicycle
racks:
• The rack is installed on a permanent foundation (e.g.,
concrete pad) to ensure stability.
• It is secured with tamper-proof nuts, if surface mounted.
• The rack design keeps both bike wheels on the ground
(except for the portion of long-term bike parking racks
that may be vertical).
• It can support a variety of bicycle sizes and frame shapes.
• The diameter of locking pole is between 1.5 inches and
2.5 inches.
• Galvanized or stainless steel racks are recommended
(and required for racks on public property). Outdoor
racks must also be coated with PVC or thermoplastic.
“Inverted-U” racks are an example of an acceptable rack
design. These racks provide two points of contact, can
secure a bicycle with a U-lock, and are securely anchored.
They are also properly spaced from one another; and are
located near the building entrance.
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
9
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Figure 1: Acceptable Bike Rack Designs (DDOT Bicycle Facility Design Guide)
10
|
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Unacceptable Bicycle Racks
Bicycle racks must NOT:
• Support the bicycle at only one point.
• Support the bicycle only by one wheel.
• Allow the bicycle to fall, which can damage the bike and
block pedestrian right-of-way.
• Have sharp edges that can be hazardous to the visually
impaired.
8 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.9
• Connect to each other with a bar on top (that can block
handlebars and baskets).
• Suspend any part of the bike in the air or require that
the bicycle be lifted to get it into position, except for
the portion of long-term bike parking racks that may
be vertical (see next section for detail).
8
Examples of bicycle racks that are not approved. The designs do not properly support bicycles and lead to improper and
inefcient parking.
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
11
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Long-term Bicycle
Parking
Long-term parking is intended for people making longer
stays at a location, and shall be available for employees,
residents, and other building occupants.
9
Location and Level
Bicycle parking must be designed for convenient daily use,
not simply for short-term storage of bicycles. All required
long-term bicycle parking spaces must be located within
the building for which they are required.
Required long-term bicycle parking must be no lower than
the first cellar level or the first complete parking level below
ground, and no higher than the first above-ground level.
Access may be provided by an elevator with interior
dimensions of 80 inches by 54 inches.
Long-term Bicycle
Parking Types
All residential buildings must provide long-term parking in
the form of acceptable bicycle racks or lockers.
10
In new and
substantially renovated buildings, the zoning requires that
all required long-term spaces must be provided indoors (in
a parking garage or a bicycle storage room). A minimum
of 50 percent of required long-term bicycle parking spaces
shall allow the bicycles for be placed horizontally on the
floor or ground, without the bicycle being suspended.
11
For
older buildings, indoor parking is preferred but may not
always be feasible. In these cases, if bicycle parking spaces
must be located outside of the building, the spaces shall be
secure, covered, and adjacent to the building.
12
Parking Garages
Bicycle parking in parking garages must be clearly marked
and separated from motor vehicle parking by a physical
barrier, such as a wheel stop or bollards.
13
Bicycle racks
inside parking garages must meet the security standards of
short-term racks or lockers.
9 DC Regs, Section 1215.4
10 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.3
11 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.9
12 DC Regs, Section 1215.1
13 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.4 and DC Regs, Section 1215.7
Bicycle Rooms
Where long-term parking is provided in a bicycle room, the
room shall have solid walls or floor-to-ceiling fencing. The
room shall have locked doors. The entire room must be
visible from the entry door. A motion-activated security light in
a tamper-proof case must be provided in each bicycle room.
Indoor bike parking can include vertical or double-tier racks,
as long as the racks are securely bolted to the building and
it is possible to lock the bike frame and one wheel with a
standard U-lock.
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Short-term Bicycle
Parking
Short-term bicycle parking is intended primarily to serve
visitors, such as retail patrons making trips of up to a few
hours. It is sometimes called “visitor parking;” however, it
may serve other bicycle users as needed.
Location
Short-term bicycle parking must be located in a publicly-
accessible space within a maximum of 120 feet of pedestrian
entrances
14
(25 feet is preferred). The location must be well-
lit and convenient to the building it is meant to serve.
15
Safe locations for short-term bicycle parking also have these
features:
• They are in full view, near pedestrian traffic and windows,
and in well-lit areas to maximize visibility and minimize
vandalism.
• They are under cover to protect bicycles from inclement
weather.
• They are far enough away from the street or parking
spaces so that bicycles will not be damaged by cars,
set back if possible (see Distance from Curb).
• They do not obstruct pedestrian traffic, including when
a bike is parked and when empty.
Additional Features
of Accessible Locations
Accessible locations for short term parking have these
characteristics:
• They are located between building entrances and roads,
bike lanes, and paths.
• The pedestrian access route is at least 48 inches wide
(60 inches or more is preferred).
16
• The pedestrian access route does not have a slope
greater than 5 percent (8 percent if level landing is
provided every 30 feet of linear distance).
14 DC Zoning Code, Section 804.2
15 DC Zoning Code, Section 804.6
16 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.8 and DC Regs, Section 1215.
Examples of acceptable short-term rack designs in DC.
(photo credits: Elvert Barnes)
12
|
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Short-term Bicycle Parking
in Public Space
Required short-term parking must be on the same lot
as the building meeting the requirement, or on public
space within 20 feet after obtaining approval through the
application process.
DDOT encourages short-term bike parking in public space
for visitors and customers. Private developers and property
owners may not install racks in the public right-of-way
without formal permission from the city. To apply for a
permit, visit http://.tops.ddot.dc.gov or contact the DDOT
bike parking office at (202) 673-6813.
DDOT is also able to install bicycle racks in public space
at the request of the public. To submit a request for a rack,
please contact 311 or contact the DDOT bike parking office
at (202) 673-6813.
In-Street Bike Racks
Occasionally, when demand for bike parking is high and
sidewalk space is limited, bicycle parking corrals are installed
in the street, typically in the parking lane. In-street corrals
are best on low-volume streets or on streets where a bicycle
lane separates the corral from moving traffic. A physical
barrier such as flexible bollards and curb stops should
separate the bike corral from traffic including parked cars.
Examples of in-street bicycle parking in the District of Columbia. Flexible posts separate trafc from the bike parking.
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
13
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Layout Dimensions
Proper layout of bicycle racks is essential to ensure that they will safely and conveniently accommodate the intended number
of bicycles. Racks must be located in a safe and accessible place with adequate space to maneuver a bicycle in and out. Each
required bicycle parking space must be accessible without moving another bicycle.
17
17 DC Zoning Code, Section 801.4
18 DC Zoning Code, Section 805.10
19 DC Zoning Code, Section 801.3
Layout Must Follow These
Minimum Dimensions:
Each required long-term bicycle parking space shall be:
• A minimum width of 24 inches, and shall be:
» A minimum of 72 inches in length if the bicycles are
to be placed horizontally; or
» A minimum of 40 inches in length if the bicycles are
to be placed vertically
18
Distance to other Racks:
Rack units aligned parallel to each other (side by side) must
be at least 30 inches apart; 48 inches is recommended. This
includes racks that are sold as multiple rack units attached
together.
Rack units aligned end to end must be at least 96 inches
apart (120 inches from center to center), leaving a 48 inch
clear space between bicycles.
19
120"
96"
>/=75”
>/= 72”
>/= 40”
24"24"
72" Min.
72"
Min.
30" min.
48" preferred
Figure 2: Linear Rack Spacing
>/=75”
>/= 72”
>/= 40”
24"24"
72" Min.
14
|
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
15
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
24" min.
(36” preferred)
120"
24"
24"
72"
75"
20"
60”
24” min.
(36” preferred)
36” min.
(48” preferred)
60”
40”
120”
Figure 3: Bike Room Rack Dimension/Spacing
Indoor Parking
Distance from a Pedestrian Aisle:
For long-term parking, a 60 inch wide pedestrian aisle must be provided,
measured from the perimeter of the 72-inch bike parking space.
Where 20 or more bicycle parking spaces are required, at least 5 percent of the
spaces should be 120 inches long to allow space for tandems and trailers.
Distance from Wall:
• Rack units placed perpendicular to a wall should be at least 48 inches from the
wall to the center of the rack; 36 inches is the minimum required.
• Rack units parallel to a wall should be at least 36 inches from the rack to the
wall; 24 inches is the minimum required.
16
|
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
96"
36"
from light
pole
36"
from
parking
meter
96" min.
clearance
from light pole
24"
min.
from
building
30"
min.
120"
( from center
to center)
48"
from
bus
shelter
30"
min.
120" min.
clearance
from entrance
36"
from
curb
60"
from crosswalk
60"
60" min. clearance
pedestrian walkway
Other rack Placement Rules:
4’ from:
Loading zone
Bus stop
Bus bench
3’ from:
Newspaper rack
US mailbox
Sign pole
Driveway
Tree space
Trash can
Utility meter
Manhole
Other street furniture
Other sidewalk obstructions
Figure 4: Outdoor bike parking spacing and dimensions
Outdoor Parking:
Distance from a Curb:
• Rack units placed perpendicular to the curb should be at least 48 inches from
the curb to the center of the rack; a minimum of 36 inches is required.
• Rack units placed parallel to the curb must be at least 24 inches from the curb
to the rack; 36 inches is recommended.
Other Distances:
• Racks should be at least 60 inches from curbside fire hydrants and 72 inches
from wall fire hydrants.
BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
|
17
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Bicycle Lockers
Bicycle lockers must be securely anchored and
meeting the following minimum dimension:
• 24 inches wide at the door
• 8 inches wide at the opposite end
• 72 inches in length, and
• 48 inches in height
8"
24”
24”
36”
Figure 5: Bicycle Locker Dimensions
18
|
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(FAQs)
20 District of Columbia Municipal Regulations, Title 18, Chapter 12, Section 1214.6
What do I do if my building
does not have bike parking?
Speak with your landlord or building management to make
sure that the building does not have bike parking. Share
this guide with them and request that they install bike
parking. If they are reluctant or have questions, contact the
DDOT bike parking office at (202) 673-6813 and provide
your building’s location and a contact name and number
for building management. DDOT will check to see if the
building is required to have short-term or long-term bicycle
parking and reach out building management to ensure
compliance if it’s required. DDOT is also able to install
bicycle racks in public space at the request of the public. To
submit a request for a rack, please contact 311 or contact
the DDOT bike parking office at (202) 673-6813.
How do I get an exemption to
the bike parking requirements?
Where it can be demonstrated that providing sufficient
bicycle parking spaces required under Title 18, Chapter 12
is not physically practical, that undue economic hardship
would result from strict compliance with the regulation,
or that the nature of the building use is such that bicycle
parking spaces would not be used, the District Department
of Transportation Bicycle Program Office may grant,
upon written application of the owner of the building, an
appropriate exemption or reduced level of compliance.
In such cases, the Bicycle Program Office shall issue to
the building owner a written certificate documenting the
exemption or reduced level of compliance.
20
How do I request a bike rack in
front of my business?
DDOT continually looks for opportunities to expand
bike parking in the District. Please contact the DDOT
bike parking team at (202) 673-6813. Standard U-racks
are available at no charge to your business, subject to
availability. To have DDOT install standard U-Racks: apply
for a public space occupancy permit (https://ddot.dc.gov/
page/permit-applications-use-public-spaces), and include a
note that you wish DDOT to supply and install racks. Please
include clear site plans conforming to the guidelines in this
document to ensure a speedy review and approval. You
may also apply to use non-standard bike racks if you wish
to have unique or branded bike racks. In this case you
must also include the design of the non-standard racks in
your application. You will be responsible for sourcing and
installing non-standard racks. DDOT will waive the permit
fee for standard bike racks.
What do I do if bike parking
is damaged or needs to be
replaced?
Contact 311 or contact the DDOT bike parking office at
(202) 673-6813. If possible, please include a picture of the
damage.
APPENDIX
|
19
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
APPENDIX
The following District of Columbia regulations apply to bicycle parking.
Source
Topic Link
Title 11 (Zoning), Subtitle C New Construction Requirements
http://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Gateway/RuleHome.
aspx?RuleNumber=11-2910
Or use this link:
https://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/
SectionList.aspx?SectionId=41365
801 Parking Requirements
802 Minimum Number of Spaces
803 Calculating (Floor Area)
804 Short-Term Bicycle Parking Space Requirements
805 Long-Term Bicycle Parking Space Requirements
806 Requirements for Showers and Changing Facilities
Title 11 (Zoning), Subtitle K Space Requirements
https://dcoz.dc.gov/publication/zoning-
regulations-2016-unofficial-version-technical-
corrections
310 Bicycle Parking Minimums
610 Bicycle Parking (STE)
916 Long-term Bicycle Parking Space Requirements
Title 18 (Traffic), Chapter 12 Residential Requirements
http://dcregs.dc.gov/Gateway/RuleHome.
aspx?RuleNumber=18-1214
or use this link:
https://dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/
SectionList.aspx?SectionId=43914
1208 Public Placement of Bicycle Racks (permits)
1209
Parking Bicycle on Public Space (Duration and
Location)
1214
Bicycle Parking Requirements for Residential
Building (Quantity)
1215
Bicycle Parking for Residential Building ( Space
Requirements)
1216 Bicycle Parking in Residential Building (Fines)
Title 18, Chapter 21 Office and Retail Requirements
http://ddot.dc.gov/page/bicycle-parking-
regulations
2119
Bicycle Parking Spaces for Office, Retail and
Services Uses
Table 2: Quick Reference Table
20
|
APPENDIX
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
DC Zoning: Chapter 8 Bicycle Parking
Subtitle C - 55
CHAPTER 8 BICYCLE PARKING
800 INTRODUCTION
800.1 Any building permit application for new construction or addition to an existing building shall be accompanied
by a bicycle parking plan, which shall be depicted on detailed site plans and building plans and demonstrate full
compliance with this chapter.
800.2 The Zoning Administrator may at his discretion, request that DDOT review and make a recommendation regarding
any item on the bicycle parking plan prior to approving the building permit application.
800.3 No certificate of occupancy shall be issued unless the bicycle parking spaces have been constructed in accordance
with the approved bicycle parking plan.
801 BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
801.1 When bicycle parking spaces are required, signs shall be posted in a prominent place at each entrance to the
building or structure stating where bicycle parking spaces are located.
801.2 A property owner shall provide and maintain all required bicycle parking spaces so long as the structure that the
bicycle parking spaces are designed to serve exists. Maintenance of required bicycle parking spaces shall include
keeping all racks and spaces clear of snow, ice, and any other obstructions.
801.3 Where required bicycle parking is provided as racks, the racks must meet the following standards:
(a) The bicycle frame and one wheel can be locked to the rack with a high security U-shaped shackle lock without
removing a wheel from the bicycle;
(b) A bicycle six feet (6 ft.) long can be securely held with its frame supported in at least two (2) places so that it
cannot be pushed over or fall in a manner that would damage the wheels or components;
(c) Racks shall be placed a minimum of thirty inches (30 in.) on center from one another; twenty-four inches (24 in.)
from any other obstructions; with a forty-eight inch (48 in.) minimum aisle separating racks; and provide a minimum
clearance width of twelve inches (12 in.) for each bicycle; and
(d) The rack shall be securely anchored.
801.4 Each required bicycle parking space shall be accessible without moving another bicycle.
802.2 After the first fifty (50) bicycle parking spaces are provided for a use, additional spaces are required at one half (1/2)
the ratio specified in § 802.1
802.3 Notwithstanding C §§ 802.1 and 802.2, no property shall be required to provide more than one hundred (100) short-
term bicycle parking spaces. All properties with a long-term bicycle parking requirement shall provide at least two (2)
long-term spaces, and all properties with a short-term requirement shall provide at least two (2) short-term spaces.
The bicycle parking standards of this chapter shall be met when a new building is constructed.
802.4 When a property changes use categories or adds a use category, the property shall add any bicycle parking spaces
necessary to meet the requirements for the new use. However, historic resources shall not be required to provide
additional bicycle parking spaces for a change in use when the gross floor area of the building is not expanded.
802.5 An addition to an existing building, or the expansion of a use within a building, triggers additional bicycle parking
requirements only when the gross floor area of the building or use is expanded or enlarged by twenty-five percent
(25%) or more beyond the gross floor area on [enactment date of amendment], or in the case of a new building, the
gross floor area used to calculate the initial parking requirement. The additional minimum parking required shall be
calculated based upon the entire gross floor area added.
APPENDIX
|
21
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Use
Long-Term Spaces Short-Term Spaces
Agriculture, Large None 2 spaces
Agriculture, Residential None None
Animal Sales, Care and Boarding 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Antennas None None
Arts Design and Creation 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft.
Basic Utilities 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Chancery 1 space for each 5,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Community-Based Institutional Facility 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Daytime Care 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Eating and Drink Establishment 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Education, College/University 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Education, Private School 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Education, Public 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 2,000 sq. ft.
Emergency Shelter 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Entertainment, Assembly, and Performing Arts 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Firearm Sales 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Government, Large-Scale 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Government, Local 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Medical Care 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
Institutional, General 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft.
but no less than 8 spaces
Institutional, Religious 1 space for each 7,500 sq. ft.
1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft.
but no less than 8 spaces
Lodging 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Marine None 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Motor Vehicle-related 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Ofce 1 space for each 2,500 sq. ft. 1 space for each 40,000 sq. ft.
Parking None None
Parks and Recreation None
1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
but no less than 6 spaces
Production, Distribution, & Repair 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Residential House
Residential Flat
None None
Residential Apartment 1 space for each 3 dwelling units 1 space for each 20 dwelling units
Retail 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Service, General 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Service, Financial 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 3,500 sq. ft.
Sexually-based Business Establishment 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft. 1 space for each 10,000 sq. ft.
Transportation Infrastructure None None
Waste-related Services 1 space for each 20,000 sq. ft. None
Table 3: Minimum Number of Bicycle Parking Spaces
22
|
APPENDIX
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
802.6 Additions to historic resources shall be required to provide additional bicycle parking spaces only for the addition’s
gross floor area and only when the addition results in at least a fifty percent (50%) increase in gross floor area beyond
the gross floor area existing on [enactment date of amendment].
802.7 Special exception relief from additional parking requirements for historic resources is provided for in C § 807.
802.8 If a use operates solely outside of a building, any expansion of that use shall conform to the applicable bicycle
parking standards.
802.9 Uses governed by a campus plan are subject to the bicycle parking requirements approved by the Zoning
Commission and are not subject to the bicycle parking requirements otherwise applicable.
802.10 When there is more than one use on a lot, the number of bicycle parking spaces provided must equal the total
required for all uses. If a single use falls into more than one use category for which different bicycle parking
minimums apply, the standard that requires the greater number of bicycle parking spaces shall apply.
803 RULES OF CALCULATION
803.1 All bicycle parking standards shall be calculated on the basis of gross floor area, except for Residential uses, which
base bicycle parking standards on the number of dwelling units.
803.2 For purposes of calculating bicycle parking standards, gross floor area does not include floor area devoted to off-
street parking or loading facilities, including aisles, ramps, and maneuvering space.
803.3 Calculations of bicycle parking spaces that result in a fractional number of one half (0.5) or more shall be rounded up
to the next consecutive whole number. Any fractional result of less than one half (0.5) shall be rounded down to the
previous consecutive whole number.
804 SHORT-TERM BICYCLE PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
804.1 Required short-term bicycle parking spaces shall be located either on the same lot as the use they are intended to
serve or on public space within twenty feet (20 ft.) of the lot. A use providing short-term bicycle parking on adjacent
public space must obtain approval of a public space application under Title 24 DCMR.
804.2 Required short-term bicycle parking spaces shall be located within one-hundred and twenty feet (120 ft.) of a primary
entrance to the building they serve.
804.3 Areas devoted to short-term bicycle parking on private property shall be surfaced and maintained with an all-weather
surface conforming to the requirements of C § 813.1.
804.4 Required short-term bicycle parking spaces shall be provided as bicycle racks that meet the standards of C § 801.3.
804.5 An aisle at least four feet (4 ft.) wide between rows of bicycle parking spaces and the perimeter of the area devoted
to bicycle parking shall be provided. Aisles shall be kept clear of obstructions at all times. Where the bicycle parking
is on or adjacent to a sidewalk, the aisle may extend into the right-of-way.
804.6 Required short-term bicycle parking spaces shall be provided in a convenient, well-lit location that can be viewed
from the building the spaces are intended to serve. Required short-term bicycle parking spaces shall be available for
shoppers, customers, commuters, messengers, and all other visitors to the site.
805 LONG-TERM BICYCLE PARKING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
805.1 All required long-term bicycle parking spaces shall be located within the building of the use requiring them.
805.2 Required long-term bicycle parking spaces shall be located no lower than the first cellar level or the first complete
parking level below grade, and no higher than the first above-grade level. Spaces shall be available to employees,
residents, and other building occupants.
805.3 Required long-term bicycle parking shall be provided as racks or lockers. Bicycle racks for required long-term parking
shall be provided in a parking garage or a bicycle storage room.
APPENDIX
|
23
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
805.4 Where required long-term bicycle parking is provided in a garage, it shall be clearly marked and be separated from
adjacent motor vehicle parking spaces by wheel stops or other physical automobile barrier.
805.5 Where required long-term bicycle parking is provided in a bicycle room, the room shall have either solid walls or
floor-to-ceiling fencing. The room shall have locked doors.
805.6 For any bicycle room with solid walls, the entirety of the interior of the bicycle room shall be visible from the entry
door. A motion-activated security light enclosed in a tamper-proof housing shall be provided in each bicycle room.
805.7 Where required long-term bicycle parking is provided in lockers, the lockers shall be securely anchored and meet the
following minimum dimensions:
(a) Twenty-four inches (24 in.) in width at the door end;
(b) Eight inches (8 in.) in width at the opposite end;
(c) Seventy-two inches (72 in.) in length; and
(d) Forty-eight inches (48 in.) in height.
805.8 Each required long-term bicycle parking space shall be directly accessible by means of an aisle of a minimum width
of four feet (4 ft.) and have a minimum vertical clearance of seventy-five inches (75 in.). Aisles shall be kept clear of
obstructions at all times.
805.9 A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the required long-term bicycle parking spaces shall allow the bicycles to be
placed horizontally on the floor or ground. Vertical bicycle racks shall support the bicycle without the bicycle being
suspended.
805.10 Each required long-term bicycle parking space shall be a minimum width of twenty-four inches (24 in.), and shall be:
(a) A minimum of seventy-two inches (72 in.) in length if the bicycles are to be placed horizontally; or
(b) A minimum of forty inches (40 in.) in length if the bicycles are to be placed vertically.
806 REQUIREMENTS FOR SHOWERS AND CHANGING FACILITIES
806.1 The intent of this section is to ensure that long-term bicycle parking spaces are usable by the long-term occupants,
especially employees, of non-residential uses.
806.2 The requirements of this section shall apply to:
(a) Newly constructed buildings; and
(b) Buildings that expand in gross floor area by more than twenty-five percent (25%).
806.3 A non-residential use that requires long-term bicycle parking spaces and that occupies more than twenty-five
thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) in gross floor area shall provide a minimum of two (2) showers. An additional
two (2) showers shall be installed for every fifty thousand square feet (50,000 sq. ft.) of gross floor area above the first
twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.), up to a maximum requirement of six (6) showers.
806.4 A non-residential use that requires long-term bicycle parking spaces and that occupies more than twenty-five
thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) in gross floor area shall provide a minimum number of clothing lockers equal to
six-tenths (0.6) times the minimum number of required long-term bicycle parking spaces. Each locker required by this
subsection shall be a minimum of twelve inches (12 in.) wide, eighteen inches (18 in.) deep, and thirty-six inches (36
in.) high.
806.5 Showers and lockers required by this section shall be accessible to employees and other long-term occupants of the
use requiring them. Showers and lockers shall be located within the same building as the use requiring them.
24
|
APPENDIX
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
807 SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS FROM BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
807.1 This section provides flexibility from the requirements of this chapter when providing the number of bicycle parking
spaces or showers and changing facilities required is impractical or contrary to other District regulations, or when it is
unnecessary due to a lack of demand for bicycle parking.
807.2 The Board may grant, as a special exception, a full or partial reduction in the minimum number of long-term or short
term bicycle parking spaces required for a use or structure, subject to the general requirements of Subtitle Y, the
limitations of C § 807.3, and the applicant’s demonstration of either of the following:
(a) Due to the physical constraints of the property, the required bicycle parking spaces cannot be provided on the lot
or, in the case of short-term bicycle parking spaces, on abutting public space; or
(b) The use or structure will generate demand for less bicycle parking than the minimum bicycle parking standards
require, as a result of:
(1) The nature of the use or structure;
(2) Land use or topographical characteristics of the neighborhood that minimize the need for required
bicycle parking spaces, or
(3) A transportation demand management plan approved by DDOT, the implementation of which shall be
a condition of the Board’s approval, will result in demand for less short-term bicycle parking than the
minimum bicycle parking standards require.
(c) The nature or location of the historic resource precludes the provision of bicycle parking spaces; or providing the
required bicycle parking would result in significant architectural or structural difficulty in maintaining the integrity and
appearance of the historic resource.
807.3 A reduction in parking granted under C § 2007.2 shall only be for the amount that the applicant demonstrates
cannot be physically provided, and proportionate to the reduction in bicycle parking demand demonstrated by the
applicant
807.4 The Board may grant, as a special exception, modifications or waivers to the requirements for showers and changing
facilities in C §§ 2006.3, 2006.4, and 2006.5 if in addition to meeting the general requirements of Subtitle Y, the
applicant demonstrates that:
(a) The intent of C § 806 is met; and
(b) Either:
(1) The use will not generate the demand for the full number of showers and changing facilities required; or
Subtitle C - 62 ZC Proposed Action, Dec. 2014
(2) The property owner has an arrangement to make use of showers and changing facilities off-site, and
that the showers and changing facilities will be reasonably available to long-term occupants of the use
requiring the facilities.
1214 BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
1214.1 All existing residential buildings with eight (8) or more units shall provide secure bicycle parking spaces for the
storage of bicycles in operable condition.
1214.2 Each existing residential building covered by § 1214.1 shall provide a reasonable number of bicycle parking spaces
within thirty (30) days after written request from one (1) or more tenants or property owners. A reasonable number
shall be defined as the lesser of either:
(a) One (1) bicycle parking space for each three (3) residential units; or
(b) Enough bicycle parking to meet the requested demand.
APPENDIX
|
25
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
1214.3 If a complaint of noncompliance with this requirement is filed with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT)
by one or more residents, DDOT shall facilitate discussions between the parties to determine the number of bicycle
parking spaces that the residential building will provide. If the resident(s) and residential building cannot reach an
agreement, DDOT shall make a determination of the number of bicycle parking spaces that the residential building
shall provide.
1214.4 All new residential buildings with eight (8) or more units shall have at least one (1) secure bicycle parking space for
each three (3) residential units.
1214.5 All substantially rehabilitated buildings with eight (8) or more units shall have at least one (1) secure bicycle parking
space for each three (3) residential units or the same number of secure parking spaces as were in the building before
the rehabilitation, whichever is greater.
1214.6 Where it can be demonstrated that providing sufficient bicycle parking spaces required under § 1214.2 or § 1214.4
is not physically practical, that undue economic hardship would result from strict compliance with the regulation, or
that the nature of the building use is such that bicycle parking spaces would not be used, the District Department
of Transportation Bicycle Program Office may grant, upon written application of the owner of the building, an
appropriate exemption or reduced level of compliance. In such cases, the Bicycle Program Office shall issue to the
building owner a written certificate documenting the exemption or reduced level of compliance.
1214.7 Any residential buildings that have been exempted from the requirements of this section due to the nature of the use
of the building shall provide a minimum number of bicycle parking spaces equal to at least five percent (5%) of the
number of people employed in the building or one (1) space, whichever is greater.
1214.8 The following types of buildings are exempt from the requirements of this section, in addition to those exempted
under §1214.6:
Elderly housing buildings;
Assisted living facilities; and
Nursing homes.
1214.9 A residential building shall be deemed new or substantially rehabilitated if the building permit is issued on or after
the date of the publication of these rules.
SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 61 DCR 12281 (November 28, 2014).
1215 BICYCLE PARKING IN RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: SPACE REQUIREMENTS
1215.1 If possible, all required bicycle parking spaces in a residential building shall be located within the building.
1215.2 If bicycle parking spaces must be located outside of the building, the spaces shall be secure, covered, and adjacent
to the building.
1215.3 Interior bicycle parking spaces shall be located no lower than the first cellar level or the first complete parking level
below grade, and no higher than the first above-grade level.
1215.4 Spaces shall be available to employees, residents, and other building occupants.
1215.5 Required bicycle parking shall be provided as racks or lockers.
1215.6 Interior bicycle racks for required parking shall be provided in a parking garage or a bicycle storage room.
1215.7 Where required bicycle parking is provided in a garage, it shall be clearly marked and separated from adjacent motor
vehicle parking spaces by wheel stops or other physical automobile barriers.
1215.8 For a bicycle room with solid walls, the entirety of the interior of the bicycle room shall be visible from the entry door.
A motion-activated security light enclosed in a tamper-proof housing shall be provided in each bicycle room, unless
otherwise illuminated in such a manner as to allow the bicycles to be clearly visible.
26
|
APPENDIX
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
1215.9 Where required bicycle parking is provided in lockers, the lockers shall be securely anchored and meet the following
minimum dimensions:
Twenty-four inches (24 in.) in width at the door end;
Eight inches (8 in.) in width at the opposite end;
Seventy-two inches (72 in.) in length; and
Forty-eight inches (48 in.) in height.
1215.10 Each required bicycle parking space shall be directly accessible by means of an aisle of a minimum width of forty-
eight inches (48 in.) and have a minimum vertical clearance of seventy-five inches (75 in.). Aisles shall be kept clear of
obstructions at all times.
1215.11 Bicycle parking spaces shall allow the bicycles to be placed horizontally on the floor or ground. In addition, vertical
bicycle space racks may be utilized provided they support the bicycle without the bicycle being suspended. Bicycle
parking spaces may not exclusively consist of vertical bicycle space racks.
1215.12 Each required bicycle parking space shall be a minimum width of twenty-four inches (24 in.), and shall be:
(a) A minimum of seventy-two inches (72 in.) in length if the bicycles are to be placed horizontally; or
(b) A minimum of forty inches (40 in.) in length if the bicycles are to be placed vertically.
SOURCE: Final Rulemaking published at 61 DCR 12281 (November 28, 2014).
APPENDIX
|
27
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
Bike Rack Details
28
|
APPENDIX
DDOT BIKE PARKING GUIDE
On-Street Bicycle Parking Details