We believe that cycling on sidewalks puts both people walking and biking at risk, and urge cyclists to avoid riding on sidewalks.
The law: in Toronto, children under the age of 14 may cycle on sidewalks. No person age 14 and older may ride a bicycle on a sidewalk. The City of Toronto's bylaw states that "The fine for an adult who rides a bicycle on a sidewalk shall be $60".
We encourage parents to teach their children safe, respectful and responsible cycling practices.
In some situations, the road may be so unsafe that the cyclist's safest option is to ride on the sidewalk. In such a case, we recommend that cyclists:
- reduce speed
- cede right of way to pedestrians
- warn approaching pedestrians
- pass pedestrians and others with the greatest of care and respect
- dismount and walk their bike when conditions warrant it
- return to the road at the earliest safe opportunity to do so
