While helmets are encouraged for bicyclists and scooter riders, Arlington requires helmets for bicyclists and scooter riders under the age of 18. See the Traffic Ordinance for more information.
Riding a bike on sidewalks is not specifically prohibited in the City of Arlington. However, riding on a sidewalk can actually be more dangerous than riding in the street, as motorists typically are not expecting to see a bicyclist on the sidewalk. For more information, please watch this video.
Scooters are allowed to be ridden on sidewalks within the operational area. All bike and scooter users must yield to pedestrians.
Please keep in mind, however, that Arlington does have some multi-use sidepaths (like along Northwest Green Oaks Blvd) which are specifically designed for both riding bicycles and walking.
On September 26, 2023, the Arlington City Council adopted Ordinance 23-057 amending the Streets and Sidewalks Chapter of the Code of Ordinances. This ordinance repealed the section prohibiting the use of motor-assisted scooters and added a new section allowing for their operation and other forms of micromobility in the downtown area including the University of Texas at Arlington campus.
See Ordinance 23-057 for more information.
Before a micromobility operator can rent out devices in Arlington, they must secure a license agreement with the City of Arlington. City staff anticipates coordinating on vendor selection with the University of Texas at Arlington.
Personally owned electric bicycles can be operated in the
same places a standard bicycle operates. Both are allowed citywide.
Motor-assisted scooters allowed in the designated area in Arlington are defined as self-propelled devices with at least two wheels in contact with the ground during operation. All devices must have a braking system capable of stopping the device under typical operating conditions; a gas or electric motor forty (40) cubic centimeters or less; a deck designed to allow a person to stand or sit while operating the device; and the ability to be propelled by human power alone.