2002 Knoxville Regional Bicycle Plan
Appendix D: Bicycle Parking Requirements
The ordinances/regulations concerning off-street parking should be amended to include bicycle parking facilities. The ordinance should address how many bicycle parking spaces are required for developments and the design, maintenance, location and spacing of parking facilities. The purpose of such a change is to provide adequate and safe facilities for the storage of bicycles. This ordinance would require the provision of off-street bicycle parking for new developments, expansion of existing developments and changes in use that would require additional parking. For expansions or changes in use, bicycle parking is required based only on the extra amount needed by the addition or change in use, not for the entire development. The number of bicycle parking spaces required for a development is determined by the Zoning Administrator based on guidelines included in the ordinance.
Bicycle parking requirements can be fulfilled by bike lockers, racks or equivalent structures in or upon which the bicycle may be locked by the user. All racks must be securely anchored to the ground or building surface. Racks must be designed to accommodate U-shaped locks. U-locks are designed to allow the user to lock a wheel and the bicycle frame to a stationary object. The Eligible Parking Devices list is attached.
Bicycle parking needs to be located in a clearly designated, safe and convenient location. Required bicycle parking must be located within 50’ of a well-used entrance to the building. With permission from the appropriate agency/department, bicycle parking may be located in the public right-of-way. If motor vehicle parking is covered, required bicycle parking must also be covered. If 10 or more bicycle spaces are required, then at least 50 percent of the bicycle spaces must be covered. Bicycle parking may be provided within a building, but the location must be easily accessible to bicycles. If the bicycle parking is not visible from the street, then a sign must be posted indicating the location of the bicycle parking facilities. Surfaces around the bicycle racks must be maintained to be clear of debris.
See the Design and Location Checklist and Spacing for Bike Racks for further information on placement of racks.
Off-Street Bicycle Parking Guidelines
| Land Use |
Minimum Bicycle Parking Spaces Required |
| Retail uses |
10% of automobile requirements |
Exceptions:
|
Bar/nightclub
|
1 per 2000 sq ft |
Convenience store/gas
|
1 per 2000 sq ft |
Restaurants
|
1 per 1000 sq ft |
Theater
|
1 per 500 sq ft |
| Multi-family residential |
1 per unit |
| Office |
1 per 2500 sq ft |
| Schools |
1 per 10 students above second grade plus employees |
| Manufacturing |
1 per 5000 sq ft |
Good Bike Parking: Design and Location Checklist
Secure
- Can cyclists secure one or both tires and the frame to the rack?
- Does the rack accommodate a variety of locks, especially U-locks?
- Is the rack securely anchored to an immovable surface, and impervious to common cutting devices?
- Is parking located in well-monitored, well-lit areas (near foot traffic and/or building entrances) to help reduce vandalism and theft?
Convenient
- Is parking located close (within 50 feet) to building and transit entrances?
- Is it as or more convenient than car parking?
Visible
- Is it easy to find the parking from the normal travel routes?
Sheltered
- Does the parking provide protection from rain, snow, and sun? (This protects bicycles and makes it easier for cyclists while locking and loading purchases.)
Space Efficient
- Does the parking minimize conflicts with pedestrian traffic?
- Does it encourage orderly parking?
Easy to Maintain
- Does the parking have few, if any, moving parts?
- Will the construction material endure weather extremes?
Eligible Parking Devices
The recommended bike rack for most sites is the “Inverted U” rack because of its simplicity and security, and for the low cost and ease of installation. Transportation Planning Organization staff, in coordination with the Bicycle Advisory Committee, will make an initial determination as to whether a rack meets the requirements. Any person or organization selecting a bicycle rack not on this list provided may request that the TPO staff review the rack for acceptance.
Inverted U Racks
The Inverted U rack can be 35.5" tall, with uprights 16.5" apart, and an outside diameter of 2.375" galvanized steel pipe. There are several variations of the U-rack, some called hoop racks and bike docks. Each rack can accommodate two bicycles. Multiple racks can be installed at one location in various configurations. The rack can be surface mounted on concrete or asphalt, or set in post holes.
Guard Rail Racks
The Guard Rail rack is extra long (60"), 35" tall, and has a second rail to help prevent bicycles from sliding under the rack if the bicycle is inadvertently moved. Each rack accommodates two to four bicycles. The top rail is 1.875" outside diameter, and the second rail is 1.625" diameter.
Bicycle Lockers (polyethylene)
Lockers provide maximum security from theft and vandalism, and protection from rain. They should be installed on a concrete pad.
Spacing for Bike Racks
Spacing between racks:
Each bike bar accommodates two bicycles, and requires a total footprint of 2' by 6'. Aisles between the footprints should be at least 1' wide, but 2' aisles are preferred. Bars should be centered in the footprint space.
Spacing between racks and buildings (parallel):
When bicycles will be parking parallel to a building, bike racks should be located at least 3' from the wall to allow for maneuvering handlebars between the racks and the building.
Spacing between racks and curb (parallel):
When bicycles will be parked parallel to a curb, bike racks should be at least 2' from the curb.
Spacing between racks and obstructions (perpendicular):
When bicycles will be parked perpendicular to a building, curb or other obstruction, racks may be located in the center of the 2 X 6 footprint, with the edge of the footprint immediately adjacent to the obstruction.
Spacing between racks and obstructions (diagonal):
When bicycle racks will be placed diagonally to a building or other obstruction, the angle may be varied. The bike parking area must still maintain a 2 X 6 footprint and the aisles between the footprints should be at least 1' but preferably 2'.
