BICYCLE PARKING GUIDELINES & APPLICATION - CITY OF PHILADELPHIA DECEMBER 2017 - oTIS
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
C I T Y O F P H I L A D E L P H I A
BICYCLE PARKING
GUIDELINES & APPLICATION
DECEMBER 2017
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 1
QUICK REFERENCES:
Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook:
https://beta.phila.gov/media/20170914173121/Complete-Streets-Design-Handbook-2017.pdf
Streets Department Bike Rack Application:
http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/general/Streets_Bike_Rack_Application.
pdf
Philadelphia Art Commission Proposed Works of Art Guidelines & Application:
http://www.phila.gov/artcommission/submissions/Pages/WorksofArt.aspx
Planning & Development’s Complete Streets Checklist:
http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/resource_library/Complete-Streets-
Checklist-Planning.pdf
Philadelphia Streets Department Complete Streets Checklist:
www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/.../Complete_Streets_Checklist_locked.docx
Philadelphia Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (2012):
http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/pdf/PlanDesign_SamplePlans_Local_Philadelphia2012.pdf
Philadelphia Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Progress Report (2015):
http://www.phila.gov/CityPlanning/plans/Pedestrian%20and%20Bicycle%20Plan/Ped_Bike_
Plan_ProgressReport2015.pdf
2016 Philadelphia Bicycle Network Map:
http://www.phila.gov/CityPlanning/plans/Pedestrian%20and%20Bicycle%20Plan/
BikeMap2016.pdf
Philadelphia Streets Department Downloads & Links:
http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/customer-service/downloads-and-links
Philadelphia Complete Streets:
http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/complete-streets
The Philadelphia Code:
http://library.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/Pennsylvania/philadelphia_pa/
thephiladelphiacode?fn=altmain-nf.htm$f=templates$3.0&vid=amlegal:philadelphia_pa
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................page 04
Parts of the Sidewalk....................................................................................................................page 05
Areas of responsibility..................................................................................................................page 06
Frequently Asked Questions......................................................................................................page 07
Bicycle Parking Checklist.............................................................................................................page 08
Types of Bike Parking...................................................................................................................page 09
STANDARD RACKS..........................................................................................................page 10
Bike Parking Locations..................................................................................................................page 13
Placement Guidelines....................................................................................................................page 14
Rack Anchoring................................................................................................................................page 18
ART/SCULPTURAL RACKS..............................................................................................page 19
Art/Scupltural Rack Examples...................................................................................................page 20
DEVELOPER RESOURCES.................................................................................................page 21
The Philadelphia Code..................................................................................................................page 22
Minimum Parking Guidelines.....................................................................................................page 27
The Complete Streets Handbook & Checklists.................................................................page 28
Site Requirements...........................................................................................................................page 29
APPLICATIONS & GUIDELINES........................................................................................page 30
General Guidelines...........................................................................................................................page 31
Procedure for Complaints.............................................................................................................page 31
Applying for a Standard Bike Rack...........................................................................................page 32
Applying for an Art/Sculptural Bike Rack...............................................................................page 32
APPENDICES......................................................................................................................page 34
Appendix 1: Documents Referenced........................................................................................page 35
Appendix 2: Background...............................................................................................................page 37
Appendix 3: Who is Involved?....................................................................................................page 38
Appendix 4: Philadelphia Code SS 14-804. Bicycle Parking Ratios & Standards........page 39
Appendix 5: Furnishing Zone Details: FZ0101A....................................................................page 40
Appendx 6: Furnishing Zone Details: FZ0101B....................................................................page 41
Appendix 7: Furnishing Zone Details: FZ0101C....................................................................page 42
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 3
XXXX
INTRODUCTION
Bike parking is part of Philadelphia’s Complete Streets strategy. Complete Streets are safe,
comfortable, and convenient for all users. Easy, safe, and abundant bicycle parking is necessary
to support Philadelphia’s growing cycling population, and designating parking spots for
cyclists is a necessary and effective way to make getting places by bike more convenient and
appealing. Business districts benefit economically and socially from being bikeable, and to
be bikeable they must have capacity for bike parking. Sufficient bike parking also lowers the
number of bikes locked to trees, benches, or railings, and keeps the sidewalk clear for walking.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 4
PARTS OF THE SIDEWALK
Complete streets design considers the interaction of many different roadway users, elements of street
design, and surrounding land uses. To ensure that each of these elements is considered during street
project design, the Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook identifies six conceptual complete street
components that make up the public right-of-way: the Urban Design Component; Bicycle Component;
Vehicle/Cartway Component; Curbside Management Component; Building & Furnishing Component;
and Pedestrian Component.
Figure 1: Source - page 14 of the Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook
Installation in the Curbside Management Zone
When installed in the curbside management zone, bike racks should be 30” from the curb, or between
28” and 36” if exactly 30” isn’t possible. Before installation, make sure that the walking zone (called the
Pedestrian Component in Figure 1) will not be narrowed to less than 6’ when bikes are locked to the
racks. Bike racks should also be spaced at least 4’ apart to provide access between them when in use.
Installation in the Building Zone
Bike racks can also be installed in the building zone as long as bikes locked to them do not extend
into the sidewalk farther than the maximum extension of the building, its stairs, railings, etc. You must
always remember to maintain a walking zone (called the Pedestrian Component in Figure 1) that is at
least 6’ wide. Some streets may require even more space. Check the Complete Streets Handbook if
you’re not sure how much space your street requires.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 5
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
The diagram below (Figure 2) illustrates the roles and responsibilities of city agencies and other entities
related to the most visible aspects of the City’s streets. It does not include all agencies with street design
review, approval, construction, or maintenance roles and is not intended to be a literal representation
of appropriate street furniture locations.
Figure 2: Source - page 31 of the Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 6
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can the City provide or assist with bike parking funding, maintenance, or repair?
The City does not provide funds to support the design, construction, or maintenance of standard bike
racks, or art/sculptural bike racks.
Who is responsible for a bike rack?
All bike racks installed through the processes outlined in this document will be the property of the
Permittee - the person who applies for and receives the permit for a bike rack. Maintenance, care, and
repair of the bike corral or rack remains the responsibility of the Permittee.
Who installs the bike rack once it’s approved?
The Permittee installs, monitors, and maintains it.
What will protect the bike rack?
A bike rack should be placed according to the provided guidelines so that it is a safe distance from
moving and parked cars, and out of the pedestrian walking zone. If a bike rack or corral is damaged,
the owner is responsible for fixing it.
Who is responsible if bikes are stolen from the bike rack or corral?
As with all public bike racks, bike owners are responsible for securely locking bikes. Bike owners
should report theft to the Philadelphia Police Department. If you see suspicious activity at a bike rack,
call 911.
What happens if bikes parked at a bike rack are damaged by a vehicle?
Bike owners use racks at their own risk. Drivers are responsible if they hit fixed objects, including bikes
and bike racks. If a car or other vehicle hits or damages the bike rack or bikes parked on the rack, it
falls to the responsible parties and/or their liability insurance carriers to pay for the damage.
Can bike racks accommodate extra-long bikes, such as tandems and recumbents?
Parking tandem and recumbent bicycles at standard bike racks is only acceptable so long as bikes do
not protrude into the roadway or sidewalk. It is the responsibility of the Permittee to ensure that this
requirement is met.
What if a property owner/manager does not want a bike rack but a property
tenant does?
Property owners are required to approve bicycle rack installation as the property owner is ultimately
responsibility for bicycle rack maintenance and liability.
What happens to existing bike racks if the owner of a property changes?
Bicycle racks remain the responsibility of the property owner who obtained the original permit, unless
they are expressly transferred with the property as part of the sale.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 7
BICYCLE PARKING CHECKLIST
Does the site have at least the minimum amount of both short and long-term
parking? (see page 27)
Do bicycle racks fit design guidelines? (see pages 11-12) Bicycle racks must:
• Support the bicycle in at least two places
• Allow bicyclists to lock the frame and one wheel with a U-lock
• Resist cutting, bending, or other deformation.
• Avoid spiral, wave, comb, and toaster bicycle racks.
Are bicycle racks securely anchored to the ground? (see
page 18)
Are short term bicycle racks clearly visible from the main entrance and in a well-
lighted, high traffic area?
Are bicycle racks located less than 50 feet from a main pedestrian
entrance?
Is the long-term bicycle parking limited access, well-lighted, and protected from
weather?
Are bicycle parking areas designed according to minimum spacing guidelines?
(see pages 14-17)
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 8
TYPES OF BIKE PARKING
Every person who rides a bike should have a safe and secure location to park at the end of their trip,
without damaging trees or public or private property. The type and amount of parking depends on
the location that is being served and the surrounding area’s commercial and residential character.
Shopping districts, parks, and other local attractions should have ample short-term bike parking, while
employment centers and transit hubs should have more enhanced parking facilities to support longer-
term and higher-volume bike parking.
Short-term bike parking (less than two hours) can take
several forms, such as sidewalk U-racks, sidewalk bike
corrals, in-street bike corrals, or sidewalk art racks. At a
minimum, short term parking should have the following
properties:
• simple design (see guidelines on pages 11 and 12)
• unsheltered, and
• accessible to the public (on-street, in public parking
areas or other public areas).
• Typical locations include: Figure 3: An example of short-term bicycle
» commercial, entertainment and retail parking in Philadelphia
facilities;
» medical / health care;
» parks and recreation facilities;
» Libraries and civic buildings;
» community centers, and
» schools and colleges.
Long-term bike parking (more than two hours) can also
take multiple forms, such as locked cages with tamper-
proof locks, and in-building storage rooms. Long-term
parking should:
• have secured and limited access (fenced-in “cage,”
secure room or garage, locker), and
• be sheltered from weather by at least a roof
(shelters that protect from wind, rain and snow are
preferable to fences).
• Typical locations include: Figure 4: An example of long-term bicycle
» apartment buildings or multifamily parking in Washington D.C.
residences,
» places of employment,
» transit facilities,
» schools and colleges, and
» stadiums.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 9
Photo Credit - Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia
STANDARD RACKS
The most common type of bike rack is the standard “Horse shoe” or “Inverted U”. These bike racks are
characterized by a single loop of steel shaped like an upside-down letter U. Dimensions are usually
between 32” – 42” in height and 24” – 32” wide, and they are manufactured in bulk by licensed and
insured commercial vendors.
In Philadelphia, an off-the-shelf bike rack must fit in an envelope no larger than 42” long x 42” tall x 8”
wide, as shown on page 11. Tubing may be round or square, and diameter varies from 1.5” to 2.75”.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 10While a wide variety of bicycle rack designs are available “off the shelf,” bike racks in Philadelphia should
meet these basic minimum criteria:
• Fit in an envelope no larger than 42” long x 42” tall x 8” wide (see Figures 5 - 8).
• Support a bicycle in at least two places. (This prevents the bike from falling over.)
• Allow bicyclists to lock the frame and one wheel with a single U-lock.
• Be securely anchored to the ground (see page 18).
• Resist cutting, rusting, bending, or other deformation.
• Provide enough space between bike positions to realistically accommodate a bicycle locked in
every spot (see page 14).
42” 42”
42” 42”
8” 8”
Figure 5: Standard Loop Rack Figure 6: Standard U Rack
42” 8” 42”
42” 42”
8”
Figure 7: Standard Hitch Rack Figure 8: Large Sculptural Rack- DOES NOT FIT
within envelope (42”x42”x8”). Not suitable for
standard sidewalk installation.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 11Figure 9: Recommended — Inverted U or arc: Figure 10: Recommended — Coat hanger or campus:
Can stand alone for curbside use or multiple racks can be Great for high-density use at businesses or schools. Photo
installed for high density uses. credit: Dero Bike Racks
Figure 11: Recommended — D shaped or swerve racks: Can stand alone for curbside use or multiple parallel racks can
be installed for high density uses. Photo credit: Dero Bike Racks
Figure 12: Discouraged - Toaster: these and other Figure 13: Discouraged - Undulating or wave: Provides
designs that support a wheel but not the frame may only one point of contact and does not accommodate the
damage wheels and do not allow locking to the bike frame. intended number of bikes. Is often is used incorrectly.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 12BIKE PARKING LOCATIONS
Short term bike parking should be:
• No more than 50 feet from a main pedestrian accessible entrance. If multiple entrances exist,
place signage at secondary entrances to direct bicyclists to bicycle parking or install bike racks
at each location.
• Clearly visible from the destination (main entry).
• In a high traffic area.
• In a well-lighted area.
• If possible, protected by existing structures such as overhangs or awnings.
Long term bike parking should be:
• Controlled access (users need a key, fob, or pass code to get in).
• If located outside the building, should be less than 50 feet from a main pedestrian accessible
entrance.
• Well lit.
• Protected from weather by at least a roof (shelters that protect from wind, rain and snow are
preferable to fences).
• If possible, visible surveillance cameras or nearby security guards greatly increase security.
Figure 14: Bicycle parking on the mezzanine level at SEPTA’s Tasker-Morris station allows SEPTA passengers
to ride their bikes to the Broad Street Line. These bike racks are protected from the weather and monitored
by video surveilance cameras.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 13PLACEMENT GUIDELINES
Short Term Parking
Short term bicycle parking is located near the curb or the main entrance of retail or commercial centers.
Bike racks may be single (serving up to 2 bikes) or installed in a series. Good bike rack placement allows
for easy access to the rack by bicyclists without impeding other users of the right of way and without
placing the bike or bike rack in undue risk from moving traffic.
It is recommended that most bike racks be placed in the street furniture zone, which is the name for
the area extending from the edge of the curb to approximately 42” inward towards the property line
where street signs and utility poles are generally located. (Refer to the diagrams on pages 5 and 6 for
clarification.
In certain circumstances, the ideal location may be closer to the building line, particularly in cases where
staircases or doorways create under-used space next to a building.
MULTIPLE BICYCLE PARKING AREA SINGLE BICYCLE PARKING AREA
(MORE THAN 2 STALLS) (1 OR 2 STALLS)
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 14Long Term Parking
Long term parking must be in a fenced corral, secure shelter, or room, and will likely be high density.
Flat, high-density bicycle parking should meet the minimum spacing requirements listed on page 14
under short term layout requirements.
In high density settings, access aisles of at least 4 feet are recommended to facilitate access.
Following these dimensions, on a flat surface as many as 40 bikes can fit in a space 25 feet by 16.5 feet
(see Figure 15):
Figure 15: Sample layout for bike room or corral.
Vertical bicycle racks allow even greater density in bicycle parking and may be spaced closer together
than the dimensions in Figure 15. If vertical bicycle racks are used, a 20 foot by 20 foot space can fit 60
bikes, as shown in Figure 16:
Figure 16: Sample layout for vertical bike parking.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 15Clear Space
The City of Philadelphia requires at least 6’ of clear space for foot or wheelchair traffic on most streets.
In high-traffic areas, the minimum required free space may be 8’ or greater. Clearance measurements
are taken with a standard bike parked against the bike rack.
Bike racks and bikes parked on them must not obstruct sidewalks, doorways, or bus stops. In situations
where sidewalks are narrow, bike racks should be installed so bicycles can be parked parallel to the curb
to ensure the sidewalk is not obstructed. On busy sidewalks, this requirement for clear space may be
increased depending on other factors such as commercial uses, pedestrian flows, and adjacent features.
Bike racks must provide 4’ clearance to utility access, trees, fire hydrants, street poles, bus stops, etc.
Bike racks should not be placed within 5’ from the center line of any doorways. (See Appendix 7 on page
42 for Streets department guidance on where bike racks should be located relative to other sidewalk
components.)
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 16Non-Standard Placement
Non-standard bike rack configurations must be reviewed by the Streets Department Right of Way
Division and individually approved. They are not suitable for all locations, but they can provide useful
alternatives to the standard configuration of bike racks.
In areas with large sidewalks (12’ and wider), it may be appropriate to orient racks in a way to maximize
bike parking along a curb line. In these cases, bike racks may be designed or installed such that locked
bikes are not parallel to the curb line (as shown in Figure 17). These bike racks may be permitted on
sidewalks, or other rights of way greater than 12’ in width, or where their installation will not substantially
reduce the walking space available for pedestrians.
Example: U-racks placed on an angle
An example of an alternative installation for a bike rack is the U-rack placed on an angle. This type of
installation has proven successful at various locations in Philadelphia, including at 1515 Arch Street.
Important considerations for this type of installation include:
• Bike racks placed at 45 degrees from perpendicular to the curb line require at least 42”
between each bike rack.
• Bike racks must be moved further back from curb line to at least a 34” setback.
• Sidewalk walking zone space must not be reduced to less than 6’. This should be calculated
with bikes parked on the bike rack.
• Parked bikes occupy 6’ of linear space along the long axis of the bike rack. This should be
used as a baseline for calculating the remaining walking space.
Must maintain a
walking zone of
at least 6 feet
6’ or Greater
42”
12’ or Greater 34”
Figure 17: A diagram showing the minimum spacing requirements for a group of U-racks that are aligned on a
45-degree angle to the curb.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 17RACK ANCHORING
Bike racks should be securely attached to the ground or to a wall. Bike racks must be affixed to the
ground in one of the following appropriate manners:
• Bike racks must be installed on the surface of a concrete or solid stone substrate and fastened
with corrosion resistant anchors. Mechanical anchors or glue-in anchors are permitted.
Anchors must be at least 3/8” in diameter and 3” in length.
• For racks with a maximum horizontal length of 18”, at least two (2) anchors are required. For
racks over 18” in horizontal length, at least four (4) anchors are required.
• For any other substrate (brick, cobblestone, grass, asphalt etc.), bike racks must be installed on
a poured concrete pad at least 24” in width x 30” in length x 4” in depth, and bolted into place
as explained above.
Figure 18: Embed legs or base in concrete or bituminous.
Figure 19: Bolt each leg or base securely using wedge anchor bolts or tamper-proof spikes.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 18Figure 20: Photo credit EastFallsLocal.com
ART/SCULPTURAL RACKS
Non-standard, artistic, and/or one-off custom bike racks are allowed according to City of Philadelphia
code, Chapter 12-800, Bike Regulations and Penalties. Installation of any bike rack that does not
meet the guidelines listed on page 11, or a bike rack that is fabricated in a one-off fashion, requires
review of the Philadelphia Art Commission prior to obtaining Streets Department approval. (See page
32 for additional information on the Art Commission application process for Art/Sculptural bike racks.)
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 19ART/SCULPTURAL RACK EXAMPLES
Photo: Christopher William Purdom Photo: Christopher William Purdom
Photo: Christopher William Purdom Photo: Christopher William Purdom
Art bike racks must meet all of the same minimum requirements as a standard bike rack but may exceed
the standard envelope size if approved by the Streets Department.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 20DEVELOPER RESOURCES
Developers often need additional technical information to ensure their projects meet minimum
requirements and are in line with the City’s right-of-way guidance and zoning requirements. The
following section is intended to be a resource for developers working on large-scale projects
throughout Philadelphia.
If you are not a Developer or do not need this detailed level of information, feel free to skip to page
30 for bike rack application guidelines and materials.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 21THE PHILADELPHIA CODE
The Philadelphia Code provides important legal guidelines and regulations for the installation and
maintenance of bicycle parking throughout Philadelphia. Developers should reference the code to
understand required bicycle parking minimums as they relate to their development projects.
The excerpts listed below are intended to provide a basic overview of parts of the Philadelphia Code
that are relevant to bicycle parking for Developers. These excerpts may not reflect the most current
legislation adopted by the Municipality and should not be relied upon as the definitive authority
for local legislation. Always double-check the current code for any changes implemented since the
publication of this guide.
Additionally, the formatting and pagination of the posted documents varies from the formatting and
pagination of the official copy. The official printed copy of a Code of Ordinances should be consulted
prior to any action being taken.
TITLE 11: STREETS
CHAPTER 11-600. CONSTRUCTION, ENCROACHMENTS AND PROJECTIONS OVERM ON AND UNDER
STREETS
§ 11-601. Definitions.
(4) A bicycle rack is defined as “A fixed rack installed on the sidewalk for parking
bicycles.
§ 11-604. Encroachments Upon and Obstructions of the Streets
(2) A bicycle rack may be installed provided:
(a) The bicycle rack shall be installed such that the rack, including attached
bicycles, does not upon the usable sidewalk width as determined by the
Department of Streets or interfere with safe egress from any building or facility;
(b) Written permission is obtained from the abutting property owner;
(c) The owner of the bicycle rack (the owner) shall, at his/her own cost or expense,
maintain and perform all necessary repairs to the bicycle rack and repair all
damage resulting from the installation;
(d) The owner shall remove any abandoned bicycles, bicycle locks, and chains on
a regular basis;
(e) Construction of the bicycle rack and its installation shall conform to
regulations promulgated by the Department of Streets;
(f) The owner shall obtain a permit from the Department of Streets prior to
installation of the bicycle racks;
(g) The owner, as a condition of the permit, agrees to release, indemnify and
defend the City from all damages or claims for damages, which may arise by
reason of the installation of the bicycle rack in the right-of-way.
§ 11-613. Pedestrian Enhancements.
(2) Application for Pedestrian Enhancement Permit.
An application for a Pedestrian Enhancement Permit shall include:
(a) a detailed plan that clearly illustrates the location and design of the proposed
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 22Pedestrian Enhancement. The plan shall include the type, design, and placement
of any furnishings, such as, but not limited to, tables, chairs, planters, bicycle
racks, and recreational equipment
(b) an explanation of how the Pedestrian Enhancement meets the criteria set
forth in Section 11-613(3)
CHAPTER 11-900. COMPLETE STREETS POLICY
§ 11-901. Complete Streets Policy.
(1) The Department is authorized to develop a Complete Streets Policy for the City, and
to maintain, update, and publish such policy through a Complete Streets Handbook. The
Department is further authorized to issue regulations implementing and requiring
compliance with the Complete Streets Policy. The purpose of such policy shall be as
follows:
(a) To give full consideration to accommodation of the safety and convenience of
all users of the transportation system, be they pedestrians, bicyclists, public
transit users or motor vehicle drivers;
(b) Balance the needs of all users in planning, design, construction, maintenance,
and operation of the right of way and facilities therein; and
(c) Contribute to a comprehensive and integrated transportation network and
prioritize the safety of those traveling in the public right-of-way, and in particular
the safety of children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
(2) No construction project of a type set forth below that is in or affects the public right
of-way shall be approved by the Department of Streets, or further, where an ordinance
is required to authorize the project, by Council, unless the person responsible for such
construction project documents the manner of compliance with such regulations as the
Department of Streets may promulgate with respect to implementation of the City’s
Complete Streets Policy:
(a) Any project subject to plan of development review pursuant to § 14-507(8).
135
(b) Any project subject to civic design review pursuant to § 14-304(5).
(c) Any street improvement that requires a permit or approval from the
Department of Streets, and that proposes a change of the curbline such that any
one or more of the following apply:
(i) A lay-by lane is added. For purposes of this Chapter, “lay-by lane” shall
mean a limited length of the right-of-way where the cartway is widened
into an area that would otherwise be occupied by the sidewalk, to form an
area where vehicles may be permitted to stop, stand, or park out of the
flow of traffic.
(ii) A traffic study is required pursuant to Department of Streets
regulations, or § 14-603(10) (Parking, Non-Accessory) or another provision
of Title 14 (Zoning and Planning).
(iii) The flow of traffic at a signalized intersection would be materially
affected
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 23(d) Any project that would encroach on the public right-of-way such that the
remaining minimum clear width of sidewalk would be less than the Walking Zone
standard set forth for the applicable street type set forth in the Pedestrian and
Bicycle Plan established by the Philadelphia City Planning Commission.
(e) Any project in which either an existing driveway would be widened to more
than 24 feet, or a new driveway wider than 24 feet would be created.
(f) Any capital project by the City or a quasi-governmental agency that alters the
public right-of-way, as a condition of the issuance of any necessary permit or
approval, and any such capital project by the Department of Streets regardless of
whether any permit or approval is required.
(3) Regulations issued by the Department of Streets pursuant to this Section may require
that compliance be documented by checklists, or any other means. Such documentation
shall be a public record, and shall be posted on the City website within 60 days of the
filing of such documentation.
TITLE 12: TRAFFIC CODE
CHAPTER 12-100. GENERAL PROVISIONS
§ 12-102. Definitions.
(7.1) Inoperable Bicycle, a bicycle is considered inoperable given the
following guidelines:
A bicycle or portion of a bicycle determined to be inoperable due to two or more
of the following: missing wheel and tire; significantly bent or corroded wheel;
missing tire without missing wheel; significantly corroded and flat tire; missing
seat; missing handlebars; missing pedals; missing, broken or inoperable chain; or
broken or significantly bent frame.
CHAPTER 12-800. BICYCLE REGULATIONS AND PENALTIES
§ 12-813. Removal of Abandoned Inoperable Bicycles.
(1) No person shall leave an Inoperable Bicycle in the public right-of-way for more than
ten days.
(2) An Inoperable Bicycle left in the public right-of-way for more than ten days shall be
deemed an Abandoned Inoperable Bicycle.
(3) An Abandoned Inoperable Bicycle may be removed from the right-of-way and
treated as abandoned property or refuse pursuant to the following procedure:
(a) An Inoperable Bicycle shall be identified by any officer authorized to enforce
ordinances with a tag of a bright color stating that the bicycle: has been
determined to be an Inoperable Bicycle pursuant to the City Traffic Code; will be
deemed an Abandoned Inoperable Bicycle on the 11th day after it has been
tagged; and will be removed and discarded by the City any time thereafter.
(b) The tag shall also state that the bicycle owner may contest the determination
that the bicycle is inoperable and shall provide a telephone number for a City
officer the owner may call in that regard.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 24(c) If no call is received by the 11th day after it has been tagged, or a call has
been made but the Officer has affirmed the determination that the bicycle is
inoperable, the bicycle may be removed and treated as abandoned property or
refuse.
(d) If the City Officer called determines that the determination of inoperability
was in error, the owner may remove the tag and the bicycle shall not be removed
by the City.
TITLE 14: ZONING AND PLANNING
CHAPTER 14-200. Definitions
§ 14-203. Definitions
(36) Bicycle Parking Space.: A space provided for locking a single bicycle to a rack
element or for the storage of a single bicycle in a bicycle storage facility. Bicycle parking
spaces are classified as follows:
(a) Bicycle Parking Space, Class 1.
Bicycle parking spaces that deter theft and protect against inclement weather.
Class 1A are bicycle spaces located in bicycle storage facilities, and Class 1B are
bicycle racks located under a permanent overhead building structure.
(b) Bicycle Parking Space, Class 2.
Bicycle parking spaces that deter theft but are not protected against inclement
weather.
CHAPTER 14-300. Administration and Procedures
§ 14-301. Reviewers and Decision Makers.
(9) Streets Department.
(b) Prerequisite Approval Authority., the Streets Department provides prerequisite
approvals for:
(.5) Zoning permits regarding bicycle parking facilities in the public right
of-way that are proposed to satisfy the bicycle parking requirements of
§ 14-804 (Bicycle Parking).
CHAPTER 14-800: PARKING AND LOADING
Code § 14-804. Bicycle Parking Ratios and Standards.
(1) Required Bicycle Parking Spaces. Bicycle parking spaces shall be provided in
accordance with Table 14-804-1
(2) Location of Bicycle Parking Spaces.
(a) All required bicycle parking on the lot shall be located along an accessible
route as defined by the Philadelphia Building Code. Accessible routes shall be
provided between the required on-lot bicycle parking and any public bicycle
lanes, paths, or routes on adjacent streets.
(b) Bicycle racks may be placed in the public right-of-way to achieve the required
number of spaces under this subsection, provided that the building owner enters
into a maintenance agreement with the Streets Department and an approval for
the installation is obtained from the Streets Department prior to the issuance of
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 25any required zoning permit. No additional encroachment ordinance shall be
required.
(c) All required bicycle parking spaces outside a building shall be located within a
50 ft. radius of the primary building entrance except in the following
circumstances:
(.1) When bicycle parking spaces are to be located on the lot outside a
building, L&I may modify or waive this requirement if it would cause a
conflict with any other code provision, but all required spaces shall be
located as close to the primary building entrance as site conditions allow.
(.2) When bicycle parking spaces are to be located in the public right-of
way, the Department of Streets may modify or waive this requirement if it
would result in excessive sidewalk clutter, impede pedestrian circulation, or
cause a conflict with any other code or regulation, but all required spaces
shall have convenient access to building entrances that are typically open
to intended users.
(.3) Bicycle parking spaces located in attended parking facilities shall be
located next to the attendant booth or within an area under regular
surveillance.
(3) Security.
(a) Rack elements, or the part of the bike rack that supports one bicycle, shall
comply with standards established by L&I and the Streets Department and shall
support the bicycle frame at two locations, prevent the bicycle from tipping over,
and enable the frame and one or both wheels to be secured with a user-supplied
locking device.
(b) If provided, bicycle storage facilities shall be provided with tamper-proof
locks. When multiple bicycles are stored together, provisions shall be made for
locking bicycles individually.
(4) Regulations.
L&I and the Streets Department are authorized to promulgate such rules and
regulations as are necessary or appropriate to implement the provisions of this
subsection.
Developers: See Appendix 4 on page 39 of this document for additional required Bicycle Parking
guidelines for developers as outlined in Sub Section 14-804 of the Philadelphia Code.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 26MINIMUM PARKING GUIDELINES
The Philadelphia Code outlines minimum required bicycle parking in Sub Section 14-804. Bicycle
Parking Ratios and Standards. This section of the Philadelphia Code mandates that bicycle parking
spaces must be provided in accordance with Table 14-804-1, reproduced below in Figure 21:
Figure 21: Table 14-801-1 - Required Bicycle Parking
(Reproduced from the Philadelphia Code)
Developers: See Appendix 4 on page 39 of this document for additional required Bicycle Parking
guidelines for developers as outlined in Sub Section 14-804 of the Philadelphia Code.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 27THE COMPLETE STREETS HANDBOOK
& COMPLETE STREETS CHECKLISTS
Developers should review the Complete Streets Handbook and both Complete Streets Checklists to
learn about the City’s policies for street design, management and project development.
The Handbook
The Complete Streets Handbook provides detailed guidance for all aspects of the right-of-way, and
informs all projects that impact the public right-of-way in Philadelphia, including construction of new
streets and improvements to existing streets. The Streets Department will review projects for consistency
with the Handbook. The guidance in the Handbook does NOT establish strict standards and does not
supersede any existing federal, state, or city laws, rules, or regulations. All projects remain subject to
relevant statutes, reviews, and approvals.
Click to open the City of Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook
The Checklist
The Complete Streets Checklist is an implementation tool of the Philadelphia Complete Streets
Handbook and enables City engineers and planners to review projects for compliance with the its
design guidance. The Handbook does not supersede or replace language, standards or policies
established in the City Code, City Plan, PennDOT Standards, or the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices (MUTCD).
Developers building projects that change the curb line or require Civic Design Review and Plan of
Development review are required to fill out a Complete Streets Checklist when submitting plans for
approval. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission reviews and comments on preliminary Complete
Streets Checklists as part of the Civic Design Review (CDR) process. The Philadelphia Streets Department
must then approve a final Complete Streets Checklist, during final review, prior to the issuance of a
building permit by the Department of Licenses and Inspections.
The Complete Streets Checklist required of projects not going through CRD are reviewed solely by
the Streets Department as part of Plan and/or Project Review. Approval of Complete Streets checklists
occurs concurrently with approval of design plans.
Click to open Planning & Development’s Complete Streets Checklist
Click to open the Streets Department’s Complete Streets Checklist
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 28SITE REQUIREMENTS
The Complete Streets Handbook relies on a street type network to set priorities and target potential
interventions. The Street Type Network classifies every Philadelphia street based upon its surrounding
land use, pedestrian activity and level of service. To learn more about Street Types, consult both the
Complete Streets Handbook and the Philadelphia City Planning Commission’s Pedestrian and Bicycle
Plan and Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan 2015 Progress Report.
The Pedestrian and Bicycle plan breaks the city’s street network into 12 zones (see Figure 22) and provides
a street-by-street classification within each zone. Developers should reference this classification for the
streets surrounding their projects and check the plan’s matrices and the Complete Streets handbook to
determine each street’s minimum requirements.
REC O M M EN DED STREET TYP ES
CHAPTER 4
25 | Philadelphia Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan
Figure 22: Zone map from the 2012 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 29APPLICATIONS & GUIDELINES
The person who submits the bike rack application (the Permitee) must own or be the designated
property manager of the property upon whose building frontage the bike rack(s) will be installed.
Bike rack plans should be prepared, signed, and sealed by a design professional licensed in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Bike rack plans not prepared in this way will be subject to a 90-day
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 30review and site inspection period, in order to verify the accuracy of the submitted plan.
The Streets Department will send inspectors on a regular basis to make sure that the bike rack location
meets installation guidelines. Once the site is inspected, and assuming it meets the guidelines, the
property owner will be issued a permit for installation, at which point the approved bike rack may be
installed.
After the bike rack has been installed, the Permittee must notify the Streets Department Right of Way
Unit, and final inspection and issuance of the permanent permit will occur. This permanent permit is to
be kept on file and presented at the request of any City agency. If, at any point, changes occur to the
bike rack design or its final location, those must be submitted as a separate application with attached
reference to the initial version.
General Guidelines
Cleaning and maintaining bike racks is the responsibility of the Permittee. In particular, Permittees
must:
• regularly sweep out trash and debris;
• provide general routine maintenance to rack(s) such as painting, cleaning, removing stickers,
and removing bikes abandoned for more than one month; and
• replace broken or damaged rack(s) or components thereof.
Permittees should keep a copy of their permit and attached special conditions on hand. The permit
need not be displayed.
Evidence of damage or vandalism must be reported to the Philadelphia Streets Department.
Procedures for Complaints
If the City of Philadelphia receives complaints regarding the condition, maintenance, or safety of a bike
rack, the City will conduct a field investigation to determine the nature of the problem and recommend
steps to remedy the situation.
If the condition of the bike rack is deemed acceptable, no further action will be taken. If the condition of
the rack is deemed unacceptable, the City will issue recommendations to address the complaints. The
Permittee will have 14 days to remedy or provide an acceptable plan for the remedy of the complaint
to the City.
If, after 14 days, the Permittee has not provided an acceptable remedy or plan for the remedy of the
complaint, the City may revoke the permit and require the removal of the bike rack at the sole expense
of the Permittee. Continued or repeated complaints followed by field visits which result in unacceptable
reviews may also be considered as grounds to revoke the permit and require the rack’s removal at the
sole discretion of the City of Philadelphia, and at the permittee’s expense.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 31Applying for a Standard Bike Rack
Complete a bike rack application form, including all required signatures. Submit the form along with
required attachments:
• City of Philadelphia Bike Rack Review Application, completed and signed by property owner;
• Three (3) full-sized, paper site plans that fulfill the requirements listed on Page 2 of 2 of the
Bike Rack Review Application;
• A minimum of two (2) photographs that fulfill the requirements listed on Page 2 of 2 of the
Bike Rack Review Application; and
• One (1) CD, including all submission materials (including mandatory notes, as outlined on Page
2 of 2 of the Bike Rack Review Application) in PDF format.
• Hand-deliver the completed request forms:
City of Philadelphia, Streets Department Right of Way Unit
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Room 960
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Applying for an Art/Sculptural Bike Rack
The Art and Architecture Committee of the Philadelphia Art Commission will review proposals for all
new works of art, including one-off art/sculptural bike racks, in two stages:
1. Concept Review - early stage design review of general concept and siting. The Commission
may give final approval at the concept stage if the project is, in the Commission’s view,
sufficiently well developed.
2. Final Design Review - advanced stage design review of all aspects of the design and
installation of the work of art, including materials and lighting, incorporating comments made
by the committee at the previous review stage.
In order to submit an application for an Art/Sculptural bike rack, you must:
• Complete and submit a bike rack application form, including all required signatures and
attachments as outlined in this guide.
• Complete the Philadelphia Art Commission Works of Art application, including:
» A cover letter containing names and contact information for the sponsoring City
department, donor or owner of work to be placed on City property and artist(s); a
narrative describing the site, the associated construction project, the selection process
for the work of art and the work of art itself, and parties responsible for maintenance,
and status of maintenance agreement
» Photographs of the proposed site as it exists at the time of application.
Photographs must be of good quality and taken at the time of application. Older
photographs are acceptable only when needed to show former conditions.
» For proposals associated with construction projects that are not yet complete,
architectural and/or site drawings showing the area where the work of art will be placed
as it will appear when complete.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 32» Drawings and/or photographs of models showing the proposed work of art in its
proposed location. Where possible, the actual model should be brought to the
presentation meeting.
» Drawings showing materials and colors for the proposed work of art and methods of
installation on the building or site, including, where necessary, engineering documents.
• For existing works of art to be acquired, photographs of the actual work.
• For proposals to locate works of art owned by others on City Property, evidence of review
and approval by the City department which controls the proposed site and, if different, the
department with whom the maintenance agreement will be executed.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 33APPENDICES
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 34APPENDIX 1:
DOCUMENTS REFERENCED
City of Philadelphia City Planning Commission. “Philadelphia Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan.” City
of Philadelphia, April 2012. http://phila2035.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/
bikePedfinal2.pdf.
———. “Philadelphia Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Progress Report.” City of Philadelphia,
December 2015. http://www.phila.gov/CityPlanning/projectreviews/PDF/Ped%20
Bike%20Plan%20Progress%20Report%202015%20with%20links.pdf.
City of Philadelphia Department of Streets. “FZ0101A - Inverted U Bike Rack.” City of
Philadelphia, March 6, 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/
documents/FZ0101A_-_INVERTED_U_BIKE_RACK.pdf.
———. “FZ0101B - Bike Rack Installation.” City of Philadelphia, March 1, 2015. http://www.
philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/documents/FZ0101B_-_BIKE_RACK_
INSTALLATION.pdf.
———. “FZ0101C - Bike Rack Placement.” City of Philadelphia, March 1, 2015. http://www.
philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/documents/FZ0101C_-_BIKE_RACK_
PLACEMENT.pdf.
City of Philadelphia Department of Streets Right of Way Unit. “Bike Rack Review
Application.” City of Philadelphia. Accessed July 11, 2017. http://www.
philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/documents/Streets_Bike_Rack_Application.
pdf.
———. “Right of Way Improvement Standard (ROWIS) - Chapter 0 Cover, TOC & Preface.” City
of Philadelphia, June 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/
documents/ROWIS-Chapter_0_Cover,_TOC__Preface.pdf.
———. “Right of Way Improvement Standard (ROWIS) - Chapter 1 Design Standard.” City
of Philadelphia, June 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/
documents/ROWIS-Chapter_1_Design_Standards.pdf.
———. “Right of Way Improvement Standard (ROWIS) - Chapter 2 Plan Review Standard.” City
of Philadelphia, June 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/
documents/ROWIS-Chapter_2_Plan_Review_Standards-rev2.pdf.
———. “Right of Way Improvement Standard (ROWIS) - Chapter 3 Permit Standard.” City of
Philadelphia, June 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/
documents/ROWIS-Chapter_3_Permit_Policy.pdf.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 35APPENDIX 1:
DOCUMENTS REFERENCED CONTD.
———. “Right of Way Improvement Standard (ROWIS) - Chapter 4 Process Flow & Appendix,”
June 2015. http://www.philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/documents/ROWIS-
Chapter_4_Process_Flow__Appendix.pdf.
City of Philadelphia Mayor’s Office of Transportation and Utilities. “Philadelphia Complete
Streets Design Handbook.” City of Philadelphia, January 2013. http://www.
philadelphiastreets.com/images/uploads/resource_library/cs-handbook.pdf.
City of Philadelphia Office of Transportation & Infrastructure Systems. “City of Philadelphia
Bike Corral Guidelines & Application.” City of Philadelphia, February 2016.
Kenney, James F. “Executive Order 11-16: Office of Complete Streets and Vision Zero Task
Force.” City of Philadelphia, November 7, 2016. http://www.phila.gov/ExecutiveOrders/
Executive%20Orders/eo1116.pdf.
Nutter, Michael A. “Executive Order 5-09: Establishment of a Complete Streets Policy.” City of
Philadelphia, June 4, 2009. http://www.phila.gov/ExecutiveOrders/Executive%20
Orders/2009_EO05-09.pdf.
Philadelphia City Planning Commission. “Bike Parking Policy Paper.” City of Philadelphia,
September 2010.
Squilla, Johnson, Reynolds Brown, and Kenney. An ordinance amending Title 12 of The
Philadelphia Code, entitled “Traffic Code,” by providing for the manner in which
bicyclists may operate bikes in the streets, and by prohibiting motor vehicles from
obstructing or creating certain hazards in bike lanes, and further, amending
Title 11 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled “Streets,” to provide for the establishment
and implementation of a Complete Streets Policy, all under certain terms and
conditions., Pub. L. No. 120532, § 11 - STREETS & 12 - TRAFFIC CODE, The
Philadelphia Code (2012). https://phila.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.
aspx?ID=1236508&GUID=604E8E0D-45D1-4BEE-9D24-5005703FEE2A.
The Philadelphia Code. 11th ed. 2 vols. Cincinnati, OH: Americal Legal Publishing Corporation,
2016. http://www.amlegal.com/codes/client/philadelphia_pa/.
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 36APPENDIX 2:
BACKGROUND
Philadelphia’s Complete Streets & Vision Zero Philadelphia 2035
Executive Order (No. 11-16) The Comprehensive Plan is part of an integrated
In 2016, Mayor Jim Kenney issued an Executive planning and zoning process. Organized around
Order establishing the Philadelphia Office of three major themes – Thrive, Connect, and Renew
Complete Streets and the Philadelphia Vision – this “blueprint for the future” includes a long-
Zero Task Force. The Office of Complete Streets is range citywide plan and 18 strategic district
tasked with taking an interdisciplinary approach plans. The Zoning Code Commission completed
by coordinating with City departments, agencies, its revision of the new Zoning Code, and it was
and stakeholders to guide decision-making and adopted by City Council in December 2011.
further incorporate Complete Streets principles The district plans provide the basis for zoning
into design, construction, and maintenance of remapping, using the new zoning classifications
transportation infrastructure systems. and following the goals, principles, and
recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan.
Philadelphia Complete Streets Handbook
The Complete Streets Handbook was released Philadelphia’s Complete Streets Executive
in 2013, building on the roadways classification Order (No. 5-09 - Establishment of a Complete
introduced in the 2012 Pedestrian and Bicycle Streets Policy)
Plan and creating defined standards and Signed by Mayor Michael Nutter in 2009, this
guidelines for streets of different widths, classes, Executive order amended the Philadelphia Home
and volumes throughout the city. The Handbook Rule Charter to mandate that all City departments
is designed to be used by City and State agency and agencies consider Complete Street initiatives
staff, design professionals, private developers, in all transportation and development projects.
community groups, and others involved in the This Executive Order laid the policy foundation for
planning and design of streets in Philadelphia. a transportation system that balances the needs
of all users with the Complete Streets Executive
Philadelphia’s Complete Streets Bill Order. It directs all City departments and agencies
(Bill No. 120532) to consider the safety and convenience of all
Passed by City Council in 2012 and signed into users of the transportation system, including
law by Mayor Michael Nutter in early 2013, pedestrians, bicyclists, public transit users, and
this legislation officially amended Title 11 of motor vehicle drivers. It places a high priority on
the Philadelphia Code and provided for the the safety of those traveling in the public right-of-
establishment and implementation of a Complete way, particularly the safety of children, the elderly,
Streets Policy. and persons with disabilities.
The Philadelphia Pedestrian and Bike Plan
Released by the Philadelphia City Planning
Commission in April 2012 (and updated in
2015), the Pedestrian and Bicycle plan made
recommendations for improvements to the
walking and bicycling networks. The Plan also
established a framework for pedestrian and bike
planning and development, including a street
classification system with design standards for
sidewalks,
City of Philadelphia Bicycle Parking: Guidelines & Application | 37You can also read
