The City of Del Mar has local regulations that make it easier to enforce the safe and considerate use of bikes and e-bikes in the City. If you are riding a bike or e-bike in Del Mar, please familiarize yourself with the applicable laws and follow the rules of the road to ride safely.
Rules of the Road
Cyclists are subject to the same rules of the road as motorists. Riders who don't follow the rules may be subject to ticketing and fines as defined by the California Vehicle Code (CVC) or Del Mar Municipal Code (DMMC). The DMMC allows first-time violators to take a bicycle training safety course in lieu of a ticket and/or fine.
Below are key riding guidelines from the CVC and DMMC:
- Cyclists under 18 years old must wear a helmet and wear it properly.
- Traffic lights, signs, and signals apply to all road users, including bicycle and e-bike riders.
- Cyclists must ride in the bicycle lane when it is available. You can leave the bike lane to turn left, pass someone, avoid a road hazard or avoid cars turning right.
- Yield to pedestrians.
- Do not weave in and out of traffic.
- Ride in the same direction as car traffic - ride with the flow of traffic.
- It is illegal to carry passengers on your e-bike unless your bike has an extra permanent seat or when using a child safety seat.
- Do not attach a bicycle or e-bike to any moving vehicle with an operator or rider on board.
- In Del Mar, it is illegal to ride bicycles or e-bikes in parks, preserves, sidewalks in commercial areas, and on most trails around the San Dieguito Lagoon (see DMMC 14.54.040 for complete list of restrictions).
Click here for California Vehicle Code rules and regulations.
Click here to view Del Mar Municipal Code Chapter 14.54: Bicycles.