Bike Parking Regulations for Davis, CA

The City of Davis, CA, has specific bike parking regulations outlined in its municipal code and design standards. These requirements are part of the city’s efforts to maintain its reputation as a bike-friendly community. Below are the details regarding long-term and short-term bike parking requirements and design standards.

Long-Term and Short-Term Bike Parking Requirements

Short-Term Parking

Intended for visitors, customers, or other users who need to park their bike for less than two hours. Short-term bike parking must be located within 50 feet of the building entrances, visible, and in a well-lit area. The racks should provide two points of contact to support the bike securely.

Long-Term Parking

Aimed at residents, employees, or other users who need parking for more than two hours. Long-term parking facilities must be covered, lockable, and secure. They may include bike lockers or indoor storage rooms with permanent racks. These facilities should be proximate to the entrances and provide higher security and protection from weather.

Table of Required Bicycle Parking Spaces by Facility Type

Facility TypeShort-Term SpacesLong-Term Spaces
Residential – group living1 per bed25% short-term, 75% long-term
Residential – multifamily1 per bedroom25% short-term, 75% long-term
Lodging (hotel, motel)1 per 10 guest rooms50% short-term, 50% long-term
Restaurant – quick serve1 per 150 sq. ft.75% short-term, 25% long-term
Restaurant – sit down1 per 500 sq. ft.75% short-term, 25% long-term
Retail, general commercial1 per 1,000 sq. ft.75% short-term, 25% long-term
Office (medical, professional)1 per 1,500 sq. ft.75% short-term, 25% long-term
Schools and day care1 per 2,500 sq. ft.75% short-term, 25% long-term
Industrial1 per 7,500 sq. ft.25% short-term, 75% long-term
Civic, cultural, religious10% of occupancy or seating capacity75% short-term, 25% long-term

The above information represents a partial list of the facility types and their bike parking requirements in Davis, CA. Please refer to the links below for more detailed information.

Bike Parking Incentives

Businesses or institutions exceeding the minimum requirements may receive incentives, such as reducing the number of required vehicle parking spaces or other design accommodations for enhanced bicycle facilities.

Showers and Personal Lockers

The Davis municipal code does not explicitly require showers and personal lockers for all developments. However, for large commercial buildings, particularly those promoting bike commuting, it is recommended to provide facilities such as one shower for every 100-150 employees, which would support those who commute by bike.

Regional or Neighborhood-Specific Requirements

In the Downtown Core Area, nonresidential developments are not required to provide dedicated bike parking if there is insufficient on-site space. The city operates a public bicycle rack program within the public right-of-way to supplement the demand for bike parking in this area. For downtown multifamily developments, the city’s general requirements for residential bike parking apply.

Official Sources

Davis Municipal Code – Bicycle Parking Standards: City of Davis Bicycle Parking Standards

City of Davis Bicycle Parking Program

Davis Bicycle Parking Standards PDF