Fort Collins, CO Bike Parking Regulations and Standards
This document outlines the bike parking regulations and standards for Fort Collins, CO. It covers the requirements for short-term and long-term bicycle parking, design standards, and specific requirements by facility type or neighborhood. It also includes information on showers and personal locker requirements.
Long-Term and Short-Term Parking Requirements
To meet the minimum bicycle parking requirements, the development must provide required bicycle parking for both Enclosed Bicycle Parking and Fixed Bicycle Racks.
Enclosed Bicycle Parking (Long-Term)
Bicycle parking, enclosed shall mean bicycle storage in lockers, a garage, a room or other space within a parking structure or other building, including a shed or carport. All types of enclosed bicycle storage must be easily accessible to entrances and walkways, secure, lighted and protected from the weather. Each storage space shall provide a minimum of six (6) square feet in area. The storage space shall not impede fire exits or be located so that parked bicycles interfere with public access.
- Purpose: Long-term parking is intended for individuals who park their bicycles for extended periods, such as employees, residents, or students.
- Requirements: Long-term parking must provide a secure and weather-protected environment. Options include enclosed bike lockers, lockable enclosures, or dedicated bike rooms.
- Location: Long-term parking must be located close to building entrances and must be easily accessible from main entrances or pathways.
- Dimensions: Each long-term parking space must be a minimum of 6 feet long and 2 feet wide.
Fixed Bicycle Racks (Short-Term)
Bicycle parking, fixed shall mean bicycle parking that allows the bicycle frame and both wheels to be securely locked to the parking structure. The structure shall be of permanent construction such as heavy gauge tubular steel with angle bars permanently attached to the pavement foundation. Fixed bicycle parking facilities shall be at least two (2) feet in width and five and one-half (5½) feet in length, with additional back-out or maneuvering space of at least five (5) feet.
- Purpose: Short-term parking is intended for visitors or customers who need bike parking for shorter durations, typically less than two hours.
- Requirements: Short-term bike parking must be located within 100 feet of a main entrance and visible from the entrance. Spaces must allow the frame and at least one wheel of the bike to be locked to the rack.
- Dimensions: Each short-term parking space must allow for adequate maneuverability, with at least 5 feet between racks.
Design Standards for Bicycle Parking
Enclosed Bicycle Parking (Long-Term) Design Standards
- Security: Must include fixed structures such as enclosed lockers or secure bike rooms.
- Weather Protection: Covered parking is required to protect bicycles from the elements.
- Access: Long-term spaces must be placed near entrances to enhance security and accessibility.
Fixed Bicycle Racks (Short-Term) Parking Design Standards
- Security: Bicycle racks must allow both the frame and the wheels to be locked to prevent theft.
- Visibility: Short-term racks should be easily visible and conveniently located to encourage usage.
- Accessibility: Racks must be positioned to avoid obstructions and allow easy access by cyclists.
Bicycle Parking Space Minimums
| Use Categories | Bicycle Parking Space Minimums | % Enclosed Bicycle Parking (Long-term) / % Fixed Racks (Short-term) |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Family Residential | 1 per bedroom | 60% / 40% |
| Fraternity and Sorority Houses | 1 per bed | 60% / 40% |
| Recreational Uses | 1 per 2,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 0% / 100% |
| Schools, Places of Worship, and Child Care Centers | 1 per 3,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 0% / 100% |
| Fast Food Restaurants | 1.5 per 1,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 0% / 100% |
| Theaters | 1 per 30 seats, min of 4 | 0% / 100% |
| General Retail | 1 per 4,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 20% / 80% |
| Grocery Stores/Supermarkets | 1 per 3,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 20% / 80% |
| Lodging Establishments | 1 per 4 units | 60% / 40% |
| Health Facilities | 1 per 5,000 sq. ft., min of 4 | 20% / 80% |
| Industrial (Employee Parking) | 4 | N/A |
The above information represents a partial list of the facility types and their bike parking requirements for Fort Collins, CO. Please refer to the links below for more detailed information.
Showers and Personal Lockers
Employers and developers are encouraged to provide facilities such as showers and personal lockers, particularly in commercial and mixed-use developments. While showers are not mandated by Fort Collins regulations, they are strongly recommended for long-term bicycle parking in employment-heavy areas to encourage cycling as a commuting option.
Variances by Region or Neighborhood
In some parts of Fort Collins, particularly in designated Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Overlay Zones, additional requirements apply. These zones may offer reduced parking minimums for developments that incorporate enhanced bicycle and pedestrian facilities or are located near public transit options.
Source for Official Regulations
The full set of bicycle parking regulations, as well as the overall parking and circulation standards, can be found on the City of Fort Collins’ official website at: Fort Collins Land Use Code re bike parking guidelines.
City of Fort Collins Bicycle Parking
