Ann Arbor, MI, Bike Parking Regulations and Standards
Ann Arbor designates bicycle parking into three classes based on the intended duration of use and level of protection:
- Class A: Enclosed bicycle storage, offering long-term protection from theft and weather.
- Class B: Covered bicycle racks that provide intermediate protection.
- Class C: Fixed bicycle racks for short-term parking, allowing for secure locking of bicycles but minimal weather protection
General Requirements
Class A Bicycle Parking Requirements
Class A spaces are designed for long-term storage, typically for residents or employees. These spaces must be enclosed, offering protection from weather and theft. Examples include individual enclosed storage lockers, bike sheds, or a room inside a building dedicated to bike parking.
Class B Bicycle Parking Requirements
Class B spaces are intended for intermediate-term use, typically by employees. These racks must provide some weather protection through coverings, such as building overhangs or canopies. Both the frame and wheels of the bicycle must be securable.
Class C Bicycle Parking Requirements
Class C spaces are for short-term use, intended for visitors or customers. Fixed racks, such as hoop racks, are typically used for Class C parking. These racks should be placed in visible, accessible locations near entrances, and allow both the frame and wheels of the bike to be securely locked.
Design Standards for Class A, B, and C Bicycle Parking
Design Standards for Class A Parking
- Enclosed storage lockers or sheds should be used.
- Facilities must be weather-protected and secure.
- Suitable for long-term storage and typically used by residents or employees
Design Standards for Class B Bicycle Parking
- Racks must be covered by a canopy or overhang, with a minimum clearance of 7 feet.
- Spaces should allow for both the wheels and the frame to be securely locked.
- Intended for medium-term parking, such as employee use.
Design Standards for Class C Bicycle Parking
- Fixed bicycle racks (e.g., hoop racks) must be used.
- These racks must allow for secure locking of both the wheels and the frame.
- Suitable for short-term parking for visitors and customers
In Ann Arbor, MI, Bicycle parking spaces shall conform to the dimensional standards in table below. Alternatives may be allowed by the Planning Manager for designs that use available space more efficiently and store the equivalent number and bicycles and accessories in a smaller area.
| Class | Minimum Width | Minimum Length | Minimum Vertical Clearance | Minimum Access Aisle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 2 ft. | 6 ft. | N/A | 3 ft. |
| B | 2 ft. | 6 ft. | N/A | 3 ft. |
| C | 2 ft. | 6 ft. | N/A | 3 ft. |
Table of Required Bicycle Parking Spaces by Facility Type
| Land Use | Bicycle Parking Requirements | Class A (Long-Term) | Class B (Medium-Term) | Class C (Short-Term) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential (Multi-family, 5+ units) | 1 space per 5 dwellings | 50% | N/A | 50% |
| Offices | 1 space per 5,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area | 30% | 20% | 70% |
| Retail Sales | 1 space per 3,000 sq. ft. | N/A | 50% | 50% |
| Restaurants, Bars | 1 space per 750 sq. ft. of gross floor area | N/A | 50% | 50% |
| Health Care (Hospitals, Nursing Facilities) | 1 space per 60 beds | N/A | 100% | N/A |
| Public Parking Structures | 1 space per 10 stalls | 30% | N/A | 70% |
| Indoor Recreation (Athletics, Rinks) | 1 space per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area | N/A | 100% | N/A |
| Schools | 5 spaces per classroom | N/A | N/A | 100% |
| Light Manufacturing | 1 space per 25,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area | N/A | 100% | N/A |
The above information represents a partial list of the facility types and their bike parking requirements in Ann Arbor, MI. The official regulations are highly detailed regarding use types. Please refer to the links below for more detailed information.
Showers and Personal Lockers
Ann Arbor’s bicycle parking regulations do not mandate showers or personal lockers, but they are recommended for employment-heavy developments, such as office buildings, to encourage cycling as a commuting option.
Additional Requirements by Region or Neighborhood
In special zoning districts like D1 and D2, the city imposes higher requirements for bicycle parking to promote non-vehicular transportation. These areas may have specific ratios of long-term and short-term parking depending on land use.
Source for Official Regulations
Ann Arbor Unified Development Code (See Article IV Development Standards 5.19 Parking Standards)
