Chapter 10. Use of Bicycles and Electric Bicycles on Department Lands
Regulation .01 Applicability.LinkCopy Citation
This chapter applies to the use of bicycles and electric bicycles on Department lands.
Regulation .02 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation
A.
In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.
B.
Terms Defined.
(1)
“Adaptive bicycle” means a bicycle designed with a specialized mobility device for use by individuals with physical disabilities or mobility challenges and that may be customized with one or more of the following adaptive features:
(a)
Hand-cycles;
(b)
Three-wheeled designs for stability;
(c)
Reinforced frames;
(d)
Adaptive seating; or
(e)
Specialized controls.
(2)
“Bicycle” means a vehicle that:
(a)
Is designed to be operated by human power; and
(b)
Has two or three wheels, of which one is more than 14 inches in diameter.
(3)
“Class 1 electric bicycle” has the meaning stated in
Transportation Article, §11-117.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.
(4)
“Department” means the Department of Natural Resources.
(5)
“Department lands” means Chesapeake Forest Lands, State Forests, State Parks, Wildlife Management Areas, Cooperative Wildlife Management Areas, Natural Environmental Areas, Natural Resource Management Areas, and Wildlands.
(6)
Electric bicycle.
(a)
“Electric bicycle” has the meaning stated in
Transportation Article, §11-117.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.
(b)
“Electric bicycle” includes an adaptive bicycle equipped with an electric assist motor.
Regulation .03 Usage.LinkCopy Citation
A.
A person may use a bicycle or an electric bicycle on public roads, parking lots, or ORV trails on Department lands.
B.
A person may use a bicycle, adaptive bicycle, or Class 1 electric bicycle only on designated trails on Department lands.
C.
A person is prohibited from using a bicycle or an electric bicycle on Wildlands, as designated under
Natural Resources Article, §5-1203, Annotated Code of Maryland.
D.
The Secretary or their designee may restrict on a temporary or permanent basis the use of bicycles or electric bicycles on trails on Department lands.
E.
If the use of bicycles is prohibited in an area on Department lands, the use of an electric bicycle is also prohibited.
F.
If a recreational trail is designated as pedestrian-use only, the use of bicycles and electric bicycles is prohibited.
Regulation .04 Notice.LinkCopy Citation
A.
The Secretary or their designee shall provide notice of temporary or permanent bicycle or electric bicycle restrictions by:
(1)
Posting signage at a trailhead;
(2)
Posting notice on a bulletin board on the affected Department land; or
(3)
Publishing the restriction on the Department’s website.
B.
The Secretary or their designee may restrict the use of bicycles or electric bicycles from Department lands:
(1)
If the trail is designed for a particular user group;
(2)
If the area contains appropriate infrastructure;
(3)
If critical habitat protection is necessary;
(4)
If the area is designated as a wildland;
(5)
The safety of the trail users; or
(6)
If the trail surface is unsuitable for bicycles or electric bicycles.
Regulation .05 Conduct.LinkCopy Citation
A person may not operate a bicycle or electric bicycle:
A.
In a reckless, careless, or negligent manner;
B.
In a manner that disregards the rights or safety of an individual;
C.
While under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
D.
In a manner that causes damage to property, wildlife, vegetative resources, or individuals.
E.
In a manner that exceeds the posted speed limits for bicycles or electric bicycles; or
F.
While in a prohibited area.
Regulation .06 Violations.LinkCopy Citation
An individual who violates any provision of this chapter is subject to the provisions of
Natural Resources Article, §5-1301, Annotated Code of Maryland, in addition to any penalties under
Criminal Law Article, §6-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.
Chapter annotations
Authority: Natural Resources Article, §§
5-209,
5-1211, and
10-808, Annotated Code of Maryland
History: Effective date: May 25, 2026 (53:10 Md. R. 454)