Pasadena Poised to Overhaul Bicycle Laws, Eliminating Registration

A committee in Pasadena is considering rewriting bicycle laws, eliminating bike registration requirements and introducing updated rules that could change how residents bike.

The proposed changes, set for review Tuesday by the Municipal Services Committee, would align local regulations with state law and update outdated provisions that no longer reflect current cycling practices.

City transportation officials will discuss updating Title 10 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, defining electric bicycles for the first time, and removing mandatory bicycle registration.

“An electric bicycle is a type of bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts,” the proposed ordinance would day.

Assembly Bill 1909, which took effect in 2023, prohibits cities from requiring bike registration. The proposed ordinance in Pasadena would delete eight existing sections related to registration, including rules about fees, license transfers, and dealer requirements.

New sidewalk riding regulations would allow cyclists to travel at speeds up to 10 mph, dropping to 5 mph when pedestrians are present.

The current ban on sidewalk riding near churches, schools, and public buildings would be lifted.

Changes reflect practices already adopted in other California cities. Long Beach allows 15 mph on sidewalks, dropping to 5 mph around pedestrians. Huntington Beach sets similar 10 mph and 5 mph limits, with additional restrictions in some zones.

Pasadena’s Transportation Advisory Commission has already indicated support for the overhaul. If approved, the City Attorney will have 60 days to draft the final ordinance, which must still receive full City Council approval.

Transportation officials point out that the changes will reduce confusion and improve access, potentially making Pasadena’s streets more navigable for cyclists.