Spokane Bicycle Lane Permits & Crosswalk Rules
Spokane, Washington regulates use of public streets, bicycle lanes and crosswalks through city code and street-permit processes. This guide explains when a permit is required to occupy or close a bicycle lane, what rules govern pedestrian right-of-way at marked crossings, who enforces those rules, and how to apply, appeal, or report violations in Spokane.
When a permit is required
Temporary closure, occupation, or restriction of a bicycle lane or crosswalk for events, construction, or work in the right-of-way generally requires a city right-of-way or street use permit. The Spokane municipal code and city permit pages describe the permitting framework and approval process[1][2].
Key rules for bicycle lanes and crosswalks
- Bicycle lanes must remain clear for through bicycle traffic unless a permit explicitly authorizes closure or temporary reassignment.
- Pedestrians have right-of-way in marked crosswalks; drivers and cyclists must yield as required by state law and local traffic rules[3].
- Special event or construction plans typically require a traffic control plan and may require coordination with Spokane Traffic Engineering and Spokane Police for enforcement.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of bicycle lane and crosswalk rules is performed by Spokane Police and by traffic engineers or code enforcement where administrative remedies apply. Specific monetary fines for blocking bicycle lanes or failing to yield in crosswalks are not specified on the cited municipal pages; consult the listed sources for statutory or municipal fine schedules[1][3].
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence handling not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: administrative orders, stop-work requirements, restoration orders, and court action may be used by city authorities where authorized.
- Enforcers and complaints: Spokane Police handle on-street infractions and Public Works/Traffic Engineering handle permit compliance and right-of-way violations.
Applications & Forms
The primary application is a right-of-way or street use permit (City of Spokane Public Works - street/right-of-way permit). Fee schedules, required attachments such as traffic control plans, and submission instructions are available on the city's permit pages[2]. If a formal form number is required, consult the permit page for the current document and fee schedule.
Action steps
- Determine if your activity affects a bicycle lane or crosswalk and whether a street use/right-of-way permit is required.
- Prepare a traffic control plan and permit application as required by Public Works.
- Submit application and supporting documents through the City of Spokane permit portal or as directed on the permit page.
- If enforcement or an unsafe closure is observed, contact Spokane Police or submit a city complaint through official contacts.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to close a bike lane for an event?
- Yes—temporary closure or occupation of bicycle lanes normally requires a city right-of-way or street use permit; check the Public Works permit page for application details and required plans.[2]
- Who enforces crosswalk right-of-way in Spokane?
- Spokane Police enforce on-street right-of-way violations; state pedestrian right-of-way law applies and local enforcement follows municipal procedures[3].
- Where do I find the municipal code sections that govern streets and traffic?
- The Spokane municipal code and ordinances governing streets, traffic, and right-of-way permits are published on the official city code site.[1]
How-To
- Confirm whether your planned activity affects a bicycle lane or crosswalk and determine the permit type required.
- Download or request the right-of-way/street use permit guidance from City of Spokane Public Works and assemble a traffic control plan and any insurance certificates requested.
- Submit the permit application and attachments through the city's permit submission process; pay any required fees per the city's fee schedule.
- Coordinate with Traffic Engineering or Spokane Police if your plan requires lane closures or temporary traffic control to ensure safe execution.
- If cited or ordered to stop work, follow the city's compliance instructions and file an appeal or request a review according to the permit or enforcement notice.
Key Takeaways
- Permits are generally required to close or occupy bicycle lanes.
- Pedestrians have right-of-way at marked crosswalks under state and local rules.
- Contact Spokane Public Works and Spokane Police for permitting and enforcement questions.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Spokane - Public Works: Permits
- Spokane Municipal Code (municode)
- Spokane Police - Contact & non-emergency