Transportation

Where you can ride depends on the device and the limits outlined by State or local laws, see below.

Micromobility devices can be parked at a bicycle rack (when available) or a bicycle locker.

Avoid blocking the following: 

• Sidewalks and pedestrian walkways (leave at least a 4-foot pathway for pedestrians, especially for those with wheelchairs or strollers).

• Curb ramps (ADA access).

• Bus stops, shelters, or public transit zones.

• Loading zones.

• Accessible parking spaces or loading areas.

• Street furniture (benches, parking meters).

• Braille signs or drinking fountains.

• Entryways, exits (maintain a 10-foot clearance), or driveways.

Under State law, e-scooters are considered to be motor vehicles (although bikes and e-bikes are explicitly excluded from this definition). Motor vehicles cannot be used on sidewalks.

“Dismount zones” are designated areas where people may get off their micromobility devices and walk on the sidewalk, but not ride, indicated through signage or markings.

Sidewalks with high volumes of pedestrian traffic and with constrained right-of-way (narrow sidewalks) may be good candidates for dismount zones, in order to reduce conflicts between micromobility users and pedestrians.

The City does not currently have any designated dismount zones, but may implement them in the future if needed. Walking your device is always encouraged in areas of high pedestrian activity, if using the sidewalk.

State law includes bicycles, e-bicycles, and other “self-propelled” devices under the definition of “vehicles.” These vehicles are allowed on streets over 30 mph, and the City cannot regulate the streets they ride on beyond that. Human-powered micromobility devices are not defined under State law and the City has the authority to regulate where they can be used. For safety reasons, the City regulations limit human-powered micromobility devices (push scooters, skateboards, rollerskates) to streets 30 mph or less. If a street speed limit is unposted, as many neighborhood streets may be, human-powered micromobility devices may also be used.

In State law, wheelchair users are deemed pedestrians. Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when one is available; or be on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic when no sidewalk is available. 

The City’s interpretation of State law is that pedestrians (and wheelchair users) are not allowed in bike lanes if a sidewalk is available.

No, scootershare companies are not allowed in Asheville at this time, per City code (Section 19-16).

Under State law, helmets are required for bicyclists and bicycle passengers less than 16 years old when riding on public roads, public bicycle paths, or other public rights-of-way. Parents and legal guardians who knowingly allow a child under 16 to ride without a helmet can be fined. While not legally required for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly encouraged for all riders.

There is no state law specifically requiring helmets for riders of e-scooters, or other micromobility devices outside of bicyclists. However, wearing a helmet is strongly encouraged. 

Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injury by 48-60% on average across various activities (National Institutes of Health). The odds of a serious head injury are reduced by about 69% with a helmet, and the odds of a fatal head injury are reduced by about 65%.