Diversion Program

As per City Code, safe cycling and equipment are required to operate bicycles safely within city limits. Safe cycling requirements are:

  • riding with the flow of vehicle traffic as opposed to against it
  • not holding onto moving vehicles while riding a bicycle
  • using designated bike lanes where available
  • signaling turns while riding a bicycle to alert drivers

Similarly, the ordinance requires safety equipment on bicycles such as brakes, a seat, a bell or audible warning device to warn pedestrians, and reflectors and lights for riding at night.

Riders found in violation of any of these items may be issued a citation by Boise Police.

If you receive a citation, you may pay the fee or chose to participate in the City of Boise Bicycle Diversion Program. The diversion program allows riders to waive their fine by participating in a bicycle education class offered by Boise State University. The class focuses on the basic workings of a bicycle and bicycle rules of the road. Participants are required to attend a 30-45 minute classroom session followed by a 30-45 minute outdoor riding session, weather permitting.

Women on bikes

How Does Diversion Work?

The ticket diversion reduction is only available once per year for each participant.

  1. Participant is required to sign up for a scheduled bicycle safety class within 10 business days of a citation and complete the class within 60 days of the citation.
  2. It is up to the participant to remember to attend class on the scheduled day; there will not be automatic reminders.
  3. A check-in document will be provided at the end of each scheduled class. Participant must stay for the entire length of the class to receive attendance credit.
  4. Once participant has successfully completed the class, the City of Boise will waive the citation fee.

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