Cycling and the Law

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about cycling and the law. It is against the law for cyclists to:

• Go through a red light at pedestrian crossings and traffic lights.
• Cycle on the pavement – unless there's a sign showing that part of the footpath is a designated cycle path or it is designated as shared use. This law also applies to children of all ages.
• Cycle the wrong way up a one-way street – unless there is a contra-flow lane, with a sign showing that cyclists are allowed to do so.

Lights and reflectors

By law, at all times you must have a red rear reflector and pedal reflectors – front and back on each pedal. If you use your bike at night or in poor light, by law you must fit a white front light and red rear light (flashing, constant, or combination).