Regulations + LEED Credits

Washington, D.C.

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has developed regulations requiring all residential and commercial buildings to maintain a certain number of bicycle parking spaces. Having the right plan for your bicycle room will ensure that it is a convenient, safe, and efficient space and compliant with all DDOT regulations.

Not only does bike parking increase demand for your property in DC, but it is also required by municipal code. We can help you navigate the requirements and regulations for your residential or commercial building to be compliant.

D.C. Regulations

Bicycle parking is required in all DC buildings constructed after 1985. Bicycle parking must be:

  • Accessible from the building and street or other bike right-of-way.

  • Secure, well-lit, and located within the building on the ground floor, basement or first garage level.

The number of bicycle parking spaces required are dependent on the number of car parking spaces required and year the building was built.

  • In most commercial buildings, the number of bicycle parking spaces must equal 1 space for each 10,000 square feet of commercial office space. In residential buildings the formula is 1 bicycle parking space for every 3 residential units. Variations in space requirements can be found here.

  • In buildings built before March 1, 1985, 1% of the amount of required parking spaces can be converted to bike parking spaces.

LEED Credits

Bicycle facilities in new construction can gain developers points toward LEED certification. LEED's Bicycle Facilities credit is intended to:

  • Promote bicycling and transportation efficiency and reduce vehicle distance traveled.
  • Improve public health by encouraging physical activity.