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December 18, 2019

Riding on BLM lands? What you need to know

By: Ashley Seaward, deputy director of state + local policy

eMTB in forest setting
eMTB in forest setting

On Oct. 22, 2019, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) implemented the Department of Interior’s Secretarial Order 3376 with its interim electric bicycle (e-bike) policy.

The BLM manages thousands of miles of trails open to bicycles (motorized and non-motorized) across the country. This e-bike policy will allow land managers to begin the process of determining whether to allow e-bikes on non-motorized trails, and which classes.

BLM District and Field Managers can allow the use of Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes where other types of bicycles are allowed. However, managers may restrict e-bike access based on local conditions such as potential impacts to natural and cultural resources, potential user conflicts and the local regulations and policies.

Currently, e-bikes are allowed on any off-highway vehicle area or motorized trail that is open to the public. Before allowing e-bike use on a non-motorized trail, a BLM manager must issue a written decision to authorize the use of e-bikes with appropriate public comment. Check with your local BLM land manager for the most up to date information.

You can find more details of the BLM’s interim e-bike policy here and their public guidance and FAQ sheet here. Check out this spreadsheet for specific land management decisions in your area and our website for further explanation of the Department of Interior’s recent e-bike announcement. Still have questions? Contact Ashley at ashley@peopleforbikes.org.

Great BLM e-bike routes you can ride today:

Related Topics:

Recreational Bike AccessElectric Bikes

Related Locations:

New MexicoColoradoUtah
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