Bicycle Information

The following are a few frequently asked questions regarding bicycle safety:

Who is required to wear a helmet, when riding a bicycle?

All persons riding a bicycle are required by the Highway Traffic Act to wear an approved helmet.  However the responsibility for a person under 16 years of age to wear a helmet shifts to the parent or guardian of that person.  This simply means that the Parent or Guardian could be charged for allowing the young person to ride without a helmet.  Authority - Highway Traffic Act

Am I allowed to ride my bicycle on at sidewalk within the City of Stratford?

No, bicycles are not permitted to be ridden on any sidewalk in the City of Stratford.  Authority - Traffic By-Law 139-68(6)(b)

Can a bicycle ride the wrong way down a one way street?

No, bicycles are generally considered as vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act and as such are required to obey traffic laws as cars are required to.  Authority - Highway Traffic Act

Bicycle Auction Information

Annually the Stratford Police Services Holds approximately 300-400 bicycles.  These bicycles are normally found within the City and turned into the Police.  If the Service cannot locate the owner of the bicycle immediately it is held for a minimum of 30 days.  The reason for the hold is to allow the owner to claim the bicycle.  Unclaimed bicycles are forwarded to Stock Auctions where they will be sold as part of the Police auction.  The Police auction is advertised in the Beacon Herald newspaper and of course is open to the public.

Persons having a bicycle that has gone missing can attend the Stratford Police Service to view the bicycles stored in the Police garage.  The viewing time is 8:00am to 11:00am Saturdays.  Simply attend the front lobby to meet with the Duty Sergeant who will arrange for you to view the bicycles to see if yours is there.

In order for the Police to return your lost or stolen bicycle to you, it is important for you to register your bicycle(s) with City Hall.  Once registered with the City the Police can better locate you, the owner and return the bicycle.