🚨 New Rules from 1 July 2025: Cyclists & PMD Users Face Heavy Fines for Riding on Pedestrian-Only Paths

Starting 1 July 2025, Singapore is enforcing a stricter rule banning bicycles and non-motorised personal mobility devices (PMDs), such as kick scooters, from riding on pedestrian-only footpaths in towns across the island.

This move comes amid efforts to enhance pedestrian safety in busy residential areas, especially where footpaths run alongside cycling lanes.

What You Need to Know

• Pedestrian-only paths are now strictly reserved for pedestrians and users of personal mobility aids (PMAs), such as electric wheelchairs.

• Bicycles and all PMDs—motorised or not—are prohibited on these paths.

• Offenders caught riding on these pedestrian-only paths can face:
          - Fines up to S$2,000
          - Imprisonment for up to 3 months
          - Or both, especially for first-time offenders

• Enforcement will be handled carefully, with officers assessing the situation before issuing penalties.

• Over 200 km of footpaths next to cycling lanes have already been converted into pedestrian-only zones in areas like Tampines, Punggol, Sengkang, Yishun, and Clementi. Toa Payoh started this back in January 2025.

• Pedestrians are encouraged to stick to pedestrian-only paths for their safety, while cyclists and PMD riders should remain vigilant and give way to more vulnerable users when on cycling paths.

What’s Next?

In early 2026, additional safety rules kick in with the speed limit for personal mobility aids (PMAs) on public paths dropping from 10 km/h to 6 km/h — about the pace of brisk walking. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will continue to enforce zero tolerance for reckless riding behaviors such as speeding.

Should LTA Ban PMDs, PABs & Bicycles on Pavements? What Could Be Improved?

While the safety goals behind these new rules are clear, here are some points to consider and areas where improvements could help all road users:

1. Dedicated Lanes for PMDs, PABs & Motorbikes:

Rather than pushing PMD and PAB users onto the main roads—where they risk road hogging and frustrating car drivers—LTA should consider building additional dedicated lanes or pavements exclusively for PMDs, PABs, and motorbikes. Having their own safe space will reduce conflicts and improve flow for all road users.

2. Mandatory Basic Theory Training (BTT) for All Riders:

To enhance safety and awareness, it would be beneficial to require all PMD, PAB, and motorbike users to complete Basic Theory Training (BTT) before riding legally on public paths or roads. This includes underage riders or those currently riding illegally, as offering accessible BTT sessions might reduce unsafe riding habits and improve compliance.

3. Infrastructure Upgrades:

Many cycling lanes and footpaths still lack proper separation or sufficient width, which leads to conflicts and risky behavior. Investing in wider, dedicated, and well-maintained cycling paths that are physically separated from pedestrian walkways will reduce confusion and improve overall safety.

4. Clearer Signage & Public Awareness:

Current signs marking pedestrian-only zones can be enhanced with better visual cues and supported by ongoing public education campaigns to ensure that all users — including tourists and new riders — understand and respect the rules.

5. Flexible Solutions for Shared Spaces:

In space-constrained areas, introducing shared paths with clear priority rules and speed limits may be more practical than outright bans, especially on less busy or narrower footpaths. This would allow safer coexistence without forcing riders onto roads unsuited for their devices.

6. Balanced Enforcement Approach:

A “measured and considered” enforcement strategy is critical. Officers should prioritize education and warnings, especially for casual or first-time offenders, before resorting to fines or jail terms. This encourages voluntary compliance and fosters goodwill among riders.

Final Thoughts

The ban on bicycles and PMDs from pedestrian-only paths reflects Singapore’s commitment to pedestrian safety. However, ongoing dialogue, infrastructure improvements, and fair enforcement will be key to making the roads safer and more accessible for everyone.