Apply to install bike racks in the street

Service

In commercial districts, the Portland Bureau of Transportation can install a group of bike racks, known as a bike corral, in on-street parking spaces. The city prefers to put bike corrals near street corners, when possible, as it improves visibility for people crossing the street. Fees may apply.

This application should take 15-20 minutes to complete.

What is a bike corral?

Bike corrals are groups of 6, 9, or 12 bicycle racks installed on the street in the parking strip in areas with high bicycle parking demand. Bike corrals accommodate 12 to 24 bicycles in the same amount of space as just one or two auto parking spaces. They are an efficient use of space and dramatically increase the number of visitors to commercial districts where they are located.

Portland currently has 153 bike corrals! (last update July 2024).

View map of Portland's bike corrals

This map shows the location and number of racks at the bike corrals throughout Portland.

Should I apply for one?

If you are a business or property owner with enough bike parking demand because you regularly see more than 10 customer bicycles locked outside, then a bike corral is a good choice. If you see fewer bicycles then installing additional bike racks on the sidewalk is a better solution, if space allows.

Gather information

You'll need to provide your contact information as well as that of the appropriate property owner or management company. Be prepared to describe in detail where you would like a bike corral installed and as much data as you can provide about the current demand for bike parking at this location. The City prefers to locate bike corrals at street corners when possible. You can send us pictures to help with the assessment. A fee is required in locations with metered parking. The City requires that the business and property owner approve of the corral installation and sign an agreement requiring minor, regular sweeping of the corral to keep it free of debris.