The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is proposing updated regulations that would expand where electric bicycles (eBikes) can be used on state-managed lands, while still protecting natural resources and ensuring trail safety.
What is an eBike?
An eBike is a bicycle with an electric motor that helps the rider only when they are pedaling, or an adaptive bike with an electric assist motor.
What is changing?
Before this regulation, eBikes were only allowed on public roads and parking lots on DNR lands. With this regulation, eBikes are allowed on some trails too.
Where can I ride an eBike on DNR lands?
You can ride an eBike on some trails, public roads, and parking lots on Department lands. Any trails where you cannot ride an eBike will be designated by a post at a trailhead, a notice on a bulletin board, or on the Department’s website.
Are there places where I can ride a bike, but not an eBike?
Yes. On trails where you can ride a bike but not an eBike, that information will be posted on the trailhead, on the bulletin board, or on the Department’s website.
Why are Bikes and eBikes not allowed on some trails?
In most cases, bicycles and eBikes will be on the same trails! However, bicycles or eBikes will not be allowed on trails that are designated for a specific user group, such as pedestrian-only trails, or if the path doesn’t have the appropriate infrastructure (i.e., bike-appropriate bridges at stream crossings). Also, some trails may be off limits to bikes and eBikes where habitat protection is necessary or where safety concerns exist, such as paths with blind curves or steep drop-offs.
What lands are covered by this regulation?
This regulation covers lands managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, including:
- State Forests Managed by the Forest Service
- State Parks, Natural Resource Management Areas, and other Park Service-managed lands
- Wildlife Management Areas managed by the Wildlife and Heritage Service
What trail courtesy should I follow?
You may not operate a bicycle or an eBike recklessly or carelessly. The rider must pay attention to the rights and safety of those around them and be sober. It is also important for the rider to protect the wildlife, plants, and property around them. Finally, please remember to wear a helmet and be courteous when passing others.
What is an adaptive bike?
An adaptive bike is a bicycle with a specially made mobility device for individuals with physical disabilities or mobility challenges. It can be customized with hand cycles, three wheels, adaptive seating, and more.
What has changed in this updated regulation?
- Only eBikes with a motor that helps you when pedaling until the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour (Class 1) are permitted on state lands.
- Clarify that eBikes are permitted on Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) Trails.
- eBikes can be restricted from a location if the trail surface is unsuitable for bicycles or electric bicycles.
- eBikes must adhere to speed limits and avoid prohibited areas.
Why is this change necessary?
The Department needs regulations for bike and eBike usage on Maryland state lands to adjust for the use of bikes and increased usage of eBike usage on Maryland state lands. The Department adjusted its regulation based on public feedback received during the public comment period in the fall of 2025.
Questions? Comments?
If you have any questions or additional comments, please reach out to outdoorrecreation.dnr@maryland.gov.
