Bicycle Lights at Night on Private Roads
Question
Susan asked: Kris at Trek bicycle store said it was illegal to ride a bicycle with out lights. Even in the daytime. We live in a gated community and she knew that. Only ride in the community not on the city streets.
Answer
Lights are only required on bicycles when operating at night or in inclement weather.
s. 316.2065 – Bicycle Regulations
(7) Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear each exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear. A bicycle or its rider may be equipped with lights or reflectors in addition to those required by this section.
s. 316.217 – When Lighted Lamps are Required
(1) Every vehicle operated upon a highway within this state shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices as herein respectively required for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles, under the following conditions;
(a) At any time from sunset to sunrise including the twilight hours. Twilight hours shall mean the time between sunset and full night or between full night and sunrise.
(b) During any rain, smoke, or fog.
If the roads your gated community are public roadways, all the laws apply.
If the roadways are private property and an agreement between the community and law enforcement is in place, the same laws apply. See this post.
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