Current Events

Public/Media Release – July 16, 2009

enactment of new provisions regarding

skateboarding, rollerblading and use of similar devices

Several months ago, the Bozeman Police Department approached the City Commission with a recommended change to local ordinance. This change included restricting the use of skateboards, roller blades and similar devices on city facilities, to include the parking garage and parking lots. We recommended that because of hazardous conditions with traffic and pedestrians, that skateboarding or rollerblading in the downtown business district continue to be prohibited, both on the sidewalk or street. 

Prior to this change, skateboards and rollerblades were not allowed on any roadway in the City of Bozeman. However, we also recommended a change allowing for the use of skateboards and roller blades as an acceptable means of alternate transportation on roadways outside of the downtown business district, but only if done in a safe and prudent manner, consistent with that expected from drivers of motor vehicles and riders of bicycles. We recommended skateboarding and rollerblading be allowed, but the riders must ride with the traffic, on the right side of the road and obey all rules of the road. Additionally, riders must have reflective clothing and/or lights when riding at night.

Effective July 16, 2009, upon two hearings with the City Commission, this ordinance is in effect. Our department wants to encourage safe and responsible riding of skateboards and rollerblades in an acceptable manner and in proper locations. We will be enforcing the prohibition for users in the parking garage, on downtown streets or sidewalks or on city facilities. Violations involve fines of $25 for riding where unlawful, or fines of $135 or more, if riding a skateboard in violation of traffic laws, such as running a red light or careless driving.