Bike Chained to Public Property

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is legally allowed to remove and recycle an unusable bicycle chained to public property.

You can request the removal of a bike chained to public property if it appears destroyed and completely unrideable.

DSNY will not remove:

• Bikes that are still usable
• "Ghost bikes" that have been placed on public property as a memorial for someone who died
• Bikes that are not chained to anything
• Bikes that are chained to a private bike rack or any other private property
• Bikes chained to a tree

Definition of Unusable Bicycle

For a bike to be considered unusable, it must have two or more of the following characteristics:

• The bike appears to be crushed or unusable.
• The bike is missing essential parts, such as handlebars, one or more pedals, rear wheel, or bike chain.
• The handlebars, pedals, spokes, frames, or rims are damaged or bent. 
• 50% or more of the bike is rusted, including parts like the frame, handlebars, and pedals, along with the bike chain attaching it to public property.

The City does not:

• Remove bikes chained to any private property
• Maintain privately-owned bike racks or shelters

You should ask the owner or manager of the property to remove the unusable bike.

You can find out the name of a property owner by checking the Property Deed or Record.