Manly LimeBikes could face tighter local management after NBC backed calls for stronger powers to remove unsafe or dumped share bikes from footpaths, roads, driveways and other public spaces.
Manly LimeBikes Face Push For Faster Removal Powers
NBC has backed a move to strengthen how unsafe or dumped LimeBikes are managed across the area, following concerns about bikes obstructing footpaths, cycleways and community spaces.
At its 16 June 2026 meeting, authorities considered a motion on managing the impacts of dumped LimeBikes. The motion sought action on public safety and amenity concerns, including bikes left across footpaths, roads, driveways, cycleways and other shared areas.
The motion also called for the finalisation of the Road Transport and Other Legislation Amendment (Micromobility Vehicles and Smartcards) Bill 2025 and supporting regulations. The proposed framework would provide a clearer process for managing shared micromobility schemes, including where vehicles can operate and where they can be parked.
Authorities also supported seeking appropriate fees for operators using public land, along with recovery of costs linked to managing micromobility vehicles.
Current Rules Require Three Hours’ Notice
Authorities already have powers under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 to collect bikes in certain circumstances, including when they are blocking a footpath, road or entry.
However, the current process requires at least three hours’ notice to be given to the operator before authorities can act.
The motion sought stronger powers to manage and impound micromobility vehicles such as LimeBikes, including the ability to remove unsafe items immediately where there is an imminent risk to public safety or the environment.
Authorities also moved to begin compliance action within their existing regulatory powers to address LimeBikes obstructing public places across the Northern Beaches local government area.
Rollout Reaches Beyond Manly
Lime launched LimeBikes in Manly in April 2026 before extending distribution to nearby suburbs including Balgowlah, Dee Why and Brookvale. Bikes have also appeared around other parts of the Northern Beaches, with the rollout occurring without the need for approval under the current rules.
The arrival of the bikes has provided another option for short local trips, but the service should not come at the cost of local amenity or the safety of people using public spaces.
The NBC was told there were about 500 to 600 LimeBike journeys on the Northern Beaches each day.
Rangers have also increased monitoring of bikes left in unsafe locations and bikes being ridden in exclusion zones, including along The Corso. Lime had been issued six notices to remove bikes.
Lime Says Parking Checks Are In Place
Lime says it has measures to reduce poor parking and safety hazards across its share bike network.
The company requires riders to park vehicles appropriately and away from pedestrian paths. Riders must also submit a photo of the parked bike at the end of a trip, with an AI-enabled tool used to check whether the vehicle has been left correctly before the ride can be completed.
Lime says it also has on-street operations teams to collect misparked vehicles.
Riders who repeatedly park bikes incorrectly can face penalties, including fines, suspension and removal from the platform.
The motion was carried, leaving the next step focused on stronger rules for managing shared bikes where they obstruct public spaces or create safety concerns.
Published 18-June-2026
