Are e-bikes allowed on Mackinac Island?

In a word, no. E-bikes are not allowed on Mackinac Island. But there is an exception: Visitors with a qualifying “mobility disability” may operate Class 1 electric bicycles or Class 2 electric tricycles on Mackinac Island. You can wade through  the legalese of city code to find Mackinac Island’s definition of “mobility disability”.

But here’s the gist: 

You may qualify for an e-bicycle permit if you…

• Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest, use a brace, cane, crutch, wheelchair, or other assistive device
• Use portable oxygen
• Have a qualifying cardiac condition
• Have an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition that severely limits your ability to walk and pedal

What kinds of e-bicycles may be permitted?

Class 1 e-bicycles, and three-wheeled Class 1 or 2 e-tricycles, as defined by Michigan Vehicle Code may be approved, depending on the applicant providing required materials in the application. Bicycles must have a permanently affixed label showing its classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage.

How do I obtain an e-bicycle permit?

• Apply early. Submit the  Mobility Disability Accommodation Application to the Mackinac Island Police Department (MIPD) at least 14 days before your visit. 
• Provide proper documentation in your application. Including photos of your bicycle/tricycle and credible assurance of a mobility disability, such as a state-issued disability parking placard or a note from a medical provider.
• Once submitted to MIPD, the form will be reviewed and then either approved or denied by PD staff and emailed back to the requestor.
• If approved, present a printed copy of MIPD approval to the ferry company during the ticketing process. Visitors must purchase a bicycle license for the permitted e-bicycle at the ferry terminal. Permitted e-bicycles/tricycles will be tagged by the ferry company prior to boarding. Tags must remain on all bicycles during the visit.

Other Important Notes

• Visitors bringing e-bicycles not tagged as legal on the ferry, may bring their bicycle to the MIPD office on Market Street and go through the application process in person. They can call the Mackinac Island Medical Center to schedule an appointment for a physician screening. Appointment availability nor approval is guaranteed. 
• Non-compliant e-bicycles are subject to impoundment until the visitor leaves the Island.
• Class 2 e-bicycles can be made compliant by permanently removing the throttle.

In accordance with the latest United States Coast Guard safety procedures, Arnold TransitCompany has updated its policy for transporting electric bicycles (E-Bikes) on all ATCo passenger vessels. Coast Guard regulations govern that E-Bikes can not be transported in enclosed spaces aboard our vessels. To comply we ask that E-Bike owners please review and follow the procedures below: