Copenhagen seeks greater control over rental bikes

Copenhagen wants the power to limit the number of rental bikes on its streets, according to a report by Danish broadcaster DR.

The city’s climate, environment, and technical affairs mayor, Line Barfod, argues that the bikes clutter public spaces and obstruct pedestrians. She has called on the national transport ministry to grant the municipality authority to set caps on rental bike numbers and impose stricter penalties on operators that violate rules.

Currently, the city can only fine companies per bike for non-compliance, which Barfod considers insufficient. A majority in the city council supports her push for regulatory changes.

Industry group Horesta, representing hotels, restaurants, and tourism, also criticises the bikes for harming the city’s image. Political director Maria Olafsen said the current situation does not reflect the image Copenhagen wants to present to tourists.

Donkey Republic, one of the rental operators, said it is open to reducing its fleet but suggested focusing regulations on e-bikes. The company’s Nordic markets manager, Christian Bergmann Mølgaard, called for a distinction between bikes used by locals and tourists.

Transport Minister Signe Munk responded that while rental bikes promote cycling, they must not obstruct others. She noted that municipalities can already remove improperly parked bikes and bill the owners.

Barfod’s previous request for such powers was denied. Since then, the number of rental bikes in Copenhagen has grown by 4,500.