(a) Definitions. When used in this section.
(1) Derelict bicycle. The term "derelict bicycle" shall mean any bicycle, that is not a ghost bike, which is affixed to public property and also contains two or more of the following characteristics:
(i) the bicycle appears to be crushed or not usable;
(ii) the bicycle is missing parts essential to its operation, other than the seat and front wheel, including, but not limited to handlebars, pedal or pedals, rear wheel and chain;
(iii) the handlebars or pedals are damaged, or the existing forks, frames or rims are bent; or
(iv) fifty percent or more of the bicycle, which includes the handlebars, pedals and frames are rusted, along with any chain affixing such bicycle to public property.
(2) Ghost bike. The term "ghost bike" shall mean a bicycle that has been placed on public property and apparently intended as a memorial for someone who is deceased, and which may be painted white or have a sign posted on or near it, or flowers or other mementos in the basket.
(3) Public property. The term "public property" shall mean city property or property maintained by the city, or any public sidewalk or roadway, including, but not limited to any bicycle rack, light pole, bus pole, parking meter, tree, tree pit, railing or similar structure. For purposes of this section, public property shall include any bicycle rack installed by the department of transportation, its contractors, permittees or other entity authorized by the department of transportation. Public property shall not include those docks or stations installed under authority of the department of transportation's Bikeshare Program.
(b) In the event that a derelict bicycle is affixed to public property, a notice shall be affixed to the derelict bicycle advising the owner that such derelict bicycle must be removed within seven days from the date of the notice. This notice shall also state that the failure to remove such derelict bicycle within the designated time period will result in the removal and disposal of the derelict bicycle by the department of sanitation.
(c) Nothing in this section shall preclude the immediate removal of any bicycle, including, but not limited to, a derelict bicycle or ghost bike, or the taking of any other action by any city agency if the presence of such bicycle which creates a dangerous condition by restricting vehicular or pedestrian traffic, or otherwise violates the law.
(Amended City Record 8/26/2016, eff. 9/25/2016)