Amsterdam to enforce ban on microcars on ferries and bike paths
Amsterdam will begin enforcement actions this fall to prevent microcars, also known as brommobielen, from being used on city ferries and bike paths, city officials announced on Thursday. According to NH, the move comes after repeated sightings of the small vehicles on ferries, often riding where pedestrians and cyclists travel.
The ban is linked to ferry access: most ferries are reachable only via bike or pedestrian paths, while microcars are restricted to regular roadways. The Hempont ferry, which is accessible via a roadway, remains an exception.
“Ferries and ferry landings are becoming increasingly crowded with pedestrians and cyclists,” said Melanie van der Horst, Amsterdam’s alderwoman for mobility, public space, and water. “I find it irresponsible to allow these vehicles to drive among children, dogs, and other people. I do not want to wait until an accident happens, especially since they are already not allowed by law.”
Before enforcement begins, the city will inform travelers this fall so they can choose the most practical route or alternative vehicles. “Of course, space on the ferries remains available for mobility scooters, which have always been allowed on the bike paths,” Van der Horst added.
Although the law already prohibits microcars from using the ferries, violations are common. According to NH, a regular ferry user submitted a photo showing three microcars aboard simultaneously. Many drivers reportedly say they are unaware that boarding ferries is not allowed.
Some microcar drivers have argued that ferries are their only option to travel between Amsterdam-Noord and the city center. Van der Horst said alternatives exist, including the Amsterdam and Schellingwouder bridges or the Hempont. “I understand that some drivers will be disappointed by the detour,” she said, “but it is unsafe to allow them on bike paths where they do not belong.”
