In 2025, Montreal police issued 1,600 tickets to cyclists who were found wearing earphones while riding, a violation of the province’s Road Safety Code. The code permits drivers to have a single earphone in use but expressly forbids cyclists from using any earphones during travel.
Police spokesperson François Joly confirmed that the number of citations issued for the infraction has risen steadily over the past year. He noted that officers are conducting regular checks on bike lanes and shared‑use paths, stopping riders who have earbuds or headphones in either ear.
The enforcement action reflects the city’s broader focus on road safety. Under Quebec law, cyclists must keep both ears free to hear traffic sounds, while motor‑vehicle drivers may keep one earphone in place for navigation or calls. The distinction is intended to reduce the risk of accidents caused by reduced auditory awareness.
The 1,600 tickets issued during the year represent the latest tally of citations recorded by the Montreal police department. The increase in violations prompted the police to emphasize the legal requirement during community outreach and public safety campaigns.
Montreal’s cycling community has been reminded that compliance with the earphone ban is mandatory and that failure to adhere can result in a fine. The police continue to monitor compliance as part of ongoing efforts to improve safety for all road users.
The data from 2025 shows that the enforcement of the earphone rule remains an active priority for the police, with the aim of preventing incidents that could arise from distracted cycling.
Overall, the 1,600 citations issued this year illustrate the growing attention given to the rule that separates driver and cyclist earphone allowances, reinforcing the province’s commitment to road safety.