October 8, 2025

All about Bus Lanes

A public service announcement from the Transit Police Targeted Mobile Enforcement Team (TMET)

This symbol means that only buses are allowed in the lane

The left portion of the image shows white diamond on a black field. The right portion shows a bus icon.

A white diamond symbol on a sign means that the lane is reserved. You need to read the rest of the sign on which the symbol appears to figure out who the lane is reserved for.

Sometimes the symbol means it’s an HOV lane, but not always. Don’t mistake a bus lane for an HOV lane!
On the sign, the icons to the right of the diamond will let you know exactly what kind of vehicle is allowed in the lane. Any information below will let you know when the restriction is in effect.

In the example image at the top of this post, the lane is reserved for buses and bicycles (and ONLY buses and bicycles*) on weekdays from 7am to 10am, and then again from 3pm to 7pm.

*Emergency vehicles may use any reserved lane at any time. In the City of Vancouver (and only in Vancouver proper), taxis are also allowed to use bus lanes

Electric vehicles

If you drive an electric vehicle, you are eligible to drive in SOME reserved lanes. Electric vehicles are NOT permitted in bus lanes

Violators often get multiple fines

Bus lane misuse comes with a $109 fine, but often that’s just the beginning. You might be surprised by how often other fines and charges are attached – speeding, expired insurance/license, and other violations are often committed by drivers who use bus lanes as a way to bypass traffic. In fact, TMET officers have even found themselves executing warrants!

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All about Bus Lanes

This symbol means that only buses are allowed in the lane

Electric vehicles

Violators often get multiple fines

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