Article by Saanich Police Constable Erin Wagg

In 2013, Project 529 set out to create a sustainable program to help reduce bike theft, promote cycling, and make cities and campuses more bike-friendly. The Saanich Police Department has joined a growing number of police agencies in British Columbia and the Capital Regional District to partner with Project 529, a bicycle registration and recovery system. Project 529 makes it easy for citizens to register a bike and flag it stolen if a theft occurs. 

Anyone can register a bike on Project 529 for free in less than five minutes, either online or in person at a registration station that is listed on the Project 529 website. Only an email address is required - no other personal information. Tamper resistant 529 Shields can be purchased from a local bike shop and they act as a deterrent, warning would-be thieves that your bike is registered.

Project 529 can be accessed through the “Garage 529” app and online at project529.com, where you can register your bike or search the registry if you find a bike. If your bike is stolen, file a police report and set an “alert” in your Project 529 account. Remember to always lock your bike with a u-lock, even if you’re only gone a few minutes. Ride safe!!