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Bel Air weighs how to enforce sidewalk-riding rules and address faster e-bikes on Main Street
Summary
Town staff and police described enforcement challenges — from ambiguous statutes to battery-powered bikes — and commissioners asked legal staff to review state code and town rules before writing new signage or fines.
Bel Air officials discussed enforcement of existing town code prohibiting bicycle and similar-device use on sidewalks within the business district and on municipal structures, and asked staff to review state law for clarity on local authority.
Chief Moore told commissioners the town has received complaints about stunt cyclists and riders who endanger pedestrians on Main Street and other business-area sidewalks. The town code currently carries a $25 fine for a first offense and higher penalties for repeat violations; the chief said confiscation of a bicycle is unlikely without clear state support or prosecutorial backing. He added that officers prefer to use discretion for children and occasional users but have trouble enforcing against riders who flee.
Commissioners asked town staff and legal counsel to confirm whether state transportation statutes limit or permit local sidewalk restrictions and whether the town may adopt clearer definitions for electric bikes (e‑bikes) and scooters. Commissioner Collins and others described frequent adult commuters riding on sidewalks in parts of North Hickory Avenue and Broadway; the board asked staff to return with legal guidance and recommended code language options.
No ordinance change was made at the session. Staff will review state Transportation Article provisions, Town Code sections 4.50‑33 and 4.50‑35 (sidewalk riding, skateboards and similar devices) and provide recommended language and enforcement options for future consideration.
