Commission considers local e‑bike rules for sidewalks, multi‑use paths and Mallory Street

County staff presented a draft ordinance and sought commissioner feedback on where and how electric bicycles and other motorized personal mobility devices should be allowed on sidewalks, bicycle routes and multi‑use paths.

Staff said the draft does not replicate state law in full but clarifies local rules for sidewalks and paths. The ordinance would permit class 1 and class 2 electric bicycles and electric personal‑play vehicles on bike paths and multi‑use trails unless signs explicitly prohibit such use, provided they operate "in a safe and reasonable manner consistent with the applicable rules of the road," staff said.

Under the draft, class 1 e‑bikes are pedal‑assist devices that stop providing assistance at 20 mph; class 2 are throttle‑assist devices limited to 20 mph. The draft would exclude class 3 e‑bikes from sidewalks and multi‑use paths. Staff also proposed a standing prohibition on "wheel conveyances" (riding devices) on Mallory Street on St. Simons Island between Magnolia Street and the pier; the prohibition would apply to both motorized and leg‑powered wheeled devices.

Commissioners raised enforcement concerns and urged clearer language on what constitutes reckless or unsafe operation, how pedestrians are protected on narrow sidewalks and how rental businesses should be regulated. Several commissioners suggested enforcement should focus on reckless behavior—popping wheelies or deliberately cutting off pedestrians—rather than an exact speed threshold that would be difficult to measure. Staff was asked to coordinate with county police and the sheriff’s office and to return with clearer, enforceable language and signage recommendations.

Why it matters: the county is balancing access to micro‑mobility options with pedestrian safety on crowded sidewalks and slender rights‑of‑way in popular areas. The draft ordinance is an early proposal; staff sought feedback and will return with revisions.