Doral council directs ordinance drafting after state expands micromobility powers

The Doral City Council on Aug. 13 directed the city attorney to draft local ordinances regulating micromobility — electric bicycles, scooters and other small motorized devices — citing a recent change in state law that gives municipalities more authority.

Councilman Rafael Pinedo framed the resolution as a public-safety measure and an effort to clarify local enforcement now permitted by Senate Bill 462, which he said was signed into law July 1. “This bill finally empowers local governments” to adopt age and identification requirements, safety-education programs and local enforcement tools, Pinedo said.

Pinedo proposed several enforcement and education options: fines for equipment problems (proposed $35–$100), fines for reckless riding that endangers pedestrians (proposed $100–$300 and possible court appearance), helmet-violation fines of up to $200 with potential waivers tied to proof-of-purchase and course completion, and age limits commonly set between 16 and 18. He also recommended community engagement and safety training run with police and parks staff.

City Attorney clarified that the resolution directs staff to prepare an ordinance and coordinate with police on enforcement strategy. Council members expressed support for codifying rules and asked that the draft include a public-education component as well as enforcement mechanisms proportionate to violations.

The council voted to approve the motion to direct the city attorney to prepare the ordinance; the item will return for formal ordinance consideration at a future meeting.

Next steps: City Attorney and staff to draft ordinance language, consult police on enforcement and return a proposed ordinance to council (target: next meeting in September).