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Charlotte County leaders review sheriff’s proposal for countywide e‑bike ordinance
Summary
Sheriff’s office representatives proposed a behavior‑based county ordinance to regulate electric bicycles, scooters and similar devices, suggesting a 15 mph sidewalk limit, helmet and light rules and prohibiting operation on greenways; commissioners pressed on enforceability, age and licensing questions and whether to wait for pending state bills.
Terry Cochran, speaking on behalf of the Charlotte County sheriff’s office, presented a proposed countywide ordinance to regulate electric bicycles and similar personal mobility devices, saying the measure is aimed at public safety rather than trying to legislate evolving technology. "We want to say a speed limit of no more than 15 miles per hour on a sidewalk," Cochran told the board, and described safety equipment requirements and yield‑the‑right‑of‑way expectations modeled on Florida's bicycle statutes.
The proposal breaks regulation into three areas: operations on sidewalks (15 mph limit, helmet and light requirements for minors), operations on roadways (machines allowed but…
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