Boynton Beach reviews e‑bike ordinance that would bar most e‑bikes from sidewalks and add local restrictions

City staff presented a draft ordinance to regulate e‑bikes and similar recreational devices, proposing to prohibit e‑bike operation on sidewalks and to adopt local restrictions beyond state bicycle law.

Chief DeGiulio (Speaker 7) told the commission that the draft is intended to address repeated complaints about sidewalk use and pedestrian safety: "The ordinance is basically saying ebikes are gonna be prohibited on to be on sidewalks," he said, and added that some recent local traffic fatalities involving e‑bikes were associated with other traffic violations (for example, traveling against traffic) rather than sidewalk use.

Staff noted the state classifies e‑bikes into classes 1, 2 and 3 and that state law permits municipalities to adopt more restrictive local rules. The chief said the state bicycle law addresses lighting requirements and that the city has been doing PSAs and videos; commissioners emphasized continuing education for parents and juveniles, helmet and lighting expectations, and suggested initial enforcement be education‑focused before moving to citations.

Commissioners also asked the ordinance to cover 'recreational devices' including micro‑scooters and to include rules about storage and parking so devices do not block pedestrian access. Staff said the draft drew from ordinances in nearby municipalities and that the city attorney provided statutory background for further amendment and review.

Next steps: staff will continue drafting language and may return with amendments based on commissioner input and additional education/outreach plans.