Police present draft e-bike ordinance to council, proposing impoundment and education

Fairhope’s police chief presented a draft local ordinance to the council aimed at limiting unsafe e-bike use downtown and creating tools for local enforcement.

Chief (speaker 12) told councillors that complaints about e-bikes ‘‘overtaking’’ the downtown area are increasing: riders weaving through traffic, riding on sidewalks, failing to stop at stop signs and — in some cases — using speed-conversion kits to make pedal-assist bicycles operate like small motorcycles. The proposed draft would allow officers to impound e-bikes, contact parents when juveniles are involved and escalate fines for repeat offenders. "If we impound the bike and bring it back to the station, that gives us an opportunity to talk to the parents," the chief said.

Council members asked technical questions about how e-bikes are distinguished from mopeds or motorcycles (speed, equipment and statutory definitions were discussed) and whether conversion kits and illegally modified motors could be enforced. Staff reported outreach to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and suggested school-based education with SROs before summer.

Council president asked members to review the emailed draft from the chief and indicated the item is likely to be scheduled for a first reading at the next regular session. The chief also described stepped-up foot patrols between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. to catch riders who run from marked patrol cars.

Council direction: review draft ordinance language, confirm fines and enforcement mechanisms, and place the draft for formal consideration (first reading) at the next agenda if councilists agree.

No vote was taken; the item remains at the review stage.