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Council gives first reading to updated bicycle ordinance, creates Beachfront District speed limits
Summary
Detroit Lakes gave first reading to Ordinance 553 updating bicycle and motorized mobility device rules, creating a Beachfront District with a 10 mph speed limit and a 15 mph limit elsewhere for bicycles/e-bikes, and clarifying sidewalk/street restrictions and penalties; signage and enforcement details will be developed for second reading.
The Detroit Lakes City Council gave first reading to Ordinance 553, which updates the city's bicycle code to address electric bicycles (e-bikes), motorized foot scooters and other motorized mobility devices.
Dylan Ramstead, who presented the ordinance, said it creates a defined Beachfront District (Legion Road to Washington) where the speed limit for bicycles and e-bikes would be 10 miles per hour; outside that beachfront area the speed limit would be 15 mph. The ordinance also updates definitions to align with state statute, clarifies that certain mobility devices are prohibited from sidewalks in business/beachfront areas and establishes a petty misdemeanor penalty (staff will recommend a fine schedule).
Council members asked about enforcement and signage. Staff said they plan to post signage along Westlake Drive and beachfront areas and to run an education campaign using social media graphics. On enforcement, Ramstead said violations are petty misdemeanors and that a fine schedule will be developed. A council member noted residents had requested extending the beachfront 10 mph zone toward Pelican Lake, and the committee discussion concluded the city should implement the proposed district first and then reassess expansion later.
The council voted to give first reading to the ordinance. Staff said they expect to bring implementation details (signage, fines, education materials) back for second reading and adoption.
