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Commission recommends easing CDL rules for sightseeing/E T V drivers; pedicab bike-lane proposal debated
Summary
The commission recommended draft BL2026-1449 to Metropolitan Council to align entertainment transportation vehicle rules with state law on CDL requirements and discussed a separate bill to let pedicabs use bike lanes while classifying pedal carriages as entertainment-only.
The Metropolitan Transportation Licensing Commission voted to recommend BL2026-1449 to the Metropolitan Council, a draft ordinance that would change local rules so certain sightseeing and entertainment transportation vehicle (ETV) drivers would not be required to hold a commercial driver’s license if the vehicle itself does not meet CDL criteria.
Staff explained the purpose: "If a company has a vehicle... that doesn't require a CDL for them to operate that vehicle in normal conditions... this just mirrors state law and it just kinda seems like the right thing to do at this point in time." (Staff member S1)
The commission also reviewed a separate proposed amendment (filed by Councilman Parker) to allow pedicabs to use designated bicycle lanes while retaining pedal carriages as entertainment-only vehicles. Legal staff read proposed code language amending Metro Code section 67553(c) to allow pedicabs to "move with traffic like motor vehicles" and to permit their use of bicycle lanes provided they do not interfere with existing bicycle traffic.
Commissioners debated safety and zone issues. One commissioner said pedicabs can be a useful last-mile option for event areas like Nissan Stadium and suggested an expanded operating zone for certain events; another commissioner cautioned about using bike lanes in residential corridors during peak traffic. A commissioner asked staff to consider whether the ordinance should explicitly require an 'f' endorsement for drivers who carry passengers for hire; staff said the licensing categories already require that endorsement where applicable.
Why it matters: the changes would reduce a barrier for small sightseeing and ETV operators whose vehicles do not technically require a CDL while creating a regulatory distinction between pedicabs (transportation) and pedal carriages (entertainment). The commission's recommendation moves the measures to Metro Council for further consideration.
Provenance: BL2026-1449 review and recommendation appear in the agenda discussion under entertainment transportation and sightseeing ordinance items; pedicab/pedal-carriage discussion is recorded in the following ordinance item.
