Miami could soon have a citywide rulebook for e-bikes and motorized scooters. City commissioners are scheduled to take a final vote Thursday, Oct. 22, at City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive. The meeting starts at 9 a.m.

The proposed ordinance is listed as a second-reading item on the commission agenda. Commissioners Rolando Escalona, Damian Pardo and Ralph "Rafael" Rosado are its sponsors. The commission voted unanimously on Sept. 24 to move it forward.

What would change

Riders could not use public sidewalks or walkways meant for people on foot. They could still walk an e-bike or scooter on the sidewalk, or park it there.

On streets, e-bikes and scooters would be capped at 20 mph. Riders would have to use bike lanes where they exist. Without a bike lane, they could ride only on streets with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less.

Anyone under 16 could not ride one on city streets and rights-of-way. Riders would also need to carry a government-issued photo ID.

Only one person could ride at a time, unless the device is built for more. An adult could still carry a child who is securely attached and wearing a helmet.

Parking would have rules, too. A parked e-bike or scooter could not block a business entrance or exit. It would also have to leave at least 3 feet of sidewalk clear for people walking.

Police could write traffic tickets under state law, the same way they ticket drivers. The city could also issue a $100 civil fine for each violation. Wheelchairs and other mobility devices covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act would not be affected.

Why the city is acting

At the Sept. 24 meeting, Pardo cited city figures showing more than 600 confirmed incidents involving e-bikes, scooters and similar devices, Coconut Grove Spotlight reported. Commissioners also said the rules would need work on enforcement and a public education campaign.

Miami has tried to manage scooters before. The city began scooter pilot programs in 2018, but they were later halted over safety concerns, Miami Today reported. This ordinance does not pick a rental company or create a new scooter fleet. It sets rules for how anyone rides.

Where the rules would not apply

The rules cover city streets and sidewalks only. County roads that run through the city would not be covered. In Coconut Grove, those include Douglas Road, Grand Avenue, Main Highway and South Bayshore Drive, the Spotlight reported. That could make it hard for riders to know which rules apply as they move from one road to the next.

If commissioners approve the ordinance Thursday, it would take effect right away, unless the mayor vetoes it within 10 days.

Looking for other ways to get around? The Lookout's Metromover guide covers the free downtown train, and Miami Beach is weighing a bigger Freebee service.