Oviedo implements regulations, penalties for e-bikes, other micromobility devices

New rules for riders of bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards and other micromobility devices were passed by Oviedo’s City Council at its Oct. 19 meeting.

The ordinance establishes comprehensive regulations, definitions, enforcement and penalties for the devices within the city, with a primary focus on pedestrian and rider safety.

Bicycles, e-bikes, and motorized scooters may be used on sidewalks, unless specifically prohibited, and may not go faster than 15 mph, slowing to 10 mph if within 50 feet of a pedestrian. While on shared-use and multi-use paths, such as a paved path at least 8 feet wide that is separated from vehicle traffic by open space or a barrier or in a park or recreation area, bicycles and e-bikes may go up to a speed of 28 mph, and motorized scooters 20 mph, and all must yield right of way to pedestrians and “exercise reasonable caution” when nearing them, according to the ordinance. This includes giving an audible warning when passing. 

Motorized scooters cannot be operated in city parks, except on specific multi-use and shared paths, sidewalks and parking lots for going in and out, or in city-owned conservation areas. Users under the age of 16 must wear a helmet.

Skateboards, electric skateboards, other electric self-balancing devices and hoverboards are allowed to be ridden on sidewalks, multi-use and shared paths, unless posted as prohibited. Riders must ride single-file when nearing pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing. Speeds are not allowed to exceed 10 mph. Helmets are also required for those under 16.

When at a school crosswalk with a crossing guard on duty, the maximum speed for devices is 5 mph. Headsets, headphones or other non-medically necessary devices are not allowed to be worn while using a micromobility device.

First violations can result in a warning or a fine up to $50, while a second violation in a 12-month period could result in a fine of up to $100, with subsequent violations possibly seeing fines of up to $250. If a minor commits a violation, their parent or legal guardian would be notified through an incident report. A subsequent violation by a minor would result in the penalties and costs associated with it.

When regulations are implemented, Deputy Police Chief Brian Foley said at the Council’s Sept. 22 meeting that enforcement is expected to be more targeted than at random.

“Are we, as law enforcement — Oviedo Police Department specifically — going to say, ‘Hey, we need to start enforcing this sidewalk at this location?’” he said. “I really don’t see us doing that. What I see us doing is responding to a specific complaint.”

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