Charlotte County has formally approved a new ordinance regulating the operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and similar personal electric mobility devices, following months of documented safety concerns, theft reports, and fatal incidents involving these vehicles. The ordinance was adopted by the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners at its most recent meeting and was based on informaton and data provided by the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office.
The data presented by the Sheriff’s Office shows that the rapid increase in e-bike usage across Charlotte County has coincided with a measurable rise in thefts and serious crashes. Between April and October 2025, 81 bicycles were reported stolen countywide, including 35 electric bicycles, with incidents occurring at residences, retail locations, and public areas, as documented in the agenda materials .
During the same timeframe, law enforcement received complaints from every district in the county involving unsafe or reckless e-bike operation by both adults and juveniles.
Crash data included in the agenda packet shows that 28 bicycle- or pedestrian-related crashes occurred between June and September 2025. These incidents included one fatality, a single-vehicle e-bike fatal crash in late September, and a fatal collision involving an e-bike and a gas-powered motorcycle in October. County officials cited these incidents as a key driver behind the ordinance.
Under Florida law, electric bicycles are regulated primarily through Florida Statute §316.20655 , which generally treats e-bikes as bicycles while allowing local governments to regulate where and how they may be operated. Vehicle definitions and roadway classifications are further established in Florida Statute §316.003 .
The Charlotte County ordinance builds on this framework by applying location-specific rules tailored to local safety concerns, an authority expressly permitted under state law.
Rather than regulating specific brands or motor types, the ordinance focuses on how and where e-bikes are operated, prioritizing pedestrian safety and predictable enforcement.
Sidewalks, Crosswalks, and Multi-Use Paths
E-bikes may operate on sidewalks, crosswalks, and shared-use paths, provided riders do not exceed 15 miles per hour, yield to pedestrians, and give an audible signal before passing. Riders under 16 years old are required to wear helmets, and lighting requirements apply during nighttime hours, consistent with Florida bicycle laws.
Roadways and Bicycle Lanes
On public roadways and designated bicycle lanes, e-bikes are permitted where bicycles are allowed, but riders must obey posted speed limits and all applicable traffic laws. Helmet and lighting requirements remain in effect.
Trails, Greenways, and Greenbelts
The ordinance prohibits e-bikes and similar electric devices on trails, greenways, and greenbelts, citing pedestrian safety and preservation concerns. Limited exceptions apply for mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities, authorized utility personnel, and law enforcement officers performing official duties. The ordinance also authorizes Charlotte County to install posted signage restricting or clarifying e-bike use in specific locations as conditions evolve.
Enforcement and Penalties
Enforcement authority is granted to all certified Florida law enforcement officers. Violations occurring on sidewalks are treated as non-moving violations, while roadway violations may be classified as either moving or non-moving violations, depending on the circumstances.
The ordinance preserves full enforcement authority under Florida law, including the ability to issue citations, make arrests where appropriate, or impound vehicles when legally justified.
County officials noted that the ordinance also anticipates potential changes at the state level, including proposed legislation such as Senate Bill 382 and House Bill 243 , which would further define high-speed electric vehicles and establish additional reporting and licensing requirements.