Miami-Dade County is currently taking steps to implement a speed limit of 15 mph for scooters and electric bikes. Although this rule may initially only apply to the Key Biscayne community, a preliminary vote in favor of imposing the speed cap and other regulations has already been passed.
Commissioner Raquel Regalado, the sponsor of the proposed legislation, intends to limit its scope to only include Key Biscayne, which is located in her district. However, as it is currently written, the rules would also affect all county roads outside the city limits, as Miami-Dade has jurisdiction over zoning and local decisions. Violators of the speed limit could face fines of up to $250. Additionally, riding scooters and e-bikes on sidewalks and roads without bike lanes, where the speed limit exceeds 30 mph, would be prohibited.
While officials in Key Biscayne support these measures, they have faced criticism from Transit Alliance Miami, which considers them a “heavy-handed option.” This organization advocates for alternative modes of transportation, such as scooters and electric bikes, and argues for more comprehensive studies before implementing strict speed limits and restrictions.
Commissioner Regalado plans to introduce a revised version of the legislation that specifically focuses on Key Biscayne. By establishing a local agreement, municipalities would have the authority to set their own rules for scooters and e-bikes on county roads.
The temporary ban on scooters and electric bikes in Key Biscayne was prompted by a fatal collision involving a traditional bike and an electric bike rider. The incident resulted in the death of a bicyclist and led the village to impose emergency measures.
While the current legislation has a broad scope, its intention has always been to address the concerns of Key Biscayne regarding the regulation of these vehicles on county roads. Through further discussions and revisions, Miami-Dade County aims to find a balance between ensuring public safety and accommodating the growing popularity of micromobility options.
