Short answer: Miami city commissioners voted to keep e-bikes and motorized scooters off city sidewalks, according to WPLG Local 10 and NBC6. The ordinance also sets a 20 mph limit and a minimum age of 16. Florida law does not require an e-bike or scooter rider to carry liability insurance, so if one hits you, there may be no auto policy to call. This article covers both.

WPLG Local 10 reported the vote on 10/25/2026, and said it passed unanimously. NBC6 reported it on 10/22/2026. The city's own record shows the ordinance passed its first vote unanimously on 9/24/2026 and was set for its final vote on 10/22/2026. You can read it on the City of Miami legislation page, File No. 19877.

What the ordinance says

The text that went to the commission for the final vote creates a new Section 8-20 of the Miami City Code. It says:

  • No riding on sidewalks. You may not ride an e-bike, motorized scooter, or similar device on a city sidewalk or pedestrian walkway. You may walk the device on the sidewalk, or park it.
  • Bike lane or slower street. Ride in the bike lane if there is one. Otherwise, ride only on streets with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less.
  • 20 mph limit. The top speed on city streets is 20 mph.
  • Age 16 and up. Riders under 16 may not ride these devices on city streets, sidewalks, or rights-of-way.
  • Carry a photo ID. Riders must carry a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • One rider. One person per device, unless it is built for more. An adult may carry a child who is securely attached and wearing a helmet.
  • Parking. No parking on sidewalks except in a designated spot, and never in a way that blocks a doorway or leaves less than 3 feet for people walking.
  • The fine. Each violation can bring a $100 civil fine, or a traffic citation under state law. Each day counts as a separate violation. A rider under 16, or the rider's parent, may get a warning and safety materials instead.
  • Who it does not cover. Wheelchairs and other mobility devices covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The rules apply only to streets and sidewalks under the City of Miami's control. They do not cover the rest of Miami-Dade County.

When it starts: Local 10 reported that the ban takes effect the first week of November. The text sent to the commission for the final vote says it takes effect 30 days after final adoption. Check the city's final signed ordinance before relying on a start date.

Police Chief Edwin Lopez told Local 10 that officers will be able to write $100 citations, but that citations are a last resort and the department wants to get compliance through education first.

Other cities have their own rules

Rules change from city to city in Miami-Dade:

  • Coral Gables bans riding e-bikes on all of the city's public sidewalks. (Coral Gables Ordinance No. 2026-07, adopted 2/10/2026, City Code § 74-3.)
  • Miami Beach lists city sidewalks, the Beachwalk, and several parks as places where e-bikes and e-scooters are not allowed. See the city's micromobility page.
  • Sunny Isles Beach announced in July 2026 that e-bikes are banned from city sidewalks, riders must be 16 or older, and riders must carry ID.

A route that is legal in one city may be banned a few blocks away.

Why a city can do this

Florida law treats an electric bicycle like a bicycle, with the same rights and duties. The same statute says it does not stop a local government from adopting an ordinance governing e-bikes "on streets, highways, sidewalks, and sidewalk areas under or within the local government’s jurisdiction." It also lets a local government set a minimum age and require a photo ID. (§ 316.20655(1), (8), Fla. Stat.) State law gives cities the same power over motorized scooters. (§ 316.2128(1), (7), Fla. Stat.)

The insurance gap most people miss

Florida law says an electric bicycle and its operator are not subject to the laws on financial responsibility, driver or vehicle licenses, registration, or title. (§ 316.20655(2), Fla. Stat.) A motorized scooter does not have to meet the state's registration and insurance requirements, and its rider does not need a driver license. (§ 316.2128(2)-(3), Fla. Stat.)

In plain words, the law does not require an e-bike or scooter rider to carry liability insurance. If a rider hits a pedestrian, there may be no auto policy to turn to. Other coverage may exist, such as a household policy or your own insurance, depending on the facts. Every case is different.

What to do if you are hurt

If you are hit by an e-bike or scooter, or you are a rider who was hit by a car:

  1. Get medical care first. Head and wrist injuries are common, and some symptoms show up later.
  2. Call the police and ask that a report be made.
  3. Get names and phone numbers for the rider, any owner, and witnesses.
  4. Photograph the scene, the device, and your injuries.
  5. Keep the device's details: make, model, and any rental company or app.
  6. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before you understand your rights.
  7. Do not sign anything from an insurer without advice.

If you ride

Once the rule takes effect, riding on a City of Miami sidewalk can get you a $100 fine. Get a helmet that fits. Under state law, a rider or passenger under 16 on a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter must wear one. (§§ 316.2065(3)(d), 316.20655(1), 316.2128(1), Fla. Stat.) Keep your speed down around pedestrians, and ride in the bike lane when there is one.

Talk to a lawyer who handles these cases

Our firm represents people hurt in crashes across Miami-Dade. See our personal injury practice. If you were hurt by an e-bike, a scooter, or a car while riding one, call (305) 209-0384. We answer 24/7.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case depends on its facts. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.