Orlando officials consider e-bike regulations amid rising safety incidents

Orlando city leaders are evaluating new regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters following a rise in related incidents. Police Chief Eric Smith reported that the department has logged 813 encounters involving e-mobility devices since January 1, 2026, including 46 injury crashes and 12 hit-and-run cases involving minors. Smith noted that in many reviewed cases, e-bikes were found to be at fault.

During a recent workshop, city commissioners discussed various legislative options to manage these devices. Commissioner Patty Sheehan expressed support for a potential ordinance that would prohibit e-bikes from being ridden on sidewalks to improve pedestrian safety. Assistant City Attorney Michael Filteau noted that a sidewalk ban would be easy for law enforcement to enforce, though he cautioned against overly complex regulations based on age or device classification.

Other officials, such as Commissioner Shan Rose, suggested that a comprehensive education campaign for young riders might be necessary. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer indicated that commissioners may wait to observe how students adapt to new school district rules regarding e-mobility devices before enacting city-wide ordinances.