Gulf Shores is considering two ordinances regulating e-bikes and other mobility devices, including bicycles and motorized scooters.
Police Chief Dan Netemeyer said the regulations are necessary to protect the livelihoods of city residents.
"What we have is a good old-fashioned turf war going on," Netemeyer said. "Not your traditional turf war. We could call the e-bikers the Crips, the pedestrians the Bloods, the bicyclists the Gangster Disciples and the motorists Mammoth-13. Name your gang."
Netemeyer said consideration of changes was not taken lightly, and the proposals were developed after a series of meetings.
"This is about public safety, this is not about restricting people's freedoms or restricting personal preference for people, but it's something that needs to be done," he said.
The first ordinance regulates rental companies. It requires a vendor license, prohibits Class 3 e-bikes, requires limited throttle assist to 10 mph, requires helmet availability, prohibits rental to anyone under 18 unless a waiver is signed by a parent or guardian and requires safety video viewing for all renters. The ordinance would also mean that each rental company is subject to regular inspections by the Gulf Shores Police Department.
The second ordinance lists out rules for operators. Netemeyer said many of the rules are already state law.
Proposals include prohibiting operating in any public drainage facility, culvert, ditch, or channel, carrying a passenger on a bicycle, operating with more than two bicycles or regulated mobility devices side-by-side, operating on a sidewalk not designated for bicycles or mobility devices and operating while hitched to a vehicle. The ordinance would prohibit wheelies and the passing of a pedestrian or other cyclist without first either ringing a bell or giving a verbal warning.
Another proposed action is to establish a dismount zone for all wheeled conveyances, including bicycles, scooters and skateboards. ADA devices are not included. The dismount zone would be from 2nd Avenue South to Beach Boulevard, in the area of Gulf Place and The Hangout, where many pedestrians have complained about the use of e-bikes. Police monitor the area in the summer months, but Netemeyer said the newly-established Nuisance Abatement Team will step up enforcement.
The Gulf Shores City Council could vote on the matter at its next council meeting on December 8. Mayor Robert Craft said the city wants to hear from the community before making a decision.
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