Bonita Springs and Naples weigh new e-bike and scooter regulations

City leaders in Bonita Springs and Naples are discussing new rules for e-bikes and scooters as safety concerns and pedestrian conflicts continue to grow.

In Bonita Springs, the city council is meeting Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. to give residents a final chance to weigh in before voting on an ordinance.

The proposed ordinance would allow riders to use sidewalks and shared-use paths but require them to slow down, give pedestrians the right-of-way, and provide an audible signal before passing. The speed limit for e-bikes and scooters would be set at 15 miles per hour, and riders aged 16 and younger would be required to wear helmets.

In Naples, city leaders are holding their first public hearing Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. to consider new restrictions for e-bikes and scooters. This comes after the city talked about rules last month. They are discussing banning riders from sidewalks in busy business areas to prevent blockages and conflicts.

The city is also looking into restricting e-bike and e-scooter rental businesses, similar to Bird and Veo, from operating in Naples unless approved by the city. Officials say the proposed measures come as the city has seen a growing number of conflicts between riders and pedestrians.