Palm Beach is taking steps to make its sidewalks safer for pedestrians — especially in busy commercial areas. Under a new ordinance passed by the Town Council (Ordinance 17-2025), bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, and other micromobility devices are now banned from sidewalks in commercial zones.
🚫 What’s Changing
No bicycles or other mode of transportation (including electric bikes, motorized scooters, Segways, and similar devices) are permitted on any commercial sidewalk in Palm Beach. Riders can still use the streets — unless otherwise posted — but sidewalks in shopping and dining districts are now strictly off-limits.
Further, riders cannot use any micromobility device (e.g., e-bikes or scooters) on any town sidewalk or multimodal trail (including the Lake Trail).
👮♀️ Who’s Exempt
- Police and fire officials performing official duties
- Wheelchairs and mobility devices used by people with disabilities
Violators could face fines or code enforcement penalties, and new signage will be installed around commercial districts to make the rules clear.
🧑🦱 New Age and ID Requirements
A companion ordinance (Ordinance 18-2025) also introduces minimum age and safety standards for micromobility users:
- Riders must be at least 15 years old.
- Those under 16 must wear a helmet.
- All riders must carry valid ID and show it upon request by police.
- The Town may soon roll out safety training programs to help riders understand the new rules.
💬 Why It Matters
Town leaders say the change is about safety — especially in high-traffic areas where pedestrians and fast-moving e-bikes don’t mix well. Residents have voiced support after several close calls on sidewalks, though some question whether local streets have enough bike lanes for safe alternatives.
🚦The Bottom Line
If you ride in Palm Beach, know before you go: no bikes or any other transportation device on commercial sidewalks, no micromobility (e.g., e-bikes or scooters) on sidewalks or public trails, and no micromobility riders under 15. The new laws are designed to keep both riders and walkers safe while maintaining Palm Beach’s signature sense of calm and order.
