Florida’s Collier County Bans Class 2 and 3 E-Bikes From Sidewalks
Last Updated on April 25, 2025 by Kristina
.If you’re riding an electric bike in Collier County, Florida, your route options just got a major update. County commissioners have officially passed a new ordinance banning Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes from sidewalks in unincorporated areas. The decision follows growing concern over safety, sparked by a sharp rise in e-bike-related crashes—including the tragic death of a 14-year-old boy.
What the New Rule Means
Effective immediately, Class 2 e-bikes (throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph) and Class 3 e-bikes (pedal assist up to 28 mph) must use bike lanes or roads—they’re no longer allowed on sidewalks.
Only Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal-assist only and cap out at 20 mph, are still allowed to share space with pedestrians on sidewalks.
Michelle Avola-Brown of the Naples Pathways Coalition called the decision alarming. “That terrifies me,” she said. “I think we’re really going to see a spike in crashes that result in injuries and fatalities.”
A Confusing Ride Across City Lines
Lisa Badolato, who owns Pedego Electric Bikes in Naples, says riders may struggle to navigate this patchwork of local regulations. “You can go 60, 70, even 80 miles on some of these bikes,” she said. “And every community might have a different set of rules.”
A rider starting in Fort Myers and heading south into Naples could unknowingly violate local ordinances just by crossing into Collier County. That confusion only grows when enforcement ramps up.
Infrastructure Isn’t Keeping Up
Avola-Brown warns that the real issue isn’t just bike speed—it’s the lack of long-term planning. “The use of these e-bikes has exploded. There hasn’t been the forethought to plan for how to deal with them, so now we’re in a reactionary time out of necessity.”
Her call to action? Education. “I implore Collier County Commissioners to do a huge campaign—billboards, signage, media. People can’t follow the rules if they don’t even know they’ve changed.”
A Few Exceptions Remain
Not all riders are being pushed off sidewalks. Adults riding with children under 16 can still use sidewalks to avoid separating from their kids. But riders 16 and older must shift to bike lanes or roads where available.
And Class 3 e-bikes? Still off-limits for minors, regardless of where they’re riding.
? Don’t get caught off guard—know where your e-bike can (and can’t) go before your next ride.
For more details on the rules in unincorporated areas of Collier County click here
For more news on electric bikes click here
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Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
