E-Bike Ordinance: What Palm Coast Residents Need to Know.

The City of Palm Coast has established clear rules for the use and operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) within city limits. These rules apply to streets, sidewalks, and shared-use paths and are intended to improve safety for riders, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

This article explains what the ordinance means in plain English — what applies, where it applies, and what residents should be aware of.

Is There an E-Bike Ordinance in Palm Coast?

Yes.
Palm Coast has a city ordinance that regulates how e-bikes may be operated within the city. These rules apply citywide, including residential neighborhoods and communities governed by HOAs.

Minimum Age to Operate an E-Bike

Palm Coast sets a local age requirement for e-bike operation.

• Riders must be at least 11 years old

• This applies to riding on:

  • City streets

  • Sidewalks

  • Shared-use paths

This age requirement is specific to Palm Coast and applies regardless of supervision.

What Qualifies as a Legal E-Bike in Palm Coast

Palm Coast relies on Florida state definitions when determining what qualifies as a legal e-bike.

In general:

• An e-bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance

• E-bikes are categorized by how fast the motor assists, not how fast the bike can travel downhill

• E-bikes that have been modified to exceed state speed limits are not permitted anywhere in the city

If an e-bike exceeds Florida’s defined limits, it does not qualify as a legal e-bike under Palm Coast’s ordinance.

Florida State Speed Limits Used by Palm Coast

Florida law establishes three classes of e-bikes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with motor assistance up to 20 mph

• Class 2: Throttle-assisted or pedal-assist, with motor assistance up to 20 mph

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with motor assistance up to 28 mph

E-bikes that assist beyond these speeds fall outside Florida’s definition and are prohibited under Palm Coast rules.

Rules of Operation Within the City

When riding an e-bike in Palm Coast, riders are expected to:

• Obey all traffic laws

• Yield to pedestrians at all times

• Provide an audible signal when overtaking others

• Operate in a safe and responsible manner in shared spaces

These expectations apply whether riding on streets, sidewalks, or shared-use paths.

Photo Identification Requirement

Palm Coast requires e-bike riders to carry government-issued photo identification and present it to law enforcement if requested.

Acceptable forms of ID include:

• Driver’s license

• Passport

• Military ID

• School ID

A driver’s license is not required to operate an e-bike, but photo ID must be carried.

Enforcement and Penalties

The ordinance provides enforcement authority within city limits.

Violations may result in:

• Fines of up to $100 per offense

• Impoundment of the e-bike if it is operated in violation of the ordinance

Enforcement typically focuses on safety, behavior, and location, particularly in pedestrian-heavy areas.

What Palm Coast Does Not Require

Under the current ordinance, Palm Coast does not require:

• Registration of e-bikes

• Insurance

• Vehicle tags

• A driver’s license

If a requirement is not written into the ordinance, it is not required by the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

I live in an HOA — does this ordinance still apply?

Yes.
City ordinances apply throughout Palm Coast, including HOA-governed neighborhoods.

HOAs may adopt additional or stricter rules, but they cannot override city law.

Can an HOA be more restrictive than the city?

Yes.
HOAs may restrict or prohibit e-bike use on private roads, sidewalks, or community paths. Residents must follow both city rules and HOA rules. When rules conflict, the stricter rule applies.

What if my e-bike goes faster downhill?

The ordinance applies to motor assistance, not gravity. As long as the motor stops assisting at the legal limit, downhill speed alone does not make an e-bike illegal.

How does enforcement determine if an e-bike is modified?

Law enforcement may consider manufacturer specifications, visible aftermarket modifications, observed motor behavior, and rider statements when determining compliance.

Bottom Line for Palm Coast Residents

If you operate an e-bike in Palm Coast:

• Be 11 years old or older

• Use an e-bike that meets Florida speed definitions

• Yield to pedestrians and signal when passing

• Carry photo identification

• Follow both city rules and any HOA rules

These rules are now part of everyday life in Palm Coast and are intended to keep shared spaces safe as e-bike use continues to grow.