Overview

Electric bikes, electric scooters and other motorized micromobility devices have become increasingly common along roadways, sidewalks and multi-use paths across Boone County. As their popularity has increased, so have reports of crashes, near misses and conflicts involving riders, pedestrians and motorists.

These devices can provide convenient options for transportation and recreation when used responsibly. They can also create safety challenges because some travel at higher speeds, accelerate more quickly and weigh more than traditional bicycles and scooters.

As these devices have evolved, current state laws and local ordinances have not kept pace with the changes relating to motorized micromobility device use, including where these can be safely operated and specific requirements for operation.

Boone County has formed an interdisciplinary committee to review how current laws and ordinances apply to these devices and whether changes should be considered. The committee includes representatives from:

• Boone County Administration
• Boone County Public Works
• Boone County Sheriff’s Office
• Boone County Attorney’s Office
• City of Florence
• City of Florence Police Department
• City of Union
• City of Walton

The committee is gathering information and community feedback before presenting its findings to the Boone County Fiscal Court. The Fiscal Court will review those findings, consider public input and determine whether changes to the county ordinance should be considered and how the County can balance safety, access and the growing popularity of these devices. All information will be shared with city governments for their review.

Review Process

The interdisciplinary committee is undertaking a comprehensive review of existing laws and ordinances, education and enforcement efforts and community feedback to better understand today’s use of motorized micromobility devices. The committee is also taking the opportunity to review current ordinances for potential updates for traditional bicycles, scooters and personal mobility devices.

Among the broader issues being considered are:

• Current state laws and local ordinances.
• Device definitions and classifications.
• Where devices may legally and safely operate.
• Rider, pedestrian and motorist safety.
• Education for riders, parents, motorists and pedestrians.
• Enforcement of laws and ordinances.
• Whether county ordinances should be updated.
• Requirements for safe operation of devices.

Community feedback is an important part of this review. Residents are encouraged to share their experiences, concerns and priorities through the County’s survey and attend a caucus meeting on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 5 pm where these issues will be discussed.

Motorized Micromobility Devices

Throughout this project, you’ll see the term “motorized micromobility devices” or "personal motorized devices." These terms generally include the following devices:

• Electric bikes (e-bikes)
• Electric scooters (e-scooters)
• Electric hoverboards
• Electric dirt bikes
• One-wheel electric boards
• Similar battery powered devices used for transportation or recreation
• Gas-powered dirt/mini bikes and other gas-powered devices

Traditional bikes and mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities are not included.