Local
Miami sets 20 mph cap for scooters, raises animal-abuse fines to $7,500
A new city ordinance bars e-scooters and other micro-mobility devices from sidewalks and limits riders to bike lanes or streets. Miami commissioners also approved escalating civil penalties for animal-cruelty violations, starting at $2,500.
Miami commissioners approved new rules Thursday requiring e-scooter and other micro-mobility riders to stay in bike lanes or on streets, with sidewalk riding prohibited. The ordinance sets a 20 mph speed limit and requires operators to be at least 16 years old. The rules are expected to take effect in about 10 days.
City leaders said the restrictions are intended to improve safety for riders and pedestrians. The vote follows several recent incidents involving micro-mobility devices, including a fatal crash last month.
E-scooter rider Sid Campbell welcomed the changes, while noting that riding can be unpredictable. “You have to watch your back out here,” Campbell said. “It can get crazy out here.”
In a separate vote, commissioners sharply increased civil penalties for animal cruelty. The previous fines ranged from $50 to $500. Under the new schedule, a first violation can bring a $2,500 penalty, a second $5,000 and a third $7,500.
Commissioner Damian Pardo said the higher penalties reflect concern about animal abuse and its frequency. City officials said work on the increase began before several recent cases drew attention. Last week, a dog was found dead in Biscayne Bay near Coconut Grove, tied to a cinder block. In a separate case last month, a dog on a downtown Miami balcony was reported to be severely neglected and without adequate food or water.
The city’s civil penalties do not rule out criminal charges against people accused of animal cruelty, officials said.