SC Staff Report
Sanibel currently does not have an ordinance banning bikes on the beach. Councilman Mike Miller proposed a ban on electric bikes on the beach in the council’s May meeting.
The safety of beachgoers was a concern for the council. Concern was also raised for the shorebirds, which use the beach as a resting and feeding place as they migrate. If they are scattered or flushed, it burns up their reserves of energy and reduces their ability to complete their journey.
A recent SC poll showed 63.5 percent of respondents are in favor of banning all bikes on the beach, while 31.5 percent favored a ban on e-bikes. The remaining 5 percent think all bikes should continue to be allowed on the beach.
A draft ordinance prohibiting e-bikes on the beach will be discussed in the June council meeting.
