Riders under 16 in Miami Beach will need helmets on e-bikes, scooters and bicycles under a new ordinance the City Commission adopted unanimously on Wednesday, Sept. 23.

The rules, which take effect July 22, 2027, also require all riders to use white and red lights from sunset to sunrise. Violations carry a $129 fine.

Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt sponsored the measure after what the city described as two years of public forums and meetings with community stakeholders. The city said rising accidents involving micromobility devices drove the push, though it did not release specific crash numbers.

"Helmets will save your life. It's not a question of if, but of when," Bhatt said in a city press release. "We've seen devastating fatal accidents with those not using helmets end up as organ donors, instead of 'just' having a broken leg."

The ordinance creates Section 70-73 of the city code, establishing operator responsibilities for micromobility devices. Beyond helmets and lights, riders cannot carry more passengers than a device is designed for, and all devices must have functioning brakes. Motorized wheelchairs and other accessibility devices are exempt.

Mayor Steven Meiner said the ordinance gives police officers and park rangers clearer authority to enforce safety on streets, sidewalks and the Beachwalk.

The city has more than 38 miles of bike lanes and 9 miles of Beachwalk, according to Meiner. He previewed the safety push in an Aug. 26 post on X, writing that "a growing number of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters" made enhanced measures necessary.

The ordinance is part of a broader strategy that includes education programs and the installation of speed feedback signs along the Beachwalk, which runs the length of the city's Atlantic coastline. Miami Beach police said their Civilian Volunteer Patrol was conducting micromobility safety outreach in North Beach on Aug. 29.

The measure had a long road to adoption. According to commission records, the item was first continued from a March 18 meeting, then delayed again at the April 22, May 20, June 24 and July 22 meetings before final passage.

@AndoniaPR: "I saw a mother with her child on one of those things riding on the Causeway. No helmets. Fully exposed, riding in a fake lane. That's child endangerment."

Diane Mantouvalos posted that reaction on X after the city announced the new rules. The city said education and outreach efforts will continue through the effective date.