At its regular meeting on February 10, 2026, the Waxhaw Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance 2026001 (PDF), updating Town regulations governing the operation of bicycles, electric bicycles (e-bikes), scooters, skateboards, and other regulated devices on streets, sidewalks, parks, and greenways.

The ordinance modernizes regulations that had not been comprehensively updated in decades and clarifies where specific devices may operate. The changes prioritize pedestrian safety, protect accessibility in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and establish clear, enforceable standards as the use of e-bikes and other motorized devices continues to increase.

Streets

Bicycles, e-bikes, and other regulated devices may be operated on public streets and must follow all traffic laws applicable to motor vehicles, except where otherwise provided.

• Operators must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable.
• Operators must not ride more than two abreast on a public roadway, except on designated bicycle lanes or paths.

Sidewalks - Pedestrians First

Under the updated ordinance, pedestrians always have the right-of-way on sidewalks, parks, and greenways.

Sidewalks are intended primarily for pedestrian use. Traditional bicycles and non-motorized recreational devices may operate on sidewalks unless otherwise posted. However, electric bicycles, electric scooters, and other motorized recreational devices are not permitted on sidewalks.

Operators on sidewalks must:

• Yield to pedestrians at all times
• Provide an audible signal before passing
• Travel at a safe speed not exceeding 10 miles per hour

Parks and Greenways

On Town greenways and in parks:

• The maximum speed for regulated devices is 15 miles per hour
• Walkers and runners have the right-of-way
• Bicyclists must ride single file and stay to the right except when passing

Helmet Requirement & Safety Equipment

Operators under the age of 16 are required to wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet when riding on public streets, sidewalks, parks, or other property.

Any regulated device operated on a street at night must be equipped with:

• A white front light visible from at least 300 feet
• A red rear reflector or rear light visible from at least 300 feet

Enforcement

Violations of the ordinance may result in a civil penalty of up to $50 per violation.

Law enforcement officers also have the authority to impound a regulated device, if necessary, until corrective action is taken or penalties are satisfied.

“As the use of e-bikes and motorized devices has grown, we’ve seen increased safety concerns on sidewalks and shared-use paths,” said Police Chief Dexter Wilson. “This ordinance provides clear expectations for where devices can operate and allows officers to address unsafe behavior when necessary. Our goal is safer shared spaces for everyone.”

Additional Resources

The Town will conduct a 30-day public education campaign to inform residents of the updated rules. Residents are encouraged to review the ordinance and familiarize themselves with the requirements.

For more information, visit waxhaw.com/bikerules or contact the Waxhaw Police Department at 704-843-0353.