Discarded e-bikes obstructing footpaths and reckless riding have led to threats of vehicle impounding, following a 350 percent increase in e-bike usage near Bondi Beach from 2021 to 2024.
Community Concerns and Council Response
Residents have expressed increasing frustration over the haphazard parking of shared e-bikes, which obstructs pedestrian access and creates safety hazards, particularly for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. The council reports constant complaints about bikes being carelessly abandoned on footpaths and ridden at dangerous speeds.
In response, Waverley Mayor Will Nemesh has announced a one-month ultimatum for e-bike operators to agree to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the council. This agreement would outline specific e-bike usage and parking rules to restore street order.
Proposed Regulations and Enforcement
The council’s proposed MoU demands that e-bike companies adhere to strict regulations, including Lime, Hello Bike, and Ario. These include limits on the total number of bikes allowed within the Waverley area, designated parking zones, a maximum speed limit of 20km/h, and mandatory helmet use for riders. The council has also stated that operators must relocate any bikes obstructing pedestrian access within two hours of notification.
Failure to comply with these regulations will result in the council impounding the bikes, and operators will face fines of $2750 per non-compliant vehicle. Furthermore, the e-bike companies will be responsible for covering the costs of implementing and enforcing the new agreement.
Parking Trial and State Government Involvement
In addition to the MoU, the council plans to implement a six-month trial of designated e-bike parking areas in high-traffic locations such as Bondi Junction, Bondi Beach, and Bronte Beach, starting in June. Mayor Nemesh has also called on the New South Wales state government to take a more active role in regulating the share bike industry. He suggests a state-run tender process for bike share services, with a portion of the revenue allocated to local councils for infrastructure and enforcement.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson acknowledged the community’s concerns. It stated that the government is currently reviewing regulations for sharing schemes and considering recommendations from a recent parliamentary inquiry into e-scooters, e-bikes, and related mobility options.
Legal Framework and Safety Concerns
Current NSW regulations stipulate that permitted e-bikes have an electric motor and battery that assist riders with pedalling up to 25km/h. Petrol-powered bikes or those with internal combustion engines are illegal. E-bikes are also prohibited from riding on footpaths, and riders must always wear helmets.
Police have the authority to issue fines for violations of these rules. The council’s push for stricter regulations comes amid growing concerns about rider safety, with reports of injuries caused by e-bikes.
Published Date 26-March-2025
