WEST CLAY WEEKLY MAY 22, 2025

May 22 2025

With warmer weather approaching, I wanted to share that Carmel Police will be increasing enforcement of “motorized vehicles” on walking and/or multi use paths due to an increased number of complaints. Please take a moment to read through the following information.

Local Ordinance “LO” 6-63 defines a Motor Vehicle (MV) as any vehicle that is propelled in whole or in part by a motor or any mechanical or artificial means –this would include electric scooters, electric unicycles, electric skateboards, etc., —and, “no person shall, at any time, operate, drive, park, or let stand any Motor Vehicle on or along any Sidewalk, Multi-Use Path, or Bicycle Lane.” There is an explicit exception for e-bikes and personal mobility wheelchair devices.

We have occasionally seen the Bird rental scooters in our area. There is a State law (IC 9-21-11-13.6) that allows the operation of electric scooters on roadways, but our LO 6-63 restricts them on the Monon, multi-use paths, and sidewalks.

LO 6-63 applies to everyone, regardless of age.

Additionally, the LO states it shall be unlawful for a child under seven years of age, as well as for the parent, legal guardian, or custodian of the same to suffer or permit such a child, to operate a Bicycle in a Roadway in the City while such Roadway is open and used by Motor Vehicle traffic, except that any child can cross a Roadway on a Bicycle in a direct, expedient, and prompt manner when accompanied by his or her parent, legal guardian, or custodian, and that any child may operate a Bicycle upon a Sidewalk or Multi-Use Path subject to the restrictions in this section.

Below are examples of prohibited Motor Vehicles on Carmel sidewalks, multi-use paths, bike lanes, and trails (including the Monon):

Any violation is subject to a citation, however we want to do our best to provide an opportunity to educate everyone in order to be proactive. I appreciate your help with keeping our community safe by following the rules and regulations and continuing discussion with your student(s) at home. If you have additional questions regarding this information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.

Thank you,

Officer Fike