A new initiative is under way in the City of Frederick to increase awareness, outreach and enforcement of City Code Section 22-28.1 Non-motorized wheeled vehicles. Frederick police officers will be increasing their focus on this ordinance in an effort to keep the historic district, Carroll Creek Linear Park and other parts of the city a welcoming environment for citizens and visitors to enjoy. Officers will be engaging the public through outreach, education and enforcement efforts to gain voluntary compliance with this law. The Frederick Police Department would like to remind everyone of the following key points:
• Frederick City Code, Sec. 22-28.1, prohibits non-motorized wheeled vehicles within the historic district of the city. Non-motorized vehicles include bicycles, skateboards, in-line skates, roller skates and scooters. The penalty for violation of this ordinance is a $100 fine. In addition to the fine, officers may also impound the non-motorized wheeled vehicle until payment has been made.
• Negligent operation. An individual may not use any non-motorized wheeled vehicle in a careless or reckless manner that might endanger the safety or welfare of any other individual or property. Penalty is also a $100 fine.
• An individual under the age of 16 riding or using a non-motorized wheeled vehicle must wear protective headwear as referenced in the Transportation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. Violation results in a warning about the law and the issuance of educational materials on helmet use.
• Bicycles must be equipped with brakes and a device for signaling others such as a bell or horn.
The Frederick Police Department encourages safe operation of non-motorized wheeled vehicles in approved areas as we work to make the downtown and Carroll Creek Linear Park enjoyable for all. Citizens and visitors are encouraged to visit www.cityoffrederick.com to view all ordinances associated with the city code.