Highland Village police are now issuing citations to riders who break the city's micro-mobility rules and to golf cart owners who lack the required permit, Mayor Charlotte Wilcox announced Tuesday, Aug. 18.
The enforcement push follows School Resource Officers completing training at all Highland Village schools before students returned to class Wednesday, Aug. 12, Wilcox wrote in her August city update in the Cross Timbers Gazette.
"The department has moved to enforcement. Avoid a citation and a fine, and ensure your kids know and follow the rules," Wilcox wrote.
What riders under 18 must do
The micro-mobility ordinance requires minors to:
- Wear a helmet
- Carry only one rider per device
- Walk the device through crosswalks
- Refrain from using phones, earbuds or headphones while riding
- Yield right-of-way to pedestrians
The rules apply to electric scooters and e-bikes. Under the ordinance, e-bikes must have fully operational pedals, a motor under 750 watts and a top speed of 28 mph. They are allowed on trails and bike lanes.
Electric motorcycles, which lack pedals and travel at higher speeds, are not allowed on bike lanes or trails. They require a driver's license, registration and insurance, the same as gas-powered motorcycles.
Golf carts, NEVs and permits
Golf carts, neighborhood electric vehicles and slow-moving vehicles are prohibited on FM 2499/Village Parkway, FM 407 and Highland Village Road unless crossing at a controlled intersection. Drivers must hold a valid license and have specific safety equipment installed.
These vehicles require a permit. The permits are free.
They are valid for two years and issued at the Highland Village Police Department on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents with questions can call Police Records at (972) 317-5558, Ext. 555.
School-zone safety
With students back in class since Aug. 12, Wilcox urged drivers to slow down in school zones, watch for children and obey crossing guards.
The next Highland Village City Council meeting is Tuesday, Aug. 25, with an early work session at 6 p.m. and regular session at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Complex Council Chambers, 1000 Highland Village Road.
