Gentlemen — and ladies and children of all ages but especially kids — start (flip the selector to “on”) your e-bikes and e-motos and e-scooters. But ride ‘em slower.

Much slower.

Orange Beach City Council, after two public readings and two postponements, voted in a new ordinance regulating the widely popular devices, most importantly limiting speeds to 15 mph. The original ordinance set top speeds at 20 mph on sidewalks and 12 mph on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Councilman Jack Robertson offered an amendment to lower it to 15 mph on sidewalks and speeds on the trail remain at 12 mph.

The action came during the regular meeting portion of a joint regular-work session council meeting on Sept. 1.

Basics of the new plan include:

• 15 mph maximum on multi-use paths;
• 10 mph when approaching someone else on a path;
• Pedestrians and runners have the right-of-way;
• Up to a $500 fine for violations;
• Stop at all stop signs and road crossings, including streets connecting to Canal Road;
• Helmets are required for riders 16 and under; and
• One rider per bike.

“We’re also putting together a video that will be shown to every student to help make sure everyone understands the rules and, more importantly, why they’re in place,” Robertson posted on Facebook after the meeting. “I hope everyone understands that our goal is simply to keep these kids safe. I believe most of them will follow the rules, especially with a little help and encouragement from their parents.”

The new rules were immediately put into effect by the 6-0 unanimous vote.