Ordinance No. 31‑2026 sets limits on where and how residents may operate electric‑powered seated devices.
Horry County SC — Horry County Council has approved Ordinance No. 31‑2026, establishing new regulations for Personal Electric Devices (PEDs) in unincorporated areas of the county. The measure follows a steady rise in the use of small electric vehicles and growing concerns from law enforcement about unsafe operation on public roads and pedestrian areas.
The ordinance defines a Personal Electric Device as an electric‑powered, seated wheeled device. Several common devices are specifically excluded from the new rules, including electric personal assistive mobility devices, electric‑assist bicycles (e‑bikes), bicycles with helper motors, electric standing scooters, golf carts, and mopeds.
Under the new regulations, riders may not operate PEDs on roads with speed limits over 20 miles per hour, on public sidewalks, or on county‑owned property unless an area is clearly designated for such use. Riders may operate their devices on roads posted at 20 mph or below, and they may use crosswalks and intersections when crossing a roadway.
The ordinance also outlines several safety and conduct requirements. Riders may only carry the number of passengers the device was designed to hold and may not operate in a reckless manner on any roadway, bicycle lane, or multi‑use path. The use of handheld electronic devices, including cellphones while operating a PED is prohibited.
Operators are instructed to travel near the right side of the roadway, signal turns and stops, and ensure their devices are equipped with a front headlamp and rear red reflector when traveling between sunset and sunrise. Riders must also yield to pedestrians at all times.
County officials say the rules are intended to improve safety for both riders and the public as the popularity of small electric vehicles continues to grow.
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