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History

The city of Fort Lauderdale had experienced an increase in the number of bicycle thefts. As a response, the city of Fort Lauderdale began a bicycle registry program to curb bike theft. Chapter 26 Article V sec. 26-183 in the city of Fort Lauderdale Municipal Code explains the specific details of the program.

The Fort Lauderdale Police Department operates the program. The city amended the program to no longer charge $1 to register your bike during this meeting. A bicycle registration event took place in Las Olas.

How can I register my bike?

You will need the bicycle, and photo identification[6].

  • Online
  • In person at the Operation Support Division Office 
    • 533 NE 13 Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

What if I don't register my bike?

  • If you are a resident of Fort Lauderdale or you can't prove that you are not 
    • A Police Officer may take into possession and impound any bicycle being operated or possessed on all streets, roads, highways, alleys, sidewalks, or other rights of way upon which the City has the authority to enforce traffic laws and ordinances.[6]
  • If you can prove you don't live here, then there are no consequences.

Proponents

Opponents

  • Broward County Public Defender Howard Finkelstein criticized the program and its use alleging racial profiling.
  • "This law was passed and designed for no other purpose than to stop black people," Broward County Public Defender Howard Finkelstein tells New Times. "It's pretty clear that it's racial profiling."[3]

Resources

  1. Biking While Black Still a Crime in Fort Lauderdale, According to New Data
  2. Fort Lauderdale police draw criticism for enforcing city's bike registration law
  3. Fort Lauderdale Cops Using Bike Registration Law to Racially Profile Blacks, Public Defender Says; Chief Responds UPDATED
  4. South Middle River Civic Association - BIKE REGISTRATION
  5. Biking While Black Is a Crime
  6. Bicycle Registration: FACTS
  7. Fort Lauderdale Cops Are Still Arresting Dozens for Biking While Black

  8. Fort Lauderdale Police Now Admit Stopping More Blacks for Bicycle Registration Violations

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