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Mill Creek adopts ordinance tightening rules for e‑bikes, scooters, motorcycles and helmets
Summary
Council adopted amendments to chapters covering bicycles, scooters and other wheeled devices to add negligent‑operation language, a helmet requirement for bicycles including e‑bicycles, and impoundment authority for certain unlicensed motorized devices; the ordinance passed unanimously.
The Mill Creek City Council unanimously adopted amendments to municipal code sections covering bicycles, skateboards and similar devices (Chapter 10.16) and motorized foot scooters and other wheeled devices (Chapter 10.28). Staff said the changes aim to address a recent local increase in electrically propelled two‑ and three‑wheel vehicles and safety concerns raised by residents.
A staff presenter told the council the amendments add negligent‑operation language to existing code (for example, traveling at unsafe speeds on sidewalks) and would require helmets for bicycles and electric bicycles. The presenter said the city currently had no helmet requirement for bicycles and that rising speeds of some e‑bicycles supported the change.
The draft ordinance also expands Chapter 10.28 to include a definition of “motorcycle” for purposes of municipal enforcement and adds authority for seizure or impoundment of motorized devices in specified circumstances—chiefly, when unlicensed operators under age 16 are operating motor‑propelled motorcycles that lack required safety equipment. Under the draft, parents or guardians would be able to claim an impounded device from the police department and pay a fine; the presenter said fines would be payable to the police department and deposited to the general fund.
Council members discussed enforcement details, age thresholds, helmet availability and potential graduated penalties for repeat offenders. One council member urged exploring enhanced fines for repeat violations; another noted some cities set helmet requirements by age. Staff and councilors also discussed practical enforcement and community outreach versus punitive responses.
The ordinance was adopted by unanimous vote. Staff said the city would provide guidance and pursue education as part of implementation.
Ending: The city adopted the code amendments; staff plans public education and to provide clarification about helmet standards, impoundment procedure and enforcement timelines.
