Council introduces ordinance to regulate motorized bicycles and scooters on township property

The Clark Township Council introduced ordinance 25-09 on Monday to add a code section regulating motorized bicycles and scooters on township roads and township-owned property.

Business Administrator Jim Ulrich told the council the measure — requested by residents and police over several months — breaks out low-speed and high-speed motorized vehicles, sets equipment and helmet requirements, and references New Jersey law for operator licensing and vehicle classifications. "The high-speed motorized vehicles require license, registration, insurance," Ulrich said, and the ordinance makes clear that state law takes precedence in any conflict.

Captain Lott of the Clark Police Department told the council age and licensing rules rely on state law (Title 39). "Anything that's a low-speed vehicle is treated the same as a bicycle," Captain Lott said. He explained high-speed electric devices that meet the state's high-speed definitions require either a moped license (for those eligible at 15) or a driver's license; low-speed devices generally fall under bicycle rules.

The ordinance forbids scooter operation on township property and Board of Education property (the text will also allow the township to seek agreements with private property owners who request enforcement on their lots). It addresses reckless or dangerous operation, requires stickers that identify manufacturer details (not inspection stickers), mandates single-file riding where posted, and establishes fines and a mandatory court appearance for violations, Ulrich said.

Nut graf: The ordinance is primarily a public-safety measure that codifies state distinctions between low- and high-speed devices, establishes equipment and conduct rules, and gives the township authority to enforce restrictions on township and school property. Council members said it responds to resident concerns about riders in crowded areas and near school property.

What happens next: The council moved to introduce 25-09; Councilman Rosario moved the ordinance and Councilman Hunt seconded it. Roll-call votes were recorded in favor of introduction. A public hearing is scheduled for April 21.

Ending: The council asked staff and police to distribute guidance to residents and families explaining the new rules if the ordinance is adopted at the April hearing.