Edina tables e‑bike ordinance after council seeks clearer sidewalk language, education plan

The Edina City Council on March 18 deferred further action on proposed changes to city code governing electric‑assist bicycles after a broad discussion about sidewalk language, enforcement practicality and education for youth.

Public safety staff presented a draft that would align local definitions with state law, require helmets for riders under 18 and direct the police toward education rather than heavy citation for first offenses. Lieutenant Veni and Public Safety Director Milner said their preference was to pair modest ordinance changes with an education campaign aimed at parents and schools; Milner said many devices circulating in town are not regulated e‑bikes but unregulated motorized devices that raise the most safety concerns.

Council members asked for clearer language on the sidewalk definition and for staff to return with a clean, amended draft. Council Member Risser suggested using the Minnesota statute definition of “sidewalk” (“that portion of a street between the curb lines or the lateral lines of a roadway and the adjacent property lines intended for use by pedestrians”) rather than the draft’s phrasing that limited sidewalks to pedestrians and bicyclists. Several members said enforcement focused on reckless or careless behavior — already addressed under state law — was more practical than attempting to regulate device classes and exact speeds. The council did not adopt the ordinance and voted to table discussion to the next meeting so staff can provide a redlined alternative and an outreach/education plan.

Ending: Staff will return with a revised ordinance draft clarifying sidewalk language, an education/outreach plan (schools and communications), and suggested signage for trails and high‑use corridors.