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Addison moves to regulate e‑bikes and scooters with local ordinance mirroring state law
Summary
The village approved a new local ordinance to implement rules for motorized bicycles (e‑bikes) and certain scooters, mirroring recent changes in Illinois law and setting local age and location restrictions, with a public information campaign to follow.
The Village of Addison’s board on June 2 approved the first reading of a new local ordinance adding Article 18 to Chapter 11 of the village code to regulate motorized bicycles (commonly called e‑bikes) and certain electric scooters.
Staff said recent growth in e‑bike usage and public complaints prompted the update. The ordinance mirrors Illinois state law enacted last August and other provisions in the Illinois Vehicle Code, setting class‑based age and operation limits (for example, minimum ages for certain classes) and prohibiting operation in areas where motorized transportation is already restricted. Staff said the ordinance will allow e‑bikes on roadways where permitted but restrict sidewalk operation and require higher minimum ages for higher‑powered devices.
Public outreach planned. Staff said the village will follow board approval with social media, pamphlets and education to clarify the different categories and rules, emphasizing that parents need to understand age/ device restrictions for children.
Why it matters: staff said the change responds to increasing reports of e‑bikes and scooters traveling in traffic and on sidewalks, raising safety concerns. The ordinance is intended to create a clearer local rule set aligned with state law and give police and the public clearer guidance on permissible operation.
Board action: the ordinance was introduced at committee and advanced for first reading; staff emphasized education and communication following formal adoption.
