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La Habra council approves first reading of e‑mobility ordinance establishing rules, education program
Summary
The La Habra City Council voted unanimously Aug. 4 to approve the first reading of an ordinance creating rules for electronic mobility devices — including e‑bikes, scooters and hoverboards — and to exempt the measure from CEQA. The ordinance sets speed limits, restricts sidewalk use and authorizes an education/diversion program for juveniles.
La Habra — The La Habra City Council on Aug. 4 approved the first reading of an ordinance that would regulate electronic mobility devices citywide, setting a top speed, limiting where devices may be operated and authorizing education programs for users and parents. The measure passed unanimously on a voice vote.
City staff told the council the proposed ordinance — described during a public hearing — is intended to “protect the health, safety and welfare of La Habra residents, businesses and visitors by regulating the operation of electronic mobility devices.” The staff presentation cited increased e‑bike use, higher injury risk compared with conventional bicycles, and a 2023–24 Orange County Grand Jury report urging more consistent local regulation.
Under the ordinance language presented, the city would define categories of electronic mobility devices and prohibit their use on sidewalks and certain public facilities. The draft sets a maximum operating speed of 27 miles per hour for affected devices and explicitly covers electric scooters and hoverboards, a staff member said. The ordinance would also allow the city to create an educational diversion program for juvenile offenders and to hold parents financially responsible for some violations, the staff presentation said.
At the hearing, the unidentified La Habra Police Department chief (presenting the staff report) said the city plans outreach and training alongside enforcement. “The city supports the use of electronic mobility devices as an alternate mode of transportation, but recognizes the increased usage has created safety concerns,” the chief said. The chief confirmed the ordinance text as presented includes scooters and hoverboards and that the police department would pursue educational materials and a social media campaign.
Councilmembers asked about involving parents in school‑based programs and whether online videos could supplement in‑person training. The chief said staff would pursue school partnerships, parents’ involvement in training and online video content hosted on the city website.
Councilmember comments at the meeting included a request to receive a status update after about a year to assess safety outcomes and, if needed, return sooner to adjust the ordinance. Councilmembers moved and seconded the ordinance first reading; the motion carried unanimously.
The ordinance as introduced also included a staff finding that the action is exempt from review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Because the council approved only the first reading, further hearings or a second reading will be required for final adoption.
What happened next: The council approved the first reading by unanimous vote. Staff said it will implement outreach and education and return with follow‑up data; one councilmember asked for a roughly one‑year status report to evaluate results and any needed refinements.
