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Newport Beach council unanimously approves e‑bike code changes, impoundment and diversion program
Summary
The City Council approved amendments to the municipal bicycle code to add e‑bike definitions, allow impoundment for unsafe riding, create a diversion training program for violators and adopt an updated sidewalk‑cycling map; the measure passed unanimously after public comment and council discussion.
The Newport Beach City Council on Nov. 4 voted unanimously to approve amendments to Chapter 12.56 of the municipal code designed to improve bicycle and electric‑bike safety, expand enforcement options and adopt a revised sidewalk‑cycling map.
Public Works Director Dave Webb and Assistant City Attorney Yolanda Somerville described the changes as an enforcement‑and‑education package that reflects growing e‑bike use. The revisions add specific e‑bike definitions, define behaviors that constitute unsafe riding, and provide new enforcement tools including impoundment for bikes operated in an unsafe manner. For minors, the code allows an impounded e‑bike or bicycle to be released to a parent or guardian.
Somerville said the package also includes a diversion program that offers bicycle safety training; completion of the training can result in removal of a citation. "It's not to be punitive but really to educate," she said.
Staff also proposed adoption of an updated sidewalk‑cycling map that specifies which arterial sidewalks are available for shared use; the map will be part of the municipal code exhibit rather than opening all sidewalks citywide. The presentation noted that some wide residential sidewalks (for example, parts of Newport Coast Drive) that are already used by cyclists would be added to the formal map.
Public comment urged clear outreach and a readable legal description of the sidewalk map. Public commenter Jim Mosier asked for more widely advertised workshops and a text listing of streets and sides the map authorizes; staff replied that the changes do not open all sidewalks and that the exhibit indicates two‑way allowances where applicable.
Council members from across the dais praised the ordinance for balancing enforcement with education. Council Member Grant said the measures address a recurring public concern, and Council Member Barto — who moved the item — highlighted the role of diversion programs and parental responsibility. Mayor Pro Tem Kleinman and others noted the need to coordinate with state vehicle code provisions.
The motion to adopt the code amendments passed by unanimous vote. Council members also authorized staff to continue community engagement, including an upcoming town hall on Nov. 19 dedicated to e‑bike and Peninsula boardwalk safety.
