Buena Park limits e-bike use on sidewalks and in parks, adds minor exception and education-first enforcement

The City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance to regulate electric bicycles and similar devices on sidewalks, in parks and in other public spaces, with a narrowly tailored exception for minors.

City Attorney Christopher Cardanelli summarized the proposal as a response to an Orange County grand-jury recommendation and state law gaps governing sidewalk use. Staff said the draft would treat e-bikes and motorized scooters as "electronic mobility devices," prohibit their operation on sidewalks, public landscaped areas and parks, and allow enforcement as an infraction (up to $100) for unsafe operation. The ordinance would also permit impoundment of a device in limited circumstances when a minor's safety was at risk.

Council discussed regional consistency, data on collisions and enforcement options. The police department reported four collisions involving e-bikes between mid‑2023 and 2024, primarily where riders used sidewalks in the opposite direction of traffic or where drivers exiting driveways did not expect sidewalk bicycles. Councilmembers proposed and the council adopted an amendment excluding minors (18 and under) from the sidewalk prohibition provided they operate safely and do not impede pedestrians; staff will add the exception in section 10.56.0.06.

Council emphasized education, signage in parks, and a period of warnings and outreach before strict enforcement. The ordinance becomes effective 30 days after adoption.