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Vernon Hills adopts e‑bike code allowing local administrative enforcement
Summary
Trustees approved ordinance 2025‑107 to adopt state e‑bike and non‑highway vehicle rules into local code so violations can be handled through the village administrative adjudication process; trustees discussed classification, sidewalk prohibitions and whether fines should be increased from the $25 administrative level.
The Village of Vernon Hills on Sept. 16 adopted an ordinance to bring state e‑bike and off‑road vehicle provisions into local code and to allow enforcement at the municipal administrative hearing level.
The deputy chief told trustees the ordinance (No. 2025‑107) adopts state classifications for electric bicycles — Class 1 and Class 2 (up to 20 mph) and Class 3 (up to 28 mph) — and makes it clear no e‑bike may be operated on sidewalks. The change shifts enforcement from state traffic court to the village’s administrative adjudication process, with a standard class‑1 administrative fine set at $25.
Trustees discussed whether the $25 fine is sufficient, especially after a recent fatal crash in Arlington Heights involving a young e‑bike rider that trustees referenced as a reason to consider stiffer penalties. One trustee said the village’s goal should be to use warnings and education for juveniles but to have escalated fines for repeat offenders. The deputy chief said the intent is to keep enforcement “at the lowest level possible” while using fines when necessary.
After debate over overlapping code sections and distinctions among specific offenses (for example, unauthorized use of a bicycle path versus driving on a sidewalk), trustees voted — by roll call — to approve the ordinance as drafted and asked staff to revisit fine amounts and any necessary clarifying amendments with the chief and ordinance drafter.
The ordinance moves enforcement responsibility locally and gives police and staff an administrative tool to educate riders and, for repeat violations, to levy local fines without sending cases to state court. Trustees said they expect to monitor enforcement results and return to the subject if changes to penalties or code language are needed.
