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Torrington council approves e‑bike, e‑scooter ordinance on second reading
Summary
The council approved an ordinance on second reading to regulate human‑powered scooters, skateboards, electric bicycles and powered scooters; the measure adds lighting requirements and clarifies penalties. A third reading is scheduled for Dec. 2.
The Torrington City Council on Nov. 18 approved an ordinance on second reading that amends multiple sections of the Torrington Municipal Code to regulate bicycles, human‑powered scooters, skateboards, electric bicycles and powered scooters.
City attorney Mr. Eddington read the ordinance by title, citing amendments to city code sections. Chief Matt Johnson summarized the substantive updates: the ordinance adds a requirement for a headlight and taillight between sunset and sunrise and clarifies language to avoid double prohibitions. Johnson said the revisions aim to provide a “lower level of accountability” for children that emphasizes teaching rather than punitive fines.
Council discussion focused on penalty language. A councilor noted that the ordinance includes references to fines and a separate line for "cost of prosecution." Mr. Eddington said the $10 prosecution fee referenced is set by statute and that the city code references statutory fees. After questions and small edits, Councilman Victorin moved to approve the ordinance on second reading; the measure passed on second reading by voice vote with no nays. By law the ordinance requires a third reading before final adoption; the council noted a third reading is scheduled for Dec. 2.
