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Mill Valley Council Adopts County Pilot Rules Limiting Throttle E‑Bikes for Under‑16s
Summary
After a public hearing, the Mill Valley City Council unanimously approved amendments to its electric mobility device code to implement the Marin Electric Bicycle Safety Pilot Program. The ordinance restricts throttle (class 2) e‑bike use by riders under 16, pairs a $25 statutory fine with an in‑person safety course option, and phases in enforcement this fall.
The Mill Valley City Council unanimously adopted amendments to the city’s electric mobility device code on April 21, approving local participation in the Marin Electric Bicycle Safety Pilot Program and new restrictions on throttle‑controlled (class 2) e‑bikes for under‑16 riders.
Police staff told the council the draft ordinance incorporates state AB 1778 provisions: class 2 bikes may not be operated by riders younger than 16 in city limits, helmet requirements for certain classes are clarified, and statutory fines set by the law (not to exceed $25) will apply. Officials said the city will offer its two‑hour, hands‑on Mill Valley safety course — a $100 program run by police officers — as an option to resolve citations in lieu of paying the fine. The ordinance’s pilot provisions include a 30‑day countywide information campaign and 60 days of warnings before punitive enforcement, with a target enforcement date of Sept. 2.
The public hearing drew multiple speakers from the medical and school communities who urged strict action. Dr. Dominic Burton, a pediatric cardiologist, described blunt‑force abdominal and head injuries he has seen in children after crashes and contrasted class 1 pedal‑assist bikes (which require pedaling) with throttle bikes that allow no exertion. "The class 2 e‑bikes...there's no pedaling. There's no activity whatsoever," he told the council, urging rules that discourage throttle use by children.
Representatives of local advocacy groups and the Mill Valley School District also spoke in favor of the ordinance and pledged to help with registration and communications to families. Bob Mittelstaedt of eBike Access told the council that limiting class 2 machines at schools and public facilities will simplify enforcement and reduce risk to students.
Police officials described enforcement strategy as complaint‑ and behavior‑driven: officers will investigate primary causes for contact (speeding, running stop signs, sidewalk riding), then determine whether the machine is a regulated class 2 device and whether the rider meets the age and helmet rules. Staff said the department already collects relevant data and will continue to report results, segregating AB 1778 citations for evaluation.
Council members from across the dais praised the department’s education program and the county coordination effort. The ordinance was moved, seconded and approved by a unanimous voice vote.
Next steps: the city will participate in the county informational campaign in May, issue warning notices for 60 days and begin enforcement under the new code in September unless the council or state deadlines change.
