Burbank council introduces ordinance to clarify e-bike, scooter rules; approves 60-day education period
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Summary
The Burbank City Council on Feb. 10 introduced an ordinance aligning local rules with recent California vehicle code changes for electric mobility devices, creates a 60-day education period and restricts motorized devices on equestrian paths and the Mariposa Street Bridge.
Burbank — The City Council voted Feb. 10 to introduce an ordinance updating the city's rules for electric bicycles and other electric mobility devices, aligning local code with recent changes in the California Vehicle Code and establishing a 60-day public education period before broader enforcement.
Lieutenant Barkis of the Burbank Police Department and Chris Panomo, senior transportation planner in the Community Development Department, told the council the update clarifies device definitions, differentiates among device classes, and addresses enforcement and signage. The staff presentation noted the ordinance would prohibit operation of bicycles and electric mobility devices on equestrian paths defined as the dirt/granitic trails between Alameda and the Los Angeles River and would ban wheeled devices on the Mariposa Street Bridge.
Why it matters: Council and staff said the city has seen a rapid proliferation of motorized devices ranging from electric scooters and skateboards to high-powered e-bikes that, in some cases, exceed safe speeds for shared paths. Staff recommended a grace period focused on education to reduce dangerous riding, particularly where pedestrians and horses share space.
Key details: The ordinance would: - Update Burbank Municipal Code definitions to match state law for device classes; - Prohibit motorized devices on equestrian paths and the Mariposa Street Bridge; - Require targeted public education (schools, social media, signage) during a proposed 60-day grace period; - Strengthen enforcement tools for police after the education phase and encourage clear signage and QR-code links to detailed guidance.
Council discussion and public input centered on safety and signage. Local equestrian advocate Liz Radley urged the council to keep the bridge and trails strictly limited to horses and pedestrians and asked for clear, pictorial signage and stronger local protections for narrow trail segments. Council members asked staff to prioritize yielding to pedestrians and to return with recommended signage and a follow-up report after the education period.
State rules on helmet requirements and class 3 e-bike sales (restrictions for minors) were discussed; staff said helmet rules remain largely governed by state law and would be enforced consistent with state age thresholds. The city will coordinate outreach with schools and consider signage improvements downtown and at trailheads.
What's next: The ordinance was formally introduced by motion and second and recorded by roll call. Staff will execute the education plan, return to council (and police commission as requested) with early implementation findings, and monitor impacts before escalating enforcement.
Speakers quoted or referenced in this article are those who spoke on the record at the Feb. 10 meeting.
