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Hampshire amends ordinance to align e-bike and scooter rules with Illinois Vehicle Code
Summary
Trustees voted to roll back a village-wide ban on low-speed electric bicycles and scooters and align local rules with the Illinois Vehicle Code; the change allows many low-speed devices on streets while retaining sidewalk prohibitions.
The Hampshire Village Board voted May 15 to amend its municipal code to align local regulation of low-speed electric bicycles, gas-assisted bicycles and electric scooters with the Illinois Vehicle Code (IVC).
Staff explained the prior village ordinance had effectively barred many low-speed devices; the proposed amendment removes that outright ban and defaults to state rules that allow low-speed electric bicycles and certain scooters on roadways (but generally prohibit them on sidewalks). Chief Pan said the amendment will make enforcement simpler because the IVC provides clearer standards for where those devices may operate.
Trustees and staff discussed speed thresholds and sidewalk rules. Staff noted low-speed electric scooters under a specific mph threshold may be treated differently; bicycles remain allowed on roadways and, in some places, sidewalks unless the municipality explicitly prohibits them. The board moved and approved the amendment on a roll-call vote; multiple trustees recorded ‘Aye’ votes on the record.
What happens next: Staff will correct an inaccurate packet supplement entry and the new code language will be posted per statutory notice requirements; enforcement will follow the IVC-based rules set in the ordinance.
