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Council holds first reading of ordinance regulating e‑bikes and e‑conveyances; public safety and education emphasized
Summary
City staff introduced a first‑reading ordinance to regulate bicycles and e‑conveyances (classes 1–3 e‑bikes, e‑scooters, e‑skateboards), with helmet and equipment requirements, age limits for class 3 e‑bikes and park restrictions; council approved the first reading 5–0 and requested follow‑up public education and a workshop.
The Wildomar City Council conducted the first reading of a proposed ordinance creating a new municipal chapter to regulate bicycles and electronic conveyances such as e‑bikes, e‑scooters and similar devices.
Principal Planner Abdu said the ordinance would establish operational rules and safety measures to address rising regional safety concerns. The draft requires compliance with traffic laws, mandates helmets for riders under 18, requires safety equipment (lights and reflectors), prohibits persons under 16 from operating class 3 e‑bikes and bans operation on park or school grounds unless specifically posted to allow such use.
"The provision of clear guidelines for e‑bike usage is critical to the safety of all users of sidewalks and trails," Abdu said. He added limitations on headphones (one ear must be free) and parental responsibility for minors who violate the code.
Public commenter Nolan King supported the ordinance in principle but urged a workshop to explore infrastructure and enforcement costs, noting many rules already exist in state vehicle code and that signage and education may be more effective than aggressive enforcement alone. Lieutenant Reese from law enforcement emphasized education as a primary enforcement strategy and said officers seek to inform rather than seize devices, except for prohibited electric motorcycles.
Council members said the ordinance is a starting point and asked staff to schedule further community education, potential bike‑safety events and a follow‑up workshop; council approved the first reading by voice vote (5–0). The ordinance will return for additional readings and formal adoption at a future meeting.
