Fullerton adopts ordinance regulating electric conveyances, emphasizes education first and a November review

The council adopted a new ordinance establishing local rules for electric conveyances — including Class 1–3 electric bicycles — and gave staff direction to prioritize education, coordinate training with schools and trauma centers, and return with a monitoring report in November.

Lieutenant Tim Petropolis of the Fullerton Police Department described the county‑level collaborative and noted Assembly Bill 544’s new visibility and parent‑liability provisions. He told the council that officers would emphasize education and, where appropriate, a CHP online safety course could be used as diversion for first‑time violations.

The draft ordinance defines unsafe operations (examples include intentional swerving through traffic, performing stunts and failing to yield to pedestrians) and sets different speed caps for sidewalks and paved trails. During debate council members and commenters pressed for clearer language on sidewalk access and nighttime lighting; several parents urged stronger helmet rules.

Following amendments and robust public comment, including requests for translated outreach materials and stricter night‑time visibility requirements, the council adopted the ordinance and asked staff to begin outreach with Cal State Fullerton, the school district and community groups. Council also set directions for a formal review of ordinance impacts and enforcement in November to refine signage, data collection and any needed code adjustments.

The ordinance changes local municipal code to add a chapter on electric bicycles and other electric transportation conveyances; implementation will emphasize education and data‑driven enforcement.