Parker amends vehicle code to define 'off‑road vehicles,' target electric dirt bikes

Parker Town Council adopted amendments to Chapter 7.03 of the municipal code on May 4 that replace the term "recreational vehicle" with a clearer definition of "off‑road vehicle," explicitly covering dirt bikes (including electric models) while excluding pedal‑assist e‑bikes defined elsewhere in town code.

Town Attorney Jamie Wynne said the town’s code had grown inconsistent across sections, sometimes using the phrase "recreational vehicle" with different meanings. Wynne said the change to "off‑road vehicle" and the new definitions are intended to remove confusion for both officers and residents and to align Parker with how neighboring jurisdictions treat electric motorbikes and similar devices. "We are adding that clarification so people understand," Wynne said.

The ordinance references town‑owned parking areas, clarifies use on school property, and removes a fixed dollar fine from the municipal code to let the municipal court apply its fine schedule consistent with a recent charter provision. Councilmembers expressed support for the change as an enforcement and safety improvement; Councilmember Derek recounted a recent ride‑along where officers chased a youth on an electric device into traffic and said clarity will help officers and parents.

Councilmember Derek moved to approve the ordinance on second reading; the council approved it by unanimous voice vote. Town staff will publish the revised chapter and cross‑reference other code sections (Title 12) that govern Class I–III pedal‑assist bicycles and trail use.