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Council hears sheriff's office briefing on new micromobility law, discusses enforcement in parks
Summary
A sheriff's office representative briefed Washington Terrace council on House Bill 381 changes effective May 6 (helmets, speed/vehicle classifications, age limits and DUI rules); the council discussed an initial period of education and warned they may update park codes to address recreational use and damage.
The Washington Terrace City Council received a briefing on May 5 from a sheriff's office representative about statewide changes to micromobility rules under House Bill 381, which take effect May 6.
Sean, the sheriff's office representative, told the council the law requires helmets for e-bikes and e-scooter riders 21 and older (helmets must be CPSC-approved for e-bikes/scooters and DOT-approved for e-motorcycles). He said devices with motors over 750 watts or capable of speeds exceeding 20 miles per hour fall into a different classification and may require a motorcycle endorsement and insurance.
“I believe it was House Bill 381... The biggest items on it is helmet requirements,” Sean said, and added that the code clarifies age and equipment thresholds and that operating an electric device while impaired can be prosecuted as a DUI.
When a councilmember asked how enforcement would begin, Sean said officers typically focus on education and warnings for the first week or two, then shift to citations for repeat offenders. He acknowledged juvenile enforcement will involve contacting parents because young children cannot be cited the same way adults are.
Councilmembers raised concerns about parks and recreation areas—where riders frequently use sidewalks and turf—and asked staff to draft city-code updates if necessary. Sean said the city already has provisions addressing reckless operation and grass damage and that staff could align local park rules with the state code where appropriate.
Council members asked staff to publish clear guidance and the sheriff's infographic to social media and the city website so residents understand helmet rules, age limits and initial enforcement priorities.
