Calabasas adopts ordinance restricting e‑bike use in parks, trails and select public spaces

Calabasas’ City Council voted 5–0 on Feb. 25 to introduce Ordinance 2026‑423, a municipal regulation targeting electric mobility devices — commonly called e‑bikes and motorized scooters — in parks, on athletic fields, recreational trails and certain public spaces.

Public Works staff said the measure is aimed at reducing conflicts and safety risks where state vehicle law gives the city fewer tools, for example inside parks and on trailheads. “This isn’t about banning devices. It’s about setting reasonable boundaries,” the Public Works presenter said during the council meeting.

Under the ordinance as amended in council discussion, the city will: define covered device classes by speed and function; prohibit operation in specified public‑use locations (parks, athletic fields, playing fields, equestrian and hiking trails as written with council amendments); allow enforcement on private property where the owner posts notice; and rely on an education-first approach before escalating to administrative fines or, in repeat or severe cases, misdemeanor charges and vehicle confiscation.

Council members stressed education and coordination with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Councilmember Alicia (first name not given in the transcript) said she had "been asking for this for a really long time," calling the ordinance “a huge issue” and urging strong parent outreach. Councilmember David Shapiro said the measure was overdue and underscored the need for public education about legal operation and age limits.

Staff noted the ordinance does not change the California Vehicle Code’s primacy on public roadways; the city’s authority focuses on parks, trails and other public areas it controls. The draft sets a graduated penalty schedule (administrative fines at $100/$200/$500, with misdemeanor treatment and higher fines available under existing code for severe incidents) and gives officers discretion to prioritize education and parent notification when juveniles are involved.

The item passed on first reading as Ordinance 2026‑423; the council set a second reading and final adoption for March 11, 2026. Staff and several councilmembers asked for clear public outreach materials — a simplified graphic and coordinated messaging with schools, HOAs and businesses — and directed staff to return with final text that incorporates the clarifications discussed by the council (trail/posting language and signage for private properties).