Fergus Falls committee weighs new rules for e-bikes, scooters amid nuisance complaints

Fergus Falls — Council members and staff discussed whether local code changes are needed to curb unsafe e-bike and scooter behavior after staff summarized state law and possible city options.

Clara told the committee the state of Minnesota classifies e-bikes into three classes based on motor operation, and noted state law already restricts riders younger than 15. "One thing that has been floated as an option is requiring that a rider have a driver's license," she said, as one local approach to raise the minimum operator age.

Councilmembers described a recent increase in electric micro‑mobility use and recurring complaints. Laurel said e-bikes and scooters are moving at high speed down short alleyways and that residents report near misses when backing out of driveways. Scott noted that powered scooters without pedals have been particularly problematic downtown and raised enforcement and equity concerns: broad restrictions can implicate mobility devices such as powered wheelchairs.

Police Chief characterized current calls as a public nuisance that could become a public‑safety issue if incidents escalate. Council members discussed possible steps including expanding downtown sidewalk restrictions to explicitly include scooters and e-bikes, lowering posted speeds on some streets, defining "downtown" boundaries, launching an education campaign, and considering age or licensing thresholds. Several members emphasized enforcement limits and recommended prioritizing education and targeted outreach to parents and youth.

Why it matters: the discussion balances bicycle- and pedestrian-access goals against safety and nuisance complaints in alleys and downtown sidewalks. Next steps: staff will research legal options (including how far the city may restrict scooters and e-bikes consistent with state statute), consider defining downtown boundaries, and return with recommended ordinance language or an education plan.