Redmond council bans motorcycles in city parks, citing safety and preservation

The Redmond City Council on April 28 adopted Ordinance 2026-02, amending Redmond City Code Chapter 5 to prohibit motorcycles in city‑owned public parks.

City Attorney Keith Light told the council the ordinance creates a specific definition of “motorcycle” and adds a targeted prohibition to the parks code, supplementing existing vehicle restrictions. He said staff plan signage in the Dry Canyon, an education campaign and targeted enforcement by school resource officers and community service officers as summer approaches.

The move drew public comment from Redmond residents who urged prompt action. Resident Yiponder told the council, “From purely a safety perspective, motorcycles are not compatible with a mixed‑use recreational area,” and urged preservation of trails and hardened surfaces. Another resident, who uses Dry Canyon frequently, said she appreciated the council’s attention and hoped the city would pair the ban with restoration work.

Council members discussed enforcement and timing. The ordinance was read by title and then approved by roll‑call vote; it was not adopted as an emergency ordinance, so it becomes enforceable after the standard 30‑day period.

Why it matters: Dry Canyon is one of Redmond’s most heavily used natural parks. Council members framed the measure as protecting trail users and park resources, and staff said the policy will be paired with signage and outreach to reduce conflicts between motorized users and pedestrians.

What’s next: The ordinance will take effect at the end of the statutory waiting period; staff will implement signage and the education/enforcement plan ahead of peak park use.