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La Verne approves ordinance regulating e-bikes after hours of public concern
Summary
The City Council adopted an ordinance regulating electric bicycles and mobility devices after public safety concerns and lengthy testimony. The ordinance restricts class 3 e-bikes from sidewalks, sets helmet/age rules and establishes administrative fines and education options.
The La Verne City Council on June 1 adopted an ordinance governing regulated mobility devices, including e-bikes, after extensive public comment and a staff briefing on enforcement and safety.
Supporters of the ordinance framed it as a necessary update to keep pace with faster, heavier electric bikes; opponents cautioned that some restrictions could push riders into vehicle lanes. The item had been pulled from the consent calendar for public discussion and a separate vote.
Why it matters: Council and public speakers said juvenile riders on high‑speed devices have created safety hazards on sidewalks and at driveways. Residents recounted near‑misses and one recent crash they said resulted in a broken arm. Police and fire staff urged clearer local rules so officers can educate and enforce behavior that endangers pedestrians.
What the ordinance does: The ordinance follows California e-bike class distinctions and does the following: it prohibits class 3 e-bikes (faster, non‑pedal‑assist units) from sidewalks and restricts their use to streets and bike lanes; requires helmets for riders under 18; clarifies that e‑motorcycles remain classified as motor vehicles requiring registration and a license; and establishes an administrative citation schedule (first violation $100, second $200, third $500) with an option to attend an operation course in lieu of a fine. The police chief said the city would continue an education-first approach initially and ramp up enforcement as needed.
Public safety data cited: Police and fire staff told council that local collision data showed most bicycle‑vehicle collisions occurred on streets rather than sidewalks, and that class 3 bikes are already restricted from sidewalks under the proposed ordinance. Council members and commenters nonetheless pressed for age limits, parental responsibility and education for youth buyers.
Vote and next steps: The ordinance was approved on the motion and recorded as passing with a 3–1 vote (Council Member Johnson dissenting); Mayor Heburn was absent. Council directed staff to continue public education and enforcement planning, and to report back if the local collision profile changes.
Council members said the ordinance is intended to strike a balance between preserving mobility options and protecting pedestrians and vulnerable users; they also signaled willingness to revisit details if data or community concerns warrant further action.
