Perry City adopts new city trails code, restricts higher‑powered e‑bikes on some paths

Perry City adopted a new city trails ordinance intended to protect trail infrastructure and users and to give the city enforcement authority over unauthorized uses.

City staff explained the code includes definitions (downhill trail, trail improvement), sets a 20 mph speed limit for certain multiuse routes and restricts some trails to class 1 e‑bikes only. Staff clarified the e‑bike classes by quoting the statutory definitions: "a class 1 e‑bike is pedal assist up to 20 miles per hour; class 2 adds a throttle up to 20 miles per hour; and class 3 up to 28 miles per hour," and said class 2 and 3 bikes will be prohibited where posted.

The ordinance also lists prohibited conduct (operating power-sport vehicles in trail areas, exceeding posted speeds, trail damage and shortcuts), sets helmet and equipment standards for downhill features and allows civil penalties, impoundment of equipment and other enforcement actions while providing exceptions for people with disabilities. Staff said that enforcement will focus on education at first and that rules and signage will be posted at trailheads and on the city website.

Why it matters: the code is intended both to protect newly built trail features — including the Kiwanis Gravity Mountain Bike Park — and to reduce safety risks on narrow historic multiuse paths such as the Orchard Pathway. City staff noted the ordinance may be revised as the city gains operating experience with the two new trail systems.

Council action: after discussion and minor corrections (typos and a code cross‑reference), the council voted unanimously to approve ordinance 26‑g.