Council holds first reading of ordinance to regulate electric motorcycles

The Enumclaw City Council held a first reading on June 22 of Ordinance No. 2839, a proposed municipal code chapter to define and regulate electric motorcycles and similar high-powered electric vehicles.

The Police Chief presented the staff report, saying such vehicles “are often marketed as recreational or off-road use devices, but are frequently operated on public streets, sidewalks, and multi use trails within city limits,” and that the current Enumclaw Municipal Code does not clearly address electric motorcycles. The chief told council staff have received resident complaints about unsafe speeds, sidewalk operation, noise and near-miss incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.

The proposed ordinance would create a distinct definition for electric motorcycles (separating them from e-bikes and mopeds by power output and speed capability), restrict their operation on sidewalks, parks and multi-use trails unless expressly authorized, and require helmets, lights, and minimum safety equipment when used on public roadways. The proposal would also establish operator requirements — including a valid driver’s license for roadway operation and age restrictions where appropriate — and allow graduated enforcement from warnings to citations, impoundment and misdemeanor classification for repeat or egregious violations. Staff said the city attorney reviewed the language to ensure consistency with state law and that a state-level workgroup (per substitute Senate Bill 6110) is expected to develop definitions and guidance by October 2027.

Council members were reminded this was a first reading; additional comments and edits can be offered at the second reading before any vote.

No vote on final passage was taken on June 22.