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Council holds first reading of electric‑motorcycle ordinance to clarify local rules
Summary
At a first reading on June 22, Enumclaw staff told council the city code lacks a distinct definition for electric motorcycles and recommended a new chapter regulating where and how high‑powered electric motorcycles may be used. The ordinance would restrict sidewalks, parks and trails and set equipment and operator standards.
The Enumclaw City Council held a first reading on June 22 of an ordinance to define and regulate electric motorcycles.
City staff and the police chief told council the municipal code currently does not specifically address electric motorcycles and that omission creates enforcement uncertainty. As the chief explained during the staff report, "Currently, Enumclaw Municipal Code does not specifically address electric motorcycles as a distinct vehicle category." Staff said complaints include unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods, operation on sidewalks and multi‑use trails, noise concerns and near‑miss incidents involving pedestrians.
The proposed ordinance (Ordinance 2839) would establish a new code chapter defining electric motorcycles by power output, speed capability and design, distinguishing them from e‑bikes and mopeds. Staff said the draft would prohibit operation on sidewalks, parks and multi‑use trails unless specifically authorized, require helmets and lighting consistent with state standards, set minimum safety equipment for roadway use and impose enforcement options ranging from warnings to impoundment for repeat or egregious offenses. The chief also noted recent state action, saying Substitute Senate Bill 6110 creates a Department of Licensing work group to develop state regulations with a due date of October 2027.
The ordinance is at first reading; councilmembers may propose amendments at second reading before any final vote.
