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Council introduces e-bike and personal mobility-device ordinance, pairs fines with education
Summary
The council introduced amendments to Chapter 10.17 to define e-bike classes, restrict riding in high-pedestrian areas, establish a diversion education program (parent participation) and a three-tier fine schedule (first offense $50; second $100; third $200 within 12 months), and authorized staff to finalize signage and outreach.
The City Council introduced, by first reading, an update to Glendora Municipal Code Chapter 10.17 to address skateboarding, roller skating, bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters and other motor-assisted mobility devices.
Police Captain Sabio said the ordinance codifies e-bike classifications (Class 1 and 2: assist up to 20 mph; Class 3: up to 28 mph), defines unsafe riding (stunts, speed, swerving into traffic), and creates an enforcement framework that emphasizes education. Under the proposed approach, officers may offer an education-and-diversion class in lieu of a fine for eligible first offenses; the city would require parental participation for minors attending diversion training. The proposed fine schedule is: $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense within 12 months and $200 for a third within 12 months.
Staff recommended restricting motor-assisted devices in high-pedestrian areas including the downtown business improvement district and within 100 feet of school frontages during school hours; parks and playgrounds would prohibit riding unless a particular pathway is posted as permitted. The draft ordinance also includes limited impound authority for repeated or serious violations.
Council discussed trail distinctions: city staff would allow Class 1 e-bikes on natural trails and permit Classes 1'3 on wider shared-use urban pathways with posted speed controls and pedestrian-yield requirements. Members instructed staff to finish an outreach plan, standardized signage and a recurring education schedule with the police school resource officer and to return with the ordinance for a second reading.
Captain Sabio said enforcement will balance public-safety risk with reasonable discretion. "We want this to be education-forward," he said, adding that the program will include practical on-bike training and a certificate option for school district participation.
